Ronald Lloyd Middleton
November 6, 1951-April 9, 2025

Ronald ‘Ron’ Lloyd Middleton passed away after a short battle with cancer, on April 9, 2025 at the age of 73. Ronald was a long time resident of Willow Creek.

Ron was survived by his wife, Karen Middleton; daughters, Stacy Middleton, Shelly Barella, her husband, Anthony Barella, as well as his son, Joel Hollenback of Portland, Oregon; his brother Elmer (Sue) Middleton of Selma, Oregon, brother in-law Chester Carter of Oregon, and sister in-law Kim Downing, along with numerous nieces and nephews. Ron was preceded in death by his parents, Wilmer and Mattie Middleton; siblings, Laverne Carter, James (Guila), Delmar (Marge), Doyle, and Janice Riness (Tim).

Ron was born in Scotia on November 6, 1951. He attended Toddy Thomas Elementary and went on to graduate from Fortuna High School in 1970. He enjoyed playing basketball, hunting, playing softball for the church league, riding horses and playing pool.

After high school Ron moved to Willow Creek with his lifelong best friend Ed Parker. He began working for Utility Tree Company, clearing the power lines for PG&E. It was there where he discovered his love for climbing trees. He was well-known throughout the Klamath-Trinity community for his ability to climb. Even in his late 60s Ron could still be found swinging from trees. Whether it was helping his daughter in her yard or doing side jobs helping good friends Louis Walton and Mary Roberts, Ron never shied away from taking his love of tree climbing to new heights. His employment in the tree service industry lasted his entire life — from Utility Tree in 1970 to Davey Tree then eventually ending his career as a lineman for Western Environmental Consultants. Ron also spent a short period working for the Hoopa Valley Tribe where he mentored numerous locals on tree climbing techniques. Ron was extremely hard-working and his work ethic showed no matter how big or small the job was.

It was while in Willow Creek, Ron met the love of his life, Karen Middleton. The couple welcomed their first daughter, Stacy Marie, in 1980 and their youngest daughter, Shelly Annette, was born in 1982. The couple truly embraced living in the beautiful mountainous community, always taking trips to the local creeks and rivers: camping, fishing, and enjoying long motorcycle rides as far away as British Columbia. The couple began raising their family on the Downing Mountain homestead, where they built a strong foundation of love and laughter for their children. Ron loved the outdoors and living and raising his daughters in Willow Creek was nothing short of a dream for him, something that continued on when Ron became a grandpa.

In his later years, Ron become known as Papa. He was the proud grandpa to eight grandchildren: Malachi, Ava and Caleb Hammond, Rusty and Darlene Middleton, Alanis and Brendan Baldy and Cataleya Barella. Ron loved nothing more than being around his grandkids. He was truly in his element when he was playing with the grandkids. When they were babies, Papa would be on his hands and knees exerting all his energy to get them to crack a smile or a giggle. Although Ron loved all of his grandkids, he and Rusty became the best of buddies. Where Ron was, Rusty was; either roaming the hills or camping at their favorite spots. They were quite the pair, always telling each other jokes, and giving each other a hard time. Rusty knew where every logging road was and every creek in a 100-mile radius thanks to his Papa. He taught him how to run a chainsaw, swing an axe, and run a green machine.

Ron was a true mountain man. He was born to be outdoors. Any chance he got he was out exploring. His favorite spots were Horse Linto Creek Campground and Fish Lake, both of which he would take all of his grandkids. There were countless memories made of which his family hold close to their hearts.

If Ron wasn’t out exploring, he could be found at the local casinos, specifically the Lucky Bear. He enjoyed getting out and playing his favorite games and the occasional jackpot.

Although Ron was not a big man in size, his honesty, dependability and devotion to his family demonstrated huge character. He lived a meager lifestyle, with no regard to materialistic property. Ron was modest and prided himself on who you are as a person, not what you own. He was kind and generous, never backing down when someone was in need. Anyone who needed anything whether it be to dig his granddaughter out of the snow or help a stranger change a tire, he wouldn’t blink an eye.

