I'm honored to write a letter of support for my brother Owen Casas, independent candidate for District 94.  If I could vote for him I would, but I now live in another part of our great state. 

We often joke in our large family (Owen is one of nine siblings born and raised here in Maine) about how Owen is the "favorite." While this may or may not be true, what is true is that Owen is well-loved, and with good reason. He is intensely loyal, smart, funny, the first to volunteer to stack wood, help with the dishes or a crying baby at a family party. He is quick to offer encouragement and a joke to someone who might be having a bad day. If your car is stuck in the ditch, Owen is the first to pull on his boots and head out the door. 

On a recent family vacation, when one member of our family was found to be in immediate and potentially deadly distress, Owen, along with another brother, took quick and calm-headed action to rescue this family member. We expected nothing less from them, as Owen has demonstrated time and again in our family and his community that when things look bad, Owen is who you want at your side. 

Owen loves his family, community, state and country. I say this as someone who has known him since the day he was born: he is honest, true, loyal and committed to serving those around him. My brother cares deeply and sincerely about the health of his community with regard to jobs, education, the environment and veterans programs. He is the best sort of leader - one who listens, understands, takes action and works alongside everyone, regardless of party affiliation, income or background. 

If I lived in his district, I wold vote for him in a heartbeat. If you live in Camden, Rockport or Islesboro, may I encourage you to take advantage of the opportunity you have to elect Owen Casas as representative for District 94.

Abbey Casas Rice lives in Rumford