In Fort Thomas and the Fort Thomas Independent school district, a new year not only means a new slate of studies but a fresh season of Highlands football. In one of the city’s most longstanding traditions, David Cecil Memorial Stadium comes alive on fall Friday evenings as the Bluebirds take the field – and with them a new year of the Fort Thomas Education Foundation’s stress-free Foundation Club.

When the new Highlands Middle School building was constructed in the early 2000’s, then FTEF members Ron Dill and Holly Collinsworth were touring the facility and noticed library had the perfect view for Highlands football games. From here, not only was one of the FTEF’s first grants born – a $25,000 donation for the library’s books – but the idea for a fundraising opportunity that worked hand in hand with Fort Thomas’ Friday night football lights.

These were humble beginnings for what would become an FTEF and football partnership that would last for years to come. “In those days, we all brought food like it was a potluck picnic,” says early member Frank Meyer. “Mary Rafferty was in charge and would bring food and drinks up in a Radio Flyer wagon.”

When the high school finished its first renovation, which included a new cafeteria with a covered outdoor terrace, the FTEF moved the Foundation Club and began providing a catered dinner from local restaurants during every game night.

For “senior birds” or those with mobility issues, the Foundation’s seating area provides easy elevator accessibility and a perfect spot to watch the game. For parents with younger bluebirds, a children’s area with coloring and games helps to hold shorter attention spans while families enjoy the action on the field. Reserved parking areas in the middle school garage also sweeten the pot for those looking for easy entrance into the busy evenings.

Memberships are limited and information on joining can be found at www.ftef.org. “Friday nights in Fort Thomas are unique. It’s literally where the whole community meets,” says FTEF president Amy Shaffer. “Becoming a member of the FTEF Foundation Club is a donation that helps us achieve our mission of enhancing educational excellence and it’s become the best value the Education Foundation offers.”