March 16, 2026

Ten Most Wanted Fugitive Samuel Ramirez Jr. Arrested in Mexico

Samuel Ramirez Jr., 33, of Federal Way, was arrested without incident on March 10 in Culiacán, Mexico, just one hour and 13 minutes after being added to the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted list last week.

He is wanted for the May 21, 2023, murders of two women at Stars Bar and Grill in Federal Way, which also left a third person injured.

𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐌𝐚𝐲𝐨𝐫 𝐉𝐢𝐦 𝐅𝐞𝐫𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐥:

“On behalf of the City of Federal Way, we are grateful for the tireless work and collaboration of our law enforcement partners, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation, in locating and apprehending the suspect. Their dedication and coordination were vital in bringing this individual into custody. Our community stands united in seeking justice for the victims and their families. Federal Way will continue to support the pursuit of accountability and remain committed to the safety and well-being of everyone who calls our city home.”

𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐞𝐟 𝐀𝐧𝐝𝐲 𝐇𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐠:

“We are deeply grateful for the FBI’s partnership and the swift coordination among local, federal, and international law enforcement that led to Samuel Ramirez Jr.’s capture so quickly. This arrest is an important step toward justice for the victims, Jessyca Hohn and Katie Duhnke, and toward bringing some measure of closure to their families and our community. We remain committed to ensuring that the suspect is held fully accountable.”

Ramirez will face charges in the next two weeks in King County Superior Court.

Fiber Companies Arrive in Federal Way

Two Fiber companies have hosted events in Federal Way this month. Ripple Fiber hosted a groundbreaking at Steel Lake Park on March 3 and Ziply Fiber hosted a ribbon cutting in front of City Hall last Friday.

These investments in additional fiber infrastructure are a positive step for the Federal Way community. Faster, more reliable internet expands opportunities for remote work, online education, and digital services that many households rely on every day. It also helps local businesses stay competitive in an increasingly connected economy.

"We are excited about the possibilities of fiber internet in Federal Way," said Mayor Jim Ferrell. "Expanding fiber infrastructure will make us a more connected city and ensure every member of our community can fully participate in today’s digital world."

Provide Your Feedback on Opportunity Zones in Federal Way

We are exploring the future of Opportunity Zones in Federal Way, and we want to hear from you!

Opportunity Zones are federally designated areas where new investment is encouraged through tax incentives, with the goal of supporting economic development, creating jobs, expanding housing options, and strengthening community-serving spaces.

Federal Way currently has one Opportunity Zone located in the downtown area with the possibility of a re-designation from the State of Washington.

City of Federal Way Hosting Town Hall Meeting on April 30

The City of Federal Way is hosting a Town Hall Meeting on Thursday, April 30, at 6 p.m. at Olympic View K-8.

Join Mayor Jim Ferrell, City Councilmembers, and City staff for updates and conversation about the direction of our city.

Come share your thoughts, ask questions, and connect with the people working to serve our community.

All residents are welcome to attend and be part of the conversation.

Featured Upcoming Event

Call for Artists – Arts Explosion 2026

Deadline is March 19

Arts Explosion is now accepting artist submissions for our annual juried art festival at the Federal Way Performing Arts & Event Center.

Adult and youth artists from across the region are invited to apply.

Categories include 2D art, photography, 3D art, artisan work, miniatures, and a dedicated youth category for ages 15-18. Artists may submit work in more than one category.

Selected artwork will be displayed during the three-day public festival and offered for purchase. Cash prizes will be awarded, and all artwork must be delivered in person.

Applications are submitted online.

Entry deadlines and full details are available at the application link.

Public Safety Tax on March 24 City

Council Agenda

The Federal Way City Council is scheduled to consider a proposed public safety tax during its March 24 meeting. If approved, the 0.1% sales tax would fund ongoing operations within the city’s police department, court system, and public defense services.

Kickin' It Federal Way at the PAEC

Exciting progress is taking shape next to the Performing Arts & Event Center as construction gets underway on the new civic plaza space. This vibrant outdoor area will soon become a welcoming gathering place for the community and a key part of the Kickin’ It Federal Way festival grounds.

