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Gov. Gavin Newsom officially launched a campaign Monday against the effort to oust him from office, as fellow Democrats closed ranks to support him and his opponents plan today and Wednesday to submit the last batch of signatures needed to trigger a recall election.

Since Newsom’s flashy State of the State speech last week that looked like an unofficial campaign kickoff, prominent Democrats across California and the nation have thrown their weight behind the governor and against the attempt to recall him. Their strategy in this deep-blue state that twice resoundingly rejected Republican former President Donald Trump: Portray the recall as a MAGA-inspired movement full of QAnon conspiracy theorists and anti-vaxxers and try to unify Democrats against it.

Whether Newsom’s game plan will work will likely depend on how quickly California bounces back from the coronavirus pandemic that’s shuttered many businesses and schools — as well as who steps up to try to replace Newsom on the recall ballot. His campaign launch seemed designed to thwart potential challengers from the left, featuring support from progressive national Democrats including U.S. Sens. Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders and former Georgia lawmaker Stacey Abrams.

Warren promoted the new anti-recall website and told her 5.7 million Twitter followers that “extreme right-wing Republicans” are trying to recall Newsom “because he dares to listen to scientists and fights to put power in the hands of working people.”

“Let’s have Gavin’s back,” Warren added.

The California Democratic Party dumped $250,000 into the anti-recall effort Monday and Newsom took to friendly national TV shows to hammer the message the GOP-led recall is a “partisan political power grab.”

On MSNBC, Newsom highlighted the Proud Boys and other white supremacist groups that took part in the January insurrection at the U.S. Capitol and that he said are supporting the recall. “I’m taking it very seriously,” said the governor, who is scheduled to appear today on “The View.”

California Democrats, meanwhile, went to work trying to unite the party’s diverse constituencies.

“If the recall should qualify, we will organize a statewide campaign to ensure that African-American voters understand that recalling Governor Gavin Newsom is not in our interest,” said Los Angeles Rep. Karen Bass, one of several Black Democrats who participated in a Zoom press conference to denounce the recall.

“We will crush it because we will be united.”

Bass and Rep. Barbara Lee of Oakland made clear they’re with Newsom, after many African Americans expressed disappointment that the governor didn’t pick one of them to fill the Senate seat left vacant by Vice President Kamala Harris. (For good measure, Newsom said in his MSNBC appearance that he will appoint a Black woman to the Senate if Sen. Dianne Feinstein retires.)

“If the recall should qualify, we will organize a statewide campaign to ensure that African-American voters understand that recalling Governor Gavin Newsom is not in our interest.”
— Karen Bass, Los Angeles representative

LGBT and Asian-American Democrats held similar events in recent days to tout Newsom’s record and attempt to mitigate potential fissures in the Democratic coalition. State Treasurer Fiona Ma and Controller Betty Yee spoke out in favor of Newsom, after being seen as potential candidates to replace him on the recall ballot.

“I stand with my brothers and sisters and ask everyone to spread the word and vote no on the recall,” Ma said at a recent press conference. She then backed it up with a $10,000 donation to a committee opposing the recall.

Democratic Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon also gave $10,000 to fight the recall — a sign that more money to help Newsom is likely on the way from the Legislature’s supermajority Democrats.

It’s the opposite of what’s happening in New York, where Gov. Andrew Cuomo is now facing an impeachment inquiry over allegations that he sexually harassed several women and covered up nursing home deaths from COVID-19. Cuomo is facing calls to resign from his fellow Democrats, while Newsom’s fellow Democrats — even those who have been critical of his pandemic response — are lining up to support him.

The recall election has not officially been declared. Election officials must first verify the submitted signatures and determine that at least 1.5 million of them are legit; they’re expected to issue a final count next month. But recall supporters say they’re submitting more than 2 million signatures, so it’s likely to land on the ballot this fall.

“Newsom has got to be held accountable for what’s happened the last 12 months,” said Dave Gilliard, a Republican consultant working on the recall campaign. He pointed to California’s slow vaccine rollout, fraud-plagued unemployment system and delays in reopening most schools — as well as Newsom’s infamous French Laundry soiree.

