San Francisco, CA – THE RITZ-CARLTON CLUB, SAN FRANCISCO – Metropolitan Magic in the City by the Bay…

THE RITZ-CARLTON CLUB, SAN FRANCISCO

Why You’ll Love It

• Convenient location three blocks from Union Square
• Full-service, 24-hour concierge
• Chic, fully furnished Club residences
• Complimentary daily breakfast

Fine dining, unparalleled shopping, and cultural institutions are steps outside your chic Market Street Club residence. The legendary Ritz-Carlton service custom tailors your San Francisco escape, freeing you to explore one of the world’s most romantic cities at your own pace.

Retail therapy in Union Square. Cable car rides to Fisherman’s Wharf. Indie art galleries in the Mission. Explore all this (along with gourmet delicacies in one of America’s most revered foodie capitals) neighboring your home away from home.

In true San Francisco style, each Club residence blends classic sophistication with contemporary comforts. Take in striking vistas of San Francisco’s dynamic downtown from your elegant and fully equipped urban oasis.

– Justin, Bloomspot Staff Writer

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690 Market St
San Francisco, CA 94104
(855) 689-7997

FEATURED SERVICES

Full-service, 24-hour concierge

Complimentary daily continental breakfast in the Member’s lounge

Nightly bed turn-down service

Valet parking and twice daily housekeeping

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FEATURED AMENITIES

Private Lounge on 12th Floor

Wine storage

Executive boardroom

FEATURED RESIDENCE AMENITIES

Italian-marble bath floors

Double-paned windows for sound minimization

Wireless internet

Wine cooler

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• Valid on select dates only. 2-night minimum required.
• 1-bedroom Club residence accommodates up to four; 2-bedroom Club residence accommodates up to six.
• Limit one Ritz-Carlton Destination Club reservation per family per lifetime; no groups. Offers are non-transferrable.
• 15.50% hotel tax will be added upon Bloomspot purchase.
• All Club residences feature fully equipped gourmet kitchen, separate living and dining areas, and washer/dryer.
• Must redeem in one visit; no cash or credit back.
• Cannot be used with other offers.
• Refunds allowed until 11:59PM PST on June 25, 2012. All sales are final after this date.

The Ritz-Carlton Development Company, Inc. and the programs and products provided under The Ritz-Carlton Destination Club brand are not owned, developed, or sold by The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. The Ritz-Carlton Development Company, Inc. uses The Ritz-Carlton marks under license from The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C.

Images depicted may be developer’s conceptual renderings and the description above may include features, furnishings and amenities that are proposed and subject to change at any time.

DC-12-023

Lakeport, CA – CLEAR LAKE BED AND BREAKFAST – Serious R&R at Charming B&B…

CLEAR LAKE BED AND BREAKFAST

www.clearlakebedandbreakfast.com

Why You’ll Love It

• Private hot tubs with views of the lake
• Plantation-style charm with modern amenities
• Strolling distance from downtown eateries and shopping

Some use yoga to decompress. Others a glass of wine. For our money a private hot tub overlooking a lake at sunset trumps them both. Soak away stress and reconnect with calm at Clear Lake Bed and Breakfast.

You don’t have to be a watersport or fishing or hiking or all-of-these enthusiast to enjoy Lakeport; just a relaxation enthusiast. Whether you stroll into town for a leisurely bite, sleep till noon, or just hang your legs over the end of the dock, the only imperative here is peaceful living.

– Erika, Bloomspot Staff Writer

2 16th St
Lakeport, CA 95453
(707) 263-9071
www.clearlakebedandbreakfast.com

FEATURED SUITES

THOMAS JEFFERSON SUITE

Four-post queen bed, private veranda with private hot tub, LCD flat-screen TV, HD cable, DVD, high-speed wireless internet, refrigerator, two Queen Anne wingback chairs, walk-in closet, AC, electric fireplace, and ceiling fan

BENJAMIN FRANKLIN SUITE

Four-post queen bed, sleeper chair and ottoman accommodate extra guests, private veranda, Jacuzzi tub, large desk, LCD flat-screen TV, HD cable, DVD, high-speed wireless internet, refrigerator, two Queen Anne wingback chairs, walk-in closet, AC, electric fireplace, and ceiling fan

BIRD SUITE (LOCATED NEXT DOOR IN THE BEACH HOUSE)

Queen bed, living room, kitchen, deck with hot tub overlooking the lake, LCD flat-screen TV, HD cable, DVD, high-speed wireless internet, propane fire place, and AC

See full menu of services

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING

5 stars and 15 reviews on Yelp

“If you live a life on the fast track and want to slow down a little bit, then this is the place for you … This is probably one of the most romantic places I’ve ever stayed at.”

