Mock Con PW Live and Silent Auction Book

so, what is MOCKCON ?

THE LEGACY OF MOCKCON

In 1908, William Jennings Bryan, a front-runner for the Democratic nominee, announced a visit to Lexington, inciting an idea among the politically-minded W&L students. They set up a replica of the democratic nominating convention, completed months of research and finally, on the day of Bryan’s speech, came together to predict Bryan as the Democratic Party’s nominee for President. A few months later, Bryan went on to win the nomination, beginning Mock Con’s legacy of success.

WE’VE WELCOMED 5 U.S. PRESIDENTS TO MOCKCON

1960: Harry Truman

Delivering the keynote speech at the 1960 Mock Convention, President Truman championed the transition from despair to hope. After his speech he praised Mock Con saying, “this is a real convention. I ought to know because I’ve been looking at them since 1912.”

1968: Richard Nixon

Headlining the 1968 Convention, Nixon encouraged political involvement and activism. Later that day, he accepted the students’ nomination for Presidential nominee for the Republican Party.

1972: Jimmy Carter

As Georgia’s Governor, Carter visited W&L for Mock Convention, and the following cycle, when accepting his nomination, invited students to join in “making our government as good as its people are.”

1984: Joe Biden

In his speech, then Delaware Senator Biden shared his experiences in being a young person in politics and his campaign for Senate.

1988: Bill Clinton

While still Governor of Arkansas, Former President Clinton was an upand-comer in the political scene when he visited W&L. During his speech, he endorsed Michael Dukakis in his presidential bid, and stunned students with his spontaneous saxophone performance at Zollman’s Pavillion.

Other notable speakers include Senator Barry Goldwater, Vice President Dick Cheney, Speaker Newt Gingrich, Vice President Alben Barkley, Governor Strom Thurmond, Senator John Warner, Ambassador Jon Huntsman, and Herman Cain.

SUPPORT OUR MISSION

Your contribution can make a massive impact to strengthen our three core competencies.

Present distinguished speakers to share their perspective and engage with our students

Host unique events to enhance student participation in civil discourse

Guarantee the Political Research Team has the means to access industry-leading election and metadata information to ensure an accurate prediction

Our team relies on the generous support of the W&L community to sustain a one-of-a-kind tradition.

Reach out to Financial Chair Brandon Konlian, konlianb24@mail.wlu.edu with any questions.

MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL EXPERIENCE WITH TROY AIKMAN

NIGHT FOOTBALL EXPERIENCE WITH TROY AIKMAN

MONDAY

Monday Night Lights with one of Football’s best

Go behind the scenes with ESPN Monday Night Football Host, Troy Aikman with this one-of-a-kind experience. You and three (3) other guests will have the opportunity to see the magic, with a tour of the broadcast booth and Field Access tickets to any Monday night football game of your choice during the regular NFL 2023 season.

Redeemable for a NFL Monday night football game during the 2023 season.

THE HEART OF KENTUCKY PACKAGE

Experience the best of Kentucky with this one of a kind experience:

Three couples will enjoy an unforgettable weekend of bourbon and racing in Lexington, Kentucky heart of the Bluegrass Region— home to fast horses, slow whiskey and beautiful women! Lodging for the weekend is provided by Kelli P’25 and Woodford Webb ’90, at their guest residence. Be rested and ready for a full day of horsin’ around. Prior to the Keeneland Races, enjoy an authentic Kentucky bourbon experience with a tasting and private tour at the exquisite Castle & Key Distillery, founded by W&L alumnus Will Arvin ’89. The historic grounds are not only beautiful, but they provide the perfect backdrop for enjoying Castle & Key’s array of fine spirits. The group will then experience the Keeneland races with an exclusive behind-the-scenes VIP tour and private outdoor box with access to the ultra-exclusive Keeneland Club (coat and ties required for the gentlemen), compliments of Shannon and Will Arvin. Post races you will have access to the exclusive Thoroughbred Club of America that adjoins the racetrack for end-of-the-day wagering. Although there is no guarantee of winning money, you will certainly be winning the day! But the fun does not end there. The following morning, you will enjoy a very special bespoke VIP tour of Runnymede Farm in Paris, Kentucky, compliments of Sarah and Brutus Clay P’24. This family-run thoroughbred nursery is the birthplace of four Kentucky Derby winners, including 2023 Kentucky Derby winner, Mage, and is sure to be the perfect finale to a weekend you will never forget!

