🏍️ The Ugly Mug's Inaugural Poker Run Raises Scholarship Funds for Van Buren High School Students

Spencer’s The Ugly Mug Bar & Grill is launching its first-ever charity poker run this Saturday, November 7, uniting local businesses across the Upper Cumberland to support trade scholarships for high school students. The multi-stop ride connects communities from Pikeville to Sparta and back, with every dollar raised going directly to help students pursue vocational training.

🎯 A Scholarship Program with Real Impact

The Ugly Mug’s scholarship initiative has already made a tangible difference. Last year, the restaurant awarded a $5,000 scholarship to a Van Buren High School student who completed Heavy Equipment Operators training certification through Chattanooga State. This year, organizers are aiming even higher-hoping to award two scholarships and reach close to the $5,000 mark again. The restaurant is matching the first $2,500 in registration and donation proceeds, doubling the immediate impact of early support. 🎓

🛣️ Five Stops, One Mission

The poker run route takes riders through five community gathering spots, each a chance to draw cards and support the cause. The journey begins at Willy T's Off Main in Pikeville, then moves through Creekside Brewing Co. in Crossville, Three Boobs Brewing Co. in Sparta, and 1938 Social, also in Sparta. The final stop-and the evening’s celebration-returns to The Ugly Mug Bar and Grill in Spencer. 🍺

📍 How to Participate

Registration opens at 10:30 a.m. at The Ugly Mug Bar and Grill, located at 70 I B Maynard Street in Spencer. Riders kick off at 11:30 a.m. Entry is $20 per bike or $10 per rider. Those who can’t join the full run are welcome to stop by The Ugly Mug during the day or stay for the evening’s live music and door prizes. ✨

🎵 Live Music and Community Celebration

The poker run concludes with live blues from Few Miles On at The Ugly Mug, turning the fundraiser into an evening of community gathering. Door prizes add to the celebration, and organizers emphasize that every dollar-whether from registration, donations, or simply stopping in to support the cause-counts toward helping local students access vocational training and career pathways. 🎶

For riders and supporters across the Dunlap area and beyond, the event represents more than a fun Saturday outing: it’s a direct investment in the next generation of skilled tradespeople in the region. Whether you ride the full route or simply show up to support, you’re helping shape educational opportunity in Van Buren County.