Some people leave an imprint that extends far beyond their own lifetime. Sonny Tripp was one of those people. 

Leroy “Sonny” Tripp was born on August 5, 1969, to Leroy and Sue Tripp. He and his sister, Melissa (Tripp) Defenbaugh, were raised in Crescent City and later Redding, where Sonny formed lifelong friendships and deep community ties that remained with him throughout his life.

From an early age, Sonny found joy and belonging through athletics. Growing up in Crescent City, he developed a love for football, basketball, and track. Sports became a natural way for him to connect with others and begin building the leadership and discipline that would shape much of his life.

Sonny attended Redwood Elementary School in Crescent City, following in the footsteps of his mother and her siblings. One of his favorite teachers was Mr. Goodgame, who inspired Sonny’s interest in history. During these years, his love for football and basketball continued to grow. In eighth grade, Sonny had the special opportunity to be coached by his father, who later presented diplomas to Sonny and his classmates, making the milestone especially meaningful.

During his freshman year of high school, Sonny moved to Redding, where he continued to excel in athletics and form lasting friendships. He was crowned Homecoming King during his senior year football season, reflecting the friendship, respect, and admiration held by his peers.

Sonny went on to attend Sacramento State, Santa Barbara City College, and Humboldt State University where he received his Bachelor of Arts in Native American Studies. He would later earn a Master’s in Education while student teaching at Chief Sealth High School and also taking care of his young family in Seattle, Washington. Sonny was always grateful for his education and would often remark how it helped him provide for his family.

Sonny had three children with Sawar Young. Being a father was Sonny’s greatest pride and source of strength. Above all, Sonny cherished his family, which he called “his basket”. He loved his kids, Mateek, Imya, and Imnihva unconditionally and the time he spent raising them was filled with laughter, love, and joy. His greatest wish for them was their happiness. 

Fatherhood came naturally to Sonny. He led with humor, guidance, wisdom, and compassion, and he listened with care and intention, always doing his best to support his children. Sonny sacrificed much to raise his children and support his basket far from home. He was grateful to return home with his family and to serve his community.

Gratitude shaped the way Sonny saw the world, and grounded him in love and positivity. That spirit was reflected in his parenting, where he treated every moment with his children as a blessing and never missed an opportunity to remind them how deeply they were loved. They were the center of his world.

In his final moments, Sonny was surrounded by his two sons, his daughter and close friends. Through tears, there was comfort in knowing how much love he had given and in the love that surrounded him in return.

Sonny was a proud Karuk tribal member and a descendant of the villages of Katimiîn, Ameekyáaraam, and Asamnaamkaruk. He deeply valued his Native heritage and honored his family’s traditions in every part of his life. He was a jump dancer, brush dancer, and sun dancer with his Ho-Chunk and Lakota brothers.

As a coach, Sonny brought a winning culture to every team he led. He guided students who were often overlooked and helped them recognize their own strength and voice. Coaching basketball was one of his greatest joys and one he got to share. During his tenure as the McKinleyville High School Varsity Head Coach, he had the privilege to coach with one of his best friends Larrin McConnell and to coach his two sons.  He would teach his players that the court was a sacred place, where you play to win; and leave everything you have on the court. To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift. 

To his players, and to students, he was a positive influence who truly took the time to listen and care. Working with the schools was a very rewarding time for Sonny. He formed lasting connections and cared for his students with genuine concern, supporting them not only in sports and education, but in life. To some of his players, he was far more than a coach. He was a role model who believed in them long before they believed in themselves.

Sonny’s work as an Indigenous Education Advocate for the Northern California Indian Development Council (NCIDC) brought him great pride. During this time, he was able to unapologetically be himself while working to bring leaders together from across the West Coast. Though the work was serious and deeply important, Sonny never let it become too heavy. He carried it with humility, balance, and a sense of humanity that made others feel welcome and connected.

Alongside his NCIDC family, he built bridges between cultures, generations, and communities. He believed deeply in the potential of every young person and in the importance of education grounded in identity, respect, and belonging. Through partnerships with tribal nations, schools, the ACLU and many other organizations, Sonny helped create lasting change that continues to shape the lives of students and families. Those who worked beside him remember his integrity, compassion, and courage. His legacy lives on in the students he uplifted, the conversations he started, and the movement he helped advance toward equity, healing, and cultural understanding.

One of the most meaningful chapters of Sonny’s life was the time he spent caring for his uncle, Brian D. Tripp with the assistance of his son Imya. Those years were filled with adventure, laughter, and music at Karuk Man’s House. During this time he had a chance to reconnect with old friends while also making new ones.  Sonny stepped up and filled a huge gap for his entire family and extended community. NCIDC provided unwavering support during this time, making it possible for Sonny to balance caregiving with his professional responsibilities.

