FFE garage sale starts today

FINDLAY — School may be out, but this week, Findlay High School has come alive with preparations for the annual Findlay First Edition garage sale. The sale is one of the largest fundraisers of the year for Findlay First Edition Show Choir. Proceeds from the sale help support the FFE season by covering expenses like costumes, choreography, music, travel and competition fees. On Tuesday morning, parent and student volunteers were finishing sorting donations before an early bird sale that would take place that evening. Items for sale included clothing for all ages, furniture, housewares, toys, books, home décor, holiday items, records, a few musical instruments, and several novelty items, including a life-size cardboard figure of the late Queen Elizabeth II and a Chia Pet resembling painter Bob Ross. FFE President Emmie Freeman, who will be a senior at Findlay High School this fall, said the effort has involved a team of around 20 to 30 parents, along with FFE students. "Nothing would be possible without our parents and the support they give us," she said. She acknowledged that Findlay High School parents, in general, tend to go above and beyond. But while parents of students on an athletic team may do a lot of volunteering during a particular season, FFE runs all year long and the parents remain dedicated, she said. Freeman has been a part of FFE since her sophomore year. She said it has given her a chance to form close friendships and to learn a lot, including honing her leadership skills. Last year's garage sale raised more than $20,000, she said. Freeman noted that one way the sale is particularly helpful is with travel costs, as there are 85 students in FFE. She added that the sale features "tons of really, really nice things," and should have something for everyone. "Everything's very gently used," Freeman said. "Some stuff's brand new with tags." Items have been donated by community members. "It's really nice to see how the community rallies behind and supports us," Freeman said. "We are so blessed in this community," added David Coolidge, FFE director. Shoppers can visit the sale from 8 a.m.-8 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday and from 8 a.m.-noon Friday at Findlay High School.