I voted on the first day of Louisiana’s early voting period. My dad, Dr. William W. Sutton Sr., 93, voted — in person — Friday. He didn’t want to vote by mail or absentee ballot. He insisted on voting in person. “It felt good. It’s important,” he told me. “I just hope the people I voted for win.”
My friend Willie Hendricks was a laid-back, pleasant, God-loving man who was active on a grass roots level in each community where he lived throughout his decades-long career. He became mayor of Simsboro, a village of about 800 people in Lincoln Parish. We didn't always agree when it came to politics, but I appreciated his passion and commitment.
He was excited about voting in this fall's election.
While dad got another chance, Willie didn't.
Willie died Sept. 23 and was buried earlier this month.
If dad can get up, get dressed, eat, grab his walker, get a ride with my sister, Dr. Sheryl Sutton Smith, walk to the Lake Vista gates, catch an elevator, walk to the table to check in, walk to a voting booth and cast his votes, I’m certain many of you can, too.
If you haven’t voted yet, please do.
TODAY is the last day of early voting in Louisiana. You have a few more hours. Polls close at 6p.
You can still vote absentee if you choose. Or, you can vote on Election Day, Nov. 5.
If you’re registered and haven’t voted, remember that anything can happen on or before the final day votes can be cast. Do it for Willie. Follow my dad’s lead and VOTE.