Yelp Reviewer Eileen C., Sacramento, CA, 5/23/12
Read more on Yelp

“I LOVE the Clear Lake Bed and Breakfast! It is the one place I feel I can really slow down and breathe deep. The scenery is exquisite and the home itself is to die for.”

Yelp Reviewer Star F., Rancho Cordova, CA, 4/16/12
Read more on Yelp

“Wonderful bed & breakfast, and such charming owners. When we settled down to watch a film in their incredible home cinema we were promptly treated to popcorn! A lovely touch.”

Yelp Reviewer Garry P., San Jose, CA, 8/6/11
Read more on Yelp

 

In Honor of Our Fathers, Salinas, Calif – Public Event – By Alex Fabros, Pelagio Valdez, Saturday, June 23, 2012…

Special Event – In Honor of Our Fathers

National Steinbeck Center
One Main Street
Salinas, Calif. 93901

Saturday June 23, 2012

10:00 AM – Registration

10:30 AM – Welcome;On-going viewing of the Exhibition; video interviews of guests; scanning of photos and descriptions.

11:00 AM – “My Father’s Story – Lt. Col. Silva” by Maria Vallejo

12:00 Noon – Filipino Box Lunch (catered by Manila Ranch)

1:00 PM – Making of the Exhibition – “Filipino Voices” by FANHS (Filipino American National Historical Society – Monterey Bay Chapter)

https://www.facebook.com/groups/193759310745163/
http://www.steinbeck.org/pages/filipino-voices-past-and-present-exhibition
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=%2Fg%2Fa%2F2012%2F05%2F02%2Fcentral_coasting_filipino_voices.DTL
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150798320955929&set=o.109721362406674&type=3&theater

2:00 PM – “In Honor of Our Fathers: The History of the 1st Filipino Regiment” by Alex Fabros

3:30 PM – “Unsung Heroes” a video

5:30 PM – Filipino Dinner (including lechon – cash bar available)

6:30 PM – “Amigo” a film – R-rated

Schedule subject to change.
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$ 50.00 includes ALL THE ABOVE.

To make reservations, send check for $ 50.00 payable to: Monterey Bay Chapter – FANHS

Send check by Monday – June 18, 2012 to:
Monterey Bay Chapter – FANHS
Attn: Evelyn Escolano
739 El Sur Avenue
Salinas, Ca. 93906-2215

INCLUDE YOUR E-MAIL ADDRESS AND PHONE NUMBER.

Contact Persons:

Evelyn Escolano – Phone – (831) 594-4079, e-mail – evescolano@att.net

Elmer A. Dolera – (831) 420-8619, e-mail – edolera@hotmail.com

ONCE WE RECEIVE YOUR CHECKS WE WILL POST THOSE NAMES HERE – https://www.facebook.com/events/326551834089794/?context=create

Temecula, CA – THE INN AT EUROPA VILLAGE – A Taste of Europe in Wine Country…

THE INN AT EUROPA VILLAGE

www.europavillage.com

Why You’ll Love It

• European ambiance in Southern California
• Best “Breakfast Experience” in Southern California from Chef Dean
• Set on five acres of rolling green hills

Take a trip to Europe sans the 12-hour flight. Spanish, French, and Italian culture inspire the charming décor and delicious wine of The INN at Europa Village. This recently remodeled B&B may offer a new take on Temecula’s famed wine country, but the take-it-slow feel is all Old World.

Start your day off right. And by “right” we mean with Chef Dean’s “Breakfast Experience” prepared with seasonal, homegrown ingredients. You’re going to need fuel for a day spent experiencing some of the best that Temecula Valley Wine Country has to offer, such as hot air balloon rides, horseback rides, and olive oil tasting.

The fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down. Pull up a chair around the patio’s six-foot fire pit for nightly sangria hour—we can’t think of a better way to celebrate a day well spent.

– Laura, Bloomspot Staff Writer

33475 La Serena Wy
Temecula, CA 92591
Off Rancho California Rd
(877) 676-7047 for The INN
(888) 383-8767 for wine tasting
www.europavillage.com

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING

4 stars and 24 reviews on Yelp

“This place is absolutely beautiful and the staff is so hospitable and gracious. The European theme sets it apart … From the moment you walk through the front doors, you feel like family.”

Yelp Reviewer Monica M., Orange County, CA, 5/8/11
Read more on Yelp

“I had a great time at Europa Village this Fall. The staff is friendly and the wine was awesome. I can’t wait to go back!”

Yelp Reviewer Damion H., Foothill Ranch, CA, 12/30/11
Read more on Yelp

“Amazing staff, great wines, absolutely perfect atmosphere. It’s hard to find any other winery in Temecula that offers the look and feel that Europa has made.”

Yelp Reviewer Gregg S., Oceanside, CA, 10/12/11
Read more on Yelp

“Europa Rocks! Such a nice touch. Brings together the service and professionalism of Napa with the feel and romance of old Europe.”

Yelp Reviewer Darren K., Los Angeles, CA, 5/3/11
Read more on Yelp

• Expires September 15, 2012.
• Not valid for stays on September 2, 2012.
• Must be 21 or older to attend. Valid photo ID required.
• May purchase multiples of wine offer and of The INN offer to reserve consecutive dates.
• Certificates may be combined.
• Not valid for merchandise.
• Cannot be used with other offers or existing reservations.
• Refunds allowed until 11:59PM PDT on June 7, 2012. All sales are final after this date.

San Diego, CA – THE SOFIA HOTEL – Sun-Kissed Opulenc…

THE SOFIA HOTEL

www.thesofiahotel.com

Why You’ll Love It

• Central Downtown location
• Free bike rentals to cruise around the city
• Complimentary yoga DVD and on-site gym

When the weather is a balmy perfect degrees year-round, it’s hard not to have a laid-back attitude. Slow your roll for a weekend (or more) at San Diego’s historic Sofia Hotel. Your sun-kissed tan, beach-blown hair, and carefree smile will thank you.

We’re all about a romantic walk down California’s coast, but how about a stroll into the past as well? The Sofia retains its signature 1920s charm while offering 21st century amenities.

Work up an appetite pedaling around Downtown with your free bike rental. The hotel’s Currant Brasserie serves up award-winning American cuisine so you and your beau can toast to a day of fun in the sun.

– Laura, Bloomspot Staff Writer

Downtown
150 W Broadway
San Diego, CA 92101
Between 1st Ave & Front St
(619) 234-9200
www.thesofiahotel.com

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING

3.5 stars and 216 reviews on Yelp

“Super cute, comfortable, clean, and oh so chic. Close to everything! I will be back!”

Yelp Reviewer Claudia M., Long Beach, CA, 7/16/11
Read more on Yelp

“Awesome inclusions like free wi-fi, two free bottles of water a day, and complimentary bikes to cruise around and check out the city … Would definitely stay here again.”

Yelp Reviewer Liz S., Bridgeton, MO, 8/10/11
Read more on Yelp

“Hands-down the best boutique hotel we’ve ever stayed at.”

Yelp Reviewer MC S., Baltimore, MD, 4/20/11
Read more on Yelp

“The level of customer service from all the staff I talked to throughout my stay was outstanding …I cannot say enough positive things about this place.”

Yelp Reviewer Frugalista C., San Luis Obispo, CA, 6/26/11
Read more on Yelp

FEATURED ROOMS

DELUXE QUEEN ROOM

Includes one deluxe queen bed, pillowtop mattress, desk with ergonomic chair, wifi, flat-screen TV with HBO, iPod dock, in-room bottled water, coffee, and condiments, and weekend guided walking tour

DELUXE QUEEN STUDIO SUITE

Includes one deluxe queen bed, pillowtop mattress, one queen-size sofa bed, soaking tub with jets, desk with ergonomic chair, wifi, flat-screen TV with HBO, iPod dock, in-room bottled water, coffee, and condiments, and weekend guided walking tour

See full list of amenities

• Valid for selected dates only.
• Must redeem in one visit; no cash or credit back.
• 15.75% hotel tax will be added upon Bloomspot purchase.
• $7.95 guest service fee per night will be collected upon check-in.
• Cannot be used with other offers or existing reservations.
• Refunds allowed until 11:59PM PST on June 5, 2012. All sales are final after this date.

