Articles 1970's

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Where it all began.... (1971)

Injurious To the Editor: On Saturday Nov 6th I saw the Plattsburgh-Albany State Football game. At 1pm, I saw an injured Albany player, laying on the ground unable to get up. At 1:45 pm, he was still there with nothing done to or for him except a few blankets put on him. I am disgusted at this! There should have been an ambulance at the game waiting for an accident to happen. In this Big School of ours, what would it cost to insure the health and safety of our football players. He breaks his neck out there for us, and what's done for him? A few blankets thrown his way! Security was on the spot with their walkie-talkies. It looked like thye were having some trouble deciding who had the authority to open the track gates. Did they expect the player to go to the ambulance? How much would it cost to have on belong to the school? It could be housed at the infirmary and be used at all home games! Who is going to decide whether an injury warrants the calling of an ambulance? Would you take the responsibility? How long does a player have ti lay in agony before something is done to see to it that he gets sped away to AMC. If they waiting long enough the ride might have been the morgue! If a team didn't have safety equipment it could not play. I believe it should have more safety precautions available on the scene in case of injury. The school can't be sued for his injury, but it should be sued for negligence! Regardless of financial costs, responsibilities or whatever prevented the ambulance from being there in the first place, it should not have taken 45 minutes to give that payer the help he needed. The powers that let this be, should be ashamed of themselves. Let's just hope that our players will still have faith in the school and that the injured man comes out of this in one piece! Most sincerely, Sandy Lutfi

In a 1971 Albany Student Press "Letter to the Editor" titled Injurious, Sandy Lutfi describes her disappointment in the response time it took for emergency care to arrive fo an injured athlete.

November 12, 1971- Albany Student Press (Vol 59, No 51) Letter to the Editor "Injurious" by Sandy Lutfi

Source: [17.1.1] University at Albany, University Archive Digital Collection 

In response to this, Barry Bashkoff  was inspired and determined to develop a solution. 

This letter to the editor was the first step toward establishing a collegiate ambulance service at SUNY Albany- which is still operational today.

(1/3) Emergency: To the Editor; In response to a letter by Sandy Lutfi in the November 12, 1971 ASP regarding an ambulance service on campus, Hurrah for you. Definitely a campus as big as ours and as "modern" as ours, should have an on campus ambulance service. Albany State has prided itself as being a self contained community with all the conveniences of a small community right here on campus. There are places for refreshment and entertainment, a place to go when you are sick and a police force to protect,
(2/3) a place to shop for little odds and ends, and if necessary a place to get your hair cute, all within 5 minutes of your dorm, just fabulous isn't it. But God forbid you need an ambulance, this convenience is only a mere 45 minutes away. All you have to do is call security and they call the infirmary, who in turn notifies one of the ambulance services in downtown Albany. Many of these ambulance services have 1 or 2 ambulances, and if their ambulance is already committed the infirmary calls the second ambulance service on their list. One way to alleviate this long process would be to call the ambulance service yourself. DON'T- because the servcie will either tell you to call the infirmary or they will do that themselves, as per instructions from the infirmary, still prolonging their arrival. Wouldn't it be easier if you could call a number, just like you can call security, to summon an ambulance, sure it would, however, the Student Health Service doesn't. Administrators at the Health Service feel it wouldn't work for a number of reasons, two of them being lack of funds, and lack of experienced personnel to man the ambulance. In regards to the problem of lack of funds, there was no problem in finding 27,000 dollars for a new cabin at DIPPIKILL, I sould think money could be found for an ambulance and equipment. On the other subject of trained personnel, many communities around the country have volunteer ambulance crews which work very well and in less than 45 minutes after the call is taken. I, being an ex-member of a volunteer rescue squad in a community, know for a fact that there are facilities and courses that can be taken in advanced first aid. These courses are usually given by New York State at no cost, because in the long run it caves the state money. Probably the infirmary could instruct members of a volunteer ambulance corp in basic first aid to comfort a person during a trip to the hospital. Nobody is saying that these members should be as experienced as doctors are. Members could take the same course that the ambulance personnel of Albany motor ambulance or Doctor's ambulance take. The actual workings and set up for a volunteer ambulance crew on campus have already been worked out and sent to the Student Health Service by was rejected. It's a damn shame to constantly hear of cases where an injured person must wait for 30 to 45 minutes for an ambulance, as was the casse at the football game mentioned by Miss Lutfi, and a number of other incidents. Also to hear that on Monday, November 22, 1971 a person suffered a heart attack in the basement of the Humanities building, and was dead by the time the ambulance arrived 20 minutes later. I realize that you can't win them all but with an ambulance located at the infirmary available within five to seven minutes from any part of this campus, would sure be a help and start in the right direction. To have a proposal rejected that would benefit the health and safety of all students, faculty, staff and visitors at this "great institution" is completely absurd. For this reason I felt I should write this letter hoping
(3/3) that the staff of the ASP will agree and give me as much help in persuin this problem. Again I will get all my informationr egarding an on campus ambulance service and present it to the Student Health Service. If the ASP has received any other correspondence in regards to the other concerned people like Miss Lutfi, I would appreciate you forwarding it to me. Thank you, Barry Bashkoff

