To the editor:

My name is Rich Gunther, and I’m running for a seat on Wintersville Council this November.

If elected, I will bring a fresh voice and new ideas to our village government. I’d like to take a moment to introduce myself to those who may not know me.

I’m originally from the Cleveland area and moved to Wintersville 13 years ago after meeting my wife, Sharen, who is from this area. Some of you may know us from our former business, Crystal Clear Window Cleaning.

Over the years, I’ve owned several businesses and also served in the corporate world as a chief financial officer for a Fortune 500 company. Currently, I serve as treasurer of the Warrior Shield Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that raises funds for veteran organizations — most recently supporting PTSD awareness and treatment.

My wife and I now proudly own two local businesses in Wintersville: GRITGEAR Apparel and Lock-n-Load Coffee Co. I’m deeply invested in this community and passionate about seeing it grow, attract new businesses and thrive.

If elected, you can count on me for: Transparency, open and honest communication and accountability.

Feel free to stop by GRITGEAR Apparel, located across from Indian Creek High School, grab a cup of coffee and let’s chat about the future of Wintersville.

Rich Gunther

Wintersville