How to Photograph a Lunar Eclipse… By Fred Espenak…

By Fred Espenak

A lunar eclipse occurs whenever the moon passes through the Earth’s dark shadow, which can only happen during a full moon. There are two or more lunar eclipses a year.

Types of Lunar Eclipses

Penumbral Lunar Eclipse. This occurs when the moon passes through the Earth’s penumbral shadow. These eclipses are subtle and hard to observe.

Partial Lunar Eclipse. This occurs when a portion of the moon passes through the Earth’s umbral shadow. These eclipses are easy to see with the unaided eye.

Total Lunar Eclipse. This occurs when the entire moon passes through the Earth’s umbral shadow. During the total phase (totality), the moon turns a vibrant red color. These are easy to see as well, with the unaided eye.

A lunar eclipse begins as a small notch slowly appears along one edge of the moon. During the next hour, the moon gradually dips deeper into Earth’s dark umbral shadow. If the eclipse is a total one, the last remaining minutes of the partial phases can be quite dramatic. The crescent of the moon grows thinner as darkness propagates through a night sky now deprived of moonlight. If you’re away from city lights, the Milky Way becomes bright and beautiful as the total phase begins.

No matter what kind of camera you own, there are a variety of techniques that you can use to photograph a lunar eclipse: wide-angle, telephoto, multiple exposure and star trail. While you can also use film cameras to photograph eclipses, this article specifically discusses digital camera use…

© Fred Espenak

The moon was photographed every five min. during the total lunar eclipse of Jan. 20-21, 2000, Dunkirk, MD. Nikon N70 SLR and AstroPhysics…Read More

Published on May 21, 2012 by mrcorypoole

Still pictures can be downloaded at http://www.corypoole.com
Become a fan at http://www.facebook.com/CoryPoolePhotography to be notified of new photos when they become available.

700 pictures through a Coronado Solar Max 60 Double Stack telescope were used to make this video. The Telescope has a very narrow bandpass allowing you to see the chromosphere and not the much brighter photosphere below it. The music was composed in Abelton Live.

Category:

Science & Technology

License:

Standard YouTube License

© Fred Espenak

Oct. 28, 2004 total lunar eclipse, widely visible from the USA. Composite of images captures the Moon at the beginning (r.), middle (c.) and end (l.) of totality. Nikon D100, 4 sec. at f/12, using an AstroPhysics 105 EDT Refractor (4″ F/6) and AP 2X Barlow for a focal length of 1200mm.

© Fred Espenak

July 16, 2000 total lunar eclipse, Maui, HI. Nikon 8008 SLR and 35mm NIKKOR lens in multiple exposure mode to capture the entire eclipse on one frame of Kodak Royal Gold 100 film. Basic exposure of 1/125 sec. at f/5.6 was increased to 1/8 sec. within 15 min. of totality, then set to 4 sec. throughout totality. A second metered exposure captures morning twilight and silhouetted palm trees.

© Fred Espenak

Star trail during the total lunar eclipse, Jan. 21, 2000. Nikon 8008 SLR, 50mm NIKKOR, f/16 opened to f/5.6 during totality, for a total exposure time of 2 hrs. and 30 min. on Kodak Royal Gold 400 film. The narrow lines that parallel the Moon’s path are images of bright stars.

© Fred Espenak

Jan. 21, 2000 total Lunar Eclipse, Dunkirk, MD. Nikon N70 SLR on an AstroPhysics 130 EDF +, f/12, Kodak Royal Gold 100 and 400 films. The moon was photographed at five min. intervals throughout the eclipse. You can see every stage of the eclipse from start to finish. Individual images scanned, composite created using Adobe Photoshop.

