I am writing to endorse Owen Casas for our Representative for House District 94. I have known Owen for many years and have seen and experienced his hard work and dedication. One of many things I respect most is Owen's pride and perspective as a military veteran. He will bring a vision from a point of view few of us have but appreciate.

I have also worked with Owen as a Select Board peer, and though we served on two different boards, we met several times as boards to discuss our common interests for our communities, collaborating agreements that are paving the way for improving services and costing. I feel that Owen can bring this spirit of cooperation in his representation of our district in Augusta.

I like the fact that Owen is local, having lived here, learned here, put his family stake here. Owen knows our way of life and has talked with a huge cross section of residents. This will lead to a practical approach, and I believe a balanced view of our needs, not just a select sampling.

Lastly, the independence of not only his political run, but Owen's true belief that being independent represents the ability to seek the approach that may be out of the political mainstream. Bringing a fresh approach and thoughtfully challenging the day-to-day will be refreshing.

Whether you are voting early, or on voting day, I am recommending Owen as our representative.

Martin Cates lives in Camden