![Blake Alexandre, co-founder of Alexandre Family Farm, seen here in a frame from a California state agency promotional video. [Video by California Department of Food and Agriculture video.]](https://kymkemp.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/image7-880x290.jpg)
The fire, now dubbed the Refuse Fire, was reported around 12:06 p.m. today. It is burning on state responsibility area land off Refuse Rd near Riffle Range Road, according to scanner traffic.
Lamplighter Owners Blame Victim, Jury Deliberates in Eureka Shooting Case and More Inside Humboldt Courts
Tuesday, 16 June 2026, 9:34 am - Read more…
Top Stories
Crime
Lamplighter Owners Blame Victim, Jury Deliberates in Eureka Shooting Case and More Inside Humboldt Courts
Did a Eureka motel ignore warning signs before a woman died of carbon monoxide poisoning? Plus, a jury prepares to decide the fate of a man accused of shooting at a vehicle and leading police on a chase through Eureka. Plus more.
A SENSE OF PLACE: Nature, Culture, and Community
Handfuls of Home
From Outlaw Hills to Economic Crossroads: New Book Tells Mendo’s Story
One reason North Coast residents pick up books about the Emerald Triangle is to see if they recognize themselves—or someone they know.
Good News
Rotary Club of Eureka Awards $1,700 to Play Street for New Multi-Sensory Play & Education Center
“This grant will help fund essential equipment for Play Street’s new Multi-Sensory Play and Education Center, opening in Eureka this July.”
Need to Know
Check This Out
Sawyer Fredericks, Winner of The Voice, at Arcata Playhouse on June 26
“On Earth Day 2026, Sawyer Fredericks brings attention to his third independent full-length album, No Need To Wonder, a Folk Rock record that explores themes of home, environmental responsibility, and social change.”
Can You Help?
Humboldt Residents File Ballot Initiative to Ban Large Warehouses from the Coastal Zone
A measure submitted by Indivisible Trinidad would prohibit new warehouse or distribution facilities larger than 20,000 square feet in the Coastal Zone, with organizers needing nearly 5,000 signatures to get it on the November ballot.
Other Voices: Columns, Letters, and Announcements
Letters to the Editor/ Columns
Terry’s Take on the Sidelines Returning
Ashes to Assets?
Announcements
Tad Sarvinski: 1978-2026
“He returned to Humboldt County and worked as an advertisement salesman for radio and newspaper and an assistant editor for Sensi Magazine. He then went back to the land and raised a produce garden and enjoyed selling at the local Farmers Markets.”
Cannabis Cache
From Outlaw Hills to Economic Crossroads: New Book Tells Mendo’s Story
One reason North Coast residents pick up books about the Emerald Triangle is to see if they recognize themselves—or someone they know.
That Black Helicopter Over Southern Humboldt? It’s Looking for More Than Pot
A coalition funded by a billionaire’s foundation, a helicopter with a long history over these hills, and a cannabis industry where the line between victim and suspect has never been simple — here’s what’s actually going on up there.