Palm Springs, CA – RIVIERA RESORT & SPA – Desert Luxury…

RIVIERA RESORT & SPA

www.psriviera.com

Why You’ll Love It

• Voted Best of the Best Hotel by Palm Springs Life
• Posh guest rooms with mid-century décor
• World-class golf, shopping, and vistas

Does the retro-chic fashion and glam of Mad Men make you swoon? Then it’s obvious you should vacay in a beyond first-class spot worthy of Don Draper and Roger Sterling—in other words, Riviera Resort & Spa.

Opened in 1959, the Riviera instantly became a go-to hotspot for celebrities and socialites seeking the ultimate Southern California getaway—and things haven’t changed much since then. Gorgeous weather and luxurious guest rooms sporting pool, garden, and mountain vistas make days spent cultivating the perfect shade of bronze or relaxing with on-site spa treatments even sweeter.

– Christy, Bloomspot Staff Writer

1600 N Indian Canyon Dr
Palm Springs, CA 92262
(760) 327-8311
www.psriviera.com

FEATURED ROOM AMENITIES

FLAT-SCREEN LCD TV

COMPLIMENTARY HIGH-SPEED INTERNET

EXQUISITE MARBLE BATH AND RAIN SHOWER HEAD

COFFEE MAKER, HAIR DRYER, IN-ROOM SAFE, AND IRON/IRONING BOARD

REFRIGERATOR AND SAFETY DEPOSIT BOXES AVAILABLE

See full list of amenities

• Valid for selected dates only.
• Based on double occupancy. Up to two additional adults may be added for a nightly fee of $25 per guest to be collected upon resort checkout.
• Minimum check-in age is 21.
• 15.605% hotel tax will be added upon Bloomspot purchase.
• Daily resort fee of $28 plus taxes will be collected upon resort checkout.
• Self-parking is complimentary; valet parking is available for $20 per night.
• Pets allowed; $100 pet fee per stay to be collected upon resort checkout.
• No cash or credit back.
• Cannot be used with other offers or existing reservations.
• Refunds allowed until 11:59PM PST on May 7, 2012. All sales are final after this date.

Alexandria, VA – EDGE YOGA – Take a Class, See the Change…

RIVER’S EDGE YOGA

www.ashtangadancer.com/riversedgehome.html

Why You’ll Love It

• Instructors with over a decade of experience
• Follows eco-conscious, green practices
• Variety of classes, like Vinyasa and Ashtanga

In the soft light and simple surroundings of River’s Edge Yoga lies a vast and untapped resource: your own strength. World-class instructors may be teaching you sun salutations or warrior III variations, but what you are really learning is focus, discipline, and flexibility. Take a class, give it a chance, and see the change.

Whether you’re a runner looking to increase range of motion and stamina or a social butterfly seeking your center, REY’s daily schedule is packed with opportunities to get your flow going. Classes emphasize proper alignment, and the results remain true to form: toned, lean muscles and a calm, agile mind.

To focus solely on you and your body, opt for private instruction. Build on the basics or take your inversions to the next level. The sessions—and their positive effects—are made just for you.

– Tiah, Bloomspot Staff Writer

300 Montgomery St, Ste 201
Alexandria, VA 22314
At N Fairfax St
(571) 218-2161
www.ashtangadancer.com

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING

4.5 stars and 13 reviews on Yelp

“If you truly want to learn yoga at your own pace in a gentle, encouraging atmosphere from an instructor with 10+ years experience, you won’t go wrong with Margaret and River’s Edge Yoga!”

Yelp Reviewer MT L., Arlington, VA, 3/12/12
Read more on Yelp

“… [T]horough explanations of how to get into the poses and what to notice as we move through them. [Margaret] is gentle and attentive, giving you the space to work with your own abilities and limits.”

Yelp Reviewer Danielle P., Riverdale, MD, 11/9/11
Read more on Yelp

“I have been taking yoga for about 8 years and have done all the studios all over Old Town. None of them tops River’s Edge. Margaret is as good as it gets when it comes to yoga instructors.”

Yelp Reviewer Mary Beth C., Alexandria, VA, 3/24/12
Read more on Yelp

“The yoga instructor, Margaret, is absolutely fabulous. I haven’t had such a good yoga class since living in California and I really appreciate the instructor’s help with maintaining the poses correctly.”