To those who knew him, Sonny was unforgettable. Though his absence is deeply felt, his spirit continues through the lives he touched, the songs he carried, and the lessons he shared. Sonny’s energy lifted every space he entered, and he had a rare gift for making others feel seen, heard, and valued. His presence, influence, and care will continue to guide and inspire the North Coast for generations to come.

The Tripp family extends their heartfelt thanks to Imya Tripp, Chris Carmona, and Larrin “Coach” McConnell for their unwavering care, presence, and compassion they showed Sonny throughout his lymphoma diagnosis and cancer treatment.  They are also deeply grateful to the doctors, nurses, and staff at UIHS, Providence Santa Rosa, and UCSF, whose dedication and kindness provided comfort and support during an incredibly difficult time. To the many friends and loved ones who contributed to Sonny’s GoFundMe, your support brought comfort during his final months and reminded Sonny, again and again, how deeply he was loved. Thank you. 

The family also offers sincere and lasting gratitude to the Northern California Indian Development Council and Eureka City Schools for their continued support and the many ways they showed care for Sonny throughout his work. Your understanding, flexibility, and compassion made a meaningful difference in his life and in the lives of those he served.

Sonny was preceded in death by his great aunt Georgie, his uncles Amos Tripp, Brian D. Tripp, and Phillip Tripp. And mother’s side of family; uncles Mike Hutsell, Clayton Hutsell and aunties Paula Lotti and Jaxie Snider. Heart brothers Phil Ford, Charles “Chaz” Marshall, Tim Brown, JP Morgan, and Darrell Emerson. 

He is survived by his parents, Leroy and Sue Tripp; his children, Mateek Tripp, Imya Tripp, and Imnihva Tripp; his sister & brother-in-law, Melissa & Bill Defenbaugh; his nephew, Yutimiin Defenbaugh; aunts & uncles, Maria Tripp, David & Jan Tripp, Rose Tripp, Helen & Pat Suri, Karen Noble and numerous cousins.  

To the many people, students, players, families, and community members we were unable to list, please know that Sonny considered you his own.

