South Warren Ruritan Club Hosts Spaghetti Fundraiser to Support Local Students

The South Warren Ruritan Club is stirring the sauce once again for a good cause. On Saturday, April 5, the group will host its annual spaghetti dinner fundraiser from 4 to 7 p.m. at Skyline High School’s cafeteria. The event is more than just a hearty meal—it’s a community tradition that has helped dozens of local students chase their college dreams.

Organizers Chuck Brome and Rick Logan stopped by the Royal Examiner studio to share details about the much-loved event. “It feels like we were just here,” Brome joked. “But it’s been a whole year.”

Each year, the spaghetti dinner draws hundreds of local residents eager to support the cause and leave full. This year, for a suggested donation of $10, guests can enjoy all-you-can-eat spaghetti with meat and meatless sauces, green beans, bread, beverages, and dessert. Kids are welcome, and there is no charge for the little ones.

The best part? All proceeds go toward college scholarships for local high school seniors.

“Last year, thanks to support from local businesses and the dinner itself, we were able to give out three $2,000 scholarships,” Logan said. “We’re a small group, so that’s something we’re really proud of.”

These scholarships honor the memory of three longtime Ruritan members: Edgar Baldwin, Berkeley Pomeroy, and Lloyd Baltimore. Two awards are designated for students from each of the county’s two high schools—Skyline and Warren County High—with a third that can go to either. Over the years, the club has awarded more than $65,000 to about 70 to 80 students.

“It started with one award of maybe $300 back in 1982, which was real money back then,” Brome recalled. “Now we’re trying to do even more.”

Scholarship selection is handled personally by the club rather than through school officials. Brome explained that the club looks for students who show initiative, contribute to their communities, and have a strong work ethic—not just straight-A report cards.

“We want well-rounded students,” he said. “Some work part-time, volunteer, or go to the Blue Ridge Technical Center. They may not get a dozen other scholarships, but they deserve a shot.”

This year’s dinner will also include a silent auction and a live cake auction, both crowd favorites. Local bakers like Linda Glavis, Doris Miller, and Jennifer Sims—who are known in the community for their desserts and their public service—will offer cakes that often spark friendly bidding wars.

Eight local businesses have donated gift cards and items for the silent auction so far, and more are expected before the event.

While eating, you can enjoy live music by the local band Passage Creek Rising. The group’s gospel, country, rock, and bluegrass mix provides the perfect backdrop for the event’s festive atmosphere.

“We haven’t had dancing yet,” Logan said with a laugh. “But if the spirit moves you, we’ll make space.”

The South Warren Ruritan Club is also using the dinner as a way to recruit new members and volunteers. Room said the club welcomes anyone who wants to help.

“This dinner is just one example of the community spirit that’s alive in Warren County and Front Royal,” he said.

The April 5 event is open to everyone. No tickets are required, just a generous heart—and a good appetite. Whether you come for the food, the music, the auctions, or the cause, your presence helps support local students as they prepare for their next big steps.