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Photo gallery – 2019
2019
Director of Public Health Discusses Priorities
On January 9, 2019, Patty Hayes, Director of Public Health for Seattle and King County, spoke with South King County community leaders at the January “Good Eggs” breakfast about her agency’s efforts to combat the public health challenges facing our region.
Photo L-R: King County Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer, Federal Way City Councilmember Lydia Assefa-Dawson, Seattle-King County Director of Public Health Patty Hayes, Auburn City Councilmember Bob Baggett, and Jeff Stock, Jr. of Caffé D’Arte.
12th Annual Washington State Korean American Day Celebration
On January 13, 2019, at the 12th Annual Washington State Korean American Day Celebration, I was honored to be recognized for my support of the Korean American Community in our state.
With Shari Song of the Washington State Korean American Day Celebration Foundation
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“Retired” vans benefit South King County community organizations
This season, I welcomed the chance to give the keys to a few of the “retired” vans King County donated to South King County non-profits. I started this program in 1996, and it continues to be an example of government at its best.
With Troy Christensen of the Korean Women's Association
Photo L to R: Pete with Lorie Ann Larson and Nelson Rascon of Valley Cities
Seattle Mariners Boy Scouts of America Luncheon
On January 25, I attended the annual Seattle Mariners luncheon supporting the Boy Scouts of America. I am looking forward to the contributions lefty Justus Sheffield and shortstop JP Crawford will make this year and in years to come.
Panther Lake Trail Opens
February 26 was a beautiful day to officially open Panther Lake Trail in Federal Way. The project includes a new 50-foot pedestrian footbridge, adjacent 26-stall parking lot and a one-mile loop trail. I am pleased King County could partner with the City of Federal Way on this important project to provide more opportunities for recreation and physical activity in South King County.
Panther Lake ribbon cutting
With Federal Way Mayor Jim Ferrell
Photo left to right: Federal Way Mayor Jim Ferrell, Radhika Kumar, Judy McDonald and Penny Merriman of the Marine Hills Flower Club.
South King County community leaders gather for annual leadership reception
On February 26, I hosted my annual South King County Leadership Reception at KO-AM TV in Federal Way. The event brought together more than 70 local and countywide elected officials, community and business leaders to promote regional collaboration and camaraderie. This year’s event featured an address from Korean Consul General Lee Hyung-jong, who discussed the importance of building bridges for the Korean-American community in King County. At the event, I was honored to be presented a Sheriff’s Medal of Service by King County Sheriff Mitzi Johanknecht.
Photo L-R: With King County Sheriff Mitzi Johanknecht and King County Elections Director Julie Wise
Photo L-R: King County Sheriff Mitzi Johanknecht, King County Elections Director Julie Wise, Korean Consul General Lee Hyung-jong
With King County Sheriff Mitzi Johanknecht
Federal Way human service advocate Peggy LaPorte receives MLK Medal of Distinguished Service
On February 27, I was proud to present Peggy LaPorte of Federal Way’s FUSION with the Martin Luther King Jr. Medal of Distinguished Service. Peggy has responded to Dr. King’s question, “What are you doing for others?” through the founding of FUSION, an all-volunteer organization that has helped homeless families and their children in South King County for 25 years. Thank you for your service, Peggy.
Photo L to R: Dennis and Peggy LaPorte
Attorney General's meeting with south King County community leaders focused on consumer protection efforts
Washington State Attorney General Bob Ferguson joined me at my February Good Eggs Breakfast to provide an update on his ongoing efforts as Attorney General. Bob discussed his view of his role as Attorney General and the importance of consumer protection in our state.
Photo L to R: Federal Way Mayor Jim Ferrell, Way Scarff of Scarff Motors, Attorney General Bob Ferguson, Auburn Mayor Nancy Backus
La Quinta Inn Ribbon Cutting
On February 27, I enjoyed participating in the ribbon cutting for the remodeled La Quinta Inn and Suites in Federal Way, and am excited to see how the new renovations and management attract visitors to South King County.
With new Owner Al Jiwani
Photo L-R: Federal Way Mayor Jim Ferrell and Trimark Regional Director of Sales and Marketing Lana Bulanova
PAC-12 Swimming and Diving Championships return to the King County Aquatic Center
I once again had the privilege to join Cheryl Wong in welcoming the Pac 12 Women’s Swimming Championships and the Men’s and Women’s Diving Championships to the King County Aquatic Center. After 30 years, the King County Aquatic Center continues to be a major economic attraction for South King County.
