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(PNN) -- The clear choice for Mayor of Kaua`i is Diana LaBedz and PNN is happy to endorse a candidate whose positions reflect many of the aspirations of the environmental, sustainability and controlled growth community.

Yes we could say we’d vote for a potted plant rather than reinstall the crony-addled incompetent and corrupt administration of Mayor Bernard Carvalho. His reign has been an exercise in perpetuation of the old boy political machine, perfecting the “fire, ready aim” style of his predecessors by filling jobs- even civil service positions- as well as boards and commissions with special interests, political supporters, campaign contributors and other assorted hacks and operatives with no regard for skills or even competence.

But despite her inexperience in the world of politics, in LaBedz we have the opportunity to elect a truly dedicated progressive who has been a decades-long advocate for many of the kinds of changes we seek to grow Kaua`i in a sustainable, environmentally sensitive and socially responsible manner.

LaBedz has pledged to use the current laws to protects our oceans, beaches and reefs, a passion of hers for years. She supports the “zero waste” concept for dealing with our festering solid waste management crisis. She will oppose the growth of the GMO industry and instead support the perpetuation of pesticide-free, organic farming.

She supports passage of a measure similar to the one passed on the Big Island that would make cannabis enforcement the lowest priority for the police and would seek a federal permit to grow industrial hemp offering new industry creating many jobs.

She has pledged to focus on creating opportunities for clean carbon-free energy and opposes an incineration plant.

We always say we wish we had someone to vote for who has these kinds of values. As Diana says, her only “special interest” is “the health of the island, it's people and our planet”. As a matter of fact, she is not soliciting campaign contributions which is certainly a breath of fresh air.

Diana LaBedz has given us a real choice. On September 18 please support Diana LaBedz and make her our next mayor.

(For more information on her positions check out her campaign web site.)

1.) After raising two children as a single parent, I have dedicated my life to protecting the Earth and its fragile resources. My business background started with Retail Management, Account Executive, Placement Director for Private Industry Council, Vice President of Marketing and Sales for CTVJ Productions. My volunteer work includes a board member of the Women’s Shelter in Long Beach, Calif. I was a member of the Long Beach Chamber of Commerce (committees served: the Women’s Council, Marketing Council and Media Relations). I am a chemical dependency counselor and domestic violence counselor specializing in neuro-linguistic programing.

My beginning started with organizing ECO~Link, a coalition of environmental organizations dedicated to protecting wetlands, ocean, beaches, rivers and streams in Southern California. The success of ECO~Link led me to produce and host a weekly environmental TV show for Channel 3. During the successful TV series, I become the editor of ECO~Link News Magazine. With these tools the environmental organizations became successful in educating the public on the issues of the day. Our most successful campaign was protecting the Ports of Long Beach and San Pedro from Mitsubishi’s Liquified Natural Gas Plant and protecting the public from pollution created by the twin shipping ports together contributing to the deaths of 2,000 people per year. I also created media events including “The Whales Are Crying” featuring Paul Watson and Captain Charles Moore. This successful event was a tool in public education and stopping the Navy’s use of deadly sonar in California waters.

My success is due to being personable, persuasive and an enthusiastic self-starter. I am also highly effective in motivating and supervising employees and able to create and build an instant rapport with volunteers. I am a founding member of the Kaua‘i Surfrider Foundation, The Vegetarian Society and The ECO Round Table.

2.) I have to be honest, when I made the decision to run for mayor, It came from my heart. My head said there weren’t enough people ready to give up what doesn’t work. My heart said, it doesn’t really matter, there are enough of those that are willing to step forward and make the transition. With cooperation, legislation, education and restorative stewardship we must nurture and inspire those with new ideas.

I believe in the current laws protecting our ocean, beaches and reefs and will see that they are enforced including keeping open access to beaches. I support a county manager position. I will work to upgrade and expand the bus system. I will take the Incident Command System course in emergency preparedness. I support Zero Waste legislation and no incinerators. I am asking people to volunteer to give up drinking beverages out of plastic bottles; they poison people and wildlife.

Passing the Big Island’s “Lowest Law Enforcement Priority of Cannabis Ordinance” would save millions. Exaggerating the dangers of recreational marijuana and wasting money to investigate, site, arrest, search and seize property doesn’t serve the people.

There is a complete failure of public agencies responsible for the regulation, monitoring and protection of the public’s health in relation to pesticide use and GMO agriculture on Kaua‘i. I will do what it takes to hold those responsible for the harm they do. I support organic farms that will feed everyone through respect for the ‘aina in a thoughtful process that includes protecting wild places. Kaua‘i is capable of growing the best fruits and vegetables in the world. I would request a permit to grow hemp for fuel, food, clothing, paper and medicine and support creating new businesses. We must seize this bountiful ability, producing the needs for our communities.

3.) I support open government and fiscal responsibility. I offer a vision for future generations that is holistic and inclusive. I am inspired to bring my vision forward for your vote.

My only “special interest” is the health of the island, its people and our planet. I am honest, fair and I have integrity. My history demonstrates that I come to the position with a clean slate owing no one. As a realistic leader I will apply wisdom and surround myself with experts in their profession. I support a functional community where all people are encouraged to contribute their best. I wish to gather those who care about stewardship for intelligent growth.

Bringing films and updated information for people to become more informed is my personal mission. When we are well informed we make better decisions for our future. With knowledgeable communities, together we can create a sound plan for a strong productive, beautiful island.

I am open to discuss all possibilities for clean energy and help Kaua‘i make the necessary transition for a green future and implement new energy pilot projects.

I will request a federal permit to grow industrial hemp offering new industry creating many jobs. Hemp offers 1,200 different products, used for fuel, food and fiber.

I support local organic farms, farmers and vendors encouraging everyone to buy and eat local. By reducing our dependency on imported and exported foods and valuing environmental consciousness, all life is nourished; this is sustainable. I support a chemical- and GMO-free Kaua‘i keeping poisons off your plate and away from your children.

I favor low-impact nature tourism. Kaua‘i island is precious and will stay that way only if we protect it. It is our greatest responsibility to teach our children to be respectful to the island and each other.

There are a number of important issues facing Kauai Island, first and most important is the health of the island and it's people.

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Diana LaBedz for Mayor

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VOTE FOR DIANA LaBEDZ FOR MAYOR