Gilliard said 65% of the people who signed the petitions are Republicans, 9% are Democrats and 25% are registered without a party preference.

Funding for the recall campaign has largely come from Republicans, including the California GOP, former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee and businessman John Cox, who lost to Newsom in 2018. Cox and Kevin Faulconer, the Republican former mayor of San Diego, have said they will run to replace Newsom.

But the recall is not only backed by Republicans. Silicon Valley executives David Sacks and Chamath Palihapitiya, independents who have previously supported Democrats, also donated to the recall campaign. Some parents who said they voted for Newsom in the past are supporting the recall because they’re angry about school closures.

So a key question in the coming months is whether a candidate will emerge who could attract support from Democrats, or liberal independent voters.

In a new poll from Emerson and Nextstar Media Group, 38% of California voters said they would vote to recall Newsom and 42% said they would vote to keep him in office.

“The Republicans are in favor of the recall regardless of which candidate they put up and the Democrats are still with Newsom, but there is a weaker support for the governor among younger Democrats, and if a fresh new face emerges on the left that could be a game-changer in Newsom’s Democrat support and a boost in the recall effort,” Spencer Kimball, director of polling at Emerson College, said in a statement.

Progressive tech investor Joe Sanberg — who’s flirted with running for office in the past — said during a press conference Monday with legislators supporting a wealth tax that he opposes the recall. But he didn’t explicitly rule out running.

In a new poll from Emerson and Nextstar Media Group, 38% of California voters said they would vote to recall Newsom and 42% said they would vote to keep him in office. The poll showed a heavy split along party lines, with recall favored by about 12% of Democrats and 86% of Republicans. But 39% of independents favored a recall, indicating that the big fight for both camps will probably be for voters who aren’t registered with either party.

A major wild card that will shape the race is how many people throw in their names to replace Newsom. The rules of a recall election are different from a regular election because there is no run-off. Voters are asked two questions: If they want to recall the governor, and who they want to replace him. If more than 50% of voters say “yes” to the first question, the person who gets the most votes on the second question wins. With votes split up among dozens — or even hundreds of candidates — it may not take many votes to win. It’s even possible that the winner could get fewer votes than Newsom.

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CalMatters reporter Ben Christopher contributed to this report.

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

Gino Guido Cortopassi went to be with the Lord on Friday March 5, 2021 after suffering complications from surgery with a broken hip. He was 90 years of age. Born to Guido and Felicina Cortopassi on June 26, 1930 in Arcata, he resided in Korbel until the family moved to Eureka in the late 1930s. He is predeceased by his wife Geraldine Cortopassi, brother Elio Cortopassi, his parents Guido & Felicina Cortopassi.

Gino attended Eureka City Schools until he graduated Eureka Senior High School in 1948. He then met the love of his life Geraldine Myers. They married in 1953 had 3 sons together during their 59 years of marriage.

Gino was inducted to the United States Army in August of 1954 and proudly served until August of 1956 as a cook in Germany and received the Army Occupational Medal. Gino worked at many jobs through the years. He was a baker for one of the large bakeries in Eureka early on until he met his mentor Les Majors of Eureka and began working for Les at Auto Parts & Glass on 3rd St. in Eureka. He would later buy the business from Les after he returned from the Army and name it for his own “Gino’s Auto Supply” located at 6th&F. This was the first of several businesses that he would be involved in during his lifetime. Gino always encouraged his sons to follow in his footsteps ofbeing self-employed, all of which would become successful in their own businesses.

After 39 years in the auto parts business, during which time he was fondly known at “Batman Gino,” he went into business with his youngest son and purchased Harbor Lanes in 1988. In 1992, at the encouragement of Jack McKellar and Jim Worthen both City Council members, Gino ran for a First Ward City Council seat. Even though he was defeated after a very heated campaign, his constituents were very proud of his efforts and encouraged him to continue on in being involved in City politics.

