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See Country Music’s Biggest Stars and More in Nashville, Tennessee
This package allows you to visit “Music City” in style and with special access to a number of destinations, as well as two deluxe rooms for four nights at the Leow’s Vanderbilt Plaza from November 10-13, 2009. During your stay, you and three guests will have tickets to the Country Music Awards, recognized worldwide as “Country Music’s Biggest Night.” This evening will feature a wide variety of exceptional talent and is sure to provide outstanding entertainment and excitement for a three-hour broadcast.
You will also receive four tickets to the Grand Old Opry as well as tours of the following Nashville landmarks: The Hermitage, which is President Andrew Jackson’s home; the Frist Center of the Visual Arts; and the Parthenon, the 1897 replica of the structure in Athens, Greece. A private tour of a recording studio is also included.
Value: $3,200
Courtesy of Anonymous
One of Only Ten Bottles of Martha Washington’s Rum
In September 2005, master distillers gathered at a cornerstone-laying ceremony at the site of George Washington’s distillery. On Dogue Creek’s bank, using an 18th century pot still replica, they created fine, hand-crafted colonial rum. The hospitality of the Washingtons was renowned and Martha’s Rum Punch was a favorite libation. Hand-bottled in 2008, this bottle of Mrs. Washington’s concoction is a rare taste of history. Rare indeed—there are only ten in existence.
Value: $2,500
Courtesy of Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association
Hermès Silk Scarf
It’s 65 grams of silk from 250 cocoons and 90 centimeters square—but so much more. During the 20th century, the Hermès scarf has become a standard for solid workmanship and discreet luxury, requiring up to two years of work to produce a collectible work of art that is an expression of its epoch. These scarves have been worn by fashion icons from Grace Kelly to Audrey Hepburn, and from Jackie Kennedy to Madonna. It is the ultimate fashion accessory of taste and beauty. This scarf is new this spring and features a classic design of stirrups from Hermes’ saddle collection. The scarf’s prominent color is royal blue. What a gorgeous item to have in your collection!
Value: $385
Courtesy of Babs Beckwith
Dinner with Newt Gingrich
One of America’s most intellectual and resilient politicians is also an accomplished historian—and he is planning to launch his new book on the life of George Washington at Mount Vernon on October 19, 2009! You and a guest may join Newt Gingrich as special guests for a lecture at Mount Vernon followed by a very special private dinner on the Mansion piazza that evening. Enjoy sure-to-be scintillating conversation with equally knowledgeable and opinioned guests about many aspects of Washington’s life and leadership, as well as whether a presidential run might remain in the former Speaker’s own future. The conversation is destined to become historic—in terms of both the 18th and 21st centuries. A selection of Mr. Gingrich’s books—all autographed—are also included in the package!
Value: Priceless
Courtesy of Newt Gingrich
Become a Character in a New Book about George Washington
Have you always wanted to be or know someone in one of the novels you read? Now is your chance to guarantee you or a special young person in your life a little slice of immortality. Renowned adventure author Ted Bell, whose novels have been enjoyed for years by adults, has a new series for young people. His next book, The Revolutionary Spy, features George Washington and should be published in the summer of 2009. Bell will name a character in this new book after the winning bidder or someone whom the winning bidder designates. The author is a former Vice-Chairman of the Board and World-Wide Creative Director of Young & Rubicam, one of the world’s largest advertising agencies. He also is the New York Times bestselling author of Hawke, Assassin, Pirate, Spy, and Tsar. It could be you timelessly inscribed in his next heroic adventure.
Value: $3,000
Courtesy of Page Lee and Ted Bell
Your Presidential Stay at the George Washington Inn
Stay at this Mount Vernon look-alike bed & breakfast inn between Sequim and Port Angeles, Washington (how appropriate!) for two nights in one of the deluxe suites during the months of September through May, subject to availability. The majestic snow-capped Olympic Mountains spread across the southern sky and evening lights of Victoria, British Columbia sparkle from a distant shore, only a ferry ride away. Proprietors Dan and Janet Abbott, who are Mount Vernon contributors and have visited here many times, created a one-of-a-kind inn that is an almost-exact replica of George Washington's mansion on the outside. They can regale you with stories of their efforts working with Mount Vernon staff on details as they built the inn.
