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At least 20 teachers in California’s K-12 schools are facing disciplinary action after they made derogatory comments about right-wing political activist Charlie Kirk in the wake of his assasination last month.

Most of the disciplinary investigations are based on comments that teachers made on social media during non-working hours, a possible violation of their right to free speech, said David Goldberg, president of the California Teachers Association, the state’s largest teachers union.

“People are ready to pounce on educators. The goal is to sow fear,” Goldberg said. “It’s part of a larger attempt to bring the culture wars into schools and silence teachers.”

Kirk was fatally shot during a campus event at Utah Valley University on Sept. 10, in what officials described as a political assassination. Following his death, hundreds of people who criticized Kirk’s ideology have been fired, disciplined or doxxed — had their private information posted online to stoke harassment.

Other states have seen far more teachers fired or disciplined for Kirk-related comments. In California, state laws protecting free speech and strong union contracts have so far kept the numbers relatively low. Texas, for example, is investigating at least 280 teachers for criticizing Kirk.

‘Safe and respectful environment’

In California, one of the incidents happened in the Pacheco Union School District in Redding, where a teacher allegedly posted, “You reap what you sow, Mr. Kirk” on their personal social media account. The district has not named the teacher. Other news organizations have published his name but CalMatters was unable to independently confirm it.

Earlier, the teacher had also allegedly posted a video of Republican Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene with the words, “Will someone please kill her?” The teacher was placed on paid leave and then the school board fired him.

“We are committed to ensuring that our classrooms and our entire school community remain a positive and secure place for all students to learn and grow,” Superintendent Jakob Fuller wrote on the school’s website. “The district does not condone violence in any form and is committed to maintaining a safe and respectful environment for all.”

Another incident occurred at the Dry Creek Unified School District, a TK-8 district in Roseville, near Sacramento. A middle school teacher apparently called Kirk “a piece of s — ,” among other things, on their personal social media account, prompting a swift backlash from parents and others.

The district would not confirm the teacher’s identity, and while it has been reported by other news organizations, CalMatters was unable to independently confirm it. The teacher, who did not respond to emails from CalMatters, is on paid leave until the district completes an investigation.

“The post is both unprofessional and concerning,” the district said in a statement. “The personal comments allegedly made by the employee do not reflect the values, standards, or mission of the district. We are taking this matter seriously.”

Jonathan Zachreson, a conservative education activist in California, said he’d like to see accountability for the teacher and condemnation from the union. A board member for a different Roseville school district, Zachreson has been an outspoken advocate for K-12 policies notifying parents if students identify as LGBTQ, a policy Kirk also championed. Dry Creek board members could not comment on the case because the investigation is ongoing.

Zachreson said incidents such as these should be handled on an individual basis, depending on the nature of the comments and how private the posts were. But if the Dry Creek district’s investigation concludes that the teacher did write that comment, the teacher should be fired, he said.

“Many parents don’t want their kid in a classroom with someone like that,” Zachreson said. “Freedom of speech doesn’t mean freedom from consequences.”

A dangerous precedent?

California has laws that prohibit employers from firing workers over their political views. And the First Amendment guarantees freedom of speech, but there are some limits: Employers have a right to restrict workers’ speech if it’s disruptive to the workplace.

Erwin Chemerinsky, dean of the UC Berkeley Law School, said that teachers posting to their private social media accounts during non-work hours is not likely to disrupt their classroom work.

“There’s always the impulse to punish speech we don’t like. But the First Amendment protects all speech,” Chemerinsky said. “Once you open this door, it could set a very dangerous precedent. What about teachers who criticize Donald Trump?”

The California School Boards Association hasn’t provided school boards with specific guidance on handling Charlie Kirk comments because each district has its own contract with teachers, and personnel matters are considered a local issue.

But typically, a teacher who’s suspected of disrupting the workplace through inappropriate speech would be subject to a district investigation and, if found to be at fault, discipline from the school board. New employees who are still on probation have fewer protections, but any employee could face consequences ranging from a reprimand to termination. The teacher could protest the action by filing a grievance, and if that fails, they could appeal the decision. Some teachers in other states have filed lawsuits. Teachers at private schools typically have fewer protections.

Regardless of the outcome, the process can be disruptive to staff and harmful to students, Goldberg said. Students could lose their teacher midway through a school year, and teachers “could have their lives turned upside down,” he said. Most teachers lack the resources and patience to take on a protracted legal fight that in the current political climate might not be successful, he said.

That’s why the union recently advised its members to be extra cautious when posting online.

“We tell educators, know your rights and bring in your union rep,” Goldberg said. “We need to be careful in this climate and look out for each other.”

Robert (Bob) Walter Applewhite passed away August 28, 2025 under the care of Hospice. Born January 9, 1956, Bob was raised on a farm on Liscomb Hill outside of Blue Lake. He attended Blue Lake Elementary School and Arcata High School. He enjoyed hunting and fishing with his father, Vernon, and brother, Tom.

Bob worked as a welder in the construction field for many years, traveling as far as Canada for special projects.

