(WND)—California government was revolutionized and voters didn’t’ even notice. Once upon a time, local government had all the authority when it came to services. The new government model, pioneered incrementally during the second half of the 20th century, is now being redefined by state mandates.
When zoning first came into practice, it was a local effort to protect the character of neighborhoods and cities, essentially sorting out land uses by category. The result separated uses into categories and designed them by general plan ordinances.
The result was a city with space for industrial development and jobs, commercial centers and free enterprise, and residential areas. Those residential areas were further divided into single family homes, apartments and duplexes, with refinements taking into account lot sizes and other desirable features. Careful local planning brought character, stability and financial security to one of life’s most significant investments, a home. The political decisions as to how this was done were made by local citizens elected to city councils and boards of supervisors.
Here the goal was to protect someone’s investment, so the character of a neighborhood did not allow an oil refinery erected among million-dollar homes.
Other than major highways, substantive water projects and other selective public works, the state had nothing at all to do with local parks, libraries, law enforcement, fire protection, streets and roads, street lighting districts, water districts, mosquito abatement districts, etc.
This week Gov. Gavin Newsom presided over an event that illustrates the death of local government. Newsom’s purpose was to remind California voters he is their friend and protector and is watching out for them. Newsom, you see, is a creator of “equity.”
The governor is proud of the fact he threatened the City of Malibu with lawsuits and bludgeoned the locals into submission, so proud he issued a press release. The state, he declared, has taken over local zoning decisions and has successfully forced Malibu to build low-income housing amid those multi-million dollar seaside mansions.
Essentially, California’s new government model places “equity” ahead of private property rights and reduces local government to the level of overseer of state mandates.
Malibu has been forced to comply with the Housing Element law. The city will allow to be build 79 new housing units, 47 of those reserved for low-income folks who otherwise would not be able to partake of the Malibu coastal lifestyle. Hey, quit your job and move to Malibu. Makes perfect since in a country guided by overseers, but not if it values private enterprise and personal freedom.
“Our housing laws are not optional; they apply to all cities and counties in California,” State Attorney General Rob Bonta declared, and he intends to “make sure that every single city and county comes into compliance and plans for the future.” This is the essence of “equity.”
Of course, the homeowners living adjacent to the future low-income housing may see their life’s most important investment disintegrate, but that is irrelevant. The highlights of the history of low-income housing projects is written in neighborhood decline, increased crime and social failure. It always has been the case that low-income housing residents’ best chance of success is to escape.
For now, the future of Malibu is low-income housing. With visions such as this, it is no wonder the California governor dreams of being president.
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Three Reasons a Coffee Gift Set From This Christian Company Is Perfect for Christmas
When you’re searching for a Christmas gift that’s meaningful, useful, and rooted in faith, you don’t want to settle for anything generic. This season is filled with noise — mass-produced products, last-minute picks, and trends that fade as quickly as they appear. But one gift stands apart because it blends genuine quality with a message that matters: a coffee gift set from Promised Grounds Coffee.
This small Christian-owned company has become a favorite among believers who want to support faith-driven businesses while giving friends and family something they’ll actually enjoy. Here are three reasons a Promised Grounds Coffee gift set may be the most thoughtful and impactful present you give this year.
1. It’s Truly Delicious Coffee
Too many “gift-worthy” coffees look beautiful in the package but disappoint when the cup is poured. Promised Grounds takes the opposite approach — exceptional taste first, thoughtful presentation second.
Their beans are sourced with care, roasted in small batches, and crafted to bring out a rich, smooth flavor profile that appeals to both casual drinkers and true coffee lovers. Whether someone enjoys bold, dark roasts or lighter, more delicate blends, every sip reflects quality that stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the biggest specialty brands.
Simply put: this coffee is good. Really good. Some say it’s absolutely fantastic. If you want a gift that won’t be re-gifted, ignored, or shoved in a cabinet, this is it.
2. It Spreads the Word While Serving a Real Purpose
There are many Christian gifts that are meaningful… but not exactly practical. There are also useful gifts that have nothing to do with faith. Promised Grounds Coffee bridges both worlds beautifully.
Each gift set delivers an encouraging, faith-centered message through its packaging and presentation — a simple but powerful reminder of God’s goodness during the Christmas season. The cups are especially popular and serve as a daily reminder of the blessings from our Lord. At the same time, the product itself is something people will actually use and appreciate every single day.
It’s a gift that uplifts the spirit and fills the mug. A gift that points loved ones toward Scripture while still being part of the normal rhythm of life. And in a culture that increasingly pushes faith to the margins, giving a gift that quietly but confidently honors Christ can make a deeper impact than you might expect.
3. It’s Affordable, Valuable, and Elegantly Presented
Many people want to give something meaningful without breaking their Christmas budget. Promised Grounds Coffee strikes that perfect balance — the sets look and feel premium, but the price remains accessible.
The packaging is classy, clean, and gift-ready, making it ideal for:
- Family members of all ages
- Co-workers or employees
- Church friends or small-group leaders
- Hosts, neighbors, and last-minute gift needs
It’s the kind of gift that feels more expensive than it is — and more thoughtful than most of what you’ll find on store shelves.
The Perfect Blend of Faith, Flavor, and Christmas Cheer
A coffee gift set from Promised Grounds Coffee checks every box: a gift that tastes amazing, conveys your faith, supports a Christian business, and brings daily enjoyment to the person who receives it. In a season when so many gifts are forgotten, this one stands out for all the right reasons.
If you want a Christmas present that reflects your values and delivers genuine joy, Promised Grounds Coffee is the perfect place to start.