Two generations of Gunning women want to share with you why they will be voting for Robert Brando, Rina Testa-Plancke and Sam Hrutka.
Katherine who was co-owner with her husband Wayne of 2 businesses in the town of Kingsville. In retirement she served the town of Kingsville as a councillor and as Deputy Mayor over a period of ten years. She also volunteered at the Kingsville Military Museum for 20 years.
Sande was born and raised here, attended Olinda and Ruthven Public Schools and graduated from Kingsville District High School. She trained to work as a therapist and specialized in the area of substance abuse. She then taught counsellors at George Brown College for 17 years. She is currently self-employed in the fibre arts field for 22 years and resides in Cottam.
This mother and daughter disagree on a great many things. They have interesting “debates” and approach the world from very different viewpoints. However, they are in total agreement of this endorsement. These three candidates are not personal friends of either woman but endured many discussions and Katherine and Sande’s thorough questioning of them re: the issues facing this town.
Robert Brando for Deputy Mayor - kfdbrando@gmail.com
Katherine…”I think he is a straight-shooter, in our discussions he listened and responded with intelligence and creative solutions. His firefighting and business experience is an asset when dealing with people. His knowledge of infrastructure will be invaluable to the rest of council to make the most informed decisions.”
Sande…”Anyone who runs into a burning building and risks their life for another deserves my admiration and respect. My dad was a police officer and volunteer firefighter and I was proud of him for this. After getting to know Robert, I believe he has a sincere desire to roll up his sleeves and try to fix some of the long term problems that the town has endured. He is kind of shy until he warms up and then he can educate you on all sorts of infrastructure solutions.”
Rina Testa-Plancke for Councillor - rtp4kingsville@gmail.com, Rina Testa-Plancke for Kingsville Town Council (FB)
Katherine… “Through my personal interview and questions, I found her to be thorough, direct with a no nonsense approach to the issues facing the town. I found in discussion on many topics we were certainly on the same page. Her skills and knowledge as a teacher gives her insight to the challenges that youth are experiencing. I believe she is well organized and will be dedicated to her position.”
Sande… “I love her passion, her willingness to listen, not just hear but truly listen! Her kindness is always prevalent in her interactions, but it doesn’t diminish her fearless approach to raising concerns. The first time I saw her speak I felt invigorated and inspired about municipal politics in a way I hadn’t since I returned. She is exactly what Kingsville needs right now. Someone who can speak truth to power! I have tried to raise concerns with the entire council this past term and most never even replied to a letter. I can’t imagine that Rina would ever even consider that being ok.”
Sam Hrutka for Councillor - samhrutka57@gmail.com, Sam Hrutka (FB)
Katherine…“My common sense candidate! In my opinion basic common sense has been missing both in discussions and in decision making. His farming background and his knowledge of the challenges will be vital. We share this agricultural background and considering almost 50% of Kingsville is rural, his representation is critical for any planning issues for the town. When I asked him questions, he took time to think about it before responding. I wish more people would do that”.
Sande…“My first impression of him was that he was a bit of a jokester”, not in an offending manner but in a kind, smiling, quiet way. This is not a criticism; I see it as a strength. To meet Sam is to immediately like him. I don’t doubt his ability to work well with others. But I also believe he will thoroughly investigate and question and realize that some proposals really do need to be “g” filed. He is smart, considerate, and not afraid of hard work”.
In conclusion, this mother and daughter have felt many of the same frustrations that other residents have expressed. We along with many others in this town believe this past council has not always been in touch with the resident’s priorities for Kingsville.
But don’t take our word for it, all we are asking is for you to reach out to these candidates. Ask them your tough questions like we did, share your concerns, get to know them and we respect that it is up to the voters on Election Day.
Respectfully,
Katherine Gunning
Sande Gunning