There was never a dull moment when Ron was in your presence. He was always joking; even if it meant hearing the same joke or story one hundred times, he made sure to try and get you to crack a smile. He would follow every joke with “I’m just kiddin’ ya,” making sure we all knew he was just trying to bring joy to your day.

Just as in life, Ron wanted to keep it simple and did not care to do a big memorial service. The family will gather for a private memorial at a later date.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Ron Middleton’s loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.

Thomas J. Diamond, age 89 passed away peacefully on April 10, 2025, in Eureka. Born in Sparta, Greece as Athanasios Diamandakos on February 21, 1936, Tom was the youngest child with two older sisters who played an important role in his life.

Tom is survived by his son James (Genie), sister Elenia “Helen” (Steve) of Calgary, Canada, nephew of Canada, and niece and nephew residing in Greece. Very special people in Tom’s life Imogene Reed, Jerry Colivas Jr, Fr. Laurent (Irene), Spero, Chris, and Andy.

Tom was predeceased by his father Ionnanis “John,” mother Stamatina, sister Potula, sons John and Jason, granddaughter Wendy, friends Jerry Colivas Sr. and Fred Rogers.

Tom became a US citizen in 1964, shortly after he obtained teaching credentials in food services from University of California. Tom worked at OH Bass, at Eureka Inn (where he met Richard Nixon), Ramada Inn (where he met Johnny Cash) and … you may have witnessed him at Ramada Inn dancing with a table held by his teeth on “Greek Night”!!!

Tom was a founding member of St. Innocent Orthodox Church, formally known as “The First Church” in Eureka. He enjoyed cooking and baking his famous cookies (Koulourakia) to give away after Liturgy. Tom would carry his cookies with him to give away and was greeted with joyful cries Papouli and Cookie-man, which he cherished.

Memorial services will be held at St. Innocent Orthodox Church 939 F St. Eureka on May 3, 2025, at 11 a.m. An interment will follow at Ocean View Cemetery.

We would like to thank Especially You and Hospice for the care they provided Tom.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Tom Diamond’s loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.

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PREVIOUSLY:

• REPORT: Horse Racing at the Humboldt County Fair is Still Just Barely a Possibility, Following Today’s Meeting of the Racing Board

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Press release from the Humboldt County Fair:

The Humboldt County Fair Horse Racing Committee is calling on all community members, horse racing enthusiasts, and supporters of local tradition from Humboldt County and beyond to speak up in support of horse racing in Northern California – especially here in Ferndale, where it has been a cherished tradition for generations.

Horse racing at the Humboldt County Fair is not just a sport – it is a historic and cultural pillar that contributes to our local economy, supports jobs, and brings our community together in a truly unique way. This treasured tradition has deep roots, with a legacy that spans more than a century, making it one of California’s most enduring county fair race meets.

However, the future of live horse racing in Humboldt County and across Northern California is at a crossroads. Decisions being made at the state level in the coming month could dramatically impact the survival of our race meet. That’s why we are urging our neighbors, community leaders, and supporters from all corners of the state to take immediate action.

We are asking you to reach out to your local County Supervisors, State Senators, Assembly Members, Members of Congress, and the Governor’s Office. Tell them you support horse racing in Humboldt County. Let them know that this sport is more than just a pastime – it is a vital part of rural California’s identity and economy.

Here’s how you can help. Contact your elected officials – Call, email, or send letters to your local and state representatives expressing your support for horse racing in Humboldt County.

