For the ninth year in a row, Hillyard Santa is getting ready to distribute gifts to children in Northeast Spokane. The first distribution days are Thursday Dec. 15 and Friday Dec. 16. And then he's back for one more round all next week - from Dec. 19 through Dec. 23 - supplies and gifts permitting.

Michael Carlson has started a business group in Hillyard. The first meeting was a few weeks ago, and the next one is scheduled for Dec. 20 at 8:30 a.m. at the Cricket Link Wirless store next to Safeway (3721 N. Market Street)

“We had nine businesses represented and learned a bit about each business. We already have two of the businesses starting to work together,” Carlson wrote in an email. “Our goal is to have around 25 businesses represented and to bring each other many profitable leads and referrals. It is free and there are no attendance requirements. This is an opportunity to build relationships and help each other out.”

Carlson may be reached at (509) 847-5313.

The non-profit group Rebuilding Together Spokane is looking for homeowners in the greater Hillyard-area who need help completing home repairs or updates. The group is looking for disabled or elderly homeowners who are overwhelmed by home repair projects. Veterans and low-income families are encouraged to apply, too. Non-profit facilities may qualify as well.

To qualify for free home repairs you must own your home, have home owners insurance, intend to continue to live in your home and explain why you can't do the repairs yourself.

“We wish we could help families who live in rentals,” wrote coordinator Whitney McKelvey in an email, “but we found that landlords often evicted the family or increased the rent after we made repairs.”

Homeowners who qualify will receive help on Rebuilding Day, April 28, 2012.

For more information call (509) 218-5655 or email: mckelveywithrts@hotmail.com

(The blog has been on hiatus for a bit and it's now back - please e-mail news bits and pictures to piah@spokesman.com or give me a call at 509-459-5427 - watch for expanded neighborhood blogging in the new year)