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Local News 08 19 24 by KMUD News

After 27 Years, The Humboldt Independent Prints Final Edition Amid Financial Struggles by KMUD News

A state bill that regulates psychoactive hemp is suspended but it could be revived next year and Humboldt County supervisors and cannabis farmers vigorously oppose it. Daniel Mintz reports.

Upcoming 8.20.24 Rio Dell City Council Agenda includes proposed construction activity noise ban, appointment of Corporal Crystal Landry as Interim Police Chief, and much more...

Ray Hamill brings us details of this week's big local sports stories, as well as taking a look ahead at the new high school football season.

Local news.

Local Non profit, HAPI- Humboldt Asians and Pacific Islanders in solidarity held their 3rd annual Obon Festival in Arcata last weekend .

Obon is a traditional Japanese Buddhist festival that honors the spirits of ancestors. Celebrated annually, usually in mid-August, Obon involves rituals such as visiting ancestral graves, lighting lanterns, and performing dances known as Bon Odori. The festival is a time for families to come together, reflect on their heritage, and pay respects to those who have passed away. It's one of Japan's most significant cultural events, blending spirituality with community celebration.

This year, the Humboldt Obon festival included Rev. Rinban Sakamoto from the San Jose Buddhist Church who joined HAPI to bless their festival and share the stories and traditions of Obon. Atendees enjoyed he Obon dancing, taiko drumming, Asian and Pacific Islander cuisine, art, children’s activities, and more.

In addition to Obon, the organization has been working many different projects thought the community, including spearheading the Eureka China Town Project which honors the history and culture of the first Chinese people in Humboldt County.

HAPI has worked with the city of Eureka to create public art installations that celebrates the history and culture of the historic Chinese community in Humboldt while raising awareness of the local Chinese expulsion events and the federal and state exclusionary acts that shaped our society today.

HAPI continues to build and empower our community by amplifying diverse voices and perspectives for a more engaged and inclusive future.

On Sunday, August 11th, they invited KMUD News to Obon and we have the honor of sharing these highlights...

Although its sheriff believes an oversight committee isn't necessary, Humboldt County is analyzing the idea. Daniel MIntz reports.

Local News 08 14 24 by KMUD News

The #BoiseFire in northeastern Humboldt County has rapidly expanded, now covering over 8,600 acres. Despite being over 100 miles from the Humboldt city center, its plume was visible from Eureka, Arcata, and even as far south as Salmon Creek, raising concerns among residents.

Trenton Peterson, an Orleans resident who lost his father in the 2021 Slater Fire, shared his experiences with the Boise Fire, emphasizing the fear and determination in protecting his recently purchased property.

Over 600 personnel are currently battling the Boise Fire, now the fourth-largest active wildfire in California, though it has a low nationwide priority.

The fire is primarily driven by fuels and topography rather than wind, with critical fire behavior observed as it aligns with the Boise Creek drainage.

The Humboldt and Siskiyou County Sheriff's Offices have issued new evacuation warnings for areas east of the fire, including Forks of Salmon.

Despite its rapid growth, containment remains at zero percent. The Forest Service is coordinating efforts with local communities and tribes and cautions against premature containment declarations due to the challenging terrain and dry conditions. They stress the importance of following official sources for evacuation updates and information.