Longfellow Community Council

A great resource for all things local is the Longfellow Community Council (LCC), the organization representing the Longfellow, Cooper, Howe and Hiawatha neighborhoods. If you're new to the area and looking to get involved with your neighbors, LCC hosts a variety of community meetings and events as well as committees of people who work on issues of development, transportation, housing, environmental restoration, restorative justice and more. LCC also promotes low-interest home improvement loans through the Center for Energy and Environment that are available to Longfellow residents. Check out LCC's website or call them at 612-722-4529.

Lake Street Wine & Beer Tasting and Silent Auction

Thursday, Nov 17, 5:30-8:00 pm at El Nuevo Rodeo (3003 27th Ave S)

The Lake Street Council's biggest fundraiser of the year, with proceeds supporting the Council's work on strengthening and revitalizing the Lake Street Corridor and surrounding communities. Sample wine (from East Lake Liquor Store), beer (from Harriet Brewing), and authentic Mexican food while bidding on silent auction items donated by many of the businesses and residents that make Lake Street phenomenal. Tickets available at the door or online.

Riverview Cafe & Wine Bar

Situated across the street from Mother Earth Gardens and the Riverview Theatre (at the corner of 42nd Ave & 38th St), the Riverview Cafe & Wine Bar is a great neighborhood meeting place. The cafe offers organic Free Trade coffee, homemade sandwiches, free WiFi, and a fun children's play area. The adjoining Riverview Wine Bar, open Wed-Sun evenings only, serves over 100 wines, 40+ kinds of bottled beer plus appetizers, soups, salads, pizza and dessert. And to top it off, the Cafe and Wine Bar have a busy live music calendar and a weekly open mic night. Call for more info: Cafe (612)722-7234; Wine Bar (612)729-4200.

Mother Earth Gardens

One of the loveliest garden stores in the Twin Cities, Mother Earth Gardens is just across the street from the Riverview Theater at 2728 42nd Ave S. A dog & pet friendly store, Mother Earth specializes in organic gardening, sustainably grown plants and eco-friendly products. They are open year round (except for most of January) and are a popular place for natural Christmas trees, wreaths and gifts for the holidays - their unique gift shop features consignment and local items. Sign up for their email newsletter to stay informed on sales, classes and other info. Or call them at 612-724-2296.