Editor’s note: The Natchez Democrat will only accept submissions supporting candidates by Nov. 26. Those wishing to send such submissions can email them to letters@natchezdemocrat.com.

Being a Citizen of Ferriday for many years, a veteran and a family man, I take pride in what happens in our town.

Everyone, from surrounding towns, and adjoining states, knows the struggles that the people of Ferriday have had with our water system. It had gotten so bad sometimes we had to rely on the National Guard to bring in truckloads of water for our community.

At one time, when outsiders drove through Ferriday, I’m sure they thought we were under attack. And yes, we were. It’s hard to believe that in the 21st Century, Americans have to deal with this kind of situation.

But up until Sen. Mary Landrieu stood in and fought for us, the Town of Ferriday had gone unnoticed for many years. Finally, we broke ground earlier this year on a project that will ensure clean drinking water for Ferriday residents for years to come.

That project would never have started without the leadership of Landrieu. She brought back a $5 million grant through the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

She understood that, although we are a small town, the families here work hard and deserve the best. But, take no thought, we would never have been able to fund this project without the support of Landrieu.

I have personally spoken with Landrieu concerning Ferriday, and she knows and understands the culture and values of small towns.

Being a small town, she understands that we still need investments that can help our community to grow and thrive. And just as she has literally put a clean glass of water in each hand of the people of Ferriday, she will continue to fight for funding to keep food on our tables and create jobs, along with fighting for other well deserved benefits such as social security, which in turn, will put Ferriday back on the map.

For all she has done for us, we can’t afford to let Landrieu lose our vote.

As the runoff election approaches, let’s put it in our hearts and minds, and get out there on Dec. 6 and “vote Democrat for Mary Landrieu.”

 

Elijah Banks

Ferriday Alderman and Supporter of Mary Landrieu