Falls Hardware Hank

Maybe you're still thinking about what holiday gift to give that hard to buy for friend or relative . . how about taking a trip to your local hardware store? They have just about everything you need for your home or apartment, and a gift certificate is both practical and helps support a small, community business. One of several hardware stores in Longfellow, Falls Hardware Hank at 4008 Minnehaha Avenue is within walking distance of my home. They can be reached at 612-724-2441, or fallshardware@hotmail.com. Hours are: Mon-Fri 8 am-6 pm; Sat 8 am-5 pm; closed Sunday.

Prairie Woodworking

In a small shop at 3535 East Lake St, some really beautiful furniture is being made. Prairie Woodworking, run by artist and woodworker Tim Granlund, designs and builds custom Prairie-style furniture, cabinets, built-ins and hardwood radiator enclosures. Prairie Woodworking's blog may be the best place to see photos of their recent projects, but you can also call and visit their showroom and workshop at 612-724-6805.

Riverview Theater

As we head into the cold, dark months of winter I feel lucky to have a good old fashioned, big screen movie house in our neighborhood. The Riverview Theater is truly a classic, featuring 1950's lobby decor, stadium seating with high-back rocker seats, and popcorn with real melted butter! This month's calendar features the 7th annual showing of the Lord of the Rings Trilogy (Dec. 18), as well as holiday favorites A Christmas Story and It's a Wonderful Life (Dec. 21-23). General admission - $2 ($3 after 6 pm for ages 12-61) - special screening prices vary. They only take cash, so don't forget the wallet (there is an ATM on site). Located at: 3800 42nd Ave S; 612-729-7369.

Longfellow Grill

The Longfellow Grill is both a place to take your family and somewhere you might take someone special for a late meal on a Saturday night. The Grill features a bar, comfortable booths and patio seating in the warmer months that highlight its proximity to the Mississippi River. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the menu has a nice variety of urban diner food and some more unusual specialties like Salmon Scramble (for breakfast) and Steak & Pierogies (stuffed dumplings). The full bar features cocktails, bottled beer and close to a dozen craft beers on tap. Open 7 days a week starting at 7 am; Saturday & Sunday until 11 pm. 2990 W River Parkway; (612)721-2711.