By Lexi MooreThis Saturday the Hills Fire House will be overflowing with activity. The Hills Firemen’s Auxiliary will host a bake sale while the firemen open the garage doors and invite residents in for an open house.The Hills Firemen’s Auxiliary was started last fall by Stephanie Bundesen and Lisa Durst. The women said they felt the community needed an organization that was prepared to support both the firemen and families of the community during tragic events.In November 2004, individuals met for their first meeting and election. Lisa Durst was elected president, and Staci Bundensun is vice president. At the first meeting the group outlined their goals and functions within the Hills community.Their mission statement reads, "Our group will provide community aid when appropriate and necessary."Aid they plan to offer includes meals and coffee to tired firemen, shelter to displaced families, clothing drives and emotional support to victims of tragic events.Group members say they’re thankful they have not had to put their services to use, but they’re prepared when such an instance arises.Saturday the Auxiliary will have their first fund-raiser at the Hills Fire House. Between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. members will be selling various homemade baked goods to raise money.They encourage residents to stop in to learn more about the auxiliary and its new role in the community.Department Open HouseThe Hills Fire Department is hosting an open house from 3 to 7 p.m. on Saturday at the Fire House in Hills.Hills volunteer firemen will serve burgers and brats for $6. The money made during the open house will go toward the purchase of a new water tank truck.The department has been working with members of the Hills City Council and Martin Township on purchasing a new or used water tank sometime in the next year.The department will replace the old water truck with a new tanker that could hold more water. The truck would give the department the ability to spend more time putting out fires and less time driving back and forth from their water sources.A new truck will cost the department, city and township between $85,000 and $95,000. The department will be responsible for covering costs that exceed $90,000.Firemen will give demonstrations of their equipment, including a Jaws of Life they purchased this spring.
