The 2018 Spirit of Mount Vernon, an annual gala and fundraiser for educational programs and preservation of Mount Vernon, was held Oct. 9, attracting hundreds of supporters to the estate. The evening began with a sunset reception on the porch of the estate, spilling onto the East Lawn and overlooking the Potomac River. The reception was followed by a patriotic celebration, with a few words from supporters including "George Washington" himself. Afterward, the crowd enjoyed viewing fireworks over the Potomac River.
Guests dined on Autumn Harvest Salad, Charcoal-grilled Beef Fillet with Red Beet Risotto and Fallen Chocolate Souffle Cake and Ice Cream. Afterward, thousands of dollars were raised at a live auction, which enjoyed brisk bids on everything from an Inn at Little Washington getaway to a case of Washington's four-year aged rye whiskey.
Photo courtesy of Mount Vernon
Spirit of Mount Vernon
Event Co-Hosts Susan Neely, President and CEO American Council of Life Insurers and Tom Kuhn, President Edison Electric Institute
Event Co-Hosts Susan Neely, President and CEO American Council of Life Insurers and Tom Kuhn, President Edison Electric Institute at the live auction.
Charlie Merinoff, co-chairman of Breakthru Beverage, bids on an item during the live auction.
Photo courtesy of Mount Vernon
Susan and George Allen
Susan and former Governor and U.S. Senator George Allen at the dinner and live auction.
Photo courtesy of Mount Vernon
Spirit of Mount Vernon gala
Patron Sponsor Martin McGuinness with Unum and Mariah McGuiness, along with guests Jeff and Amiya Veatch and Dave and Kara Battaglini
Patron Sponsor Martin McGuinness with Unum and Mariah McGuiness, along with guests Jeff and Amiya Veatch and Dave and Kara Battaglini.
Photo courtesy of Mount Vernon
George Washington
George Washington addresses guests at the Spirit of Mount Vernon gala.
"George Washington" addresses the crowd just before the fireworks celebration.
Image courtesy of Mount Vernon
Fireworks over the Potomac
Guests at the Spirit of Washington gala and fundraiser gather to watch fireworks over the Potomac River.
Guests enjoy fireworks over the Potomac, from the East Lawn of Mount Vernon.
Photo courtesy of Mount Vernon
Spirit of Washington gala and fundraiser
Shannon McGahn incoming Senior Vice President for Government Relations, National Association of Home Builders
Shannon McGahn, incoming Senior Vice President for Government Relations, National Association of Home Builders, at Spirit of Mount Vernon gala and fundraiser.
Photo courtesy of Mount Vernon
2018 Spirit of Mount Vernon
Pamela Braden with Gryphon Technologies at the Distilled Spirits Council’s whiskey tasting table
Pamela Braden with Gryphon Technologies at the Distilled Spirits Council’s whiskey tasting table.
