Christopher George Gurin was born in Pontiac, Michigan on November 26, 1952, and died in Eureka, August 24, 2023. Chris lived in Michigan until a teenager, and after the death of his father, he, his mother and sister Cynthia moved to Florida. He graduated from high school in Florida and shortly thereafter joined the army. He was trained as a corpsman and was eventually stationed at Letterman Hospital at the Presidio in San Francisco. Chris developed a love for San Francisco and visited there often throughout his life. While still in the army Chris traveled throughout northern California, loved what he saw in Humboldt county, and decided to move there after his tour of duty ended. Trained as an LVN, Chris was hired at St Joseph’s Hospital, and simultaneously enrolled at HSU eventually earning a BA in Geography and getting a teaching credential. However he never worked as a teacher, he obtained an R.N license by challenging the state boards. He worked at St. Joseph his entire career.

Chris met his wife, Suzanne Flynn, (also a nurse) at St Joseph’s, where they worked together. Their daughter Catherine was born in 1983.

Chris was man with a curious mind, sharp intellect, and wide range of knowledge and interests. His libertarian passion and gentle nature made him a thought provoking and dear friend. He loved riding motorcycles and frequently took long trips, often with friends, but also on his own. He was an avid hunter with both rifle and bow, and routinely brought home game. Chris was an insatiable sci- reader, feeding his friends with the latest and best books he could find. Later in life he developed an interest in anime that he frequently shared. Chris loved being with his friends and family but was equally content, curled up at home with a good book. Chris appreciated fine art. He had an impressive and eclectic collection of art covering all the walls of his house. He loved all kinds of music. As well as art, he had an extensive collection of vinyl records and CD’s that he enjoyed sharing with his friends. He volunteered at KHSU radio at Humboldt State, hosting his own radio shows , including the Frank Zappa radio hour, and blues and jazz shows.

He is pre-deceased by his parents and former wife Suzanne. He is survived by his daughter Catherine, sister Cynthia Poplawski, special cousin Kathy Gurin, many more relatives in the Midwest, and friends far and wide. A celebration of life/memorial service will be held October 21, 1 p.m.-4 p.m. at the Bayside Grange, 2297 Jacoby Creek Road.

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

PREVIOUSLY: Officer-Involved Shooting in Hoopa Leaves Suspect Dead; HCSO and DA’s Office Investigating

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Press release from the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office:

On Sunday, Sept. 17, 2023, an officer involved shooting occurred in Hoopa involving the California Highway Patrol (CHP). The Humboldt County Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT) is investigating this incident in conjunction with the California Department of Justice.

This incident update (#2) is to provide a more in-depth release of information.

At approximately 7:30 a.m., a CHP officer with six years of service and a deputy with the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) were monitoring traffic in the 12700 block of California State Route 96, south of Legion Way. The law enforcement officers observed a silver Volkswagen Jetta traveling on SR 96 with a broken windshield, a violation of VC 26710. Additionally, the driver was not wearing their occupant restraint, a violation of VC 27315(d), and the vehicle’s lighting equipment was not functioning as required per California Vehicle Code requirement(s). The CHP officer attempted a traffic stop on the vehicle, which failed to yield. The officer pursued the vehicle for approximately a quarter mile onto Mesket Lane, where the vehicle came to a stop at a turnout. The HCSO deputy followed the pursuit from a distance. 

Upon coming to a stop, the driver of the vehicle fled on foot down a trail into a nearby residential and wooded area. The CHP officer pursued the man for approximately 200 yards. In the area of Alameda Lane, a violent confrontation occurred between the driver and CHP Officer. The specific details of this confrontation remain under investigation; however, initial evidence indicates the officer deployed a taser during this altercation, striking the man. An officer involved shooting followed and the man sustained multiple gunshot wounds, succumbing to his injuries on scene. The officer sustained serious head injuries and a bite wound as a result of the confrontation and was transported to a local hospital for treatment.

While this was occurring, the HCSO deputy arrived at the vehicle’s location and contacted two adult female occupants. Both women were detained, questioned and released as part of this investigation.

The Humboldt County Critical Incident Response Team (CIRT), led by the Sheriff’s Major Crimes Division and the Humboldt County District Attorney’s Office, was activated to investigate this incident. 

During their preliminary investigation, investigators determined the decedent did not have any weapons defined by the Department of Justice as “deadly” in his possession at the time of the officer involved shooting.

Under Assembly Bill 1506, all incidents of an officer involved shooting resulting in the death of a civilian armed with specific weapons must be investigated from inception to conclusion by the California Department of Justice’s Police Shooting Investigation Team (CaPSIT). The goal of the CaPSIT program is to produce the most comprehensive, thorough, accurate and timely investigation possible. As a third-party investigator, this team serves to add increased transparency in the officer involved shooting investigation process and ultimately submits its findings to the California Attorney General for review.  