Meanwhile, your deluxe suite offers a king bed, spa tub and shower, HDTV, parlor with kitchenette, private entrance, and veranda access. The room has an ocean view from the bedroom and mountain view from the parlor. Enjoy Mount Vernon western-style just three hours from Seattle. Included in the gift basket is a 12-ounce bag of George Washington Coffee, a mug and a sachet of Washington lavender.
Value: $535
Courtesy of Janet & Dan Abbott
George and Martha Could Sleep Here
Your daughter or granddaughter could be the next caretaker of Mount Vernon—a unique Mount Vernon doll house, that is. What girl would not love to play with this large (D27”xW77”xH58”), darling replica of George Washington’s beloved mansion? As she grows up, this gift is guaranteed to be among her most treasured childhood memories. Made by Tom Fletcher in 1985, this sturdy but dainty doll house is furnished completely with Early American-style furniture and features authentic, intricate detail. A marvelous way to both educate and entertain a special young lady in your life.
Value: $2,500
Courtesy of the Matheson Family
Hoop Dreams Come True: Tickets to 2010 "March Madness"
“March Madness” will be back before you know it! The countdown to the 2010 “March Madness” college basketball tournament has already begun—it is only 340 days away from Auction night! Two tickets are available for both the national semi-final games played Saturday, April 3, as well as the final game crowning the national champion on Monday evening, April 5.
The 2010 tournament will be held at the new state-of-the-art Lucas Oil Stadium, located in the heart of downtown Indianapolis. Lucas Oil Stadium is a beautiful new facility that opened in August 2008. It is home to the Indianapolis Colts NFL team. This will be the site of the 2012 Super Bowl XLVI.
Value: $1,000
Courtesy of Anonymous
Luncheon at the Hay-Adams for Six with the First Lady of Manners
The legendary Hay-Adams Hotel is located on the edge of historic Lafayette Square in Washington, DC. The 1920s hotel has become a local landmark, frequented by heads of state and dignitaries from all over the world. Enjoy a delicious lunch there with very special guest Letitia Baldrige. Remember the Kennedy years when “Tish” was the Chief of Staff for Jacqueline Kennedy in the White House? In addition to being a good friend of Mount Vernon, she is the author of two dozen books and is an etiquette icon for us all. What a wonderful opportunity to be with this lovely lady and your guests in Washington at this fabulous hotel.
Value: Priceless
Courtesy of Mary Davis Holt
See Golf’s Greatest at the 2009 USGA's U.S. Open Championship
Bethpage State Park's acclaimed Black Course will play host in June to its second U.S. Open. Called "The People's Country Club," this famed Long Island course has led determined golfers to sleep nearby in their cars just for a chance to play there. In 2002, Bethpage Black became the first municipally owned daily-fee course to host the national championship of the United States Golf Association (USGA).
Two tickets have been donated for this historic sporting event by the USGA, the non-profit organization that has served since 1894 as the national governing body for U.S. golf. The sport’s greatest competitors, including Tiger Woods, are expected in action when the U.S. Open at Bethpage Black is held the week of June 15-21, 2009.
Value: Priceless
Courtesy of the United States Golf Association
Dinner Cruise and Exclusive Private Evening Candlelight Tour of Mount Vernon’s Mansion
A magnificent opportunity to experience Mount Vernon in the most tranquil and delightful way possible! You and between 30-60 of your favorite guests are invited to cruise round trip from Washington, DC aboard Spirit Cruise Lines’ celebrated Capital Elite. With its stunning views and contemporary design, the Capital Elite is one of the most exciting venues in Washington. You will experience the thrill of cruising on your own private yacht from the DC waterfront!
Enjoy a reception-style dinner with open bar as you see the historic sites leaving the Nation’s Capital along the Potomac, ultimately arriving upon the awe-inspiring view of George Washington’s home. You’ll dock at the Mount Vernon wharf and be greeted by a shuttle bus that will take your group up to the General’s Mansion for what will be the most exclusive private evening tour of 2009. Visit all three floors, including the Cupola, plus the Mansion’s basement that was dramatically featured in the hit movie National Treasure 2: Book of Secrets. Your return trip along the moonlit river will include dessert, coffee and cordials. Date and time to be arranged on mutually agreeable terms.
