###

California schools are poised to get a record-breaking amount of money in the state budget to help students recover from the 15 months of chaos, virtual classrooms, hybrid schedules and ever-shifting guidance.

Districts with lots of high-needs students, including those with disabilities, stand to get even more money.

Educators will use some of the extra funding to hire counselors who could better address the mental health impacts of the pandemic. Lawmakers hope the unprecedented funding will also help address the pre-pandemic costs of special education and employee pensions.

“The pandemic hit everybody, and everybody could use more mental health support and counseling,” said Sara Noguchi, superintendent of Modesto City Schools. “But the pension costs each year are also significant. And that is just one of the areas that’s been difficult to manage.”

More money across the board

The state will spend an unprecedented $93.7 billion from its general fund on education this year, and the typical California district will rake in millions in new funding.

Modesto City Schools, for example, which has close to 30,000 students, is getting an extra $16.5 million this year to start. This money comes with almost no strings attached and can be spent on anything from payroll to maintenance.

But that’s just the beginning.

The state calculates funding for school districts using what’s called the Local Control Funding Formula. Under the formula, all districts receive a base amount of money per student, and more money for foster children, English learners, or those qualifying for free or reduced-price lunch. If any of those groups make up a bit more than half of a district’s enrollment, the district gets even more money.

The budget deal also reflects Gov. Gavin Newsom’s proposal to direct $1.1 billion to districts with a high concentration of those vulnerable student groups; the Legislature had wanted to spread the money out over all districts that have high-needs students.

Special education gets extra attention

Education experts are calling this fiscal year “the year of special ed,” with good reason: Not only are California lawmakers increasing state special ed spending by $656 million, President Joe Biden’s administration has promised even more funding over the next several years.

“Special education funding has never, ever been the amount that is needed,” said Jonathan Kaplan, a senior policy analyst at the California Budget & Policy Center. “The federal government is the one that requires schools to provide an appropriate education, but they’ve never provided the funding. State dollars are provided to supplement what the federal government is providing.”

This year, California will provide a 4.05% cost of living adjustment for all special education programs.

In addition, the state will also provide another $550 million for “dispute resolution” for students who received little or no special education services during the pandemic.

“Coming out of the pandemic we expect we’re going to see an increase in the number of students who need services,” Barrera said.

Early childhood education

The final budget deal also dedicates ongoing funding to transitional kindergarten. This intermediate grade level was established to accommodate 4-year-olds who don’t turn 5 by Sept. 1, the cutoff for admission for kindergarten.

The budget deal includes a timeline to implement transitional kindergarten for all 4-year-olds in California by 2025-2026. The plan would cost $2.7 billion once fully implemented.

The state is also spending billions to expand child care subsidies. This year, $1.5 billion will go toward 120,000 additional kids, mostly those of essential workers. Next year child care subsidy spending would increase $2.7 billion.

“I’ve never seen such an expansion and an attempt to improve the quality of childcare, really since the advent of Pre-K in the 1960s,” said Bruce Fuller, a professor of education at UC Berkeley. “The expansion of early education, in sheer dollar amounts, rivals the increases in K-12.”

Easing the fiscal burden of pensions

In past years, increases in overall education funding were dwarfed by the tens of millions of dollars some districts were required to pay to employee retirement funds. The cost of pension liability stressed district budgets, especially during the pandemic.

“Every year the pension costs continue to rise,” said Modesto City Schools Superintendent Noguchi. “Last year, there was no cost of living adjustment but an increase in pension costs.”

The overall increase in funding this year would help districts with their pension liabilities, a fiscal burden that pushed some districts into deficits.

Money for more teachers, more class time, more meals

The budget deal includes $2.8 billion in one-time funding to help school districts recruit, retain and train teachers. With a high number of teacher retirements this year, some districts face a looming staffing shortage. As the pandemic recedes, more teachers could keep class sizes low and allow students who fell behind to get more one-on-one attention.

The state is also providing $1.8 billion this year as a part of a multi-year $5 billion funding package to expand summer school and afterschool programs. Districts with more low-income students, foster children and English learners would get more funding for these programs.

In line with the legislature’s proposal, the budget will invest $54 million this year and $650 million in ongoing spending to pay for breakfasts and lunches for all students.

###

CALmatters.org is a nonprofit, nonpartisan media venture explaining California policies and politics.

