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Wine as an Investment

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Wine as an Investment

 

By Lynn Nishimura, Columnist

For a time, I focused primarily on red wine — drawn not only by its antioxidant properties, but also by its remarkable ability to age gracefully. Some bottles can evolve for 5-25 years or more. With proper storage — such as a custom wine cellar or aging cave — wine can be protected from undesirable oxidation and premature aeration. Stability is critical: even slight vibrations over long periods can degrade wine. Darkness and constant temperature are equally essential to preserving both quality and value.

For those interested in French wines, Burgundy stands out as one of the world’s most celebrated regions, producing exceptional vintage wines — both red and white — which often appreciate as they age. That said, wines from many other regions can also be stored successfully for five, 10, or even 25 years, depending on the producer and style. A knowledgeable local wine merchant can be an invaluable guide. Certain grape varieties are naturally tannic and age-worthy, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, while others — like Pinot Noir and Beaujolais — are often best enjoyed young.

White wines from the Jura region in eastern France, particularly late-harvest Chardonnay styles, present another intriguing investment opportunity. In general, moelleux wines with high acidity, elevated alcohol and residual sugar can sometimes age for 30 to 50 years under optimal conditions, developing extraordinary complexity and becoming highly collectible.

Beyond the cellar, social connections play an important role in wine investment. Social media, wine clubs and local tasting events offer opportunities to meet fellow enthusiasts, discover rare bottles and exchange knowledge. Sharing wine with friends and family deepens both appreciation and understanding — wine is, at its heart, a communal experience.

Over my lifetime, I’ve likely tasted around a thousand different wines, from Port and Malbec to Tempranillo and beyond. While I enjoy exploring wines from around the world, I often return to French and Californian producers because of their familiarity and proven aging potential. Still,

hidden gems exist everywhere. Even when the grape variety is the same, terroir creates unique and compelling expressions.

Ultimately, the best advice for wine as an investment is simple: open the bottle. Enjoy the journey, savor the flavors, and learn from every tasting. Whether measured in pleasure or potential financial return, such as in an auction house, the experience itself is what makes wine truly valuable.

The Long Beach Way

James Preston Allen
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The Long Beach Way

 

New Port Director Frames Climate Goals Around Labor Collaboration

A day after the Jan. 15 State of the Port address, newly installed Port of Long Beach Executive Director Dr. Noel Hacegaba sat down with Random Lengths News to expand on his vision for the port’s future — one rooted in the idea that zero emissions and job protection are not mutually exclusive. That framework, long championed by labor and environmental advocates, centers on a 2050 strategy driven by collaboration rather than automation alone, with Pier S envisioned as a global model for human-operated, zero-emissions terminals.

The following week, Hacegaba was the only American port director invited to speak at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, where he planned to share that vision on the world stage.

Throughout the interview, Hacegaba emphasized what he called the “Long Beach way”: bringing labor, terminal operators, and the port together to pursue innovation and emissions reductions without leaving workers behind. He pointed to the Long Beach Container Terminal as proof that clean technology and good union jobs can coexist.

“[The Long Beach Container Terminal] was a development that put us on the map in terms of zero emissions — the cleanest terminal operation,” said.Hacegaba. “When you look at both the operational and workforce pieces, the Long Beach way was to ensure that our partners had a meeting of the minds with the labor union. They found a way and charted a path forward to make that project a reality.”

Hacegaba said his broader philosophy is to bring all parties to the table and chart a path toward a future that leverages innovation while investing in a highly trained workforce.

“That’s why yesterday, at the State of the Port, I said that as we build a port of the future, we’re going to tackle — together — challenging and sometimes uncomfortable conversations,” he said. “But I’m very optimistic that if we bring all the parties together and look for a path that leaves no one behind, we can get there.”

Holding a doctorate in public administration, Hacegaba framed the port’s future around a legally binding 2050 net-zero mandate, even as cargo throughput is expected to double. He stressed that meeting both goals will require a shared, multi-step process involving labor, industry, and the broader community — rather than a one-size-fits-all automation solution.

“The objective yesterday was to cast a new vision — and it’s a call to action,” Hacegaba said. “It’s going to take all of us working together to get there. The real question is how we reach net zero by 2050 while doubling our throughput. That’s why yesterday was step one in a multi-step process that includes labor as a critical partner.”

As part of that approach, Hacegaba highlighted the proposed Pier S development as potentially the first conventional, zero-emissions terminal in the world — demonstrating that ports can meet climate goals using human-operated equipment and reinforcing that sustainability is not a zero-sum game.