Yelp Reviewer Beverly S., Alameda, CA, 2/4/12
Read more on Yelp

FEATURED CLASSES

DOWN DOG 101

A perfect class for those new to yoga or simply wishing to deepen their understanding of the fundamentals

WAKE UP AND BREATHE

Designed to awaken the body and the mind in preparation for the challenges of the day

YOGA FOR ATHLETES

Works to open hips, shoulders and hamstrings through the use of a flowing sequence of breath-linked movements building strength, stamina, and flexibility

ASHTANGA PRIMARY SERIES

Ashtanga First Series, for students familiar with the Ashtanga System as taught by Sri Pattabhi Jois

FLOW YOGA

An energetic blend of Ashtanga, Jivamukti, and Anusara Yoga

See full list of classes

	$25 for five classes ($70 value)
	$39 for ten classes ($130 value)
	$75 for two private yoga sessions ($150 value)
	$99 for three private yoga sessions ($225 value)

• Must be fully redeemed by October 27, 2012.
• Limit one of each offer per person. May purchase one of each offer as a gift.
• Class packages must be fully redeemed within two months of initial class.
• Packages must be redeemed by one student.
• No cash or credit back.
• Cannot be used with other offers.
• Refunds allowed up to 24 hours after close of Bloomspot sale.

Online – ONEHOPE WINE – Do Good, Drink Well…

ONEHOPE WINE

www.onehopewine.com

Why You’ll Love It

• Fine wines by Robert Mondavi, Jr.
• Wine of choice at the Grammys, Sundance Film Festival, and VH1 Save the Music
• Over $750,000 raised for causes including cancer research and children’s hospital funding

Ever wondered what celebrities sip from their wine glasses at the Grammys, Sundance, and VH1 Save the Music? Well now you know: it’s ONEHOPE Wine. Crafted by renowned winemaker Robert Mondavi, Jr., ONEHOPE Wine offers the chance to support a good causeand treat yourself to some excellent vintages.

Uncork a bottle of California cabernet sauvignon and swirl your glass to unleash aromas of spicy, complex flavors like black cherry. Enjoy the scent of fresh apple blossom and honeysuckle as you sip a glass of chardonnay on the front porch. Spice up a quiet evening with someone special thanks to a robust pinot noir.

Whether you choose red or white (or some of both), cheers to the knowledge that your purchase is supporting efforts like cancer research, environmental sustainability, and support for America’s armed forces.

– Hannah, Bloomspot Staff Writer

FEATURED WINES

2009 ARROYO SECO RESERVE PINOT NOIR

Lush, velvety texture with long, deep finish that perfectly accompanies lean meats and the earthy flavors of mushrooms, truffles, and cheeses

2009 CALIFORNIA CHARDONNAY

Aromas of fresh apple blossom and honeysuckle balance subtle fruit flavors and crisp, bright acidity

2010 CALIFORNIA CABERNET SAUVIGNON

Aged in American and French oak barrels for complex layers of spice and aromas of black cherry, cassis, and a hint of tobacco

2009 CALIFORNIA MERLOT

Bright cherry color and lively notes of toasted spice match well with red meat and pasta entrées

2009 CALIFORNIA SAUVIGNON BLANC

Bright, grassy notes balanced by citrus fruit flavors make this a perfect complement to fresh fish, light pasta dishes, fruits, and a variety of cheeses

See full wine list

$40 for $100 of wine and merchandise

May be used in multiple purchases; cannot be used for Wine Club, Hope at Home, ONEHOPE Weddings, or Craft1933 purchases

 

$69 for ONEHOPE Cabernet and Sauvignon Blanc 6-bottle pack and $25 gift card ($165 value)

Proceeds benefit the Fight Against Autism and Supporting Our Planet

ONEHOPE SIX PACK

THREE BOTTLES OF ONEHOPE 2009 SAUVIGNON BLANC

50% of the profits go to support the American Forest Foundation where one tree is planted for each bottle sold

THREE BOTTLES OF ONEHOPE 2010 CABERNET SAUVIGNON

50% of the profits go to support ACT Today! to help children with autism