Message
from the PresidentMessage
from the President
January 2005
Many things have occurred in the ambulance corps for 2004. By year's end we will have answered over 700 calls. Using Medicare numbers, this would have cost the borough residents approximately $177,000 or about $71 per household. Our budget is $17,000 per year which costs the residents about $6.80 per year. This is quite a bit of savings.
The squad has gone through a tough time with membership. It is hard for a new member to become an EMT. We need help, especially during the day. If you are so inclined, please contact the squad to see about becoming a member.
This past year saw the passing of two life members. Vince Petrik and Linda Pelayo. Vince was a life member and a past-captain of the ambulance. He was also a life member of the Bogota Fire Department and a past Chief. LInda was a life member and was also a past-captain of the ambulance corps. Both will be missed.
The squad building of the ambulance corps has seen a lot of service over the years. It was the home of Bogota Fire Department's Hook and Ladder and Engine Company 1 for many years before the Ambulance Corps and the rescue squad moved in. Maintenance has been difficult. This past year of 2004 saw several build code violations and fire code violations. The Police Auxiliary did a fine job of refinishing a room upstairs but a flood due to a steam pipe failure destroyed the room.
The squad, along with our Mayor and Council and New Jersey State Assemblywoman Loretta Weinberg, secured a grant for $185,000 which will be used refurbish the building. Watch as the makeover occurs.
You may not see much going around our building on Main Street, but much is going on inside. This year we plan on several community CPR and First aid classes. This helps us to help you. Minutes wasted while a loved one's heart has stopped beating can be saved if you know CPR. Look to see our announcements in the Bogota Quarterly later this spring.
Finally, in this cold winter season, protect yourself by covering exposed skin if outside. Check on elderly neighbors to see if they need assistance. And finally, call 911 for all emergencies.
Regards,
Jim Berthold