Senator Mike McGuire - senator.mcguire@senate.ca.gov - 1021 O St., Suite 8518, Sacramento, CA 95814, Phone (916) 651-4002, or 1036 5th St., Suite D, Eureka, CA 95501, Phone (707) 445-6508

Governor Gavin Newsom - gavin.newsom@gov.ca.gov - 1303 10th Street, Suite 1173, Sacramento, CA 95814, Phone (916) 445-2841

Representative Jared Huffman - https://huffman.house.gov/contact/email-me 317 Third Street Suite 1, Eureka, CA 95501, Phone (707) 407- 3585

Humboldt County District 1 Supervisor Rex Bohn - rbohn@co.humboldt.ca.us 825 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501, Phone (707) 476-2391

Humboldt County District 2 Supervisor Michelle Bushnell - mbushnell@co.humboldt.ca.us 825 5th Street, Eureka, CA 95501, Phone (707) 476-2392

California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) - information@chrb.ca.gov, 1010 Hurley Way, Suite 300, Sacramento, CA 95825, Phone (916) 263-6000

With your support, we can protect this time-honored tradition and ensure that the Humboldt County Fairgrounds continues to host thrilling, community-centered racing for years to come.

Let’s keep the spirit of the Humboldt County Fair alive – vibrant, proud, and racing strong.

For more information, updates, or ways to get involved, please contact the Humboldt County Fair Horse Racing Committee.

Greg Gomes,
Chair, Horse Racing Committee,
Vice President, Humboldt County Fair Association,
707-499-8859
greg@pacificpaperco.com

PREVIOUSLY: Drug Task Force Busts Up Alleged Multi-State Trafficking Organization, Seizes 23 Pounds of Meth Along With Fentanyl, Cocaine, Firearms and Cash

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Press release from the Humboldt County District Attorney’s Office:

Vargas-Diaz | File photo via HCSO

[On April 21], the Honorable Judge Kaleb V. Cockrum sentenced 45-year-old Valentin Vargas-Diaz, to serve 6 years in prison, the maximum under the law, for his March 2021 rape of a 29-year-old woman. The sentence follows his conviction by a Humboldt County jury earlier this month for two crimes: Rape of an Intoxicated Person, in violation of Penal Code section 261(a)(3), and Sexual Penetration by Foreign Object of an Intoxicated Person, in violation of Penal Code section 289(d).

On March 24, 2021, 29-year-old Jane Doe consumed alcoholic beverages while at the Myers Flat Saloon, an establishment which Vargas-Diaz regularly patronized. The next morning, Doe, who was unable to remember events from the remainder of the night, awoke unclothed in Vargas-Diaz’s bed, causing her distress and confusion.

Shortly after leaving Vargas-Diaz’s residence, Doe sought help by going to the hospital. Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Hannah Wright conducted a forensic examination of Doe. Despite some apprehension, Doe reported to Humboldt County Sheriff’s Deputy Colton Ross what she knew about the events of March 24.

During his investigation, Deputy Ross spoke with Vargas-Diaz, who claimed Doe was extremely intoxicated the night of March 24, so he gave her a ride to her home and assisted her through her gate before he left. Vargas-Diaz denied sexual intercourse occurred. However, DNA evidence recovered during the sexual assault forensic exam by Nurse Wright revealed otherwise. Additionally, toxicology results further confirmed Doe was highly intoxicated when Vargas-Diaz sexually assaulted her.

Senior Deputy District Attorney Whitney Timm prosecuted the case with assistance from DA Investigator Tim Marsolan and DA Victim Witness Advocate Caitlyn LaHaie.

District Attorney Stacey Eads stated: “I commend Doe for her bravery and perseverance in holding her offender accountable for his crimes. We at the District Attorney’s Office are committed to seeking justice for survivors of sexual assault.”

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The Humboldt County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday approved a letter of “strong opposition” to a new state bill that would would dramatically expand the definition of “customary maintenance” on billboards, allowing sign companies to make substantial changes to those structures without local government review or permitting.

“No other structure of this size in the state of California gets that kind of waiver,” Third District Supervisor Mike Wilson said during Tuesday’s meeting.

The letter, which the board approved with a 4-1 vote, argues that Assembly Bill 770 would undermine local authority, compromise public safety and endanger environmental and cultural resources. It was placed on the agenda’s consent calendar, meaning it was scheduled to be adopted among a batch of items without specific deliberations, but First District Supervisor Rex Bohn pulled it for discussion.