Hacegaba succeeded longtime Executive Director Mario Cordero, who retired at the end of 2025 after a seven-year tenure.

Don’t Let the Super Bowl Stress Your Heart: Cardiologist Warns of Game Day Risks

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Don’t Let the Super Bowl Stress Your Heart: Cardiologist Warns of Game Day Risks

 

LONG BEACH — With the biggest game of the year, Super Bowl LVIII, fast approaching,

millions will be glued to their screens, riding an emotional rollercoaster that can put significant surprising stress on the heart. As February marks American Heart Month, Dignity Health is urging football fans to be aware of the real physiological impact of game day excitement and offers critical advice to protect their cardiac health.

“For many, the Super Bowl is a thrilling annual event, but for some, the intense drama and emotional swings can trigger a genuine physiological response that genuinely stresses the heart,” said Dr. Nik Kapoor a cardiologist at Dignity Health – St. Mary Medical Center.

“Beyond the excitement, there’s a ‘fight or flight’; response happening on the couch, and for vulnerable individuals, this can move from temporary discomfort to a serious health concern.

The Science Behind the “Super Bowl Heart”

When the game gets tense – a crucial play, a missed field goal, a last-minute touchdown – our bodies respond by releasing stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. This triggers a cascade of physical reactions including increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, increased oxygen demand and blood clotting risk.

While healthy hearts can typically manage these temporary spikes, Dr. Kapoor warns that for individuals with underlying heart conditions, uncontrolled high blood pressure, or a history of cardiac events, this heightened state can be genuinely risky. Research has even linked major sporting events to an observable increase in cardiac emergencies, particularly among those with pre-existing vulnerabilities.

“It’s not just an old wives’ tale; the data shows a clear pattern,” explains Dr. Kapoor. “We can see an uptick in emergency room visits for cardiac issues during and immediately after high-stakes games. In extreme cases, the sheer emotional shock can even mimic a heart attack, a phenomenon sometimes referred to as ‘Broken Heart Syndrome,’ or stress-induced cardiomyopathy (Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy).”

A Game Day Playbook for Heart Health (Especially During Heart Month):

To help fans enjoy the Super Bowl safely and manage game-day stress, Dignity Health and Dr. Kapoor offer a practical ‘Game Day Playbook’

  • Know Your Risk: If you have a history of heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or other risk factors, consult your doctor about watching high-stakes events.
  • Practice Mindful Watching: When the game gets too intense, take short breaks, step away from the screen, or engage in deep breathing exercises.
  • Avoid excessive alcohol & unhealthy foods: While tempting, overindulgence in alcohol, sugary drinks, and high-sodium, high-fat snacks can further strain your cardiovascular system. Opt for healthier alternatives.
  • Don’t Ignore Symptoms: If you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or unusual discomfort, do not hesitate. Call 911 immediately. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
  • Prioritize Regular Check-ups: Heart Month is the perfect time to schedule a wellness visit with your physician to discuss your cardiac health and screening needs.

“The Super Bowl is meant to be enjoyed, not endured with cardiac fear,” Dr. Kapoor said. “By understanding the risks and taking preventative measures, especially during American Heart Month, we can all root for our favorite teams without putting our hearts at undue risk.”

 

4. Supervisors’ Briefs: Actions Target Kratom Deaths and Ease Rent Burdens

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4. Supervisors’ Briefs: Actions Target Kratom Deaths and Ease Rent Burdens

Supervisors Seek to Prevent Deaths Linked to Kratom

LOS ANGELES —The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Feb. 2 approved a motion directing county experts to develop recommendations to prevent deaths and serious harm linked to kratom and the chemical compound known as 7-OH. Her efforts come after Los Angeles County recorded seven fatal overdoses associated with kratom and 7-OH since January 2025.

Kratom is an herbal substance which can produce opioid-like and stimulant-like effects. 7-OH is the psychoactive component of kratom leaves and is synthetically concentrated into various products that have become increasingly available at gas stations, smoke shops, and online retailers. Kratom and 7-OH products are unregulated and often marketed as dietary supplements to address a broad range of issues such as pain, anxiety and mood disorders, opioid withdrawal, energy, or general well-being.

“Seven people in LA County died this past year because they took a substance that is being sold openly and marketed as safe,” said Supervisor Janice Hahn. “I want to explore all of our options to better regulate this substance and save lives.”

