Facebook  X  Instagram  LinkedIn  YouTube

February 3, 2025

Life of Roger Flygare Honored with Ceremony at Veterans Memorial

The American flag was raised to half-staff during a brief ceremony at the Federal Way Veterans Memorial on Jan. 30 in honor of the life of Roger Flygare. Roger was a proud veteran of the Vietnam War and a past Commander of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

 

He was an integral member of our Veterans Advisory Group that created the Federal Way Veterans Memorial and a passionate advocate as President of the Federal Way Public Market initiative.

Drug Emphasis Operation Results in Eight Arrests by FWPD

The Federal Way Police Department (FWPD) Special Operations Unit and Special Investigations Unit conducted a drug emphasis operation in the City's downtown on Jan. 24. The operation resulted in eight arrests for knowingly using a controlled substance in a public place.


The operation also resulted in the seizure of more than 100 suspected fentanyl pills and several grams of suspected methamphetamine. In 2024, drug arrests were up 339% in Federal Way. Operations like these contribute to that positive trend as FWPD works to keep the community safe.

Mayor Ferrell and Chief Hwang Speak at Westridge HOA Meeting

Mayor Jim Ferrell and Federal Way Police Department Chief Andy Hwang spoke at the Westridge HOA Neighborhood Meeting at Silver Lake Elementary School on Jan. 27. They discussed safety and how the HOA can help address crime in its neighborhood.

 

Westridge HOA is planning to install four-to-five Flock Safety cameras this year along its southern border to contribute to reducing crime in the area.

 

Contact us anytime if you’d like to invite Mayor Ferrell and Chief Hwang to your homeowners association community meeting.

Mayor Ferrell Attends Monthly Good Eggs Breakfast

Mayor Jim Ferrell attended King County Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer’s Good Eggs Breakfast in Auburn on Jan. 29. The monthly event brings regional elected, business, and community leaders together for conversation and learning.


The Good Eggs Breakfast featured John Wolfe, Chief Executive Officer of The Northwest Seaport Alliance. His organization is a collaboration between the Ports of Seattle and Tacoma that helps these two major ports better compete on a global scale.


Wolfe talked about the unique partnership between the ports, shipping and economic issues, opportunities for growth in the region, and the challenges they face daily.

PAEC Hosts Non-Profit Workshop

The Performing Arts and Event Center hosted a Non-Profit Workshop event with 4Culture, the cultural funding agency for King County, on Jan. 23. This event was designed for non-profits in the area to learn about the grant opportunities and resources available through 4Culture.


The event included a presentation on upcoming grants, programs, and how 4Culture’s funding supports cultural endeavors in the region along with a chance to network and ask questions.

Mayor Ferrell Attends Marine View Breakfast

Mayor Jim Ferrell attended the Marine View Presbyterian Church Men's Group on Feb. 1 where King County Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer was the presenter. He gave an extensive update on the state of King County and its services and answered questions from community members.


This dedicated group has many attendees that live in Federal Way. Thank you to Eugene Montgomery, Bill Tidwell and Doug DeVries for hosting this monthly event.

Featured Upcoming Event

State of the City Address on Feb. 13 at PAEC

Mayor Jim Ferrell's annual State of the City Address will be held at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 13, at the Performing Arts & Event Center. The event is free and open to the public.


Hear an inspiring address from Mayor Ferrell as we celebrate our community’s accomplishments and share an exciting vision for the future.


This special evening is your chance to be part of the conversation shaping Federal Way’s journey forward. Let’s come together to honor our city and explore what’s ahead.

Inclement Weather Driving Tips from FWPD

Driving in inclement weather, such as rain or ice, requires extra caution and attention to ensure safety on the road. Roads can become slippery, reducing tire traction and increasing the risk of skidding.


Here are some tips to help stay safe when driving in inclement weather:


Slow Down and Avoid Sharp Turns: Driving with caution will help you keep control of your vehicle in wet and icy conditions. In icy conditions, the risks are even greater, as ice can be difficult to detect and often forms in patches on the road. Drivers on icy roads should further reduce speed to help ensure vehicles don’t lose traction unexpectedly.


Increase Stopping Distances: Wet and icy roads can significantly reduce braking effectiveness. Maintaining a greater distance from other vehicles is vital, as stopping distances are much longer on ice.


Turn Headlights On: Using headlights is crucial for visibility, not just to see but also to be seen by other drivers, especially in heavy rain or fog.


Don’t Panic: If your vehicle begins to skid, it is important to remain calm and avoid slamming on the brakes. Instead, gently steer into the skid and gradually reduce speed until control is regained. In extremely icy conditions, it may be best to avoid driving altogether if possible.


Keep Your Vehicle Properly Maintained: Windshield wipers should be in good working condition to provide clear visibility, and tires should have adequate tread depth to maintain grip on wet or icy surfaces. Keep your windshield defroster functioning to help prevent fogging, which can impair visibility during rainy or icy weather.


Check the Forecast: Checking weather forecasts and road conditions before traveling can help drivers plan their trips and avoid driving in hazardous conditions when possible.


Stay Focused: Staying focused and avoiding distractions is critical in adverse weather conditions. Rain and ice require a heightened level of attention, as drivers must be prepared for sudden changes in road conditions, visibility, and traffic. Avoid using mobile phones or engaging in any other activities that may divert attention from the road.