December 3, 1971- Albany Student Press (Vol 58, No 55) p7, Letter to the Editor  "Emergency" by Barry Bashkoff

Source: [17.1.2] University at Albany, University Archive Digital Collection Click HERE for full PDF of issue

The Next Steps... Recruitment and Training (1972)

Students take steps toward campus ambulance service, by John Fairhall Would you enjoy having to wait 35 or 40 minutes for an ambulance when you're hurt? At present, if you are a student on campus and need an ambulance, you have to wait for security to call a commercial ambulance service- the infirmary does not have its own. To improve this situation and provide faster and cheaper medical aid, a group of students are working to establish a campus voluntary ambulance service- SUNYAVAC. The students need training and an ambulance that they can operate voluntarily, 24 hours a day. So far their training is going smoothly, but the ambulance will require lots of hard-to-get dollars. Just ten days ago the student group of about 70 completed an 18 hour Red Cross course that combined Standard and Advanced First Aid. Taught by Marc Stern, the course was given in a room provided by the biology department. During the past week students took their practicals (pictured), demonstrating on classroom victims the various first aid techniques. 36 hours in class: To qualify for ambulance duty the students must next take the New York State Department of Health Medical Emergency Technicians course. The MET demands 36 hours of instruction and 10 hours spent in an emergency room, as well as $5 from each student for books. The course usually costs about $2,000 but the group has diminished this figure with volunteer help. Barry Bashkoff will act as the senior instructor and Dr Janet Hood as the medical advisor; in addition, the services of eight doctors, a lawyer, and a State Trooper are required. The Albany Medical Center and Memorial Hospital have donated observation time in their emergency rooms. Cost: 6 to $10,000. Bashkoff believes that an on-campus ambulance would be cheaper than the present system. The infirmary now pays an ambulance service $40 for a single call, a lot of money to take an ailing student from his dorm to either the infirmary or a city hospital. Bashkoff estimates a $6-10,000 cost to equip the vehicle for ambulance service, and the students are seeking funds outside of the university. Local car dealers have been contacted as a possible vehicle source and other possibilities for funds, or a vehicle, are being explored. When could service begin if the students get their ambulance and necessary instruction? Well, Bashkoff, an Indian RA, wants to see something started by Spring - he graduates this year.

February 29, 1972- Albany Student Press (Vol 59, No 10)- "Students Take Steps Toward Campus Ambulance Service" by John Fairhall

Source: [17.1.4] University at Albany, University Archive Digital Collection Click HERE for PDF of full issue
Volunteers train for ambulances: 105 students, mostly undergraduates, are taking the American Red Cross standard and advanced first aid courses on campus arranged by the university volunteer Ambulance Service which is exploring ways to accomplish the establishment of such a service on campus. The students meet for instruction weekly in one of three sections Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday at 7:30 in the gymnasium. classes are preliminary to a New York State Certified medical emergency technician course to be offered during the Spring semester. proposals for the service have been reviewed by the Student Affairs office and the student health service. Now, under the direction of Barry Michael Bashkoff, prime mover in the effort, matters pertaining to incorporation and insurance are being examined before submission of a plan for approval to the university.

October 2, 1972  Tower Tribune (Vol 4, No. 6) p.3 "Volunteers Train For Ambulances" 

Source: [17.1.5] University at Albany, University Archive Digital CollectionClick HERE for full PDF of issue 
September security report cites student assistance: a monthly report of security activities for September shows 82 crimes reported and a total of $4,084 in value of property reported stolen. A comparison with similar figures for September 1971 reveals a 50% decrease in both number of crimes reported (176 last year) and value of property stolen ($8160 last year). Property crimes accounted for the majority of crime reports, with 39 cases of petit larceny; 11, criminal mischief; 9, burglary; 3, leaving scene of accident; and 2, Grand larceny. Only two crimes against persons are reported, 1 robbery and 1 harassment. Other crimes reported were false incidents (including bomb threats), 11; public lewdness, 1; criminal trespass, 1; possession of dangerous drug, 1; and disorderly conduct, 1. Student Security Services recited in two instances of helping to increase the effectiveness of Campus security. The student security patrol was organized last month and employs about 50 students. Students Patrol in pairs on each Uptown quad and alumni quad between 7:00 p.m. and 1:00 a.m. every night. An additional team patrols Uptown parking lots between 8:00 p.m. and 2:00 a.m. nightly. All student patrols maintain radio contact with University Police units. The student volunteer ambulance service is now handling the bulk of service calls requesting transportation. That effort has freed University Police to increase patrol coverage in larger parking lots. About 30 illegally parked automobiles were reported towed away during the month. The university is using its own tow truck for the purpose. The report also notes that the absence of illegally parked cars along Podium roadways has increased visibility into the areas near the roadways and thus made both the areas in the roadways themselves safer for pedestrians.