In July 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration issued warnings about the growing risks of 7-OH products, citing illegal marketing practices and the need for regulation and public education to prevent another wave of the opioid epidemic. In response to local fatalities, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health issued warning letters to retailers in October 2025 to “immediately stop selling any 7-OH products, as these are not lawfully marketed in the U.S. as a drug product, dietary supplement, or food additive.” The department has begun enforcement actions to remove kratom-related 7-OH products from stores.

The motion directs the Department of Public Health, in collaboration with the Department of Medical Examiner and in consultation with county counsel, to report back to the board within 30 days with recommendations to address and prevent kratom- and 7-OH-related deaths.

Hahn Moves to Raise Unpaid Rent Threshold for Evictions in Unincorporated Areas

LOS ANGELES —The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Feb. 3 approved a motion directing county counsel to draft an ordinance raising the threshold for formal evictions from one month to two months of fair market rent.

“I understand that with this proposal, I am going to face pushback from both sides – tenants advocates who don’t believe I am doing enough, and landlords who think I have gone too far,” said Supervisor Hahn. “This is a modest but necessary increase. With this additional month, I hope we can give families some breathing room while not putting the entire burden on landlords who depend on rental income to pay their own bills.”

The county enacted its Rent and Tenant Protections Ordinance in 2022 to stabilize housing, prevent displacement, and reduce the risk of homelessness among renters in unincorporated areas, particularly during periods of economic instability, public emergencies, and housing insecurity. The motion would modify that ordinance and raise the threshold to two months of unpaid Fair Market Rent (FMR) as established annually by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development. FMR varies by unit size and ZIP code.

In their motion, Hahn and Solis cite the devastating impact of recent federal immigration enforcement actions across Los Angeles County, with some communities experiencing a marked decrease in economic activity in addition to families losing breadwinners, and businesses losing customers and employees.

The ordinance would apply to the unincorporated areas which are under Los Angeles County’s direct jurisdiction and are collectively home to about 1 million residents.

County counsel has 30 days to return to the board with the proposed ordinance.

Hahn Extends $20,000 Reward to Help Solve Torrance Teen’s Fatal Shooting

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Hahn Extends $20,000 Reward to Help Solve Torrance Teen’s Fatal Shooting

LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Feb. 3 approved a motion to once again extend a $20,000 reward for information leading to the conviction of the person or persons responsible for the June 18, 2025 death of 17-year-old Chyler Paton in the City of Torrance. Paton, who had recently graduated from Culver City High School, was shot at approximately 8:58 pm on the 23000 block of Huber Avenue. Torrance Fire Department personnel responded to the scene, but Paton succumbed to his injuries.

“I’m asking anyone who knows something about Chyler’s killers to please speak up. His family have not only lived with his absence for months now, they’ve also been denied justice,” said Supervisor Hahn. “Help us close this case.”

Hahn first established the reward in August shortly after the murder, and re-established it in November. She urges anyone with information to contact the Torrance Police Department Detective Division at 310-618-5570, with case number 250021528.

DCA Cultural Program Framework Approved for the Olympic and Paralympic Games

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DCA Cultural Program Framework Approved for the Olympic and Paralympic Games

The Department of Cultural Affairs or DCA has announced that the Framework for the 2028 Cultural Program (Cultural Program) for the Olympic and Paralympic Games was officially approved by the Mayor and LA City Council. The Framework is a blueprint by which the city, through the DCA, will lead its planning work for arts and culture for the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The Cultural Program will include outdoor festivals, murals, art and gallery exhibitions, public art projects, installations, poetry readings, cultural and artistic performances, and many other projects. Presenting a wide range of artistic experiences, including fashion and the culinary arts, this initiative will bring the artistic and creative energy of Los Angeles to the world stage for all to experience.

The program will launch this summer with outreach and partnership-building as well as lead up program commissions and partnership opportunities. Then it will move into project development and production, with the official launch in 2027, and culminate in a showcase of events, exhibitions, and performances in 2028.

Beginning this year, DCA will engage more than 150 artists, cultural organizations, and community partners representing Black, Indigenous, Latinx/e, Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI), Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, Intersex, and Asexual+ (LGBTQIA+), individuals with disabilities, other historically marginalized communities, and more.