David Wesley McMurray, Sr. entered Heaven on June 15, 2021 at age 80. He was lovingly cared for by his wife, Kate McMurray, who was by his side to the very end. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, July 1st at Faith Center Foursquare Church in Eureka. All are welcome to attend.

David lived a vibrant life filled with love from his family and friends. He enjoyed broad passions including basketball, golf, baseball, hunting, fishing, racing, flying, snowmobiling, skiing & politics. The family is truly grateful for all those that made effort to visit him in recent months.

David, born February 3, 1941 in Des Moines, Iowa, came to Eureka with his parents in 1949. As the story goes, his father Thomas Jasper McMurray who started the family roofing business McMurray & Sons in 1919, had enough of falling off frozen rooftops so he brought his young family-Don, Darlene, Twila, Thomas & David, to the California coast seeking a milder climate. Originally joined by siblings Tom & Darlene McMurray Allwine to take over McMurray & Sons, David became the sole owner in the mid-1970s. Bob & Darlene Allwine worked for the company until they both retired.

David’s mother, Harriett McMurray founded Faith Center Church as an ordained Foursquare minister in the early 1950s. All of the McMurray family were dedicated to this beautiful community of faith and attended services for decades. Siblings Tom, Dave & Darlene sang together in various trios and quartets. Dave met Barbara Henry (Mojave, Calif.) at Foursquare’s Old Oak Youth Ranch as camp counselors and were wed December 16, 1961. Together the couple became very involved in Humboldt County, served as leaders at Faith Center and expanded the family business ventures.

David gave his life, creativity and passion to McMurray & Sons Roofing & Construction opening branches in Crescent City, Bend, Medford, Brookings and continues to expand service to Northern California & Central Oregon. In the 90s daughter Tami and her family moved from the Crescent City branch to expand the Bend business. This move led to David and the family spending more time in Bend where he built his beautiful second home on Aubrey Butte and became involved in the Central Oregon community. An entrepreneur by nature, Dave developed an office park, invested in various commercial properties and eventually purchased a permanent location for the McMurray & Son’s local office. David made many friends and business partners over the 30 years serving the greater Bend community. In 2014 his son, Dave Jr., moved to Bend to work for the family business.

Dave Jr. and Heidi plan to continue the family tradition of excellence and craftsmanship as they forge innovative ways to carry their father’s vision forward.

David is survived by wife, Kate McMurray, with whom he spent the last loving years of his life. Also, by his daughter Heidi G. McMurray age 54, a resident of Tulsa, Oklahoma and son Dave Jr., age 47, a resident of Bend. David is now reunited with his eldest daughter Tami McMurray Francis who passed at age 37 in 2000. All three McMurray children are from his 39 year marriage to Barbara J. McMurray Wallis.

David’s grandchildren include Tami’s sons, Brandon Paul Francis (38) & Justin David Francis (37); Heidi’s children, Britni Che’ Hill (32), Lucas Benjamin Bersin (29), Olivia Brooke Mills (27), Barrett Wesley Bersin (25), Cherish Gabrielle Bersin (23) & Braeden Alexander Theodore Bents (15); David’s sons David Wesley McMurray III (26) & Charles Christian McMurray (23).

His great-grandchildren include Caleb & Britni Hill’s children Lylah Jae Hill (age 2) Cade Woodsen Hill (2 mos); Brandon & Brittani Francis’ son Carter Buck Francis (age 2).

David is also survived by his only living sibling, Thomas J. McMurray Jr.

The family appreciates all the heartfelt gestures for the loss of our beloved husband, father and fearless leader. Our world dimmed with his passing, but Dave is now shining with The Son.

Fly High Pops!

###

Joanne Marion Hinrichs passed away on June 26, 2021, at the age of 85 due to complications from Lewy body dementia.

Joanne was born August 19, 1935, in Los Angeles to Theodore F. Wilson and Marion Bell Wilson. She was the youngest of three, and the only girl. She was active in dance, Job’s Daughters and cake decorating among other interests. After graduating from John C. Fremont High School, she attended the University of Southern California for a year. She met her future husband, John H. Hinrichs — a Camp Pendleton-based U.S. Marine from Iowa — on a blind date. They married June 18, 1955, and settled in an apartment in the Westmont community of South Los Angeles. Over a 30-month period, Joanne was mother to three children — John, James and Joyce. In 1958, the family then moved to a new tract home in Garden Grove, California. Joanne was active in PTA, Cub Scouts and Brownies. And she also began a cake decorating business. With a desire to raise the family in a more rural area, her husband John took a job as director of accounting for Eureka City Schools. The family moved in 1967 to Fortuna in a house just outside of town with fields and trees to run horses and raise other animals. This house would be her home for more than 50 years. 