Also, during his tenure at the bowling center, his second son Curt saw an opportunity to purchase a limousine company and Gino again showed his support and became an active partner in Executive Limousine Service of Eureka. He always looked so dapper in his suit and hat while driving customers from one location to the next. Gino and Curt drove limousine for wedding parties, proms, birthdays, and just about every other kind of need.

Even though Gino never was actively involved in his oldest son Mike’s business, he was so very proud of the painting business that he had grown. Mike’s professionalism while painting peoples homes has always goes far beyond “excellent customer service.” At least that is what the bowling center patrons would tell Gino after his son had provided services for them.

In all his 90 years of life, and some 59 years in business, I’m not sure there is anyone that had not benefited from knowing Gino. He was a great dad and mentor to many. His pleasant smile and straight forward attitude is what you could always expect from him.

Gino is survived by his 3 sons, Mike (Katy), Curt (Elaine), and Gary (Bonnie). His Grandchildren Kacy Hunter (Travis), Eric (Rikki) and Sara Cortopassi. Greatgranchildren Loryn and Eryn Hunter. Nephew Steve Cortopassi (Susan) and their children Johanna Mowrey (Jim), Stevie Brewer (Justin), Natalie Cortopassi-Sisson (Brian). Also, Gary’s Step-Children Corrine Cathey (Jerry) and Sean Kennedy, Aaron Jacaway, and Jessie Brewer (Crystal).

A special thanks goes out to Dolly and Dee Dee Frye and the Staff at Frye’s Care Home in Eureka. Their kind and compassionate care of Gino’s health and well being needs to be commended. Gino was very happy with the care during his stay. The family would also like to Thank some very close friends that visited Gino often. Dave Franceschi, Bill Johnson, Linda Foster Schultz, and Delores Bucko. Thank you for being there for Dad.

Due to COVID restrictions a private family viewing will be held at Sander Funeral Home on E St. in Eureka on Friday, March 12th, at 10 a.m. with a private graveside service at noon in the Mausoleum at Ocean View Cemetery.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Gino Cortopassi’s loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here.

Rena Marie Giori (Orlandi) was born at home in Arcata California on December 10, 1930 and passed away Feburary 8, 2021 at the age of 90 due to heart complications.

Rena was the daughter of Marino Orlandi and Emilia (Champi) Orlandi, who immigrated from the Tuscany region of Italy through Ellis Island. Rena attended local elementary schools and Arcata High School, where she was active in band and choir. After graduation she continued her education at the business college in Eureka. Rena met the love of her life, Emilio Giori, who had just returned from WW II after a four-year campaign in the South Pacific.

Emilio and Rena were married in 1950 at Saint Mary’s Church in Arcata and welcomed daughter Vickie followed by daughter Debbie and son Wayne a few years later.

She was most happy being a mother and wife and raising her children. She closely followed her children’s activities through their school years, rarely missing a sport, music or academic event.

Rena and Emilio were also active in The NorthTown Arcata Kiwanas, the Appenni Lodge, American Legion and various Italian functions through out their lives.

Rena and Emilio owned and operated a dry cleaning business in Arcata for 35 years, with Rena concentrating on the business functions and Emilio on the dry cleaning operations of the business.

Other than family Rena’s greatest passion was to travel which she enjoyed all her life, including leading an Italian Festival conga line dance on the streets of Reno, Nevada at age 89.

Some of the her most memorable trips were spent with her relatives camping at Trinity Lake and throughout out Oregon and Idaho. When Rena wasn’t camping she was off with her family and grandkids, sightseeing in Europe (with a special interest in Italy), China, Hong Kong, Canada and Mexico. Mom loved to travel the USA and explore our rich history, visiting Washington DC, New York with special interest in Ellis Island, Florida and Hawaii. All we had to say is “lets go” and mom was packed!

In summer 1981 Rena and Emilio, with her brother Reno and sister in law June and son Wayne, purchased a motor home in Long Island New York and had a momentous trip driving across the USA back home to Arcata, visiting many of the national parks along the way.