On Sunday, January 18, 2026, family and friends will gather in rememb

In Loving Memory of Leroy ‘Sonny’ Tripp August 5, 1969 – October 31, 2025 Some people leave an imprint that extends far beyond their own lifetime. Sonny Tripp was one of those people. Leroy “Sonny” Tripp was born on August 5, 1969, to Leroy and Sue Tripp. He and his sister, Melissa (Tripp) Defenbaugh, were raised in Crescent City and later Redding, where Sonny formed lifelong friendships and deep community ties that remained with him throughout his life. From an early age, Sonny found joy and belonging through athletics. Growing up in Crescent City, he developed a love for football, basketball, and track. Sports became a natural way for him to connect with others and begin building the leadership and discipline that would shape much of his life. Sonny attended Redwood Elementary School in Crescent City, following in the footsteps of his mother and her siblings. One of his favorite teachers was Mr. Goodgame, who inspired Sonny’s interest in history. During these years, his love for football and basketball continued to grow. In eighth grade, Sonny had the special opportunity to be coached by his father, who later presented diplomas to Sonny and his classmates, making the milestone especially meaningful. During his freshman year of high school, Sonny moved to Redding, where he continued to excel in athletics and form lasting friendships. He was crowned Homecoming King during his senior year football season, reflecting the friendship, respect, and admiration held by his peers. Sonny went on to attend Sacramento State, Santa Barbara City College, and Humboldt State University where he received his Bachelor of Arts in Native American Studies. He would later earn a Master’s in Education while also taking care of his young family in Seattle, Washington. Being a father was Sonny’s greatest pride and source of strength. Above all, Sonny cherished his family, which he called “his basket”. He loved his three kids, Mateek, Imya, and Imnihva unconditionally and the time he spent raising them was filled with laughter, love, and joy. His greatest wish for them was their happiness. Fatherhood came naturally to Sonny. He led with humor, guidance, wisdom, and compassion, and he listened with care and intention, always doing his best to support his children. Sonny sacrificed much to raise his children and support his basket far from home. He was grateful to return home with his family and to serve his community. Gratitude shaped the way Sonny saw the world, and grounded him in love and positivity. That spirit was reflected in his parenting, where he treated every moment with his children as a blessing and never missed an opportunity to remind them how deeply they were loved. They were the center of his world. In his final moments, Sonny was surrounded by his two sons, his daughter and close friends. Through tears, there was comfort in knowing how much love he had given and in the love that surrounded him in return. Sonny was a proud Karuk Tribal member and a descendant of the villages of Katimiîn, Ameekyáaraam, and Asamnaamkaruk. He deeply valued his Native heritage and honored his family’s traditions in every part of his life. He was a jump dancer, brush dancer, and sun dancer with his Lakota brothers. As a coach, Sonny brought a winning culture to every team he led. He guided students who were often overlooked and helped them recognize their own strength and voice. Coaching basketball was one of his greatest joys and one he got to share. During his tenure as the McKinleyville High School Varsity Head Coach, he had the privilege to coach with one of his best friends Larrin McConnell and to coach his two sons. He would teach his players that the court was a sacred place, where you play to win; and leave everything you have on the court. To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift. To his players, and to students, he was a positive influence who truly took the time to listen and care. Working with the schools was a very rewarding time for Sonny. He formed lasting connections and cared for his students with genuine concern, supporting them not only in sports and education, but in life. To some of his players, he was far more than a coach. He was a role model who believed in them long before they believed in themselves. Sonny’s work as an Indigenous Education Advocate for the Northern California Indian Development Council (NCIDC) brought him great pride. During this time, he was able to unapologetically be himself while working to bring leaders together from across the West Coast. Though the work was serious and deeply important, Sonny never let it become too heavy. He carried it with humility, balance, and a sense of humanity that made others feel welcome and connected. Alongside his NCIDC family, he built bridges between cultures, generations, and communities. He believed deeply in the potential of every young person and in the importance of education grounded in identity, respect, and belonging. Through partnerships with tribal nations, schools, the ACLU and many other organizations, Sonny helped create lasting change that continues to shape the lives of students and families. Those who worked beside him remember his integrity, compassion, and courage. His legacy lives on in the students he uplifted, the conversations he started, and the movement he helped advance toward equity, healing, and cultural understanding. One of the most meaningful chapters of Sonny’s life was the time he spent caring for his uncle, Brian D. Tripp with the assistance of his son Imya. Those years were filled with adventure, laughter, and music at the Karuk Man’s House. During this time he had a chance to reconnect with old friends while also making new ones. Sonny stepped in and filled a huge gap for his entire family and extended community. NCIDC provided unwavering support during this time, making it possible for Sonny to balance caregiving with his professional responsibilities. To those who knew him, Sonny was unforgettable. Though his absence is deeply felt, his spirit continues through the lives he touched, the songs he carried, and the lessons he shared. Sonny’s energy lifted every space he entered, and he had a rare gift for making others feel seen, heard, and valued. His presence, influence, and care will continue to guide and inspire the North Coast for generations to come. The Tripp family extends their heartfelt thanks to Imya Tripp, Chris Carmona, and Larrin “Coach” McConnell for their unwavering care, presence, and compassion they showed Sonny throughout his lymphoma diagnosis and cancer treatment. They are also deeply grateful to the doctors, nurses, and staff at UIHS, Providence Santa Rosa, and UCSF, whose dedication and kindness provided comfort and support during an incredibly difficult time. To the many friends and loved ones who contributed to Sonny’s GoFundMe, you brought comfort during his final months and reminded Sonny, again and again, how deeply he was loved. Thank you. The family also offers sincere and lasting gratitude to the Northern California Indian Development Council and Eureka City Schools for their continued support and the many ways they showed care for Sonny throughout his work. Your understanding, flexibility, and compassion made a meaningful difference in his life and in the lives of those he served. Sonny was preceded in death by his great aunt Georgie, his uncles Amos Tripp, Brian D. Tripp, and Phillip Tripp. And mother’s side of family; uncles Mike Hutsell, Clayton Hutsell and aunties Paula Lotti and Jaxie Snider. Heart brothers Phil Ford, Charles “Chaz” Marshall, Tim Brown, JP Morgan, and Darrell Emerson. He is survived by his parents, Leroy and Sue Tripp; his children, Mateek Tripp, Imya Tripp, and Imnihva Tripp; his sister, Melissa (Bill) Defenbaugh; and his nephew, Yutimiin; aunts & uncles, Maria Tripp, David & Jan Tripp, Rose Tripp, Helen & Pat Suri, Karen Noble and numerous cousins. Honorary Pallbearers Cousins Levi Tripp Hector Tripp Paloma Pole Monica Tripp Analisa Tripp Frankie Tripp Emilo Tripp Justin Tripp Angelica Tripp Phil Tripp Jasper Tripp Pimm Allen Kapoon James Sandi Colivas Wiyaka Bennett Tammy Wakefield Friends that were family Larrin McConnell Chris Carmona Rick Garcia Donny Koopman Jeff Garrett Dennis Salyers John Riddle Mike Spangle Gary Storts Bubba Riggins Vincent Feliz Sam Jones Rob Butler Bronson Koenig Dustin Dutra Shawna Gallagher Toni Ramos Marva Jones Roman Rain Tree Gerald Spannaus Antonio Padilla Charli “C Murph” Murphy Ron Griffin Tyler Conrad Nikwe Hostler To the many people, students, players, families, and community members we were unable to list, please know that Sonny considered you his own. On Sunday, January 18, 2026, family and friends will gather in remembrance of Sonny. Please join us at 11 a.m. in the Jay Willard Gymnasium at Eureka High School for a celebration of life and a potluck, as we honor the memories and spirit he leaves with us.

rance of Sonny. Please join us at 11 a.m. in the Jay Willard Gymnasium at Eureka High School for a time of shared reflection and a potluck, as we honor the memories and spirit he leaves with us.