October 30, 1972- Tower Tribune (Vol 4, No 10) "September Security Report Cites Student Assistance"

Source: [17.1.5] University at Albany, University Archive Digital Collection
SUNYA Administration drags feet on ambulance. To the editor: The other day I was quietly reflecting on my thoughts.We all attend a university which offers many services. There are many extracurricular clubs and activities, just about anything one could wish. But one service, I believe, is badly lacking, and that is an ambulance service. We have an extremely good and highly competent medical staff, but there is usually a long wait for competent emergency first aid. We all recall when half back Bernie Boggs, during a football game last year, was hurt and waited an interminable period of time for an ambulance. Every time a serious accident occurs it takes a minimum of 20 to 30 minutes before an ambulance arrives. Looking around campus to see if anyone was interested in achieving a better response for emergency first aid, I found a group of qualified students, with an ambulance, waiting for the administration to give them the go-ahead with a student-run ambulance service. These students, all emergency medical technicians, certified by the state of New York, have been ready for approximately a year. First, the SUNY Central administration has a regulation which says a student-run ambulance serving the university is a “no-no.” Of course they turn their backs when you mentioned that Stony Brook has an effective student-run ambulance service for more than a year, and that Oswego also has an effective student-run ambulance service for the past 10 months. Binghamton, too, recently started student-run ambulance. Can Albany have a student-run ambulance service? No, it isn't allowed, says SUNY Central. The administration here on campus hasn't yet given its approval. why? I don't know and a number of my colleagues don't know either, but, whatever the reason it cannot be a very good reason. Three colleges and possibly many others have a student or an ambulance service. So what makes Albany different? There are rumors that our highly qualified medical staff doesn't think the students can handle the job, even though they are certified by the state of New York. My answer is what makes SUNYA students so drastically different? They are qualified, certified by New York state. some of them are not experienced? bologna, that's the old story - you can't have a job unless you have experience and you can't get experience unless you have a job. Which comes first, the chicken or the egg? To conclude, the bureaucracy of the two administrations - SUNY Central and SNUYA - is preventing Albany State from getting a much-needed service. Everything is ready - qualified personnel and an ambulance. All that is needed is a very simple “yes” from the administration. May we hear from them? Name Withheld

November 3, 1972- Albany Student Press (Vol 59, No 35) "SUNYA Administration Drags Feet on Ambulance", Letter to the Editor

Source: [17.1.6a] University at Albany, University Archive Digital Collection
Sirotkin Addresses a Pensive Council Continued from page 1 … In other business of the evening, the Central Council passed an amendment to the Election Bill. Until now, all elections for Student Association have taken place in the spring for the following academic year. Last spring Pat Curran tried to have the system changed, but failed to get a bill passed in time for spring elections. This semester, the recently formed Ad Hoco Election Reform Committee worked with Curran’s idea until they thought it was completely acceptable. The provisions of this bull call for three-quarters of the total number of Central Council representatives for each living area (five quads and “off campus”) to be elected in the spring with the remaining number elected in the fall. There is a provision for at least one representative to be elected from each living area in the fall if the “three-quarters to the nearest whole number” formula fails to leave any seats open until the fall. The system was changed so that freshman and transfer students would be enfranchised as soon as possible. Under this new system, all eligible members of SA can run for office and vote in the fall. Nothing was said in the bill about election of the President and the Vice-President of Student Association. Before the meeting was adjourned, Central Council requested replacement elections for two more Central Council seats (one each from Dutch, Colonial and Indian quads) and endorsed Five-Quad Volunteer Ambulance Service. The Athletic Advisory Board reported that starting next season the Albany football club will be a varsity team.