When mom wasn’t traveling she entertained at their summer home in Willow Creek where many a funny story was told around the pool with a glass of good wine in hand. Many holiday reunions were held at the summer home which was attended by family and friends from all over and lasted for days! Family was Rena’s biggest devotion and she felt blessed with the addition of her grandchildren, Ashley and Jarred Johnson and Stephanie and Kristi Giori. Gramma Rena never missed an opportunity to attend her grandchildren’s sports and events and was known as the Soccer Field Granny! Later in life Mom was also blessed with two wonderful great-grandchildren, Alexis and Knox Johnson, who she loved as only an Italian Nonna could love!

Rena was preceded in death by her husband Emilio Giori, her parents Marino and Emilia Orlandi, her father-in-law Luigi Giori and mother-in-law Alessandrina Giori, daughter Vickie (Aguero), brother Reno Orlandi and sister-in-law June and many wonderful Italian cousins from the Bay Area of California.

Rena is survived by her daughter Debbie (Jerry) Johnson, son Wayne (Gina) Giori, grandchildren Ashley (Tina) and Jarred (Shehlee) Johnson and Stephanie and Kristi Giori and great-grandchildren Alexis and Knox Johnson.

Mom leaves behind all too many friends to mention, with special thanks to Tina Nielsen, Shirley Butler, Karen Sacchi, Rich and Julie Villegas, Irene Simmoni, Esther and Chuck Schumacher, and niece Judy White.

Due to COVID restrictions private burial services were attended by immediate family and close friends only. Services were held on February 15 at Paul’s Chapel in Arcata with internment at Ocean View Cemetery where mom now lays at peace with her loving family. We love and miss you mom but your spirit and soul will forever live within us. You will always be with us like a handprint on our hearts. Ciao Bella.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Rena Giori’s loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here.

James (Jim) Vigo Andersen peacefully passed away in the early morning hours of March 10, 2021 after a long, hard fought fight with cancer. Jim was born in Arcata and lived in the Trinidad and Orick area for most of his 80 years, leaving behind several lifelong friends, as well as family.

Jim spent 39 wonderful years with his wife Laura Jean raising two daughters at their family farm near the ocean in Trinidad. During this time, he worked in the logging industry, both as a logger which he loved, and at times running his own business. He was able to work in logging for 50 years, often times outpacing men half his age.

As a widower, he began to share his life with Virgie 20 years ago, extending his love to both her and her family, becoming “Papa Jim” to the younger members of the family. He became a very important part of the family and will be missed by all. During the last 11 years, with the support of Virgie, he transitioned from logging at the age of 69 to purchasing a towing company and driving tow trucks based out of Orick. One of his greatest joys was when his grandson Ryan joined him and became a partner in the business. Being able to work with his grandson made a good life even better.

We thought we were going to lose Jim over a year ago, however, he made a goal of being with us to see his grandson Josh graduate and become a sheriff and the newest member of his family, baby Heidi, born at the lowest point of his battle with cancer, walk.

Jim was a kind and loving man with a love of life, family, friends and his dog, Sweet Pea. He was a big man, with a big heart; a man that his daughters were proud to have as their Dad. To quote someone lucky enough to know him as Papa Jim “he gave the biggest hugs”. Anyone that needed help knew they could always count on him. If you ever wanted to see Jim light up, just ask him about his kids, grandkids or great-grandkids.

Jim is preceded in death by his wife Laura Jean Andersen, his parents Verda and Viggo Andersen, his brother Floyd Elwood, his son-in-law Allen Freitas, and granddaughter Danielle, sisters Delores and Madalyn.

Jim is survived by his long-time companion Virgie Parker, his daughter Sabrina and her husband Bob Boyer, his daughter Lisa and her husband Darren Brittain, grandchildren; Ryan, Josh, Dustyn, Skylar, Macie,Travis and great-grandchildren Abby, Hunter, Caleb, Ava, Kiana and Russell.