Value: $9,000
Courtesy of Spirit Cruises LLC and the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association
Behind the Scenes at Chris Matthews’ “Hardball”
MSNBC news commentator and host of “Hardball,” Chris Matthews (incidentally, our emcee’s husband) will welcome you and three of your guests to view the production of his prime-time show while backstage. Chris Matthews hosts “Hardball with Chris Matthews,” Monday through Friday on MSNBC. Matthews is also the host of the syndicated weekly news program “The Chris Matthews Show.” In his own words on his website, Matthews says, “I have been interested in national politics since I was five years old. My main concerns are the role of the federal government in our daily lives and the role of America in the world. My main ambition as a journalist is to cut through the public relations and find the truth in what politicians are saying and doing.” Join Chris for a session in cutting through the public relations!
Value: Priceless
Courtesy of Chris Matthews
The Great Outdoors—in Style
Learn about innovative land management and tree and shrub conservation practices when you call Campbell & Ferrara for this unique service. Campbell & Ferrara Outdoor Living and Campbell & Ferrara Nurseries, Inc., is offering a 50% discount on woody trees and shrubs installed by Campbell & Ferrara for a savings of up to $2,000, plus one free landscape design consultation at your property worth approximately $500. Please note there is no discount on labor. The certificate expires on October 25, 2009.
Value: $2,500
Courtesy of Campbell & Ferrara Outdoor Living
In Perfect Harmony: Song Lyrics Autographed by Vince Gill and Amy Grant
One of Nashville’s most celebrated couples, Vince Gill and Amy Grant, has autographed a page of lyrics for the benefit of Mount Vernon’s An Auction, By George! Vince Gill has earned 20 Grammy Awards, more than any other country music artist. He has also been honored twice by the Country Music Association as its Entertainer of the Year, and five times as its Male Vocalist of the Year. In 2007, Gill was inducted into the coveted Country Music Hall of Fame. Singer-songwriter, author, and contemporary Christian music legend Amy Grant is among the top 20 selling American female solo singers of all time. She has won six Grammy Awards and created the first Christian music album ever to go platinum.
Value: Priceless
Courtesy of Vince Gill & Amy Grant and Kathy Harrell
Eastern Shore Getaway
Peaceful relaxation is only a bay away from Washington, DC. Save the weekend of June 5-7, 2009 to stay in a charming house on Morris Street in historic Oxford, Maryland. This cottage, built in 1920, has wrap-around porches with views of the Tred Avon River and its own small beach in the back. Ideal for a family or couples’ weekend getaway, there are four bedrooms and a children’s loft.
A charming, tree-lined and waterbound village with a population of less than 1,000, Oxford is one of the oldest towns in America and has a long history in maritime activities. Early in the day, you will still find local watermen at the town dock unloading the catch of the day. You can watch the sailboats arriving from all over the Chesapeake to dine at the various local restaurants the town has to offer. While other waterfront Eastern Shore towns have succumbed to condos and glitz, Oxford has retained its historic charm. The tourism and leisure activities are fueled by the desire for quiet charm, fresh air, summer breezes, and a haven from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Value: $800
Courtesy of Mr. and Mrs. Donald S. Beyer, Jr.
Discover Palm Beach
The legendary Palm Beach lifestyle awaits you and a friend during this four-day/three-night adventure in one of America’s most posh cities. Your headquarters will be The Breakers, a luxurious oceanfront resort situated on 140 acres of tropical paradise, including more than a half-mile of private beachfront with breathtaking ocean views. In addition to exquisite room accommodations, you can look forward to championship golf, a soothing spa center, tennis, water sports, and just relaxing by one of four swimming pools. Your stay will include a private tour of the Henry Morrison Flagler Museum (the home of a turn-of-the-century oil and railroad magnate) and the Norton Museum of Art, home to 19th and 20th century art from around the world. Your Palm Beach adventure will include dinner at the Everglades Club with the Mount Vernon Vice Regent for Florida and famous author Ted Bell, member of Mount Vernon’s Advisory Committee. Date and time of visit will be arranged according to mutual convenience.
Value: $2,500
Courtesy of Mrs. Stanley N. Gaines, Vice Regent for Florida, and Mr. Gaines, and The Breakers
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