By adopting safe driving habits, including reducing speed, maintaining adequate distance, and staying alert, drivers can significantly reduce the risks associated with driving in inclement weather.

Coffee and Conversation with Federal Way City Council and School Board

Join the Federal Way City Council and Federal Way Public Schools (FWPS) School Board on Saturday, March 22, for Coffee and Conversation. The event will be held at Ebony & Ivory Coffee from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.


All members of the public are welcome to come and share a cup of coffee and conversation in this open house-style meeting.


Doors open at 10 a.m. for you to bring your questions, concerns, and thoughts for the Council and School Board to hear.


We will be collecting donations of personal hygiene items to restock the closet items at FWPS schools.

Feb. 4 City Council Meeting

What’s Next: The Federal Way City Council meets Tuesday, Feb. 4, 2025, for a regular meeting at 6:30 p.m. in Council Chambers.


How to Attend: Attend in person at Federal Way City Hall, 33325 8th Ave. S. or watch live on Zoom, the city's YouTube channel, or FW Channel 21.

Upcoming Events and Opportunities

Family Prom at FWCC on March 1

Get ready for a magical evening at the Family Prom on Saturday, March 1, at the Federal Way Community Center. This special event is designed for children and their beloved adult heroes to share a night full of fun and memories.


Dance the night away, enjoy light refreshments, and visit our concessions for extra fun!


Capture the moment with professional event portraits and join in on the games and activities throughout the evening. Semi-formal and/or superhero attire is encouraged.

Buy Tickets Now!

SAVE THE DATE: Senior Health and Resource Fair on May 15

The Senior Advisory Commission is hosting a free Senior Health and Resource Fair on Thursday, May 15, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Performing Arts and Event Center.


The event will feature more than 50 vendors from local organizations with special ties to the senior community. All ages – especially seniors – are welcome. Watch the video recap of last year's event for more information.

Food Preservation Workshop Feb. 19

Join the City of Federal Way for a FREE Food Preservation Workshop on Wednesday, Feb. 19, at the Federal Way Community Center at 5 p.m.


Learn about ways to reduce food waste, then prepare your own take-home container of Kimchi. All materials provided, no experience necessary. Space is limited, reserve your spot now!

 

Email recycle@federalwaywa.gov with questions.

Reserve Your Spot

Drive-Thru Recycling Event Feb. 22

Join us for our free Drive-Thru Styrofoam, Plastic Bag, Wraps, and Films Recycling and Document Shredding event at Poverty Bay Café (1108 S. 322nd Place) from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 22.


Recycling

  • No foam insulation, hot tub covers, urethane foam cushions, instapak foam, or dirty or wet #6 styrofoam.
  • No hard plastic materials will be accepted.


Document Shredding

  • Limit five file boxes or paper bags per event.
  • No pre-shredded paper.
  • Arrive with documents in the back of your vehicle. Stay in the vehicle while they are unloaded.
View Event Details

Cirque Kalabanté at the PAEC on Feb. 28

Afrique en Cirque is a show by Yamoussa Bangoura, inspired by daily life in Guinea. This performance shares the beauty, youth, and artistry of African culture brought to you by ShowCase Magazine.


A colorful show beyond its scenery, costumes, and staging, it makes any theatre vibrate with energy and represents the strength, agility, and life’s joys of young Africans. 


See Cirque Kalabanté at the Performing Arts and Event Center on Feb. 28 at 8 p.m.

Buy Tickets Now

R.E.S.P.E.C.T. at the PAEC on March 5

R.E.S.P.E.C.T is an electrifying tribute celebrating the music of the legendary Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin.


This concert experience takes audiences on a journey of love, tragedy, courage, and triumph. Starring a live band and supreme vocalists, come experience a night of music by one of the greatest artists of all time.


See R.E.S.P.E.C.T. at the Performing Arts and Event Center on March 5 at 7 p.m.

Buy Tickets Now

PAEC Upcoming Events

The Federal Way Performing Arts & Event Center (PAEC) puts on a wide variety of events year round. Upcoming events include:


  • Feb. 8: Crash Test Dummies
  • Feb. 16: Matt Dusk Sings Tony Bennett
  • Feb. 23: Sleeping Beauty
  • Feb. 28: Afrique en Cirque by Cirque Kalabanté sponsored by ShowCase Magazine
  • March 1: The Magical Music of Harry Potter


Visit the PAEC event calendar page for a full list of upcoming events.

PAEC Event Calendar

Federal Way Symphony Season

Established in 1983, the Federal Way Symphony has provided our community with high-quality, professional music for more than 40 years.


Performances are held at the Performing Arts & Event Center. The Federal Way Symphony is currently inviting those interested to buy a ticket to attend performances for their current season, titled "Cosmic Melodies."


Visit the Federal Way Symphony website to view their full calendar listing and to purchase tickets.

Federal Way Symphony

Miss Holmes at Centerstage Theatre

Centerstage Theatre is putting on "Miss Holmes" Jan. 31 through Feb. 23 at the Knutzen Family Theater located at 3200 SW Dash Point Rd.


This twisty, intriguing mystery takes the most iconic detective pairing in literary history and delivers everything you want in a mystery while turning one thing on its head: What if Sherlock and Dr. Watson were women?


General Admission Tickets are $39 in advance (online or over the phone) and $41 at the door. Student, Military, and Senior Ticket discounts are available. More details available online or by phone at 253-661-1444. 

Buy Tickets Now