December 6, 1972- Albany Student Press (Vol 59, No 42) "Sirotkin Addresses a Pensive Council"

Source: [17.1.7] University at Albany, University Archive Digital Collection 
Council action provides voice for new students. Representation in student government for the first time has been extended to incoming freshman and transfer students as a result of action taken by Central Council at its regular weekly meeting on Nov. 30. A bill introduced by the Election Reform Committee provides new undergraduates with the opportunity to vote and run for Student Association offices during their first semester at SUNYA. The measure was enacted for the purpose of enfranchising incoming students as soon as possible, thereby eliminating the present situation in which newcomers are represented by people who are elected months before the new students initially arrive at school. Under the recently approved system, three-quarters of the Central Council representatives from each living area (the five quadrangles and off-campus) will be elected in the spring. The remaining councilmen will be chosen early in the following fall semester, with all full-time undergraduates who have paid the mandatory tax eligible to vote and hold office. Since most of the respective living areas are entitled to have for Central Council members, three would be elected in the spring and at least one seat would be filled in the Autumn. Central Council also voted to endorse the efforts of the Five Quad Volunteer Ambulance Service. This organization has been founded to provide horizontal transport and prompt response to all emergency calls on campus. The group is currently composed of 54 medical emergency technicians and 119 students who are engaged in ongoing first-aid training. The volunteers are awaiting university permission to continue refurbishing a vehicle which can furnish 24-hour ambulance service for all the quadrangles.

December 11, 1972- Tower Tribune (Vol 4, No 16) "Council Action Provides Voice for New Students"

Source: [17.1.8] University at Albany, University Archive Digital Collection

Student Affairs (SA) Endorsement

Council examines bill dates, endorses ambulance service In October the Student Affairs Council examined the issues involved with Senate Bill (197273-02) “Due Dates of Students’ Bills,” which had been referred to them for implementation. The Senate was concerned with such problems as ensuring sufficient time between the mailing date and the due date of a bill, and the dates Regents award notices are mailed. Since the council felt it was not fully aware of the bill, it was referred to the Financial Aids Committee, a standing committee of the council, for further study. At the Student Affairs Council meeting on Dec. 11, the council heard discussions, pro and con, on the proposed student volunteer ambulance service. SAC then endorsed the concept “of an on-campus, student-operated, volunteer ‘ambulance’ service with the stipulation that the emphasis will be on horizontal transportation on a routine service basis to students, faculty, staff and visitors to the university. It is also stipulated that this volunteer service will provide routine upright transportation service for students and others who are referred by physicians of the SUNYA Student Health Service to local hospitals, clinics, consultative specialists, and other healthcare facilities and personnel.” The proposal will now be submitted to the University Council for action. The council plans to discuss at length the judicial proposal (a plan for an all-university judiciary system which was proposed that year and has been under consideration and study since then) at a special meeting today and, if necessary, at the regularly scheduled meeting on Jan. 29.

January 15, 1973- Tower Tribune (Vol 4,  No 17) "Council Examines Bill Dates, Endorses Ambulance Service"

Source: [17.1.9] University at Albany, University Archive Digital CollectionClick HERE for full PDF of issue

January 22, 1973- Tower Tribune (Vol 4, No 18) "University Council Approves Volunteer Ambulance Service"

Source: [17.1.10] University at Albany, University Archive Digital Collection
Five Quad Ambulance Service is a Reality 1st organizational meeting for all M.E.T.’s, prospective M.E.T.’s & Advanced 1st Aider’s. Wed. Jan. 31, 1973 7:30 pm LC 3 This 1st meeting is a must, problems contact Joel 7-5228, Barry 7-884

January 26, 1973- Albany Student Press (Vol 60, No 3, p7A)- "Five Quad Volunteer Ambulance Service is a Reality"

Source: [17.1.10a] University at Albany, University Archive Digital Collection 

(Click the image to be redirected to a page with the article transcription for clearer reading!)

