In these final days of the campaign you have read letters, followed social media and met candidates on your doorsteps. There are a few things you may not know about Mark O’Brien. I’m qualified to speak since I am fortunate to have been married to him for over 35 years. Most know of his decades of public service and community involvement. But he is certainly most proud of his family. Father to five children and grandfather to 10, we could have raised our family anywhere, but Augusta is home.

Mark plays a mean game of “Go Fish!”, will pitch wiffle ball endlessly, and always enjoys reading “The Night Before Christmas.” However, he is a “rules guy” and can frustrate even the most patient 6-year-old by insisting he read all instructions before playing “Old Maid”!

Mark is an artist. He loves chocolate chip cookies, Bruce Springsteen and Jeopardy. He clips coupons and can’t resist a good deal. To say he is frugal is putting it mildly. Mark is the most thoughtful gift-giver and sends cards and brings home flowers for no apparent reason.

As a family, we have endured many wonderful times and many tragedies. Mark has always been our rock and just does what must be done.

He has spent hundreds of hours by my side in the hospital and at doctor’s appointments. There is no one more loyal. He always puts others ahead of himself. Mark is extremely humble and wants to be Augusta’s mayor, certainly not for any recognition or the title. He wants to serve the community which has given so much to us.

Mark O’Brien is honest, a wonderful listener, intelligent and isn’t impulsive. He has compassion, immense integrity and common sense.

Augusta voters absolutely could not do better as mayor than Mark O’Brien.

Julie O’Brien

Augusta