Perhaps no single person ever did more to glorify California than Brian Wilson, who died Wednesday at age 82.  The California of Wilson and his Beach Boys was a land of eternal sunshine, surfing, prosperity, love, and good times that would endure forever.  His music helped California become a magnet for millions of people who moved west to this Earthly Paradise.

And perhaps no single person has ever mangled that image more than Governor Gavin Newsom, who delivered an apocalyptic speech the night before Brian Wilson’s death.  Newsom has helped turn Eden into a place now known for homeless encampments, outdoor drug markets, and looting.