HCSO investigators immediately notified the Department of Justice (DOJ) following this incident. The CaPSIT team arrived to begin their investigation at approximately 6 p.m. that evening.

During a search of the Jetta, investigators located a loaded firearm, drug paraphernalia and an open container of alcohol.

A forensic autopsy is currently in the process of being scheduled. Identity confirmation of the decedent will be available for release following the autopsy.

In alignment with Humboldt County CIRT’s transparency protocol, the name of the involved CHP officer and number of rounds fired will be released as soon as it can be done without compromising the integrity of the investigation. Investigators are still in the process of identifying and collecting any available video footage related to this incident. The CHP officer was not equipped with a body worn camera. 

This case remains under active investigation by Humboldt County CIRT and the CA DOJ. Upon completion, the CA DOJ will submit their independent report to Attorney General Rob Bonta for review. The CIRT investigation will be turned over to the District Attorney for review.   

The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office would like to extend our deepest condolences to the family of the decedent and the Hoopa Valley Tribe during this difficult time. We appreciate the community’s patience and cooperation as this complex multi-agency investigation continues. The Sheriff’s Office would also like to thank Tribal Chairman Joe Davis, the Hoopa Tribal Council and the Hoopa Valley Tribal Police Department for their invaluable assistance during the initial investigation.

California Highway Patrol release: 

On 09/12/2023, at approximately 0557 hours, Ashley Hipol was either walking or lying partially within the right lane of US-101 Southbound, south of Palmer Blvd. An unknown vehicle traveling on US-101 Southbound struck Hipol’s left leg, causing major injuries. It is possible the involved driver may not have been aware that Ms. Hipol was struck, and did not stop at the scene.

Humboldt Area CHP is requesting assistance from the public to locate the vehicle involved in this crash, and identify the driver. If you have any information regarding this crash, please contact Officer Jason Esselman at the Humboldt Area CHP at 707-822-5981, or contact the Humboldt Communication Center at 707-268-2000, and reference CHP Crash #9125-2023-00678.

PREVIOUSLY: After a False Start in Arcata, Life Plan Humboldt Secures McKinleyville Property for a Large Senior Residential Community

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Press release from Assemblymember Jim Wood’s Office:

Assemblymember Jim Wood (D-Healdsburg) obtained $1.435 million in state funding to assist in a McKinleyville development by Life Plan Humboldt (LPH), which will be a resident-led not-for-profit senior community of 144 homes, including 60 affordable senior homes, with services available to ensure residents can age in place.

Wood will present the check to LPH this Wednesday, September 20, 2:30 pm, at the property site in the McKinleyville Town Center (link to map). Media are invited to attend.

“Life Plan Humboldt is grateful for this significant support to our ongoing fundraising campaign and brings us closer to our goal,” said Dr. Ann Lindsay, President. “We are committed to access, and our success will enable construction of up to 60 affordable senior homes on the campus by a nonprofit partner. We will open up housing as we downsize, create good jobs and stimulate the McKinleyville economy. Life Plan Humboldt is proud to jumpstart development of the McKinleyville Town Center.”

LPH is a tax-exempt nonprofit formed to plan, build and support a mixed-income Life Plan Community in Humboldt County. It aims to create a resident-led, aging-in-place community in Humboldt providing secure, accessible homes in an environmentally responsible setting that supports independence, socialization, personal growth, community involvement and intellectual stimulation. LPH will provide a continuum of services to address changing needs over time.

LPH has entered into an agreement to purchase a 14+ acre property in McKinleyville to create a campus-like residential setting. Ground-breaking is expected in two to five years.

“I was very pleased to find state funding for a development that will allow seniors to age in place and receive the services they need to live a fulfilling life,” said Wood. “Developments like LPH are needed throughout the state so that our aging population can live comfortably, safely and near their families.”

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The City of Arcata announced today that Arcata Main Street, the local business-supporting organization best known for organizing the annual Arcata Bay Oyster Festival, is being absorbed by the Arcata Chamber of Commerce. 

What does this mean for Oyster Fest? Well, the City promises that the event, along with the Season of Wonder and Light and Arts Arcata, will still be happening under the direction of the Chamber. 

Learn more in this City of Arcata press release:

 The Arcata Chamber and Arcata Main Street are teaming up to ensure long term support and representation for Arcata businesses.

After several years of discussion and months of planning, the Arcata Chamber is prepared to fold in critical aspects of Arcata Main Street’s operation to streamline business support services in Arcata.

Starting Thursday, Oct. 5, the Arcata Chamber, with support from outgoing Arcata Main Street Board members, will start planning in earnest to keep several key programs active such as the Season of Wonder and Light, Arts Arcata, the Oyster Festival and coordinated marketing and business networking for the Plaza and downtown businesses.

