We, as a group of citizens, are in the early stages of organizing a rally in town to support our doctors, nurses and other staff members at SMH. It will give citizens the opportunity to show their solidarity for our very vital rural hospital and to enjoy an evening together.

We are also in the very preliminary planning stages of a demonstration at Queen's Park in support of our hospital. We invite all to join us on the buses when the plans are in place.

We want all aspects of our community represented and in solidarity with us.

We want people from the administration, management, staff and citizens on board with us so that the government sees that we all support a rural hospital that offers the basic requirements such as the birthing unit, the emergency room unit, as well of the other services that are running so successfully at our hospital.

Also, in order that we, as citizens in a democracy, are able to express our wishes through the ballot box, we ask you to become members of the SMH Corporation.

The cost is $5. Since you must be a member for 60 days before you can vote, please pick up a membership form at the hospital or your municipal office.

Submit your membership application to the hospital at your earliest convenience, preferably by the end of February.

It is through active participation in this vital aspect of our hospital's governance that we can make our voices heard so that our hospital grows and flourishes.

John Bertram, Committee of Concerned Citizens