Nov. 24, 2025

Local Leaders Recognized at Nov. 18 City Council Meeting

At last week’s City Council meeting, Federal Way paused to recognize three individuals whose longtime service has helped shape and strengthen our community.

Mayor Jim Ferrell began the evening by presenting Judge Dave Larson with a Key to the City, honoring his more than 17 years of dedicated service on the Federal Way Municipal Court. Judge Larson’s leadership and commitment to justice have left a meaningful and enduring impact on the city.

The Council also celebrated Lawson Bronson, who has devoted an extraordinary 20 years to the Federal Way Planning Commission. Serving many of those years as chair, Bronson played a key role in guiding the city’s growth, development, and long-term vision.

The meeting also marked the final Council session for Councilmember Paul McDaniel. Over the past two years, McDaniel has served Federal Way with thoughtfulness, diligence, and a deep commitment to the community.

The City extends a heartfelt thank you to Judge Larson, Lawson Bronson, and Councilmember McDaniel for their exceptional service and lasting contributions to Federal Way.

Mayor Ferrell Delivers Donations to Local Organizations

Last week, the City of Federal Way underscored its commitment to supporting residents facing food insecurity during the holiday season. Mayor Jim Ferrell and Council President Linda Kochmar visited both the Multi-Service Center (MSC) Food Bank and the Federal Way Senior Center (FWSC) to present each organization with a $20,000 contribution from the City.

These funds come at a critical moment. With recent federal funding cuts and an increasing need in the community, local food programs are working harder than ever to ensure seniors, families, and individuals have reliable access to nutritious meals. The City’s support helps strengthen this safety net for Federal Way’s most vulnerable neighbors.

The City extends its appreciation to these organizations and the many staff and volunteers who continue to provide essential support, especially during the holiday season.

Tree Lighting at Town Square Park on Dec. 6

Join us for a FREE holiday celebration at Town Square Park on Saturday, Dec. 6, at 4 p.m.

Everyone is welcome to enjoy Santa’s big arrival, live music, free cocoa and cookies, and the tree lighting with Mayor Jim Ferrell.

Don’t miss out on this fun evening!

Event Details

Location: Town Square Park

Date: Saturday, Dec. 6

Time: 4 p.m.

FWPD Tips Off Against Thomas Jefferson Students in Charity Basketball Game

On Nov. 14, Federal Way came together for the first-ever COPS vs. BALLERS Charity Basketball Game and Community Raffle. The event featured Federal Way Police Department (FWPD) officers, Thomas Jefferson High School students, families, and supporters, and local partners for a night full of excitement, teamwork, and school pride. 

The Ballers earned the win, 77-65, but the real highlight was the community coming together. We want to thank local partners Build 2 Lead and the Blue Hero Project, who joined in to support the event as well.

Local businesses and community members contributed raffle prizes and helped make the evening truly special. Thanks to generous sponsors like Red Robin, Cinemark, Mama Stortini’s, Pizza Pizzazz, Courtyard Marriott, Big 5, Brickyard Pub, Buffalo Wild Wings, La Quinta, All Right Auto Sales, Jet Chevrolet, the Federal Way Police Department Guild, Dick's Drive-In, We Love Our City, Legendary Doughnuts, the Wells Family, the Blythe Family, Barnes & Noble, Chick-fil-A, and Trader Joe’s, guests enjoyed a wide variety of prizes and opportunities to get involved.

A standout moment of the night was Dicks Drive-In handing out burgers to fans in the stands, a fun, memorable touch that added to the excitement of the event.

The event raised funds through raffle ticket sales and concession sales, with all proceeds going to Thomas Jefferson High School athletic and math programs. The COPS vs. BALLERS game was a heartwarming display of community, partnership, and support for local youth.

Thank you to everyone who came out, cheered, donated, and helped make the night a success.

Residents Swap Clothing at South King

Tool Library

The South King Tool Library was buzzing over the weekend as our community came together for a clothing swap designed to keep good garments in circulation and out of the landfill. What began as a month-long collection effort culminated in a vibrant, zero-cost shopping experience for Federal Way residents.

Thanks to generous donations of adult clothing, shoes, and accessories, attendees were greeted with rows of well-loved, high-quality pieces ready for a new chapter. Neighbors browsed, traded, and connected, proving that style doesn’t have to come at the expense of sustainability.

Any leftover items are now headed to local nonprofits for reuse and recycling, ensuring the positive impact continues long after the doors closed.