The new civic plaza lawn will provide an open, inviting space for visitors to relax, connect, and enjoy the festivities during Kickin’ It Federal Way, a three-day celebration of soccer, culture, and community taking place June 19-21 at the PAEC.

As the plaza comes to life, it will help create an energetic festival atmosphere where residents and visitors can come together to celebrate the sport that unites people around the world.

Kickin’ It Federal Way will feature FIFA World Cup 26™ watch parties, live performances on the outdoor stage, food truck alley, and a wide range of family-friendly activities, turning the PAEC and the surrounding property into a hub of entertainment throughout the weekend.

Drive Thru Recycling Event on April 16

Join us for our free Drive-Thru Recycling and Document Shredding event at Red Canoe Credit Union (33616 Pacific Highway Sout) from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Thursday, April 16.

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.

Community Clothing Swap April 11

Join us for a free community clothing swap on Saturday, April 11, at the South King Tool Library from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Drop off your adult clothing, accessories, and shoes and take home amazing and new-to-you items while helping reduce textile waste.

Items should be clean, usable, and seasonably appropriate (for spring/summer). Items on hangers appreciated. Donations are not required to shop, and all items not claimed will go to local non-profits for reuse and recycling.

March 24 City Council Meeting

What’s Next: The Federal Way City Council meets Tuesday, March 24, 2026, for a special 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

March of Diapers Drive March 28 at Twin Lakes Fred Meyer

Join us and non-profit Do the Right Thing at the Twin Lakes Fred Meyer (33702 21st Ave. S.W.) on Saturday, March 28, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Mayor Jim Ferrell and City Councilmembers are teaming up with volunteers to collect donations of preemie to size six diapers, pull-ups, baby wipes, and adult diapers for the benefit of local organizations.

For more information, call Do the Right Thing at 253-457-5578 or visit its website.

Repair Café Event on March 28

Join us for our free Repair Café on Saturday, March 28, at the South King Tool Library (1700 S. 340th St.) from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Bring your damaged furniture, broken small household items, dull knives, and torn clothing. Our fixers will do their best to make your items usable again.

Plan to stay during the repair, bring any manual/parts that may help, and be aware there is a limit of only three items for sharpening.

Parks Appreciation Day on April 18

Join us for the 20th Annual Parks Appreciation Day on Saturday, April 18, from 9 a.m. to noon! This community volunteer event is dedicated to keeping Federal Way’s parks beautiful. Grab your gloves and help with planting, weeding, and cleanup projects to make a lasting impact in our green spaces.

Rain or shine, we’ll be out there making a difference. Please wear sturdy shoes and clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. Some tools will be available, but extra shovels, gloves, clippers, and wheelbarrows are appreciated.

Volunteer sites:

• Brooklake Blueberry Farm (726 S. 356th St.)
• Steel Lake Annex (2645 S. 312th St.)
• Celebration Park (1095 S. 324th St.)

Pre-register online if you plan to attend!

I'm Hooked Kids Fishing Event on May 2

Join us for the 9th Annual Great Outdoor Experience hosted in partnership with I'm Hooked Inc. at Steel Lake Park! Spend a fun day outdoors learning about fishing, enjoying hands-on activities, and connecting with the community.

Date: Saturday, May 2

Time: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Location: Steel Lake Park

This free, family-friendly event is perfect for youth and families who want to learn the basics of fishing while enjoying a day by the lake. Community mentors will guide participants through angler education and help make it a memorable outdoor experience.

Parks & Recreation Summer Program

Guide Now Available

The Federal Way Parks & Recreation Summer 2026 Catalog is here!

Make your summer plans now with exciting programs, events, and activities for all ages.

Printed copies are available in the Federal Way Community Center front lobby and at City Hall as you enter the building!

Registration is open March 10!

Call For Youth Artists: Rep Your Flag at Kickin' It Federal Way

To celebrate the 2026 FIFA World Cup™, the Kickin’ It Federal Way Festival is inviting all K-12 students to participate in a creative flag art contest.