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

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Behold!

Eight years after descending upon the Victorian Village of Ferndale, thereupon to lead what he deemed the “one faithful church in Humboldt County,” Lutheran Reverend Tyrel Bramwell received and accepted a Divine Call to GTFO.

A Bramwell meme. | Facebook.

In his time here, Bramwell stoked controversy and collected YouTube subscribers as he condemned everything from drag shows and “LGBTQ culture” to the Black Lives Matter movement and public Christmas trees (?) while praising the exploits of Christopher Columbus, notorious “Indian killer“ Seth Kinman and, uh, DOGE.

His incendiary views even prompted local right-wing radio station KINS to disinvite him as a contributor to its regular “Community Comment” segment.

Bramwell is now scheduled to be installed as the new pastor of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Lovell, Wyoming (pop. 2,243), according to the website for the Wyoming District of the Lutheran Church — Missouri Synod.

In addition to leaving Ferndale — a city he once compared to Sodom, and whose Chamber of Commerce he accused of sponsoring Satanism — Bramwell has announced plans to forsake the internet.

“Mine will be a year lived offline,” he recently announced on his YouTube channel. “This channel will sit dormant and the videos are going private. If I come back online in the future, I will be focused on the present and the future, but not on the past.”

When it comes to Pastor Bramwell, let’s hope Humboldt does the same.

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Revisiting the hits:

PREVIOUSLY

• Dueling Church Signs in Ferndale Spark Controversy Over LGBTQ Inclusion
• (PHOTOS/VIDEO) St. Mark’s Pastor, Pride Marchers Meet Face-to-Face Before Ferndale’s First Pride Demonstration
• For Black History Month, Ferndale Reverend Calls BLM ‘Evil’ and Says the Movement is ‘Built on Sin’
• Ferndale Drag Show Canceled After ‘Beware’ Sign at Local Church Prompts Concerns About Extremist Response
• Humboldt Supervisors Stand Up For Communities ‘Living in Fear,’ Adopt Resolution Condemning Hate Speech
• Local Tribe Backs Out of Hosting ‘Freedom Conference’ Led by Inflammatory Ferndale Pastor Tyrel Bramwell
• Bear River Band of Rohnerville Rancheria Explains Refusal to Host Pastor Bramwell’s ‘Religious Liberty Conference’
• PRAYERS UP! The Lord is Thinking About Sending Ferndale Pastor Tyrel Bramwell to Wyoming

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Press release from the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office:

On Jan. 8, 2026, at approximately 10:08 p.m., Humboldt County Sheriff deputies were dispatched to the Hoopa-Willow Creek Ambulance base, located at 63 Willow Way in Willow Creek, to meet with a reported stabbing victim. 

While deputies were en route, they were advised the ambulance was transporting the victim to a local hospital.  One of the responding deputies met with the ambulance and spoke to the 40-year-old female victim.  

The victim reported she was refueling her truck along side of Highway 299 at Panther Rd., in Willow Creek when she was stabbed by a known suspect.  The suspect was identified as 45-year-old Cody Benjamin Sides of Willow Creek. 

Due to the nature and potential severity of her injuries, the victim was transported to a local hospital for treatment. 

Deputies conducted a search of the surrounding area for Sides, and he was not located. As a result, a Ramey arrest warrant was obtained for Sides’ arrest. 

This investigation is ongoing.  

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Cody Benjamin Sides or information related to this incident are urged to contact the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office at (707) 445-7251 or the Sheriff’s Office Crime Tip line at (707) 268-2539.

PREVIOUSLY

• Lots of Unknowns for Jan. 2 Arcata Fire Cleanup Efforts

Rumors of a gas explosion causing the Arcata Jan. 2 fire that burned down half a city block are unfounded, said Arcata Fire District (AFD) Chief Chris Emmons at a city council meeting this morning.

The Arcata City Council met this morning to accept a local declaration of emergency and hear updates from several city officials on how they’re dealing with the aftermath of the fire, as well as allow them to share their experiences and thoughts on how they dealt with the fire while it was happening. 

Emmons told the council there was no evidence a gas explosion had caused the fires, despite rumors floating around social media and at least one local news site. A gas leak did start later, Emmons said, but only increased the fire’s size and did not start it. 

AFD is making headway investigating the cause, Emmons said, and might be able to share more information in the next week.

Figuring out what did cause the fire will be a long process. An Arcata Police Department detective has been assigned to the case, and city manager Merritt Perry said insurance investigators representing each of the owners of the affected properties will want to conduct their own investigations. They might start in two to four weeks. 