Despite several major medical issues during his life, Bob remained a joyful and happy person. He was always optimistic and outgoing. He enjoyed his time with family and teasing his niece and nephews.

Bob was frequently found fishing the Mad River. He will be greatly missed by family, friends, and all that knew him.

He is preceded in death by his father, Vernon T. Applewhite, and mother Barbara L. Gehrig Applewhite and various aunts and uncles. The second of five children, he is survived by Cathy Minkema, Thomas Applewhite, Patricia Hoy and Laurie Light.

The family would like to thank Town and Country Mobile Villa for their help and consideration, especially Edee and Aaron. We would also like to thank Lori Millerbis for her friendship and help in Bob’s care.

Per Bob’s request there will be no memorial services. The family would like to thank Hospice of Humboldt for the wonderful, compassionate care and support during his final days. In memory of Bob, please donate to Hospice of Humboldt at www.hospiceofhumbolt.org or 707-445-7397.

Eureka Police Department release:

On October 1, 2025, at approximately 9:23 a.m., a Eureka Police Department Patrol Officer conducted a traffic enforcement stop near 1st and F Street. During the stop, the driver— identified as 19-year-old Blake Richardson—was found to be legally prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition. Ammunition was located in the front area of the vehicle, and Richardson was taken into custody.

With assistance from a Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) K9 Team, a subsequent search of the vehicle uncovered additional ammunition in the trunk, along with several small bags containing a suspected controlled substance. A deputy from the HCSO Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Unit was also dispatched to safely handle a modified illegal firework found inside the vehicle.

A follow-up search of Richardson’s residence was conducted, resulting in the discovery of a handgun equipped with an illegal magazine and additional suspected controlled substances. Richardson was transported and booked into the Humboldt County Correctional Facility for violation of a court order, possession of a controlled substance, possession of ammunition by a prohibited person, and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.

This remains an active investigation. In order to preserve its integrity, additional details are not being released at this time.

Anyone with information related to this incident is encouraged to contact the Eureka Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Unit at (707) 441-4300.

Press release from the Humboldt County Department of Health and Human Services:

Effective Oct. 1, $250,000 of federal funds will be eliminated from Humboldt County Public Health’s CalFresh Healthy Living budget which funds programs and outreach to improve the health and nutrition of children and vulnerable members of our community. 

The Humboldt County Department of Health & Human Services’ (DHHS) Public Health Branch funding loss comes as a result of the passing of HR 1, also known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” eliminating SNAP-Ed funding which has been used locally to pay for nutrition and physical activity education in schools and the community. That includes the Safe Routes to Schools program and the “Rethink Your Drink” educational program where young people learn about alternatives to sodas and other sugary drinks which are both known contributors to obesity. The cut will also eliminate funds for falls prevention classes for senior citizens. 

Alice Birney Elementary School Principal Kristin Sobilo said her school has been partnering with Public Health on programs for years, and she’s seen the positive impacts they’ve made. 

“The loss of funding for Public Health programs is a significant setback for our students and families,” Sobilo said. “Without this support— encouraging our kids to walk safely to school, learning about nutritious food and drink choices and staying active daily—we risk losing a vital component of our efforts to promote lifelong healthy habits and prevent chronic diseases from an early age.”

Area 1 Agency on Aging (A1AA) Director Maggie Kraft said this loss of funding will impact her agency’s contract with Public Health staff who teach falls prevention classes for local seniors. 

With the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimating that one in four older adults falls each year and one in 10 leads to serious injury, Kraft said Public Health’s partnership has been crucial in providing falls prevention classes at no cost for older adults in Humboldt County, helping them maintain their independence and reducing the risk of injury. 

“The loss of this funding means these vital classes will no longer be available, creating a gap in support that our seniors rely on for their health and safety,” she said. “Falls prevention is not just about avoiding injury—it’s about preserving quality of life.”

Kraft said A1AA receives about $12,000 a year in Older Americans Act Title III-D health promotion funding that supports their SAIL (Stay Active and Independent for Life) classes. “The loss of funds means we will be back to only SAIL classes in Humboldt.”

Humboldt County Second District Supervisor Michelle Bushnell said the county relies on a mix of state and federal funding for programs that support vulnerable populations, including older adults and children. “Losing funding that helps support upstream programs has negative impacts on our community as a whole. Prevention programs are far more effective than trying to fix problems after they occur because they address issues at their root. These programs help our residents make healthy choices, avoid crisis and reduce harm, ultimately making Humboldt County more resilient.”

In addition to the elimination of these Public Health-administered programs, portions of this funding have historically been distributed to the following community partners throughout the county that have helped provide health and nutrition education to their participants, students, clients and members, including:

• Eureka City Schools

• Redwood Community Action Agency

• Humboldt Senior Resource Center

• Open Door Community Health Centers 

• K’ima:w Medical Center

• Southern Humboldt Community Healthcare District

• CalPoly Humboldt

• Alder Bay Assisted Living

• Comunidad Unida del Norte de Arcata (CUNA)

• Making Headway for Brain Injury Recovery 

• Jefferson Community Center and Park

• A1AA

• Humboldt County Association of Governments.