Students can select a World Cup-participating country, submit an original artistic

interpretation of that country’s flag as a digital design, and indicate their country choice.

Selected students will bring their designs to life on a large 3 x 5 canvas flag, which will be publicly displayed at the Performing Arts and Event Center.

Municipal Court Student Art Contest

The City of Federal Way Arts Commission is

sponsoring an art contest as requested by Federal

Way Municipal Court Judge Danielle Havens

and Judge Brad Bales.

The contest is open to all students in first through eighth grade living within the boundaries of Federal Way.

Entries selected will be displayed in Federal Way Municipal Court. The hope is to give the municipal court a friendlier look for family members who are visiting the court rooms.

Entries must be received by May 1, and winners will be notified by May 8.

Vendors Wanted: Community Festival

The Federal Way Diversity Commission is looking for vendors and partners to join our upcoming Community Festival.

We’re seeking local Federal Way live performers, food vendors, vendor booths, nonprofit organizations, and event sponsors to

help us create a vibrant, welcoming experience for the whole community.

Whether you want to showcase your talent, share

delicious eats, promote your cause, or highlight your business, we’d love to have you be part of the celebration.

Let’s celebrate the community of Federal Way!

Kickin' It Federal Way June 19-21

Join us June 19-21 for Kickin' It Federal Way, a three-day festival celebrating soccer, culture, and community at the Performing Arts & Event Center.

The festival will feature FIFA World Cup 26™ watch parties, live performances on the outdoor stage, food truck alley, and a wide range of family-friendly activities, turning the PAEC and the surrounding property into a hub of entertainment throughout the weekend.

Senior Commission Connection on March 25

Mark your calendars!

The Senior Advisory Commission is so grateful to the Marine Hills Garden Club for joining us at our upcoming Senior Commission Connection at the Federal Way Community Center!

Date: Wednesday, March 25

Time: 11:30am

Location: Federal Way Community Center

876 S 333rd St, Federal Way

This is a free event and a light lunch will be served.

City Accepting Applications for Boards and Commissions

The City of Federal Way is accepting applications for those interested in serving on city boards and commissions.

Immediate Openings:

• Parks & Recreation Commission
• Historic Landmark Commission
• Independent Salary Commission

Upcoming Expiring Positions:

• Youth Commission
• Senior Advisory Commission
• Planning Commission

Questions? Email CK@FederalWayWA.gov or call 253-835-2540.

Senior Health & Resource Fair on May 12

The Senior Advisory Commission is hosting a free Senior Health and Resource Fair on Tuesday, May 12, 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.

This Senior Resource Fair is intended to create a welcoming space where attendees can explore available services at their own pace. 

Further information will be provided as planning continues, ensuring the event remains organized and accessible.

PAEC Upcoming Events

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

• March 18: Liverpool Legends "Beatle Experience!"
• March 24: PAEC Presents: Rhythm of the Dance
• April 17: Habib Qaderi Live - Afghanistan Music Night
• April 18: 60s Flashback Show
• April 28: Swan Lake by International Ballet Srars

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

PAEC Presents: Rhythm of the Dance on March 24

Join us for PAEC Presents: Rhythm of the Dance on Tuesday, March 24, at 7 p.m. at the Performing Arts & Event Center.

Featuring a cast of World and Irish champion dancers, this exhilarating two-hour show takes audiences on a powerful journey through Ireland’s rich cultural history — from ancient myth and legend to the modern pulse of contemporary Irish life.

Brought to you as part of the PAEC Presents 2025-2026 season, with support from Fastsigns Federal Way and Celtic Crossroads NW.

Friends of Federal Way Libraries Book Sale on May 9

The Federal Way Library is hosting a Friends of Federal Way Libraries Book Sale on May 9. Browse gently used books, DVDs, CDs, and more to help support library programming.

General Sale:

• Saturday, May 9, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

Pre-Sale for Members Only:

• Saturday, May 9, 10:15 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Memberships are available at the door for $5. Cash or checks only. Please bring your own bags.