Featured Upcoming Event

PAEC Holiday Festival on Nov. 29

Join us at the Performing Arts & Events Center on Saturday, Nov. 29, for the Holiday Festival, which feature a children's holiday craft market, a special visit from Mr. and Mrs. Claus, and more!

Guests can enjoy a screening of Disney’s The Santa Clause, and the afternoon will conclude with the PAEC’s signature snowstorm finale.

The PAEC will also be partnering with the MSC Food Bank to help families in need this holiday season.

FWPD Earns National CALEA Re-Accreditation

The Federal Way Police Department (FWPD) is honored to announce that we were officially awarded national re-accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) in the Law Enforcement program. FWPD has been nationally accredited through CALEA since 2002 and is one of just eight police agencies in the state that is CALEA accredited.

This achievement comes after a multi-year self-assessment and an in-depth, on-site review of our community engagement, policies, procedures, equipment, and facilities. Chief Hwang and Commander Buchanan represented our department at the CALEA Conference in Jacksonville, Florida, where the Commission’s 21-member Board of Commissioners granted final approval.

During the evening celebration banquet, CALEA Commissioners presented FWPD with the accreditation certificate—a symbol of excellence, professionalism, and our ongoing commitment to the Federal Way community.

Founded in 1979 by leading national law enforcement organizations, CALEA establishes internationally recognized best practices for public safety agencies. Accreditation is a voluntary process that demonstrates an agency meets these high standards through rigorous evaluation and continuous improvement.

We now enter a new four-year accreditation cycle, which includes annual reviews and a comprehensive on-site assessment in year four.

FWPD is also Washington State accredited by the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs (WASPC). We are one of just three police agencies in the state that is dual accredited.

Achieving and maintaining CALEA accreditation means we hold ourselves to the highest standards in public safety, day in and day out. We’re proud of this accomplishment and committed to serving Federal Way with excellence.

Composting Success at the Federal Way Farmers Market

Meet Carmen, our Environmental Services Technician, who was a friendly face at the Federal Way Farmers Market this past season. Carmen attended the market to provide composting education and assistance. She has connected with patrons and vendors on how to properly sort waste into compost, trash, or recycling.

As part of the Environmental Services pilot of "Green Events," Carmen attended 19 market days and collected 222 pounds of organic waste that would have otherwise gone to the landfill!

When asked about this program, Carmen raved, "I loved meeting everyone and seeing how many people are willing to learn." A bilingual speaker, Carmen was also able to connect with vendors to learn more of their stories. "I have learned so much of the sacrifice as vendors. It touches my heart, all they do to bring fresh produce to the community."

The market season might be over, but you'll still see Carmen in the community! She teaches Zumba at the Federal Way Community Center, supports Steel Lake Park as a picnic attendant, and is an active member of the Federal Way community.

As for Green Events? We hope to grow this program and provide more composting assistance in 2026. If you have any upcoming community events that could benefit from our programs and training, email recycle@federalwaywa.gov.

Parks & Recreation Winter Program

Guide Now Available

The Federal Way Parks & Recreation Winter 2025 Catalog is here!

Make your winter 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 now open!

Nov. 18 City Council Meeting

What’s Next: The Federal Way City Council meets Tuesday, Dec. 2, 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

Jingle Bell Brunch at FWCC on Dec. 6

Santa’s stopping by for breakfast at the Federal Way Community Center.

Join us for Jingle Bell Brunch on Saturday, Dec. 6, at 10 a.m. for a morning of holiday fun, crafts, music, and breakfast with Santa.

All ages are welcome, but most activities and crafts are designed for ages 2-10.

Event Details:

Location: Federal Way Community Center

Time & Date: Saturday, Dec. 6, at 10 a.m.

Admission: $18 Per Person

Bloodworks Blood Drive on Dec. 8

The City of Federal Way is partnering with Bloodworks Northwest to host a blood drive at City Hall on Thursday, Dec. 8, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Did you know it takes 1,000 donors a day to maintain a safe and reliable blood supply in the Pacific Northwest? Make a one-hour appointment for the blood drive today.

Walk-ins may be available, but spots are limited.

Introducing The Nourish Network and Community Food Drive

The Federal Way Inclusive Recreation Program is proud to introduce The Nourish Network, a new community initiative dedicated to building connection, compassion, and care.

How you can help:

• Please donate non-perishable food items to our Nourish Network donation bin, located in the Federal Way Community Center lobby.
• All donations will be used to create “meals in a bag:" simple, ready-to-prepare meal kits that participants can take home and make themselves.