Joanne jumped into her new community and helped create the Top of the Morning Bowling league where she perfected her bowling skills while providing recreation for scores of women. She was also a leader in 4-H and Girl Scouts encouraging Fortuna youth to learn and flourish. As her children grew older, she began a career in finance, first at Schools Credit Union, then Coast Central Credit Union, and finally Bank of Loleta. She served in a number of roles including community outreach and service, public relations, personel, and management. She joined her husband in retirement when she retired in 1997. 

In 1998, her husband John passed away suddenly from a heart attack that broke her heart. Joanne’s interest in computers and the internet helped her find a new community of friends with whom she became close to over many years. She also traveled alone and with family and friends to places throughout the United States and even on a Caribbean cruise. 

Over the past few years, Joanne had a progressive decline in mental abilities that was diagnosed as Lewy body dementia. In 2020, she moved from her Fortuna home into McKinleyville Renaissance at Timber Ridge for the care she needed. Her family appreciates the comfort and support she received from the caregivers there.

Joanne was preceded in death by John H. Hinrichs, her husband of 43 years. She is survived by son John H. Hinrichs II and wife Linda Dishman of Los Angeles; son James M. Hinrichs and wife Mary Hinrichs of Fortuna; and daughter Joyce D. Hinrichs and husband Steven Watson of Arcata. Also, grandchildren Aaron Hinrichs (Danielle), Angela Johnson (Philip), Amy Wilson (Jared), Kayla Watson (Nick Wagner), and Lacey Watson Coelho (Casey). And great-grandchildren Tyler, Henry and Audrina Hinrichs; Jaiden and Braylon Johnson; and Emilyn and Raymond Wilson. Great-grandchildren are expected from Lacey in October and from Kayla in January. 

A celebration of her life will begin at  2 pm Thursday, July 1, 2021, at the Fortuna Fire Hall, 320 South Fortuna Blvd, Fortuna. All are invited Donations made in her honor to the Fortuna Firemen’s Association are welcome.

###

Gary Renner was born on November 16, 1946 and passed away at his home on April 20, 2021 after a long battle with cancer. Stubborn till the end, he outlived his initial diagnosis by several times, and made the most of his hard-fought time with his family and friends. His sense of humor and stubbornness was prevalent until the very end.

Gary served in the Army in Korea as a guard and dog handler on the border from 1966 to 1968. He was very proud of his time served for his country, and for his accomplishments with his canine partners. He rarely missed an opportunity to honor his service and that of others by attending local events, such as the Ferndale Memorial Day parade.

He came back to Ferndale and drove logging truck and married Helen Etter. They moved to Pertrolia where they raised their daughters. Gary worked for the Humboldt County Road Department for many years, and also served the Petrolia area as a volunteer on the fire department for many years. He later remarried Lynne and lived in Fortuna for his remaining years. A truck driver by trade, he worked for many local companies, and also owned his own truck for a number of years. He and Lynne were known for driving around to visit and had their regular dinner stops, and also enjoyed traveling together for many years. His devotion to Lynne was unmistakeable, but even he did not know how deep that devotion ran until the last few years where he took on the role of her primary care giver during her time of need. He displayed the kind of patience, kindness and love that is truly admirable.

He enjoyed hunting, whether for turkeys with grandkids or his friend Joey Willey, deer, or probably his favorite, squirrel hunting with his buddy Bill Johnson. He enjoyed his coffee in the morning and afternoon, as well as the company that came with it. Most mornings and afternoons you would find him at Poppa Joe’s playing cards and BSing with all the crew. Also a favorite coffee stop was the afternoon at Hansen’s Truck Stop, and later at McDonalds. For a number of the most recent years, the best part of his week was the Wednesday auction at Humboldt Auction Yard, where he was always known to lend a hand, sample the special at the cafe or just have fun harassing the crew. He was always up for helping anyone who needed help branding calves or hauling cattle, even as late as three weeks before his passing.