Redeemable any day during the Keeneland Spring season, excluding Saturdays.

HIGH HAMPTON RESORT STAY HIGH HAMPTON RESORT STAY

Enjoy this century old North Carolina getaway

Three (3) couples will enjoy a two-night stay at the beautiful High Hampton Resort, located in Cashiers, North Carolina. Take in the scenery of the Smoky Mountains with two rounds of golf at High Hampton and the neighboring Wade Hampton golf clubs. The next day includes dinner at the scenic dining room at High Hampton and an opportunity to explore historic downtown Cashiers.

Redeemable any weekday during the 2024 season. Exceptions inlcude month of July and holidays.

ITALIAN VINEYARD EXPERIENCE WITH SASSAIA

Innovative Twist on Tradition- La Dolce Vita Sassaia

Experience the sweet life of the Piedmont region of Italy with Vineyard Owners and Winemakers, Enrico (‘84) and Ellen (P’23) de Alessandrini. This Italian experience provides for two (2) people to explore the Italian countryside including, lodging on Sassaia Villa property, local and vineyard meals, and winery tour and tastings.

Begin your mornings with a walking tour of the vineyards. Return to the villa for a swim in the pool. Enjoy lunch at many local restaurants or al fresco at the villa. Afternoons can vary from relaxing by the pool, playing golf, touring local towns or shopping at MacArthur Glenn in Serravalle.

Redeemable June 17- July 5 or July 24-31, 2024. Transportation not included.

DINNER WITH W&L PRESIDENT DUDLEY

DINNER WITH W&L PRESIDENT DUDLEY

Enjoy a catered dinner at W&L’s Lee House

You and 11 other guests are invited to a catered dinner with President Dudley and his wife, Dr. Tanna, at his home on W&L’s campus. The history of W&L’s campus permeates the Lee House, which served as the private residence for Robert E. Lee, his family, and his horse, Traveller, until his death in 1870 and has served as the University’s President’s house ever since.

Redeemable on Friday, Jan. 12; Monday, Jan. 29, or Friday, Feb. 2, 2024.

A HUNT AND STAY AT THE BURGE CLUB

Experience Georgia’s storied history with a traditional quail hunt at the Burge Club.

Explore centuries of Southern history with a hunt and stay at the historic Burge Club, located in Mansfield, Georgia, 45 minutes east of Atlanta. This historic property dates back to times before the Civil War and is recognized in the National Register of Historic Places. This package includes a one night stay in the Dove Cottage on Burge property, a 40 quail hunt with Burge guides and dogs, and first class dining at the Burge Club wine cellar.

Redeemable the first two weekends of February 2024

STONEGATE + FLY FISHING PACKAGE

STONEGATE + FLY FISHING PACKAGE

The beauty of the Shenandoah Valley awaits you.

Based out of Lexington, Virginia, Virginia River Guides’ skilled anglers will lead you through a day of fly fishing in the region’s finest fishing waters amidst the scenery of the Shenandoah Valley. After a long day of fishing, relax in the picturesque escape of the Blue Ridge mountains at Stonegate, located in the heart of Lexington, Virginia. For a one-night stay, experience gracious hospitality and savor the comforts of the bed and breakfast in a setting steeped in history.

Redeemable for a weekday trip and one night stay.

BOURBON’S FINEST BOURBON’S FINEST

The bottle that never goes out of style

This item needs no introduction. The Van Winkle family’s involvement in the bourbon industry began in the late 1800s with Julian P. Van Winkle, Sr. To this day, the Van Winkle family continues the tradition with their distillery in Franklin County, Kentucky. The 23yr. bottle of this collection is widely regarded as one of the finest and rarest bourbons around.

