Born and raised on U.S. Army bases, Russell Ruderman attended Penn State University and holds a B.S. in biology. He began working in the natural food business in 1975, and was among the pioneers of the modern natural foods industry. In 1998 Ruderman founded Island Naturals Market and Deli in Hilo. Now with three stores including Pahoa and Kailua-Kona and over 200 employees, Island Naturals is committed to supporting local farmers and producers. He served as state senator for Puna district on the Big Island from 2012 to 2020. His focus was on the environment, economic justice, and helping Puna recover from a series of disasters. Ruderman lives in Keaau.
Lawmakers have taken up everything from shakas and UH regents to stadium money and publicly funded elections.
Where cannabis has been legalized, life goes on just fine, without major problems.
We already know the corruption that the current system has produced and is perpetuating. Let’s try something different.
It's not just the risk of volcanic eruption that is driving insurers from the market and costs up for the rest of us.
Tiny homes and ohana units could help provide more housing quickly. Barriers must be removed to address what is, indeed, an emergency.
Reusing glass bottles and other food containers will help reduce waste and lower the cost of food.
Recognize oil industry propaganda for what it is and join the ranks of satisfied EV drivers.
Utilities complain about the cost but the cost of not undergrounding electrical lines is often even higher.
Responsible owners are doing their part. Government agencies need to do theirs.