EARTH DAY--State Sen. Lorraine Inouye joined Russell Ruderman, owner of Island Naturals Markets, and his daughter, Kate Snuggerud, a 10th grader at Hilo High School, to celebrate Earth Day at Pahoa Island Naturals Market & Deli.

Lorraine Visits Pahoa
For Earth Day Celebration


State Sen. Lorraine Inouye, a strong advocate of recycling and champion of the landmark Bottle Bill, joined the Earth Day Celebration at Pahoa Island Naturals Market & Deli and was warmly welcomed by Island Naturals Markets owner Russell Ruderman and his daughter, Kate Snuggerud.

Kate, a 10th grader at Hilo High School, won a traffic essay contest, and as part of the prize was awarded a trip to the Legislature. She had the opportunity to spend the day at the Capitol and "shadow" Sen. Inouye to learn about the duties and responsibilities of a State Senator.

Mr. Ruderman owns Island Naturals stores in Hilo and Pahoa and is in the process of opening stores in West Hawai'i.

During the Earth Day Celebration, Sen. Inouye discussed recycling efforts, solid waste management, preservation of agricultural lands and promotion of local products.

She won supporters by explaining a resolution she introduced that encourages the State and the Department of Education to buy locally grown products, including vegetables, local beef and organically grown food.

At the Pahoa event, the Senator visited with people at several information booths and discussed efforts on the Island of Hawai'i to recycle, market biodegradable products and grow and market food for our local markets.

As your Mayor, "I will continue to support our organic farmers, our farmers' markets and our sustainable future. I will continue to be your advocate and fight for recycling and an integrated solid waste management plan that is safe, efficient and cost effective," Lorraine said in an Earth Day statement.

We Are Making A Difference.