Ambulance Service to Begin, by Audrey N. Seidman (with assistance by Stephen H. Goldstein). “Five Quad Ambulance is a reality.” After a 2 ½ year struggle for recognition, the Five Quad Volunteer Ambulance Service (soon to be Inc.) hopes to begin operations March 1. The FQAS was approved by University Council on Jan 12. As a “volunteer student’s ambulance service on the SUNYA campus operating through a not-for-profit corporation” under terms of an agreement with the Dean for Student Affairs, Neil C. Brown. The 24 hour service, in essence, is independent of the university but sanctioned by it. Barry M. Bashkoff, one of the originators of the FQAS, is Chief. Joel Diringer is Assistant Chief of Operations and Marc Stern is Assistant Chief of Operations. The Officer of Training is Carl Schoder. The Combined Standard and Advanced First Aid course will be offered again starting Feb 13. Interested students should attend a general interest meeting Thursday, Feb 8 in LC 3 at 9 p.m. Cathy O’Brien, Secretary of the group, will teach the course, with assistance from Karen Klevanotsky. Hood Favors Status Quo. Dr. Janet Hood, Director of the Student Health Center, called the FQAS “an awkward and costly partial reduplication of better services already available in the area.” Happy with the status quo, she said, “Nobody ever consulted me, until they were very involved with it with tremendous emotional and actual involvement with the project.” Declaring there has never been a problem with calling commercial ambulances, Dr. Hood said she favors “continuation of that policy.” She will utilize the services of the student volunteers for routine transportation, such as taking students from the infirmary downtown. “I don’t see the need,” said Bashkoff, “for her (Dr. Hood) to call upon commercial units once we’re in service”. He considers a campus this size “a small community” which should have its own service. Each time a commercial ambulance transports a student it costs the students $40. The owner of the local Doctor’s Ambulance Service, Bill Opal, said his service is sometimes defaulted by students who keep the check they receive from this insurance company. Project Expensive. The cost of supplying the FQAS to provide free service to the campus will be high. Insurance is a major factor, costing $2,000 for an “Umbrella” coverage with liability up to $1 million in many areas. Bashkoff bought a 1964 Dodge van from the N.Y. Telephone Co. for the service for $35. After renovation it will be used mostly for special events. A local commercial ambulance service donated a 1963 Cadillac ambulance, in need of repairs, to the group. Funds are being solicited from individuals and campus organizations. A raffle for a portable color T.V. will be used to raise money. It is being questioned whether or not S.A. Funds can be donated to the non-profit organization. The students volunteer ambulances at Stony Brook and Oswego are funded by student tax. According to Bashkodd these campus services are “responsible for every aspect of first aid and emergency medical care.” Supplies are being donated to the FQAS by what Bashkoff calls a “brotherhood” of ambulance volunteers. This includes stretchers, sirens and lights. A federally-supported ambulance emergency kit, worth $816, was given by the State Health Department to the service. Richard Downes, owner of Albany’s Ambulance Service, said, “I’ll see that they get started in the ambulance business,” and is ready to help with equipment. Endorsing the need for a student volunteer ambulance on campus, Downes sees the service as “a good idea provided it’s run right and taken care of.” Dr. Hood cited 29 calls to commercial ambulances between April 1971-1972. She said the average time of arrival was 10 minutes. Downes, however, said that Dr. Hood has often asked his drivers “What takes you so long?” Opal, of Doctor’s Ambulance, sees the FQAS as business competition. He stressed the difference between an “Invalid Coach” for horizontal transport, as Dr. Hood intends to use the service, and an ambulance as an emergency vehicle. “I don’t feel that they have the experience,” he said. His attendants take the same MET (Medical Emergency Technician) course at SUNNYA as the students, but see more day-to-day action. He emphasized lack of experience in the students’ case. He concluded by asking this reporter, “It’s my bread and butter. What would you do if your dad was going to lose business?” Dr. Hood also sees the ‘round-the-clock service as a “waste of student volunteer time.” She fears they will be “bored to extinction.” As MET faculty advisor she said, “I’m not at all opposed to people learning first aid.” She commended the students involved in training who do a “tremendous job with great enthusiasm.” Commercial ambulance owner Opal complained of “dry run” calls where there was no one there to meet him. He suggested that Dr. Hood check out calls with security first. It seems to be the basic procedure now. According to security records, security cars were sent on hospital and infirmary runs 74 times last month, 132 times in December, with a low for the year of 19 times last July. Security Supports Effort. Members of the security force welcome the volunteers because they will handle the many routine calls and free security for other duties. “It can’t do anything but help,” said Karl Scharl, assistant director of security. James Williams, Chief of Security, supports the idea of a volunteer service, but wonders if the initial enthusiasm of the volunteers will last after current members graduate. Bashkoff believes that interest will survive. Differences of Opinion. As the main opposition for the creation of the FQAS as an emergency ambulance, Dr. Hood observed, “It’s like being opposed to mother’s milk.” She said, “Only the medical people can see the pitfalls.” In a statement on the “campus ambulance” Dr. Hood maintained there is “absolutely no demonstrable need” on campus for it. The students involved maintain that there is a definite need for their services. Bashkoff related a recent incident when he went to attend to a student that was cut in a chemistry lab. Someone has called an ambulance believing it was an eye injury. Bashkoff took the student to the infirmary where they refused to cancel the ambulance which hadn’t yet arrived. He also told of the childbirth in Eastman Tower a few years ago that was attended by Carl Ahrens, watchman, with ambulance experience, at the phone directions of an infirmary nurse. Many times injured or sick students had to walk to security cars for transportation. Concerning the routine transportation of students constituting the “98C” of needs, Dr. Hood would prefer “one mature individual who could combine driving with maintenance chores at off times.” She concludes, however, that “The Student Health Service is flexible and cooperative and will, of course, proceed in this matter as requested by superior officers of the University.” To gain extra respectability the FQAS is going to join the New York State First Aid and Volunteer Ambulance Association. They will take part in relay network in transporting students around the state. Bashkoff says the FQAS will be “comparable to any volunteer ambulance service in the state.” Cooperation Essential. It took Bashkoff 2 ½ years to bring the FQaS this far. In the fall of 1970 he and Bob Brody, a dorm director, combined their efforts in a series of student ambulance proposals which failed. In January 1972 Marc Stern began teaching First Aid on campus, graduating over 75 students. The MET course then graduated about 60 students. The FQAS headquarters will be in Irving Hall, but Bashkoff hopes to be on Dutch Quad next semester, closer to the infirmary. According to Bashkoff, the procedure will remain for the student to call the infirmary in case of an emergency, and for the infirmary to call an ambulance, hopefully the volunteer one. Any action taken by the FQAS will be called into the infirmary so that the student’s health records can be pulled for information. “The only way for this to benefit everyone,” said Bashkoff, “is for the Five Quad Ambulance to work in very close conjunction with the student health service and security.” This cooperation will be essential. The real test for the FQAS will begin on March 1..

