by Carol Stevens
GARDNER- At the June meeting the Upper Huerfano Fire Protection District (UHFPD), board members congratulated the firefighters’ exceptional efforts in saving the Vialpando residence on May 22. With quick response, the fire was extinguished and the home was saved with minimal damage. Also at the June meeting, the board unanimously approved Larry Waide as the latest new recruit to the fire department.
At the July meeting, Chairman Steve Hodges was pleased to announce the DOLA grant has been officially signed and received. This means the fire department is now able to continue updating the department with more modern vehicles.
Acting Fire Chief Buzz Deardorff gave his report on the fire preplan for Occidental Permian. Overhead views and evacuation plans will be developed to complete the plan. Deardorff was happy to report that on the June 13 field day/final exam for pump class, five members became certified for portable pump operations. The astronomer activity, which was held in June, had 200 people in attendance with no incidents. The department reported no other activity except for attending the Forest Service’s scheduled burn on Black Mountain.
A yard sale will coincide with Chuck Wagon Days on August 1. Fire department and board members will be holding the yard sale, with “treasures” from their homes. A fundraiser has been planned to coincide with the yard sale, including games for the kids and a bake sale. Board members are needed to continue finalizing the proper filing for the auxiliary. A report on the auxiliary showed there are some interested people wanting to join. Any Gardner residents interested in joining, please contact Carol at 738-2293. The auxiliary is key to maintaining the firefighter’s morale. Auxiliary members not only help with fundraising for the department, but also bring food and water to the fire department members while they are fighting a fire.