Looking ahead, there will be numerous opportunities for artists, performers, cultural groups, and community organizations to participate in the artistic programs, projects, and events for the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The city’s Cultural Program encourages the development of new and innovative works. Artists, organizations, and cultural producers whose programs align with the Cultural Program framework will be able to submit their programming to DCA for consideration as a Cultural Program partner event/program. Stay tuned for information on how to get involved through: planning, engagement, and sponsorship/strategic partnerships; commission and partner opportunities; and grant solicitations.

In addition, DCA will be partnering with the County of Los Angeles Department of Arts and Culture and LA 28 to expand opportunities for artists, performers, and cultural groups.

If you are interested in volunteering, performing, hosting an event, or partnering with DCA, fill out DCA’s interest form below.

Details: Interest form: https://tinyurl.com/Cultural-Programming-Olympics

Daytime Lane Closures of Vincent Thomas Bridge for Pothole Repairs

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Daytime Lane Closures of Vincent Thomas Bridge for Pothole Repairs

 

Caltrans announces daytime single-lane closures of the Vincent Thomas Bridge (State Route 47) for pothole repairs and finger joint monitoring following recent storms. Traffic flow will be maintained in both directions of the bridge throughout the closures.

The schedule of closures is as follows:

  • Wednesday, Feb. 4 at 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • Southbound right lane from Ferry Street to Harbor Boulevard
  • Thursday, Feb. 5 at 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • Northbound right lane from Harbor Boulevard to Ferry Street
  • Saturday, Feb. 7 at 6 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • Southbound right lane from Ferry Street to Harbor Boulevard

Due to weather or operational reasons, the schedule is subject to change, including the times and dates, the number of closures, and other details. Motorists should expect delays when utilizing the Vincent Thomas Bridge and use Caltrans QuickMap to review current traffic conditions before traveling.

Caltrans reminds drivers to exercise increased caution near the closure and Slow for the Cone Zone.

New Grant Protects Stories and Art of Communities Hit by 2025 LA Wildfires

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New Grant Protects Stories and Art of Communities Hit by 2025 LA Wildfires

LOS ANGELES — LA County Library and Foundation, LA County Department of Arts and Culture, and Library Partners have received a $1.2 million grant from the Mellon Foundation to fund a new collaborative initiative led by LA County Library in partnership with the LA County Department of Arts and Culture, Los Angeles Public Library, Altadena Library District, and their respective Foundations, titled LA County Cultural Climate Commons: Community Memory Lab & Living Archive.

This cross-jurisdictional project brings together two of the nation’s largest public library systems, the local arts agency, and civic partners in a landmark collaboration that aims to preserve the lived experiences, cultural heritage, and collective memory of communities impacted by the 2025 Eaton and Palisades wildfires in LA County. Coinciding with the one-year anniversary of the devastating wildfires, the grant arrives at a meaningful moment of reflection and renewal, supporting a new mobile memory lab, community artmaking, digital archiving events, and the creation of a digital hub that together will foster healing, cultural preservation, public learning, and a deeper understanding of the impacts of climate change.

The project, which spans from January 2026 through June 2028, will support three core offerings:

  • LA County Library will launch a new mobile memory lab and offer digital archiving and oral history programs, with events focusing on Altadena and surrounding communities in partnership with Altadena Library District, but also spanning to the Palisades area, in partnership with Los Angeles Public Library, to help bring together two fire-ravaged communities in sharing and archiving their stories and experiences.
  • An artist/archivist-in-residence, along with an art historian and curator, local artists, and arts groups, will be engaged in partnership with LA County Department of Arts and Culture to identify local legacy artists, and offer community artmaking workshops as a space to create and preserve culture, stories, and memories, with resulting artworks contributing to a new digital archive as well as the LA County Civic Art Collection.
  • A climate-focused digital hub will be created as a central repository for regional archived artworks, memories, and oral histories—while also elevating local cultural stories, research, and projects responding to climate change, beginning with the 2025 Altadena and Palisades wildfires.

“We are incredibly thankful for the Mellon Foundation’s support of this project,” said Dr. Skye Patrick, LA County Library Director and County Librarian. “The devastating wildfires caused widespread loss across Los Angeles County, taking lives, homes, and the cultural memory and social fabric that connected the impacted communities. Through this unique cross-jurisdictional Library and Arts and Culture partnership, we will support healing and resilience by safeguarding community histories and stories through arts and archiving and developing sustainable models for cultural preservation.”

The LA County Cultural Climate Commons project represents a significant investment in preserving the stories, creative contributions, and lived experiences of wildfire-impacted communities while fostering public understanding of climate change and community resilience.