February 6, 1973 - Albany Student Press (Vol 60, No. 5): "Ambulance Service to Begin Operations" by Audrey Seidman

Source: [17.1.11] University at Albany, University Archive Digital Collection

Next up, funding and logistics... and the rest is history

Council Affirms Parking Report. The student affairs council at the Jan. 29 meeting endorsed the report of the joint parking committee to continue studying the issues of special and medical permits and the potential desegregation of lots 3 and 4. The council also asked that their recommendations be reported to the Senate. Since many members of the council are not familiar with the judicial proposal (an all-university judicial system suggested over a year ago), an ad hoc committee was appointed to study the proposal in depth and make its recommendations to the council for action. The council was informed that the student-sponsored proposal for an FM radio station is now in the Office of Legal Counsel. The announcement was also made that the university council had voted unanimously to authorize the student organized ambulance service and papers of incorporation are in process.

February 12, 1973- Tower Tribune, (Vol 4, No. 21), p2 "Council Affirms Parking Report"

Source: [17.1.12] University at Albany, University Archive Digital CollectionClick HERE for full PDF issue
5-quad ambulance For two years, several students have been attempting to establish an on-campus student volunteer ambulance service. The barriers were many, but eventually the concept was endorsed by Central Council (S.A) Student Affairs Council (University Senate) and finally by the ruling board of the university, University Council. The organization of five quad ambulance service. The group will begin providing 24-hour medical transportation (emergency and routine) in the Fall of 1973 under an agreement signed with Dean of Student Affairs. Training, which is available to everyone in the campus community includes Red Cross Emergency Standard and Advanced First Aid and New York State Medical Emergency Technicians course sponsored jointly with Five Quad Ambulance Service and the College of General Studies. Equipment has included a converted telephone truck from Ma Bell for $35, and a donated Cadillac ambulance “bought” for $2. The Federal Government has also donated a complete ambulance kit of equipment. The only thing missing, besides money, is your help. Five Quad Ambulance Service is always looking for volunteers. No experience necessary, just some time. Look for announcements about an organizational meeting and training courses offered.

1973- Clipping from 1973 Student Handbook

Source: Shared by Catherine Ramos, Facebook [obtained from UAlbany Archive, unk. location]

Dr. Janet Hood, the first Medical Director of Five Quad Volunteer Ambulance, was not entirely convinced of the necessity of an on-campus ambulance. 

She was very outspoken about her opinions on the matter, frequently writing letters to the editor in protest.

Hoodwinked Again! To the Editor, You still indicate (Good News for Sick People, Feb 9th) that you, like a lot of others, do not understand the definition of an ambulance service. This is why I have persistently objected to the use of the word. At the same time you do demonstrate some recognition of our true need, which is for routine transportation of ill and injured students. J. Hood M.D.

February 16, 1973: Albany Student Press (Vol 60, No 8)- Letter to the Editor "Hoodwinked, Again!" by Dr. Janet Hood

Source: [17.1.12b] University at Albany, University Archive Digital Collection
Poly-unsaturated facts. To the Editor, In response to Mr. Igoe’s letter in the ASP March 23rd I repeat, we do not have a need for an “ambulance” on this campus. “Incredible” stories of undue waits for ambulances are exactly that– “incredible.” On the other hand, we have enormous need for non dramatic, family care style transportation day in and day out on a 24 hour basis. This need has become particularly acute since we lost our main [?] driver position at the Student Health Service. Last spring and since Security has expressed the intent of pulling out of the transportation business. Definitions have always been a problem on this issue. If anyone is ever really interested in hearing facts from the individual whose ultimate responsibility it is on this campus to set and maintain health service standards, I can easily be reached. J. Hood, M.D.

March 30, 1973- Albany Student Press (Vol 60, No 16), "Poly-unsaturated facts" Letter to the Editor by J. Hood, M.D.

