Russell Ruderman
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.聽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.聽Ruderman lives in Keaau.
Russell Ruderman: Gestures From The Legislature
The shaka is one thing, but a different kind of salute was given to serious ethics reform by lawmakers this year.
Russell Ruderman: The Good, The Bad And The Ugly Of This Legislative Session
Lawmakers have taken up everything from shakas and UH regents to stadium money and publicly funded elections.
Russell Ruderman: Half The Country Can’t Be Wrong. It’s Time For Hawaii To Legalize Marijuana
Where cannabis has been legalized, life goes on just fine, without major problems.
Russell Ruderman: Maui Deserves The Spotlight In The Legislature But So Do These 3 Reforms
We already know the corruption that the current system has produced and is perpetuating. Let鈥檚 try something different.
Russell Ruderman: Our Insurance Crisis Is About To Get Much Worse
It’s not just the risk of volcanic eruption that is driving insurers from the market and costs up for the rest of us.
Russell Ruderman: Quick Fixes Exist For Hawaii’s Housing Crisis. Let’s Make Them Happen
Tiny homes and ohana units could help provide more housing quickly. Barriers must be removed to address what is, indeed, an emergency.
Russell Ruderman: This New Program Could Help Cut Food Costs In Hawaii
Reusing glass bottles and other food containers will help reduce waste and lower the cost of food.
Russell Ruderman: Dispelling The Disinformation On Electric Vehicles
Recognize oil industry propaganda for what it is and join the ranks of satisfied EV drivers.
Russell Ruderman: Bury The Power Lines. It’s A No-Brainer
Utilities complain about the cost but the cost of not undergrounding electrical lines is often even higher.