He said that using excavators to tear the buildings down was a drastic move but necessary to prevent the fire from spreading. 

Emmons thanked everyone in the community and the other fire departments, whose help was invaluable. Firefighters dumped more than 2.5 million gallons of water on the inferno, more than 9,000 gallons of water every minute during its peak.

“Everybody came together,” Emmons said. “One of the things we always hear in the after-action [breakdown] is that communication was bad. In my 34 years of doing this, this was one of the best-run, most-communicated events I’ve been involved with. It’s not typically that way. As drastic and tragic as this fire was — and I’m not saying this flippantly — it actually went as well as it could.”

Moving Forward

Councilmembers ratified the declaration of emergency, allowing Arcata to ask the state for funding to respond to the environmental damages the fire caused. Perry said even just assessing what those damages are is beyond the funding capabilities of both Arcata and Humboldt County. Apparently, state senator Mike McGuire called Perry six times to offer whatever help he could.

Allowing each insurance agency to conduct their own investigation into the fire will increase the amount of time it takes to clean the site up, Perry said, but it’s a necessary step so that everyone who lost a business, building or a home in the fire can get a payout. Though it is their responsibility, putting pressure on the property owners to clear the site may make that more difficult. If the insurance companies pay out less than it costs to clean the site, Perry said Arcata may have to “apply some pressure.”

In the meantime, they can layer tarps over some of the rubble to prevent more of it from washing into the waterways and keep blocking off storm drains. 

Perry said Arcata will do everything it can do to allow business owners to rehome their businesses without any unnecessary fuss over permitting. Meredith Maier, the Arcata Chamber of Commerce’s Executive Director, said they’re working on helping connect them with resources and money. Councilmember Meredith Matthews said they’ll also be surveying the business owners to ascertain what they need to get business running again, or what their employees need.

She also floated the idea of building a wall around the debris and painting murals on it so people don’t have to look at the rubble.

The Chamber of Commerce will also sponsor a parade in the Arcata Plaza on Feb. 1 at noon to honor the first responders who stopped the fire. 

“The ultimate goal would be rebuilding,” Perry said. “I think there’s a lot of folks that have expressed interest in that already…People want to continue to invest in Arcata. The businesses want to be here. I think that’s a really good thing.”

Press release from the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office:

On Jan. 8, 2026, at approximately 7:33 p.m., Humboldt County Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to a residence located on Van Ness Ave. in Ferndale following the report of a stabbing. While en route, deputies were advised that the suspect had physically attacked his girlfriend and stabbed her.  

Upon arrival, deputies contacted the 48-year-old female victim, who reported her boyfriend, identified as 42-year-old James Jay LaBranche of Ferndale, physically assaulted her inside the residence and stabbed her before she was able to flee outside.   

Deputies attempted to contact LaBranche, who remained inside the residence, issuing commands for him to exit.  After several hours without response, the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office SWAT team was requested and responded to the scene to assist in the apprehension of Labranche. 

Deputies obtained a Ramey arrest warrant and search warrant for the residence.  After LaBranche failed to respond to the SWAT team’s commands, a less -lethal diversionary device was deployed into the residence, and he was safely taken into custody. 

Emergency medical services responded to the scene, but the victim’s injuries were determined to be non-life threatening, and she did not require any further medical treatment.

 LaBranche was transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility where he was booked on the following charges:

 PC 273.5(a) – Inflict corporal injury on spouse/cohabitant/dating relationship

PC 664/187 - Attempted murder

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.

PREVIOUSLY:

• Victim in Eighth Unintentional Shooting Incident of the Year Expected to Survive, Sheriff’s Office Says; Gunhandler, Who is Restricted From Owning Firearms, Arrested

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

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Gov. Gavin Newsom painted a rosy picture of California’s fiscal future during his State of the State address Thursday. Flashing top-line numbers, the Democratic governor touted billions of dollars more in revenue, proposed new investments in education and pledged more toward the state’s reserves and pension debt.

But that was a one-sided story.

It’s not clear whether Newsom will forecast a budget deficit for the 2026-27 fiscal year, how big it will be and whether closing the gap would require painful spending cuts to core services like child care, food assistance and Medi-Cal, the state’s health care coverage for low-income residents, especially as federal funding diminishes.

Yet Newsom will be absent from his last annual budget proposal presentation Friday, when details of his spending plan will be unveiled, leaving his Department of Finance Director Joe Stephenshaw and Chief Deputy Director of Budgets Erika Li to field those questions.

Newsom’s forecast will likely be far sunnier than the grim outlook by the nonpartisan Legislative Analyst’s Office, which in November projected an $18 billion deficit despite higher-than-expected tax revenue thanks to a booming AI industry. A shortfall of that size would require long-term fixes, although state leaders had relied on Band-Aids such as accounting maneuvers, internal borrowing and withdrawals from the state’s reserves to balance the books in past years.