PREVIOUSLY: 

• Meredith Matthews Leaving Executive Director Gig at Arcata Chamber to Lead Humboldt Lodging Alliance

We’re not saying you need to be named Meredith to lead the Arcata Chamber of Commerce, but maybe it helps? Big announcement in the chamber’s release below:

The Arcata Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce the appointment of Meredith Maier as its new Executive Director. A well-respected business leader and co-owner of Six Rivers Brewery in McKinleyville for more than 20 years, Maier brings extensive experience in community engagement, business management, leadership and economic development to her new role.

“Meredith’s deep commitment to our community and her proven track record in business leadership make her the ideal choice to lead the Arcata Chamber of Commerce,” said J.d. Garza-Valencia, Chair of the Board of Directors. “We are confident that her innovative ideas and collaborative spirit will drive our initiatives forward and further the Chamber’s mission.”

As Executive Director, Maier will oversee a range of membership services, including the development of events that benefit Chamber members and the organization of networking opportunities such as the monthly First Thursday Mixers. She will also develop educational workshops and annual business leadership awards to recognize outstanding local businesses and local leaders. 

Maier is committed to enhancing community outreach and will actively represent the Chamber at various public forums and events. She seeks to cultivate strong partnerships between local businesses and government entities to support workforce and economic development efforts, while promoting sustainable business practices. Her leadership approach emphasizes collaboration and continuous improvement, fostering a thriving work environment for Chamber staff and volunteers. 

“I am deeply honored to accept this vital role and the opportunity it provides to support a vibrant, sustainable local economy while preserving Arcata’s character. I am particularly excited about creating inclusive spaces for innovation and mentorship and supporting the diverse needs of our members,” said Maier. 

Maier is an active community member who serves on multiple non-profit boards and committees, including as the current president of Humboldt Made and as a business advisor with the NorCal Small Business Development Center (SBDC). She was appointed as a planning commissioner by the Eureka City Mayor in 2017 and is well-versed in tourism marketing and economic development serving on the board of the Eureka Visitors Center and the Redwood Coast Chamber Foundation. Maier earned her Bachelor of Arts in Communication from the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

“My extensive experience as a business owner and board member of numerous local organizations has provided me with a unique understanding of the needs and challenges our community faces. I’ve cultivated strong relationships with fellow business owners and community leaders, knowing that a high tide lifts all boats.”

The Arcata Chamber of Commerce invites community members and local businesses to join in welcoming Maier as she begins her tenure at their upcoming First Thursday Mixer on Thursday October 2 from 5:30-7:00p.m. at Six Rivers Brewery, 1300 Central Ave, McKinleyville, CA 95519.

“Together with Meredith, the Chamber looks forward to continuing to build a prosperous future for Arcata and the greater Humboldt County area,” said Garza-Valencia.

For more information about the Arcata Chamber of Commerce and its initiatives, please visit arcatachamber.com.

Just because it’s pretty out right now, it doesn’t mean that it’s OK to be dumb and carefree at the beach! On the contrary! The National Weather Service has issued a beach hazards statement warning about ocean conditions over the next couple of days, and this morning an (evidently un-furloughed) meteorologist elaborated in a Facebook post.

From the National Weather Service’s Eureka office:

A 10-13 ft swell will impact the Northwest California coast beginning Wednesday morning. A moderate risk of sneaker waves will exist Wednesday through Thursday with the highest risk in Humboldt and Del Norte counties.

The risk is elevated because several beaches continue to have their summer steep beach profiles with extra sand buildup. Waves may erode the beach profile quickly and wash farther up beaches than usual. Stay far back from the surf and never turn your back on the ocean!

Press release from the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office:

On September 30, 2025, at approximately 4:38 p.m., Humboldt County Sheriff’s deputies responded to a trespassing complaint at a residence in the 200 block of Valley Avenue in Fortuna.

Upon arrival, deputies located an open window to the home. During a search of the residence, deputies discovered two individuals inside, along with numerous firearms located throughout the property.

The individuals were identified as 36-year-old Martha Elizabeth Donahue of Rio Dell and 56-year-old Johnny William Johnson of Hydesville. Both were taken into custody and transported to the Humboldt County Correctional Facility.

Information obtained during the investigation led deputies to a secondary location on Price Creek Road in Ferndale. At that location, deputies identified a vehicle containing additional stolen firearms. A search warrant was obtained and executed, resulting in the recovery of approximately 30 firearms, extended rifle magazines, a crossbow, and a large quantity of ammunition.

Donahue was booked on the following charges:

• P.C. 459 – Burglary
• P.C. 182(a)(1) – Conspiracy to commit a crime

Johnson was booked on the following charges:

• P.C. 459 – Burglary
• P.C. 182(a)(1) – Conspiracy to commit a crime
• P.C. 29800 – Felon in possession of firearms
• P.C. 30305 – Prohibited person in possession of ammunition

This remains an active investigation. No further details are available at this time.

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