
The Haganses Paint a Beautiful Humboldt Life
Humboldt born Duane Hagans did what many a student has done. He picked up a paint brush to earn money while attending classes in Sacramento. Duane painted buildings inside and out, working hard to support …
Celebrating One Year of My Humboldt LIFE
It’s been a year since we started publishing My Humboldt Life, and there’s nothing better than hearing from you! Each month, my inbox and conversations are filled with messages from community members sharing how much they enjoy the magazine. Whether it’s the beautiful photography, inspiring local stories or discovering a new restaurant in our area, your enthusiasm fuels everything we do. Thank you for reading, sharing and being part of this growing community.
One question we get asked a lot is: Why do you only feature business owners on the cover? The answer is simple: We believe local business owners are the heartbeat of Humboldt County. They take risks, follow passions and help create the unique, independent spirit that defines our home. By spotlighting them, we’re celebrating not just their businesses, but their stories, grit and the ripple effect they have on our economy.
Want to make sure you never miss an issue? Subscribe to My Humboldt Life online at ncjshop.com. It’s the easiest way to have it delivered right to your mailbox every month. Whether you’re in Arcata, Ferndale, Eureka or beyond, you’ll get the latest edition full of local love.
Thank you again for being part of My Humboldt Life. We’re just getting started.
Warmly,
Melissa Sanderson
Publisher, My Humboldt LIFE
Subscribe today and join us on this journey, one page at a time.

The Haganses Paint a Beautiful Humboldt Life
Humboldt born Duane Hagans did what many a student has done. He picked up a paint brush to earn money while attending classes …

The Road Home with Trent and Tracy Shumard
Humboldt-born Trent and Tracy Shumard might look familiar to you. Maybe Tracy sold you your home; maybe Trent sold you the car in the driveway. The chance that this couple with deep Humboldt roots knows you, or someone you know, is pretty high.

Rick Littlefield and Growing Eureka Natural Foods

Roger Kirkpatrick’s Life Off-road
Roger Kirkpatrick’s father owned a Garberville auto shop, so of course he gave his 2-year-old son a Big A Auto Parts toolbox. The little boy grew into a teen who didn’t need to take auto shop in high school.

Kevin Bradley’s Sweet Ride
Like many motorheads, Fortuna native Kevin Bradley had engine grease under his fingernails from the start. His interest in autos hit the gas at age 15, while helping friends …

Jack Rieke Gives Humboldt a Green Thumbs Up
The story of the American Dream is largely written by young people armed with nothing but ambition rolling up their sleeves and getting to work. Sixteen-year-old Jack Rieke did just that when he started his first job …

The Renner Brothers and Humboldt Fence Co. Make Good Neighbors

Natalie Walston’s Plaza Style Designed to Inspire
Natalie Walston first came to Arcata to attend, then work for, what is now Cal Poly Humboldt. She was instantly hooked on Humboldt. She stayed on, working for the university and settling into …

Susan Santsche Lifts Spirits
Humboldt business owner Susan Santsche doesn’t just think outside of the box, she reconstructs the box to suit her specifications. Faced with what seemed to be insurmountable life changing events — not once but four times — she rose to meet the challenges …

Hummel Sisters Help Humboldt Hit the Road
In 1976, brothers Bill and Hal, and Hal’s wife, Kathy, opened Hummel Tire & Wheel on the very edge of Fortuna. The former Navy men had decided to settle in Humboldt where Hal had met Ferndale native Kathy while stationed here while Bill was serving in Vietnam. …

Ross Miller Grows Family and Community
When Ross Miller was dragged to a wedding reception (technically crashing) during his Thanksgiving holiday, the last thing he expected was a family friend introducing him to his future wife, Kelly. After throwing their own reception, the newly minted Millers started their own …

Navigating the Curves
Who’s Next?
Locally-owned businesses are the beating heart of Humboldt County. They provide jobs and contribute to our economy. They’re also our friends and neighbors who give back to our community by donating goods and services and volunteering their time.
Do you know of a local business that should be featured in My Humboldt LIFE magazine, perhaps even your own? Let us know! Fill out our online questionnaire to tell your story and share what makes your business unique.
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