“I just couldn’t sign the letter the way it was,” Bohn said, noting that it’s twice as long as the bill itself and that it mentions “cultural resources,” which he considered a stretch since most billboards are located next to four-lane highways. Bohn argued that while many people “hate billboards,” others appreciate the tax base they generate. He said repair technology has improved, and sign owners should be allowed to take advantage of that.

“They’re basically earthquake-proofing [the billboards], kind of like what we make people do with old buildings, just making them stronger or better,” Bohn said.

Wilson disagreed. He said the language of the bill would apparently allow owners to replace nearly the entire structure, so long as the face of the sign remained the same, without a permit. That could mean replacing wooden posts and support beams with metal ones, or even installing or replacing concrete foundations.

“This could be in areas of environmental concern in ecologically sensitive areas,” Wilson said. “We have billboards currently in Humboldt County in wetlands and estuaries. So there would be no permit required for all the large equipment to put that in. There would be no permit required for historical or archaeological review. I’m sure tribal entities would not like that very much.”

Wilson also mentioned the increased public safety risk posed by reinforced metal structures along the roadside.

“Sometimes the billboards are actually, in many cases, encroaching on public lands or on properties where the owners don’t even know that they’re there,” Wilson added. “We’ve seen that all over the place. We’ve seen it in Humboldt Bay. We see it in Del Norte County. … It’s just odd that we would support this unsafe and environmentally significant change in the code.”

Fourth District Supervisor Natalie Arroyo agreed, and she pushed back on Bohn’s skepticism about cultural resources. Many of Humboldt County’s roadways were built on or near tribal pathways and village sites, she said, adding that protecting such archaeological resources “is a bit of a moral imperative for those of us in elected office.”

Second District Supervisor and Board Chair Michelle Bushnell said her understanding was that existing billboards already went through the necessary permitting processes, but Planning and Building Director John Ford said that’s not necessarily true.

“A lot of the billboards that exist out there were never permitted,” he said, and he vouched for Wilson’s assertion that the bill would essentially allow billboards to be completely rebuilt without local review. 

Bohn remained unconvinced. Regarding the letter’s expression of concern over the environmental impacts of “heavy machinery,” he said, “Last night I counted seven pieces of equipment exceeding 50,000 pounds building a trail next to the wetlands and cultural resources” referring to the Humboldt Bay Trail project.

Wilson countered by pointing out that “all the laws that protected the ecological and cultural values” for that project could be sidestepped by billboard owners should AB 770 pass.

“[T]his is a use that is not in the public trust’s best interest,” Wilson said. “This is just — this is for private commercial use.”

Wilson also said the bill could nullify the legal precedent that was established after Viacom Outdoor, Inc. sued the City of Arcata in 2006 after city officials red-tagged billboards that had been toppled by storms, thereby preventing them from being re-erected.

The advertising company sued, arguing that the city’s regulatory authority over such repair work was preempted by California’s Outdoor Advertising Act. A trial court agreed, but the decision was overturned on appeal. Local jurisdictions can, in fact, regulate the rebuilding of storm-damaged billboards, the appellate court decided.

 Wilson said AB 770 would effectively invalidate that precedent.

“We don’t do this for houses; we don’t do this for schools; we don’t do this for — there’s just no structure we do this for,” he said. “Why would we do it for this? It seems extreme and I hope that we oppose it today.”

Bohn circled back to Wilson’s remark about private commercial use. “Private use is not a bad thing,” he said. “Private use is what drives this county.” As for the claim that this bill would impact people’s quality of life, Bohn didn’t buy it.

“I had two friends die this weekend,” he said. “I’m thinking about their quality of life and I don’t think the billboards had a damn thing to do with it.”

Arroyo eventually made a motion to approve the letter, and Wilson seconded it. Right before the vote, Bushnell said she was conflicted but concerned about the potential loss of local control. She wound up joining the majority vote on the motion, which passed 4-1, with Bohn dissenting.

The authors of AB 770 are Assemblymembers Mark González and Blanca Pacheco, both Democrats from the Los Angeles area. The legislation is supported by the California State Outdoor Advertising Association, a lobbying organization dedicated to advancing the outdoor advertising industry in the state.