He was well known for attending all sporting events, but especially basketball. He may have even been known to draw upon his former role as a referee, and offer his assistance in the form of objections from the stands. Papa had a huge heart, and was a very devoted husband, father grandfather and friend. Though he could be opinionated and predictably inappropriate at times, his humor and opinions will be missed by us all.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Francis and Enid Renner, Stepfather Charlie White,and Brothers Ray & Roy. Gary is survived by his wife, Lynne Renner; his two daughters, Patti Prior (Chris) and Penni Renner Richardson (Jabe); and his five grandchildren, Parker, Paden, Delana, Cade, and Chase, Lynne’s children Megan Riley, her kids Aiden and Jacob, and son Tom. Also worth mention, his dog Buddy who never left his side and numerous close friends. I do believe that he and Larry Pries are playing cards, drinking coffee, talking hunting and racing while they watch over us every day.

We would like to give extra thanks to the entire Eureka Oncology Department, but especially Beckie McCanless and Dr Hardy. They are all a very special group of people, doing the work of angels. Becca and the crew at Poppa Joe’s were special to him, and their love and support are truly appreciated. Also, Grammie (Helen) was ever dependable for her support and care for both Gary and Lynne in anyway that was needed, her Sunday family dinners always a favorite of Garys as well. We would also like to say thanks for all of the kindness and support of all his friends and family along this journey.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, July 11, 1 p.m. at the Renner Family picnic grounds off of Price Creek Road in Ferndale. Lunch will be served, and memories shared. Price Creek Road is off of Blue Slide Road between Ferndale and Rio Dell. There will be a flags and signs to mark the turn off. If you have any questions feel free to give the family a call.

Papa was a very proud Veteran, any contributions in his honor can be made to the Ferndale Veterans Hall.

Ferndale Veterans Hall
PO Box 624
Ferndale, Ca.
95536

###

Ralph Edward Lightner Jr., 54, passed on to join his loved ones in heaven on May 13, 2021,

Born on June 12, 1966 to Ralph and Jacque Lightner, he was a lifelong resident of Manila and graduated from Arcata High School in 1984.

Ralph was a man of many talents. A master welder/fabricator known for his skills both locally and out of the area – the man could weld! His musical accomplishments included winning local competitions, starting his own bands, fronting local county bands and opening for Hank Williams III in Nashville, Tennessee – the man could sing! His family was blessed by his culinary skills – the man could cook!

Ralph loved spending time working in his shop while sharing a beer with his good friend Andy Savage. He enjoyed making people laugh and always had a “good one” for you. Anytime people were gathered, either family at home, or friends at the McKinleyville Moose, after some cajoling, the guitar would come out for an impromptu concert.

Though he would never admit it, Ralph was the true definition of a gentle giant — a sensitive loving soul who would give you anything he had if you needed it. His heart was as big as his 6’7” frame and he loved his family and friends with all of it.

Ralph is survived by his sons Justin (Alexis) Lightner and Waylon Lightner; sister Ida (Dan) Heinen; grandchildren Wyatt, William, Cameron, Cassie, Callie, Brantlee, Brycen Lightner; nieces Amy (Jon) Sells, Jaci Kanouff (Fiancé, Nick Payne), and Becky (Alicia) Kanouff; great-nieces Shyniesa and Tyleea Currie-Sells (Son, King Liufau), Harleigh and Emily Sells, Riley and Zoe Payne, Emma Mohr; great-nephews Aiden Sells, Ryan Mohr and Brayden Johnson; aunt Beverly Wheeler; cousins George Baker and Peggie Marcum; and his very special friends Candace and Del Trask.

He was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents and his eldest son, Raleigh Ray Lightner.

###

Blayne Carlton Jenks passed away peacefully on the morning of June 23, 2021, at his home in Blue Lake with family members by his side.

Blayne was a lifelong resident of Humboldt County. He was born in Rohnerville on September 18, 1934, to Charlie and Bernice Jenks. He had one sister, Betty. Blayne grew up in the Fortuna area and graduated from Fortuna High School in 1953. He participated in student government, held class offices, played several sports, and was awarded the White Sweater. After graduation, he attended Chico State College.

Blayne returned to Humboldt County and began his truck driving career of more than 40 years. The majority of his truck driving career was working for Simpson Timber Company hauling logs and lumber. Shortly after his retirement from Simpson Timber Company, Blayne decided he wasn’t finished with his driving career and began transferring automobiles for several local car dealerships.