LEXINGTON VINEYARD TOUR LEXINGTON VINEYARD TOUR

Explore the beauty of Western Virginia with this day-trip

This experience will take you and thirteen (13) guests to the Monticello Vineyard tour, guided by the Georges’ Clarke Hyman. Enjoy the scenery of Pippin Hill Farm and Vineyard while tasting their Governor’s Cup Medal Winning wines. Indulge in the ‘Essence of Virginia’ whist taking in the expansive Veritas Winery.And do not forget to get a taste of Virgnia with Mount Ida Reserve’s classic Brewhouse.

Redeemable the first two weekends of February 2024

CLUB THUNDERBIRD: A MICHIGAN GETAWAY

CLUB THUNDERBIRD: A MICHIGAN GETAWAY

Connect with nature in the heart of the Au Sable River Valley

At the end of a half-mile stretch of towering pines lies Club Thunderbird, a 250-acre historic fishing property on the Holy Stretches of the Au Sable River. You and eleven (11) other guests can take in the breathtaking views while enjoying cocktails on the screened in porch, enjoy an activity-filled day of trout fishing, kayaking and tubing, and fall asleep to the sound of the wind through the pines and the tumbling river.

Available for 5 nights between May 1, 2024 and December 1, 2024 as available.

MOCKCON Silent Auction

Bidding closes on October 5th at 5 p.m.

To see full description of items and begin bidding, download the Circle C Auction app.

Heliotrope Brewday

Heliotrope Brewday

Immerse yourself in a behind the scenes brewing experience with Heliotrope owner and brewer Erik Jones (W&L ‘91).

Sunday Brunch with Globowl Cafe

Sunday Brunch with Globowl Cafe

A Sunday brunch in Lexington or Rockbridge county for you and 15 friends. Two hours service with a personalized menu.

Devil’s Backbone Private Brewery Tour

Devil’s Backbone Private Brewery Tour

Get a behind the scenes tour of one of W&L’s favorite spots. You and 9 others will be guided through the brewery and facilities, learning the brewing process and secrets from one of DB’s brewers.

Wine Baskets

Wine Baskets

Basket of wine from Old Lex Mercantile paired with four stemless Mock Con etched wine glasses.

W&L Bookstore Golf Package

W&L Bookstore Golf Package

Items from the W&L Bookstore including an assortment of club covers, towels, and tees along with a cap clip, putting cup, game set.

Quail Hollow Foursome

Quail Hollow Foursome

Take part in a lunch and game of golf with four others at Quail Hollow in Charlotte, NC.

Signed Nikki Haley Poster

Signed Nikki Haley Poster

“Nikki Haley For President” signed poster.

Thorn Hill Getaway

Thorn Hill Getaway

Enjoy a two-night stay at the historic Thorn Hill Inn in Lexington, VA, complete with a delicious home-cooked breakfast. Luxuriate in recently restored accomodations that feature commanding views of the surrounding mountains.

A Stay At The George’s + Dinner at Haywood’s

A Stay At The George’s + Dinner at Haywood’s

You and one other can enjoy a one-night stay at Lexington’s most popular hotel, The George’s, paired with a dinner at Haywood’s.

Mock Con Meets Main Street Gift Basket

Mock Con Meets Main Street Gift Basket

Support this years intiative, Mock Con Meets Main Street. The gift basket includes discounts and gifts from the small businesses of Lexington.

Vintage Mock Con Record Photos

Vintage Mock Con Record Photos

Former Vice President Alben W. Barkley’s final speech framed photo.

Bottle of 1984 Mock Con

Bottle of 1984 Mock Con

Jim Beam’s Whiskey

Jim Beam’s Whiskey

Matching framed set of 1980 & 1984 Mock Con Jim Bean Whiskey

Matching framed set of 1980 & 1984 Mock Con Jim Bean Whiskey

Download the Circle C Auction app to begin bidding!

It’s not too late! Email Libby Kerr to purchase tickets for the Live Auction event, at kerrl24@mail.wlu.edu