But according to Newsom, California will have a $248.3 billion general fund next year — $13 billion higher than his office predicted in June.

Newsom also touted Thursday that the state would have $42.3 billion more in revenue than forecast last year. But that figure is for a three-year span, state Department of Finance spokesperson H.D. Palmer told CalMatters.

The omission of the cumulative nature of the $42 billion makes Newsom’s speech “troubling,” said Sen. Roger Niello, a Roseville Republican and vice chair of the Senate Budget Committee.

“That would be an intentional misrepresentation of the fact,” he said.

Nonetheless, Newsom teased multiple new proposals with unknown price tags or timelines, such as fully funding the state’s universal transitional kindergarten program and providing universal before and after-school programs at elementary schools. He also proposed spending $1 billion to add high-need community schools and redirecting $1 billion in Proposition 1 mental health funds annually for housing and homelessness.

The governor briefly nodded to “long-term structural challenges,” proposing a $7.3 billion deposit to the reserve fund, roughly the amount the state withdrew last year, whichwould bring the rainy day fund balance to roughly $21 billion. He also proposed to spend $11.8 billion over the next few years to pay down the state’s pension debt, including $3 billion in next year’s budget.

Some Democratic lawmakers struck a cautious tone while largely blaming President Donald Trump for withholding funds from Californians in need.

“California will not be able to fill the holes that have been left by the federal government,” said newly elected Senate President Pro Tem Monique Limón, a Santa Barbara Democrat. “We have to go back and look (at) what is feasible.”

‘How big is the bubble?’
— Senate Budget Committee Chair John Laird, a Santa Cruz Democrat

Sen. John Laird, a Santa Cruz Democrat and the new chair of the Senate Budget Committee, warned that the high revenue projection indicates a bubble. Laird, who was elected to the state Assembly in 2002 after the 2000 dot-com bubble burst, said he’s concerned the AI-driven boom may not last.

“I think everybody agrees that this level of revenue can’t be maintained, but how big is the bubble? That’s probably the question,” he told CalMatters.

The Legislature must start chipping away at the long-term structural deficit this year instead of punting the problem, he said.

“We’re gonna have to do a piece of it,” he said. “We can’t go into next year with a $30 or $37 billion shortfall, because the reserves amount doesn’t get anywhere near that.”

Continued fight over homelessness funding

Newsom has tussled with counties over homelessness funding for years as political pressure to resolve the state’s homeless crisis continues to mount. Newsom has blamed counties for failing to deliver results despite his $24 billion investment over the years. Only a portion of the funding goes to county agencies and there is no dedicated annual funding to fight homelessness.

On Thursday, Newsom again bashed counties for the problem while attributing a drop in unsheltered homeless people last year to his statewide programs. In the same breath, he also proposed to redirect “$1 billion in annual mental health funding to housing and treatment for people living on the streets” under Proposition 1, a voter-approved bond primarily for mental health beds and supportive housing.

“No more excuses — it’s time to bring people off the streets, out of encampments, into housing, into treatment. Counties need to do their job!” Newsom said, drawing applause from legislators.

It wasn’t immediately clear how he plans to allocate those dollars. He did not mention any funding for the Homeless Housing, Assistance and Prevention program, the state’s main homelessness funding source.

The California State Association of Counties, which represents all 58 counties and has lobbied for an annual allocation of $1 billion in HHAP funding, was displeased.

“Playing a shell game with existing funds is no substitute for the most successful program addressing homelessness at the local level,” said association CEO Graham Knaus. “Why on Earth would the state abdicate its responsibility and allow homelessness to soar again?”

Newsom’s plan also startled county behavioral health service providers, who rely on Prop. 1 dollars for services.

“While these one-time bricks and mortar investments are promising, the $1 billion in funding for ongoing housing subsidies under Proposition 1 comes at the expense of redirected mental health treatment and prevention programs,” said Michelle Doty Cabrera, executive director of the County Behavioral Health Directors Association.

No mention of Medi-Cal

Newsom also gave next to no detail on the outlook for Medi-Cal — the state’s most expensive program with a $200 billion budget and therefore an attractive target for potential cuts. He didn’t even name the program in his speech.

The governor slammed Trump for passing a federal budget that could kick 1.8 million Californians off their insurance and raise the premiums for another 2 million. The state would have to spend at least $1.3 billion more than previously expected next year just to implement the federal law, the LAO previously estimated.

Assemblymember Mia Bonta, an Oakland Democrat who chairs the Assembly Health Committee, said the state must “use the bully pulpit” to fight the federal government, find ways to lower costs or even revive indigent care, a form of last-resort care that has largely become obsolete due to Medi-Cal.

“Because the alternative is, people are going to be dying on the streets,” Bonta said.