Blayne lived a large part of his life in Fortuna where he had two sons, Keith and Blake Jenks. In 1979, Blayne married the love of his life, Virginia, and moved to Blue Lake, gaining three stepsons: Jeff Hackney, Todd Hackney, and Gregg Boughton.

Blayne made many friends while living in Blue Lake. He walked several miles every day until the last couple months of his life. He enjoyed playing poker and Texas hold ‘em with friends. He and Virginia also took several trips with friends to Reno and Las Vegas. Blayne was a hard worker and was always busy with projects around the house and yard. He also enjoyed gardening and model trains. Blayne looked forward to football season every year so that he could watch his favorite team, the San Francisco 49ers. He also enjoyed NASCAR.

Blayne dearly loved his grandchildren and the feeling was mutual. Some of their favorite times were spent on their many camping trips with Grandpa and Grandma. They enjoyed setting up the camp, swimming, and learning to whittle. The grandkids always wanted to stay with Grandpa and Grandma during school holidays, vacations, and weekends. They were even known to hide when they saw their parents coming to pick them up, with the hope that they could stay a little longer. Blayne was always willing to play board games, do puzzles, teach them to drive, or participate in any activity they wanted. As they grew older, he attended their sporting events, followed their activities, enjoyed hearing of their travels, and loved being a great-grandfather to their children.

Blayne was preceded in death by his parents Charlie and Bernice Jenks, sister Betty Reeves, son Blake Jenks, and granddaughter Amanda Hackney. He is survived by his beloved wife Virginia Jenks, his son Keith (Mary Jean) Jenks, and stepsons Jeff (Laurie) Hackney, Todd Hackney, and Gregg (Denise) Boughton. He is survived by his grandchildren: Amy Hackney, Andrew Hackney, Kyle Boughton, Alexa (Brian) Boots, Russell Hackney, Tiffany (Phillip) Smith, Chrystal (Dustin) Pamplona, and Ashley Jenks. Blayne also is survived by his great-grandchildren: Kaylee Boughton, Lovelyn Boughton, Otis Boots, JoAnn Smith, Lydia Pamplona, Clayton Pamplona and Casey Pamplona.

Blayne will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him. His family would like to thank Dr. Najar and the many nurses at St. Joseph Hospital for their compassionate care. A special thank you also to Hospice of Humboldt and Helping Hands for their support to the family, so Blayne was able to spend his last days at home.

A private graveside service for family members will be held on Friday, July 2, 2021. Arrangements are under the direction of Paul’s Chapel in Arcata. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Humboldt or a favorite charity of your choice.

###

Press release from the County of Humboldt:

The Eureka COVID-19 testing site run by OptumServe is moving to a new facility and will be located at the Wharfinger Building starting Thursday, July 1. Operating hours will remain the same, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., seven days a week.

The new testing site will be in the Bay Room on the lower floor of the Wharfinger Building, which is located at 1 Marina Way in Eureka. 

Staff will conduct testing at the current site at Redwood Acres Fairgrounds until 1 p.m. on Wednesday, June 30, and will resume testing at the new location a 7 a.m. on Thursday, July 1.

Testing is easy and free of charge. Walk-ins are welcome, or you may schedule an appointment through OptumServe:

• Register online at lhi.care/covidtesting or
• Call 888-634-1123.

OptumServe is contracted by the State of California to provide testing services to rural and underserved areas of the state. Testing is available at other locations throughout the county during the week. Visit lhi.care/covidtesting for a schedule.

Currently, 54% of Humboldt County’s total population are not yet fully vaccinated and remain vulnerable to the virus. That includes all residents under the age of 12 who are too young to receive the vaccine. 

Health officials stress the importance of early detection in preventing serious illness and containing the spread of COVID-19. A positive test early in the course of the illness enables individuals to seek treatment and reduce the risk of serious illness, long-term disability or death. 

Early detection also allows individuals to isolate themselves and reduce the chance that they will infect others. If you suspect you have been in contact with an infected person, it is important to get a test even if you do not have symptoms as you may still spread the infection to others. 

For the most recent COVID-19 information, visit cdc.gov or cdph.ca.gov. Local information is available at humboldtgov.org or by contacting covidinfo@co.humboldt.ca.us or calling 707-441-5000.