The Outpost emailed representatives for both of the bill’s authors to ask about their reasoning behind the bill and get their response to the letter of opposition approved by the Humboldt County Board of Supervisors. We didn’t hear back from González’s office before this post was published. A spokesperson for Pacheco said the Assemblymember has been in back-to-back meetings and her office would be unable to gather the necessary information in time for our deadline.

We also emailed the office of our own representative in the Assembly, Chris Rogers. His chief of staff, Meredith McNamee, said the bill remains in committee hearings and Rogers has not yet had a chance to review it. Bills often get substantially amended in committee, so if this one emerges it will likely be different. Rogers and his staff will review the bill prior to it going to a vote on the floor, if it makes it that far, McNamee said.

You can read the letter approved by the supes via the link below.

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DOCUMENT: Letter of Opposition to Assembly Bill 770

PREVIOUSLY:

• (VIDEO) Humboldt Road Crews Flee Active Slide on Highway 36

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Highway 36 remains closed near Swimmer’s Delight, with Caltrans still saying it will be “days” until the roadway is ready for traffic again.

Why so long, you wonder? Caltrans has posted a few aerial shots of the problem area and, yeah, we get it. See below. 

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This story was originally published by CalMatters. Sign up for their newsletters.

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An Inland Empire legislator wants to make it easier to penalize people who make threats affecting schools or places of worship.

The proposal by state Sen. Susan Rubio, a Democrat from West Covina, has stirred up broad opposition as well as support from dozens of organizations. It pits police, prosecutors and school employee groups against youth and disability advocates and the ACLU.

Existing law already says it is a crime to make a threat about something that could result in death or great bodily injury to someone. If the threat is “unequivocal, unconditional, immediate, and specific” and causes “sustained fear” in a person, the crime is a misdemeanor or a felony.

Rubio, a former public school teacher at Baldwin Park and Monrovia school districts, said she championed this bill to highlight the location of the threat, rather than the victim of the threat. She said that phoned-in or texted threats often waste time and money for schools and first responders and traumatize people.

“I’ve seen the toll these threats take on students and communities,” she said in a statement. “Even when the danger isn’t real, the fear is, and the trauma stays with kids long after the lockdown ends.”

But there’s disagreement about whether a new law is needed. Opponents point out that this bill is similar to existing law.

Rubio said existing law has too many loopholes, but this bill would give authorities more options.

“California law shouldn’t allow someone to threaten a mass shooting at a school and walk away without consequences, simply because no individual person was named in the threat,” she said.

Groups representing children pointed out that young people often make threats they don’t mean and don’t consider the legal consequences. A new law, they fear, will make schools even more of a conduit to incarceration for some students.

“It allows police intervention for what’s perceived as a threat, even if it’s just a joke, a mental breakdown, or expressing yourself through art,” said Kevin Maturano, a policy fellow with Fresh Lines for Youth.

“And like every punitive policy, it will target Black and Brown students the most. But beyond the harm for youth, this bill will also waste millions of taxpayer dollars.”

Rubio said her proposed bill specifies that perpetrators who are under 18 would be charged with misdemeanors, not felonies, “to strike a balance between accountability and keeping young people on a path toward growth, not incarceration.”

The bill passed the Public Safety Committee 6-0 in March. On April 7 it was placed on the Appropriations Committee’s suspense file, where most bills that cost extra money go. Legislators are expected to consider it next month.

This is at least the eighth time such a measure has come before the Assembly since 2015. Two similar bills passed in 2015 but were vetoed, and others failed in committee, including during last year’s legislative session.

This time 32 entities registered support for it, including associations representing police officers, sheriff’s deputies, school resource officers and prosecutors, as well as the League of California Cities, the Hindu America Foundation, Rio Hindo College and San Diegans for Gun Violence Prevention.

Against it were 16 organizations, including ACLU California Action, the Alliance for Boys and Men of Color, the California Public Defenders Association, the Children’s Defense Fund California, and Disability Rights California.