Source: [17.1.12c] University at Albany, University Archive Digital Collection
Dying for an Ambulance. By Mike Igoe. Anyone who has had some first hand experience with the ambulance service on this campus,, or more specifically, the lack of it, may find Dr. Janet Hood’s stand on the new student ambulance service a bit hard to believe. Dr. Hood, director of the infirmary, has gone on record as being opposed to the venture. Her chief argument is that there is nothing wrong with the existing service. Probably the most celebrated case to refute her claim concerns Bernie Boggs. Mr. Boggs was a member of the Albany state football team and sustained injuries during a game one cold Saturday afternoon. Bernie lay huddled under blankets on the sidelines for what seemed like ages before an ambulance arrived. Interestingly enough, Dr. Hood was a spectator at the game and took care of him in the interim. One wonders how she can overlook this experience. But the accounts of the deplorable ambulance situation do not end here. The ASP has received numerous letters on the subject. In addition, this reporter has heard some incredible stories from people who had to rely on the tardy ambulances. All the reports make it seem like a few drunken Potter Club brothers with a shopping cart would provide better service. Perhaps instead of a dance marathon, a race against the clock between a car and an ambulance should be held. The contestants would compete to determine which car can make the most trips between State and Albany Medical Center Hospital before an ambulance arrives on campus. Winner would be given a private audience with University President Louis Benezel. All kidding aside, though, there is another disturbing aspect of the whole affair. Dr. Hood is upset that she was not consulted during the planning stages of the student ambulance service. She also seems to feel that the task will be too big for students to handle. It should be noted that Dr. Hood holds the record for writing letters to the ASP. In her letters she consistently calls upon students to show a concern for each other or to assume responsibility. It seems that the student ambulance service is trying to meet these requests. We hope that Dr. Janet Hood will at least give it a chance to prove itself. Then, if it needs criticism, let the good doctor speak out. Dr. Hood is too fine a woman to snub the organization. We feel that the drama of ego hang-ups should be confined to the medical shows like Marcus Welby and Medical Center.

March 23, 1973: Albany Student Press (Vol 60, No 14, p16)- "Dying for an Ambulance" by Mike Igoe

Source: [17.1.12b] University at Albany, University Archive Digital Collection

Fast emergency medical care was the goal of a group of students at Albany State University (now University at Albany) who planned to begin their own campus ambulance service in the fall under the name Five Quad Volunteer Ambulance Service Inc.

The two-year-old drive to establish a student-run, round-the-clock ambulance service began because Albany ambulances sometimes took as long as 45 minutes to respond to a campus emergency call, stated Barry Bashkoff, chief organizer of the campus group. Janet Hood, director of student health services at the school, opposed the campus ambulance plan, saying "it would be a very costly duplication of services already existing in the area" and insisting that the average ambulance run was under 10 minutes.

During the past two years, about 150 students had undergone 85 hours of training to get medical emergency training certification, said said Bashkoff.


-- Time Union, August 30, 1973

January 22, 1974- Albany Student Press (Vol 61, No 2) "Ambulance Service Fights for Funds" by Nancy Albaugh

Source: [17.1.13] University at Albany, University Archive Digital CollectionsClick HERE for full PDF of issue
5-Quad Funded by Indirect SA Grants By Carole Zingman Five Quad Ambulance Service, through an indirect group called the Friends of Five Quad, will be effectively funded from student tax for the first time. Central Council, capping off a four hour debate at its last session before the Spring break, voted to appropriate money to the Friends of Five Quad group from a loan through the Athletic Advisory Board, and through a grant from Student Association. Council set the group’s budget at $12,000, with half coming from each of the two sources. The debate prior to Council’s decision primarily centered around the proprietary of having the Student Association fund a group such as Five Quad. Mark Stern, student representative from Five Quad, told council that SA should fund the group because Five Quad cannot get the money from any other source. Stern added that Five Quad is a service and an activity, with eighty-five people actively involved. In a lengthy explanation, Stern told Council of the attempts made to receive funds from outside source. Three main sources were approached including the university, the state and federal government and private foundation. Stern stated that the Department of Health, Education and Welfare as well as the Department of Transportation could not provide any assistance. Three insurance companies were approached including Group Health Insurance, Blue Cross-Blue Shield, and Student Health Insurance, with Blue Cross-Blue Shield as the only company which might possibly provide any help. Stern told Council that Five Quad did receive some money from two drives held during the year. The first in the beginning of September, brought in close to $2,000. The second, which included a mailing of 20,000 letters, brought in close to $1,000. Council member Lew Fidler stated that although it is not the intent of Central Council to fund Five Quad on a permanent basis, if SA does not fund now, the service may cease to exist completely. He recommended that Five Quad be funded only as an emergency measure, even though the actual fiscal burden belongs with the State of New York. SA President Steve Gerber stated that although it is the state’s responsibility to provide health care services, there would be little chance for the state to fund Five Quad for the coming year. Gerber also mentioned the possibility of a legal problem should SA become the source of the money. He questioned whether SA would be legally and financially responsible should a person decide to sue Five Quad. Council member Ken Wax stated that the question should be considered in terms of its priority. Since there is nothing more important than a student’s welfare on this campus, he said, the difference in time and speed between Five Quad and an outside service may decide the question of life and death. The final budget of $12,849 passed with money appropriated from a loan of $6,750 payable to the AAB and a $6,090 grant from SA. In addition, three candidates for the forthcoming elections were exempted from invalidation for not having attended a mandatory meeting, as stipulated on their self-nomination forms. At this week’s Council meeting, candidates Amy Paulin, Eric Reid, and George Jast were excused from being disqualified upon consideration of Council.