Bonta said the Legislature should explore new funding sources, such as a pair of proposed wealth tax ballot measures to fund health care and education that Newsom opposes.

“We need to think about ways that we can increase our revenue sources … (with) openness around looking at our tax structure,” she said, adding that there are ways “to make sure that everybody’s carrying their fair share.”

Nateya Shalisa Dowd, a cherished daughter, sister, was born July 12, 2009 in Arcata to parents Chelsey Readen Dowd and awok Omar “baby o” Dean the 4th. She crossed over and got her wings on January 4, 2026, at the age of 16. Though her battle with complications from Leukemia was so sudden and brief, she transitioned surrounded by an immense circle of love — both in person and from afar — as the healing notes of family songs guided her home.

A Life of Brilliance and Light

Raised in the beauty of Trinidad, Nateya was a standout from the start. She attended Trinidad Elementary, where her dedication to her studies led her to graduate as the Valedictorian of her class. Her journey continued at McKinleyville High School, where she was currently a junior. A driven student, Nateya challenged herself with a rigorous schedule of AP courses, fueled by her dream of becoming an Ultrasound Technician.

Beyond the classroom, Nateya was a vibrant force. She grew up on the softball fields, playing travel ball alongside her sister, Sueveya where she continued her softball career for MHS. She played 3 seasons of Volleyball and Basketball and was always the most inspirational to any team she was a part of. At school, she was an active and proud member of the Native American Club, remaining deeply rooted in her heritage and participating in ceremonies with grace and devotion.

A Presence That Healed

Nateya’s friends often described her as “the light in the room.” With a “pure heart” and a constant smile, she had a rare gift for showing up exactly where she was needed. Her presence made everyone feel welcomed and seen. Whether she was on the field, in the classroom, or in the community, she walked with a kindness that felt like a blessing to those around her.

She is proceeded in death by her father Awok Omar “Baby O” Dean the 4th, Her brother Awok Running Bear Dean, Grandparents Awok Omar Dean 3rd&Kathy Dean, Great Grandparents Awok Betty and Emery Readen, Awok Lena Reed McCovey, Awok Clifford Jones&Adeline McCovey Jones, Awok Frank and Venola Dowd, Awok Alfred and Mable Colegrove, Awok Anita and Frank Murdock, Awok Lola and Robert McGahuey, Awok Alfreda Dean Pratt&Alex Pratt, Awok Omar Dean Jr, Great Uncles Awok Davy Dowd, Rick Dowd, Frank “Roddy” Dowd, Awok uncle Terrence Davis, Kela Dowd, Gerald Dowd, Jesse Dowd, Tara Gordon,

Survived by her Mother Chelsey, her siblings Sueveya, Morningstar, Adeline, Summer, Johnnie, Na-res, Omar “brother” Dean the 5th, Lorece. Great grandparents Sue and Matthew Painter, Barbara Jones

Grandparents, Rhonda Dowd, Robinn McNertney, Darla and Emil Marshall, Greg Readen

Great Aunties: Kathy Dowd, Rhonda(Tim), Konni Readen, Debbie McConnell(Bob), Gigi, Bambi McNertney(Rhonda),

Aunts: Moonchay Dowd (Timber), Jamaica Bartz (Jarrod), Bambi Moon(Matt), Lacey Readen (Fernando), Shelby Readen(Chris), Clarissa Readen, Tasha Boatsman (James), Setiva, Suntalena, Stacey Jewel, Liliana Adams(Jose), Bridget Maloney, Holly Moon

Great Uncles: Gary Dowd, Pride Painter, Michael McNertney, Jack McNertney, Uncles: Rick Dowd (Jessica), Donavan Baltzley, Greg Readen (Maria), Lonnie Dean (Tashina), Alkenny Dean (Ashley) Matt Cat Swanson (Sahsep), Joe Marshall (Nelia), Jude Marshall (Windi), Marcus Rowe Dean, Bradley hostler,

Plus so so many other family friends and cousins. We are very sorry if we forgot anyone. I promise you it was not personal we are just so beside ourselves in our bereavement and it was not intentional.

Special thanks to Kayla Maulson for all her help in getting things organized and for the support that she gave Nateya. A very special thank you to Stacey Jewel and her family. Michael (shaya) Hailey, Cole and Ashton for loving Nateya and Sueveya so much and for everything that they do for the girls and also for welcoming them into their home. To Pimm and Alme Allen for all their love and support they have shown Neteya, To Jude and Windi Marshall and their children Hazel, Yaamach, Xavish Marshall for opening their hearts and their home to Nateya and for making her part of their family. To Rhonda “Am” Dowd for always loving Nateya unconditionally and for doing whatever she could to help her whenever she needed it, to Auntie Moonchay and Timber for opening their home to family and working hard to get things completed for Nateya’s send off.

