Ep 12. Hi, Neighbor

Laverne & Shirley season 1 episode 12, named "Hi, Neighbor," follows the two titular characters as they attempt to befriend their new neighbor, a grumpy old man named Mr. Shotz. Laverne and Shirley discover that Mr. Shotz is a rich, powerful man who owns the brewery where they work. Despite his unpleasant demeanor, the girls are determined to win him over and become his friends.

Their attempts are met with resistance at first, as Mr. Shotz refuses their invitations to go bowling and play pinochle. Meanwhile, the girls receive some unexpected news when Laverne's father loses his job and is forced to move in with them. With the added stress of a new housemate, Laverne and Shirley are even more determined to make friends with Mr. Shotz, hoping to use their newfound popularity to help Laverne's father find a job.

Their persistence pays off when they discover that Mr. Shotz is a fan of classical music. Laverne and Shirley put on a concert for him, hiring a pianist and string quartet to play in their apartment. Mr. Shotz is moved by the performance and finally agrees to go out with the girls. They take him to a fancy restaurant, where they're surprised to see him get along famously with the chef and the owner.

As the night progresses, Laverne and Shirley begin to suspect that Mr. Shotz might be interested in one of them romantically. They're both flattered, but don't know how to react. The tension mounts throughout the meal, until Mr. Shotz finally reveals that he's actually interested in Laverne's father, who used to be a salesman.

Mr. Shotz offers to give Laverne's father a job at the brewery, but the proud man refuses, insisting that he'll find work on his own. The girls are disappointed, but grateful for Mr. Shotz's kindness. They part ways on good terms, with Mr. Shotz promising to stay in touch and inviting them to a black-tie gala at the brewery.

Overall, "Hi, Neighbor" showcases the charming dynamic between Laverne and Shirley, as well as their determination to help those they love. The episode also touches on themes of class and social status, as the girls navigate their friendship with a wealthy businessman. As always, there are plenty of laughs to be had along the way, with physical comedy and witty banter aplenty.