“This type of consolidation has been talked about for decades,” said Councilmember Stacy Atkins-Salazar, the City’s liaison to Main Street, “it just makes sense to combine efforts under one board, one organization for businesses and the City to contribute to and one slightly larger staff to coordinate support and activities that promote all of Arcata’s fabulous businesses.”

The Arcata Chamber currently has a strong board of 12 members and a seasoned staff of two. “The right combination of support has finally aligned” Chamber Board President Roger James and Vice President Bob Judevine reflected. “The Chamber has many business members who are also part of Main Street and we are excited to meet and support new businesses and to have a stronger presence on the Plaza and downtown”. The Chamber is a non-political organization whose purpose is to support business entrepreneurship, collaboration and innovation while promoting a strong sense of community.

For Main Street’s part, the agency worked hard with the City throughout the pandemic to keep shops and restaurants open in downtown and celebrated a tremendous Oyster Festival this past year with its return to the Plaza. It currently does not have an Executive Director and has a small board of three. Arcata Main Street approached the City in 2021 with a request to provide support to rebuild activities after the pandemic and work to ready critical programs to merge with or under the Chamber.

“We are happy to see this combination of services come together under one roof and will continue to support the Chamber as they shoulder the role of promoting and strengthening our downtown,” said Arcata Main Street President Shannon Yodowitz. “We are proud of our work with businesses for over 35 years including 32 Oyster Festivals, hundreds of family and community events and memorable celebrations of downtown businesses.”

The City will consider an amendment to the Arcata Chamber of Commerce’s annual agreement in October to reallocate funds that were originally earmarked for Main Street to assist with downtown revitalization after the pandemic and to assist with the consolidation. If you are interested in assisting with business support in Arcata please contact the Chamber at arcata@arcatachamber.com.

And… gear up Arcata! Halloween is coming up, and the Chamber is ready to celebrate and support our local business and uphold beloved traditions on the Plaza. Let’s all celebrate and support our local businesses. Please shop local.

Madera County Sheriff’s Office release: 

On September 15, 2023 around 2:00pm, the Madera County Sheriff’s Communications Center received a call reporting an overdue hiker. A man reported he and his girlfriend had gotten separated while hiking. The couple, from the Humboldt area, had hiked in to Ruth Lake 4 days prior, and were separated while heading back towards the Fernandez Trail head to return to their vehicle. The male party made it to their car and called for help after searching the area.

Officers from USFS, CHP H-40 crew, and an off-duty Madera County SAR Deputy responded to the trail head and began to coordinate efforts to locate the missing female. H-40 checked the area and located a group of hikers who were waving at them, but communication efforts were unsuccessful and a landing attempt couldn’t be made due to conditions. A ground team was then sent in to locate the hikers and confirm whether the missing 49 year old female was with them.

While the team hiked the 7 miles in, H-40 crews returned and were able to make contact with the group, confirming the missing female was at the location and uninjured. The ground team arrived at the camp, located at 9500 feet elevation, around 3:00am and camped out with her until daylight. The team then walked her out early in the morning of Saturday the 16th, reaching the trailhead around noon time, when she was reunited with her boyfriend.

Madera County Sheriff Tyson Pogue states, “We thank our partners, and our off-duty Deputy, for their dedicated efforts to complete this mission. Their commitment to ensuring the safety of our residents and visitors is what makes Madera County so remarkable.“

Above: Revelers from this past weekend’s North Country Fair on the Arcata Plaza enact a whimsical dramatization of Klamath dam removal.

Press release from the Yurok Tribe:

The Yurok Tribe and the Klamath River Renewal Corporation (KRRC), in collaboration with the Shasta Indian Nation, recently started preparing a stretch of the Klamath River to flow freely for the first time in a century.

The soon-to-be dismantled Klamath Hydroelectric Project has blocked fish passage and altered river flows for over 100 years. In Kikacéki, a place sacred to the Shasta Indian Nation, there is an area commonly known as Ward’s Canyon where the river has lacked consistent flows for nearly a century. In 1925 the construction of Copco No. 2 dam was completed, diverting the river into a tunnel that traveled nearly 2 miles downstream to a powerhouse, dewatering the historic reach of river canyon.

In the absence of sustained river flows, a dense stand of trees colonized the riverbed within the steep canyon. The Yurok Tribe Construction Corporation and Yurok Fisheries Department, in coordination with KRRC, Shasta Indian Nation, and HeliDunn, a locally owned helicopter company, are clearing the alder and cottonwood trees from the river corridor, while leaving all floodplain vegetation intact. The trees are being transported to a staging location for later use in the restoration of the 2,200 acres of reservoir beds that will be exposed after drawdown is complete.