To uncle Rick Dowd for his solid and consistent support and love to Chelsey and the girls. To Loreta and Willbear Jade and Vaskak for all their love and support. To Angie and Indian Ed for loving our girl. To Jeny Giraurd and Trinidad elementary school teachers. Thankful for Myah, Farah, Kalynn, Nikki, Darla Marshall,and everyone else who helped in these past few grieving days your support means so much more than I can put into words.

And a very special thanks to Nancy Steele for her contributions and to each and every one of you. Family, friends, and community members that have offered love and support in so many ways.

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Today we are here to honor and remember Nateya, someone who meant so much to our family, and whose absence leaves a space that can never truly be filled. There are no words that can make sense of this loss. Nateya was taken far too soon, and our hearts are heavy with grief. But today is not about how she left us, it’s about who she was, the love she shared, and the way her spirit will always remain with us. One of the most meaningful experiences of my life was participating in the White Deerskin Dance from September 9th to September 18th, of 2022. I was blessed to experience that with my cousin Nateya and miss Kalia. We fasted for ten days, sustaining ourselves only on acorn water. It was physically and mentally exhausting. When the first dance began, it felt surreal. My body was filled with joy, and I felt deeply connected to my ancestors, like I was finally doing something sacred that they once did before me. So much loss had already surrounded our family in the years leading up to that dance. During the ceremony, all of that grief came out of me. I cried, not just from exhaustion, but because I could feel my ancestors with me. I felt every single one of them surrounding me, holding me, and reminding me I wasn’t alone. While I was breaking down, Nateya stood strong beside me. She didn’t show fear or weakness she was calm, steady, and grounded. She was there for me in a quiet but powerful way, pushing me to keep going even when I felt like I had nothing left. Her strength helped carry me forward. As the days went on, the hikes became harder and our bodies more tired. On the eighth day, after hours of hiking and still fasting, we finally reached one of the highest camps. We were exhausted, worn down, and emotional, but we made it. That night, in our tent, we laughed and giggled together. Wrapped tightly in our sleeping bags on our cots, we joked about feeling like little hotdogs. In those moments, despite everything we had been through, life felt light. Life felt good. Those memories are some of the ones I hold closest to my heart. When we reached that camp, I felt something lift inside me, not a painful weight, but a sacred one. I cried because I made it. We made it. I felt the presence of every loved one who had passed, and I felt how proud they were of us. The meaning of the White Deerskin Dance is to let go, to find peace. Experiencing that ceremony with Nateya gave me something I didn’t even know I needed. It taught me that our loved ones are safe, that they are not alone, and that they are surrounded by family on the other side. That is how I choose to believe Nateya is now with all of those who came before her. Safe. At peace. Loved beyond measure. Nateya will never be forgotten. She lives on in our memories, our traditions, our laughter, and our love. Rest peacefully, Nateya. We love you. We honor you. And we will carry you with us always and forever 11:11 till we meet again goof ball! ♡ written by Autumn Dowd

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Pallbearers: Greg Readen, Rick Dowd, Michael Jewel, Lonnie Dean, Timber Scott, Greg Readen Jr, Donovan Baltzley, Kris Clayborn, Thomas Gordon, Kaget Dowd, Brody Dowd, Pergish Montgomery, Kokonow Kinney, Javier Kinney, Matias Minard, KitKah Dowd, Zaiden Dowd, Guy Dowd, Jeremiah Swain, Alkenny Dean, Frank Dowd, Damian Dowd, Danner Dowd, Izzy Dowd, Omar Dean 5th Cole Jewel, Chmook Dowd, Jordan Brown, Rocky Dowd, Issac Kinney, Frankie Gist, Jude Marshal, Joe Marshall Mat Cat, Keith Peterson, Will Bear Carlson, Vaskak Montgomery, Justin Dowd, Ryan Dowd, Brandon Fike, Alme Allen, Phillip Vigil O’Rouke, M’s Vigil, Dowd Vigil, Jesus Jones, RT Jones

Honorary pallbearers: Gary Dowd, Julian Lang, Pride Painter, Mathew Painter Sr, Robert Kinney, Lauren Bommelyn, Brandon Fike, Emil Marshall, Oliver Minard, Henry Minard, Kagama Dowd, Drayden Dowd, Collin Dowd, Ethan Dowd, Alonzo Gordon, Gerald Dowd, Shawn “goose” Long, Artie Jones, Beanie Vigil

Wake will begin at 5 p.m. on Friday, January 9, 2026 and goes all night in Klamath, California at the Lena Reed McCovey Community Center, 156 SE Klamath Beach Road, Klamath.

Services: Saturday, January 10, at Redwood Acres Fairgrounds — 3750 Harris St. Eureka. Doors open at 1 p.m. Services start at 2 p.m. Reception to follow at same location.

Burial: Monday, January 12, 2026 11 a.m. at IOOF cemetery East Cooper Avenue, just past Home Depot.  Crescent City.