The family and Virgie want to extend a special thank you to Doug Cobb for being there for Jim in both comfort and the support required to allow him to be at home with his loved ones when he passed.

A memorial will be held at the family farm once the weather clears. Anyone wishing to do something in memory of Jim just give away a hug to someone that needs it, continuing his legacy of the best hugs ever.

Video of the fire provided by AFD.

Arcata Fire District press release:

McKinleyville, CA – At approximately 3 p.m. Arcata Fire was dispatched to a residential structure fire at the 2800 block of McKinleyville Avenue. The Chief Officer out of the McKinleyville Station was the first to arrive and reported a fully involved single-wide mobile home. The fire was being impacted by heavy winds, causing two additional residence to be immediately threatened. The engine out of the McKinleyville Station arrived and was assigned to protect the exposure buildings.

Today’s mobile home fire in McKinleyville. | AFD

Firefighters successfully protected both structures, then were able to focus their efforts toward the main fire building. The building was 100% involved with fire, however, with the neighbors help, the sole occupant was able to escape safely.

Chief McDonald reports: “We are extremely thankful for the neighbors who were able to carry the resident to safety. Had they not been able to take action, this would have been a fire fatality.”

Early indications point towards an accidental fire, however, the investigation is still ongoing. The structure was a complete loss and the owners vehicle was also a total loss. Red Cross was called in to assist with temporary housing due to displacement of the resident. A $250 SAVE card was issued to the resident to assist the displaced resident with incidental needs. The SAVE program is financed entirely through private and corporate donations mad through the California Fire Foundation.

There were no injuries and Arcata Fire thanks the following agencies for their assistance at this incident: Westhaven Fire, Fieldbrook Fire, CalFire (Trinidad Station) and Blue Lake Fire who covered the District. There were a total of 18 firefighters and three Chief Officers at the scene. Arcata Fire District Volunteers also provided logistical support at the fire scene.

The resident reported that her smoke alarms did not activate. Arcata Fire District would like to remind the community to check your smoke alarm for proper operation and change your batteries when you change your clocks for daylight savings.

The Fortuna Fire officials suspect transient activity to be the cause of a Sunday morning fire at the old PALCO Mill Site along Highway 101 in Fortuna. The investigation is ongoing. More details about the blaze can be found in the Fortuna Fire Protection District press release below:

The initial call came in as a report of black smoke behind O’Reilly’s Auto Parts on Fortuna Blvd. Location was updated to be a container or structure on fire inside the PALCO lot, first arriving officer reported heavy smoke and fire in a storage building. Due to initial access concerns and fire growth, response was upgraded by command to a full structure fire response with a request for two mutual aid water tenders. It took fire crews about 30 minutes to control the fire, containing it to the area of origin. Mutual aid was cancelled and crews remained on scene for overhaul for another 45 minutes.

The fire remains under investigation at this time although it is believed to have been transient related. The fuel load consisted of erosion control and traffic control materials owned by Wendt Construction in Fortuna; the contracting company utilizes the building for equipment storage. The building received moderate damage – no estimate for actual dollar loss has been determined at the time of this release.

Press release from the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office:

On March 12, 2021, at about 5:53 p.m., Humboldt County Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to the area of Mitchell Road and Myrtle Avenue for the report of a carjacking.

The 25-year-old female victim told deputies that her vehicle was stopped at the intersection of Mitchell Road and Myrtle Avenue when an unknown male suspect emerged from the nearby bushes and approached the victim, demanding her vehicle. The victim exited the vehicle and the suspect fled with the vehicle west on Myrtle Avenue.

The suspect is only described as a white male adult, approximately 30 years old and 6 feet tall, with short dark hair. The suspect was reportedly wearing a black long-sleeve shirt with writing on the sleeves.

The victim was only able to describe her stolen vehicle as a gray 2006 Nissan Maxima with a dent in the right rear quarter panel. License plate information for the vehicle is unavailable at this time.

This case is still under investigation.

Anyone with information about this case or related criminal activity is encouraged to call the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office at (707) 445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at (707) 268-2539.