“It fills my heart to know that salmon will migrate through this river reach on their way to spawn in the upper basin,” said Yurok Vice Chairman Frankie Myers. “For the last century, we have watched the dams suffocate the life out of the river and it has negatively impacted every member of our tribe. I would like to thank the KRRC and the Shasta Indian Nation for the opportunity to help our salmon runs and our river recover for our children and the next generations.”

Located within the traditional homeland of the Shasta Indian Nation, Kikacéki connects traditional villages, important ceremonial places, and the Tribe’s spiritual center of the world. Archaeological evidence shows that the area has been inhabited for thousands of years—until construction of the Copco dams began. During the dams’ construction, Shasta people living there also had their lands taken by eminent domain. Yet, the canyon and the river remain of immense cultural importance to the Shasta people, who continue to come up the Canyon every year to see their former home from the roadside.

“My family is from Kikacéki. I feel at peace whenever I come up here. I know as a Shasta Indian that I’m home. I want others to understand and appreciate why this land and the river is so important for us. We are happy to collaborate with the Yurok Tribe and KRRC on this part of the project. It is good that Tribal people are working in this area,” said Shasta Indian Nation Councilman Mike Olson.

Prior to project implementation, the 1.7-mile-long reach was surveyed to identify trees for removal up to the expected 3,000 cfs line. The hazard tree removal project is being implemented over the course of approximately two months. Destined to perish after the river reclaims its natural path, the trees need to be cleared to make it safe for whitewater rafters, kayakers, and boat-based anglers to navigate the river after the dams come down.

The Klamath dam removal project broke ground in June 2023, after the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) issued the approval that allowed construction crews to get to work on the deconstruction of Copco No. 2 dam. Copco No. 2 will be fully removed by the end of September. Iron Gate, JC Boyle and Copco No. 1 dams will be deconstructed next year in what is considered the largest salmon restoration project in history. The Klamath River Renewal Corporation, a nonprofit organization formed by signatories of the amended Klamath Hydroelectric Settlement Agreement, is overseeing the monumental project.

“We would not have reached this point if it were not for the long-standing advocacy of the tribal communities along the Klamath River,” said Mark Bransom, CEO of the Renewal Corporation “Seeing the revitalization of this river canyon is incredible, and we are honored to collaborate with the Yurok Tribe and Shasta Indian Nation on this portion of the project.”

Prior to construction of the dams, the Klamath supported 1 million spring and fall Chinook or king salmon as well strong populations of steelhead trout, sturgeon, Pacific lamprey and many other native fish species, all of which are struggling. This fall, fisheries managers predict that less than 25,000 Chinook will return to the river. Spring salmon stocks are equally dismal. In response to the decline in fish numbers, the Yurok Tribe cancelled its annual salmon harvest to protect fish. Non-tribal commercial and recreational salmon fisheries in California were also closed this summer due to the weak fish run.

The decline of the Klamath’s once prolific salmon populations is attributed to several factors, but the Klamath dams are by far the single biggest impediment to fish production. After the dams are removed, fisheries experts expect fish numbers to gradually increase in response to renewed access to historic spawning grounds, a reduction in disease exposure and improved ecosystem health.

“It is important to me that my children and future generations have a free-flowing Klamath River to preserve our culture and traditions,” said Shasta Indian Nation Vice-Chair Candice Difuntorum. “We have a saying in Shasta—rawé·ki ča·k’ú t’árak. It means ‘may the land be returned.’ For the wellbeing of the land and our people, we look forward to the day that Kikacéki is restored”

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Yurok Tribe

With more than 6,400 enrolled members, the Yurok Tribe is currently the largest tribe in California. The Tribe’s major initiatives include fisheries restoration, protection, and management, Klamath dam removal, condor reintroduction, holistic forest management, cultural preservation, sustainable economic development and land recovery.

Klamath River Renewal Corporation

The Klamath River Renewal Corporation, or KRRC, is a private, independent nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization formed by signatories of the amended Klamath Hydroelectric Settlement Agreement, or KHSA. KRRC is part of a cooperative effort to re-establish the natural vitality of the Klamath River so that it can support all communities in the Basin. Signatories of the amended KHSA, including the States of California and Oregon, local governments, Tribal nations, dam owner PacifiCorp, irrigators, and several conservation and fishing groups, appointed KRRC to take ownership and oversee removal of four hydroelectric dams on the river.

Shasta Indian Nation

With approximately 300 enrolled members, the Shasta Indian Nation is the Tribe whose homelands included Kikacéki. The ancestors of all its present members lived at Kikacéki prior to the construction of the Copco dams. Today, the Tribe’s major initiatives are focused on cultural preservation, language education, and land return.