Update: After the news of De Roma came out earlier this week that he is a supporter of the white supremacist David Duke, it’s important for the community to know that Longfellow365 denounces white supremacy, neo-nazis, the KKK and any of its supporters or sympathizers. This project does not support De Loma or his business pursuits and seeks to only highlight the history of our community including its businesses. The Longfellow Community Council funds this project and has been notified of his business dealings in Longfellow as has Council Member Cam Gordon.
The SW corner of 40th Ave. and Lake Street, under remodel by developer Julius Jaeger De Roma of Clubhouse Jäger in the North Loop, reveals a once gem of a corner dairy store. Ken and Jack’s had frozen meats and no doubt the rest of a local dairy store’s offerings. Video Lease, one of the last of the dvd and video rental shops other than Redbox in the area, used to be at 3927 until recently. What is the future for this site? Plans unknown but 3931 to 3927 Lake Street have recently been permitted by developer De Roma and work inside is ongoing. A peek in the window revealed nicely preserved, yet unfinished, wood floors. De Roma now holds developments at Lyn-Lake with ground level retail space and living space above as well as Clubhouse Jäger a trendy bar in the North Loop. Whatever will be, East Lake St. is forever changing!
Photo: Megan Longtine-Jones