April 19, 1974- Albany Student Press (Vol 61, No 3), "5-Quad funded by indirect SA grants" by Carole Zingman

Source: [17.1.13a] University at Albany, University Archives Digital Collection

April 23, 1974- Albany Student Press (Vol 61, No 17) "By the Dawn's Early Light" by Mitchel Zoler

Source: [17.1.13b] University at Albany, University Archive Digital Collection

November 12, 1974- Albany Student Press (Vol 61, No 35), "Cheering Five Quad" Letter to the Editor

Source: [17.1.13d] University at Albany, University  Archive Digital Collection

September 16, 1974- Albany Student Press (Vol 61, No 22), "Five Quad Alive and Well" by Beverly Hearn.

Source: [17.1.13c] University at Albany, University Archive Digital Collection

Febuary 29, 1975- Albany Student Press (Vol 62, No 11) "Five Quad Ambulance Service is the Victor by Two Lengths" by Randi B Toler

Source: [17.1.14] University at Albany, University Archive Digital CollectionClick HERE for full PDF of issue

April 29, 1975- Albany Student Press (Vol 62, No 23) "Five Quad Seeks Money for Continued Service"

Source: [17.1.16] University at Albany, University Archive Digital Collection

May 16, 1975- The Altamont Enterprise (No 44), "Practice Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation"

Source: [22] NYS Historic Newspapers, The Altamont Enterprise

September 30, 1975: Albany Student Press (Vol 62, No 34)- "Ambulance Retired at Last" 

Source: [17.1.19] University at Albany, University Archive Digital Collection

September 9, 1975: Albany Studet Press (Vol 62, No 29, p5)- "Five Quad Ambulance on the job" by Randi B Toler

Source: [17.1.18] University at Albany, University Archive Digital Collection

April 2, 1976- Albany Student Press (Vol 63, No 16, p3), "Five Quad Ambulance: At Your Service" by Sue Emerson

Source: [17.1.22] University at Albany, University Archive Digital Collection

April 22, 1976: Albany Student Press (Vol 63, No 19, p3A), "Student Drivers Keep Infirmary Patients Rolling" by Elaine Gilson

Source: [17.1.23] University at Albany, University Archive Digital Collection

Volunteer Ambulance Week is Officially Declared by the NYS Governor Hugh Carey

10.08.1976 NYS Volunteer Ambulance Week.pdf

August 25, 1976: State of New York Executive Chamber- Proclamation of October 24-30, 1976 as "Volunteer Ambulance Week" in NYS by Governor

February 10, 1976: Albany Student Press (Vol 63, no 6)- Letter to the Editor "5 quad: call on us" by Wayne Printy, Chief of Services

Source: [17.1.20] University at Albany, University Archive Digital Collection

September 24, 1976: Albany Student Press (Vol 63, No 31), Letter to the Editor "Five, not six, quad" by Mary Corrigan, FQ President

Source: [17.1.24] University at Albany, University Archive Digital Collection

October 25, 1976 Tower Tribune (Vol 8, No 9) "Five Quad Conducting Displays"

Source: UAlbany Archive [13]Click HERE for full PDF of issue

October 12, 1976- Albany Student Press (Vol 63, No 35) "Emergency Capacity of SUNYA Gym Questioned" by Ed Moser

Source: [17.1.25] University at Albany, University Archive Digital CollectionClick HERE for full PDF to issue

November 13, 1979- Albany Student Press (Vol 66, No 44) "Class Councils Vote to Hike Dues" by Aron Smith

Source: [17.1.28] University at Albany, University Archive Digital Collection

February 4, 1979: Albany Student Press (Vol 66, No 4, p3), "Vandals Smash Windshield of Five Quad Ambulance by Michele Israel

Source: [17.1.27] University at Albany, University Archive Digital Collection

1978-1979 Excerpt from Student Handbook