Together, we’re working to create a more inclusive and compassionate community, one that nourishes both body and heart!

Donation Drop-Off: Federal Way Community Center Lobby. Questions? Contact Sabrina Bates, Inclusion Coordinator.

Cookies with Mrs. Claus at FWCC on Dec. 18

Join us at the Federal Way Community Center on Thursday, Dec. 18, from 5:30-6:30 p.m. for a magical evening with Mrs. Claus. This event is perfect for children ages 2-10 and includes cookie decorating, photo opportunities, cocoa, and music!

Admission is just $5 per person.

PLEASE NOTE: This is one of our most popular events and always sells out fast! Pre-registration is strongly recommended, as day-of tickets may not be available!

Cocoa & Candy Canes on Dec. 17

Calling all seniors!

The Senior Advisory Commission’s quarterly Senior Commission Connection luncheon welcomes Council President Linda Kochmar for cocoa, candy canes, cookie decorating, and conversation!

This event is open to all seniors in Federal Way.

Please find some time to join us on Wednesday, Dec. 17, at 11:30 a.m. at the Federal Way Community Center.

Save the Date: 2026 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.

Upcycled Terrarium Gifts Workshop

on Dec. 4

Join us for a FREE creative and eco-friendly hands-on workshop where we upcycle discarded materials into beautiful terrariums!

Upcycled Terrarium Gifts, hosted by South King Tool Library, is a hands-on workshop on Dec. 4 from 4:30-6:30 p.m. where participants learn to build terrariums with foraged plants and upcycled materials.

All materials provided, including plants, containers, and decorations.

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.

The City is planning to conduct interviews at upcoming council meetings with a focus on filling open positions on:

• Human Services Commission
• Diversity Commission
• Ethics Board
• Parks Commission
• Steel Lake Management District Advisory Board
• Planning Commission

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

O Christmas Tea at the PAEC on Dec. 14

Don’t miss O Christmas Tea at the Performing Arts and Event Center on Monday, Dec. 14, at 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Rich in wordplay, comic physicality, and cleverly crafted interactive elements, O Christmas Tea is uproarious fun, yet it is the starring duo’s boundless imagination and endearing chemistry that provide the real magic and heart of this play.

PAEC Upcoming Events

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

• Nov. 29: PAEC Holiday Festival
• Dec. 14: O Christmas Tea: A British Comedy
• Dec. 18: Sisters Christmas Catechism: The Mystery of the Magi's Gold
• Dec. 21: Grand Kyiv Ballet's The Nutcracker
• Jan. 28: PAEC Presents: The Peking Acrobats

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

Winter Bonsai Solstice Event at Pacific Bonsai Museum on Dec. 13

Experience the magic of the Pacific Bonsai Museum's 11th annual Winter Bonsai Solstice, on Saturday, Dec. 13, one of only two nights the Museum opens after dark.

Stroll through the world-renowned collection illuminated with soft holiday lights, enjoy free hot chocolate and festive music, shop a holiday market featuring seven local artisans and purveyors of unique goods, and explore the Museum Pop-Up Store. Family-friendly and free (thanks to support from 4Culture).

Bring your own flashlight for an enchanting evening adventure. Event happens rain or moonshine. Info: (253) 353-7345 or info@pacificbonsaimuseum.org.

South King Fire Santa Parades and Canned Food Drive

South King Fire began Santa Parades in 2020 as a way to support and connect with our community throughout a difficult time.

The Santa Parades and Canned Food Drive will be in Federal Way on the following dates from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.:

• Dec. 1 at North Hill/Zenith
• Dec. 2 at Woodmont/Laurelwood
• Dec. 8 at Marine Hills/Alderbrook
• Dec. 9 at Twin Lakes/Campus Highlands
• Dec. 15 at Lakeland North/Camelot
• Dec. 16 at Lakeland South/Wild Waves

Red Riding Hood at Centerstage Theater Nov. 29 to Dec. 21

"Red Riding Hood: A Holiday Panto" comes to Centerstage Theater each Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, Nov. 29 to Dec. 21

Directed by Helen Marion-Rowe, this topsy-turvy twist on the classic tale brings new songs, old jokes, and plenty of festive cheer to the stage.

General Admission Tickets are $44 in advance (online or over the phone) and $47 at the door. Student, Military, and Senior Ticket discounts are available.