Editor, The Smithfield Times:

We understand that on Dec. 10 Dr. Norm Oliver, commissioner of the Virginia Department of Health, will be making a decision on the much-needed Riverside hospital in Smithfield. Sadly the VDH board, shockingly to us all, disapproved, even though our area has been FEDERALLY recognized as MEDICALLY UNDERSERVED. Now, Commissioner Oliver has the final say.

We urge all residents who want Riverside hospital to be in our community to please politely call and email the following:

Dr. Oliver’s office in Richmond

804-864-7009 or email to both, please: norm.oliver@vdh.virginia.gov and questions@vdh.Virginia.gov

Also contact:

State Sen. Tommy Norment

district03@senate.virginia.gov

Office 804-698-7503  or 757-259-7810

Delegate Emily Brewer

delEBrewer@house.virginia.gov

Office 804-698-1064

Thank you for taking time to let your voice be known for this most important decision for Riverside hospital to be in our community.

Ross and Robbie Younger

Smithfield