Additional details about project’s activities, public programming, and opportunities for community participation will be shared in the coming months as the initiative launches.

Governors Briefs: Gov. Proposes Better Access to Menopause Health Care, Announces Appointments

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Governors Briefs: Gov. Proposes Better Access to Menopause Health Care, Announces Appointments

 

Governor Newsom Proposes Improving Access to Menopause Health Care

SACRAMENTO — As part of his 2026-27 budget proposal, Gov. Gavin Newsom Feb. 2 released a budget trailer bill proposal to support the inclusion of expanded perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopausal health care in the state.

The proposal would:

  • Improve prescription drug coverage for symptoms of menopause by requiring certain health plans to cover FDA-approved treatments for perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopausal symptoms, including coverage in the Medi-Cal program
  • Increase consumer and provider awareness by requiring plans to screen enrollees age 40 and older for menopause during primary care and OB/GYN appointments
  • Notify health plan enrollees of the menopause services available to them
  • Provide professional training incentives for physicians who specialize in menopause care
  • Invest $3 million to support a statewide public awareness campaign

Expanding health care access while retaining affordability is especially important as consumers across the nation face double-digit rate increases in health care premiums due to the ‘Big Ugly Bill.’

 

Governor Newsom Judicial Appointment

SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom announced his appointment of ten Superior Court Judges, with one in Lake County, one in Los Angeles County,

Los Angeles Superior Court

Alma D. Puente, of Los Angeles County, has been appointed to serve as a Judge in the Los Angeles County Superior Court. Puente has been the owner of the Law Office of Alma D. Puente since 2010. She worked as Senior Attorney at the Law Office of Enrique Arevalo from 2006 to 2010. Puente worked as an Associate at Kaplan, Klein & Rogen from 2005 to 2006. She served as a Supervisory Adjudications Officer for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security from 2004 to 2005. Puente received a Juris Doctor degree from Loyola Law School. She fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Judge John J. Kralik. Puente is a Democrat.

Gov. Newsom Appointment

SACRAMENTO — Gov. Gavin Newsom Jan. 29 announced the following appointments:

Sherry Johnson Alvarez, of Los Angeles, has been appointed to the State Council on Developmental Disabilities. Alvarez has been an eligibility social worker at the Los Angeles Department of Social Services since 2005. She is a member of the self-determination committee at the South Central Los Angeles Regional Center and Office of Administrative Hearings Committee at the Department of Developmental Services. This position does not require Senate confirmation, and the compensation is $100 per diem. Alvarez is a Democrat.

World’s Largest Wildlife Crossing Nears Completion in California

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World’s Largest Wildlife Crossing Nears Completion in California

 

SACRAMENTO — Gov. Gavin Newsom Feb. 2 announced that the Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing has received funding that will provide the final push needed to complete the project. The crossing is the first of its kind in California and provides safe passage for wildlife across US 101, reducing wildlife-vehicle collisions and supporting long-term species viability by allowing movement.

“The Annenberg Wildlife Crossing is an ambitious project, one that bridges the gap between conservation and urban development. The crossing will make life safer for both Los Angeles wildlife and drivers frequenting US 101 – and will ensure people and animals can thrive together for generations to come,” said Gov. Gavin Newsom

The California Transportation Commission or CTC allocated $18.8 million for the crossing from the environmental enhancement and mitigation program, which was established in 1989 to support projects that mitigate environmental impacts associated with modifying new or existing transportation facilities. Alongside this funding, the CTC approved nearly $1 billion to expand transit capabilities, add new highway safety features, and boost the state’s climate goals. Bolstered by the Build More, Faster – For All infrastructure agenda, these improvements will make California communities safer and more climate resilient.

The project is a public-private partnership of monumental scope, leveraging the expertise and leadership of dozens of organizations and institutions to protect and restore wildlife habitats in Southern California. After more than 30 years of conservation work in the area, this wildlife crossing will reconnect protected lands in the Santa Monica Mountains and the Sierra Madre Range on both sides of the highway. This expansion of interconnected conserved lands and waters will protect and restore biodiversity while also supporting transportation infrastructure. The bridge will feature coastal sage scrub plant species native to the Santa Monica Mountains, contributing to the overall environmental restoration strategy that includes 12 acres of open space and 50,000 native plants.

On Earth Day 2022, Governor Newsom joined the late Wallis Annenberg for the project’s groundbreaking. Annenberg was inducted into the California Hall of Fame in 2025, shortly after her passing. The project is expected to be completed in Fall 2026.

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