With Cheryl Wong
Honoring Alan Hinton
On March 19, our regional honored the “Godfather” of soccer, Alan Hinton. Former and current soccer coaches and players as well as community leaders saluted this legend of English and American soccer.
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(Left to right) Alan Hinton and Mark Wright.
Auburn Valley Humane Society’s Wet Nose Award
On March 23, I was honored, along with Valinda Hortsman and 106.9‘s Heather Lee, to receive the Auburn Valley Humane Society’s “Wet Nose Award”. The award recognizes those who are “changing lives, four paws at a time.”
Photo Left to Right: Auburn Valley Humane Society Board Chair Rick Oliveria, Valinda Hortsman, Pete, Heather Lee, and Auburn Valley Humane Society Executive Director Phil Morgan.
Rotary Club of Auburn Scholarships
On March 27, I presented the Rotary Club of Auburn a $500 King County educational grant to support their ongoing scholarship efforts in South King County. I commend the Rotary Club for their continued support of our region's youth and look forward to working with them on future projects that provide scholarships to our students.
(Left to right) With Dr. Thomas Hughes, President of the Rotary Club of Auburn and Auburn Mayor Nancy Backus
Metro’s Rob Gannon updates South County leaders
King County Metro General Manager Rob Gannon joined us at our March Good Eggs breakfast to discuss the progress the agency has made on their Metro Connect goals. As more people move to our region, Metro will increase capacity from 400 million to 600 million annual hours of service, 500,000 to 1,000,000 daily riders, and add 600 more buses.
Photo with: Federal Way Mayor Jim Ferrell, Auburn Mayor Nancy Backus and King County Metro General Manager Rob Gannon.
Judge Cayce recognized for 30 years of service and advocacy
After 30 years of service in King County, Judge Jim Cayce retired. We recognized Jim for his leadership as a judge, and thanked him for his strong advocacy for mental illness treatment and his innovative approach to criminal justice issues.
Photo L to R: King County Councilmember Rod Dembowski, former King County Councilmember Louise Miller, former King County Councilmember Dwight Pelz, King County Councilmember Joe McDermott, King County Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer, Bailiff Lati Culverson, Judge Jim Cayce, Judge Bill Bowman, King County Councilmember Larry Gossett, King County Councilmember Reagan Dunn, King County Councilmember Kathy Lambert, King County Councilmember Jeanne Kohl-Welles.
King County Council visits Washington, D.C.
Finally, the King County Council delegation visited those who represent us in the other Washington. Transportation, jobs, opioid addiction, homelessness, salmon protection, trade and our surprising Seattle Mariners were all part of our whirlwind of meetings. Thanks Senator Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell, and Representatives Derek Kilmer, Suzan DelBene, Adam Smith and Dr. Kim Schrier. Government works best when we work together!
With U.S. Senator Patty Murray
With U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell
With U.S. Representative Derek Kilmer
With U.S. Representative Suzan DelBene
With U.S. Representative and Dr. Kim Schrier
King County welcomes Azerbaijan Consul General
On April 17, 2019, I was honored to welcome Consul General Nasimi Aghayev from the Republic of Azerbaijan at the King County Council meeting. This was the first step in building a meaningful relationship between us moving forward. Consul General Aghayev currently serves as Dean of the Los Angeles Consular Corps, representing 105 nations, and is fluent in seven languages.
Photo L to R: Councilmembers Claudia Balducci, Reagan Dunn and Pete von Reichbauer, Consul General Nasimi Aghayev, Councilmembers Rod Dembowski and Jeanne Kohl-Welles.
King County Executive gives update on the state of King County
King County Executive Dow Constantine joined our April Good Eggs breakfast to provide an update on King County government. The Executive discussed his office’s three areas of emphasis: homelessness, natural infrastructure and built infrastructure, as well as the new Department of Local Services, which consolidated roads, permitting, community services and more to administer local services in King County.
Photo L to R: Federal Way Mayor Jim Ferrell, Auburn Mayor Nancy Backus, King County Executive Dow Constantine, Kent Mayor Dana Ralph, King County Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer.
Flag Raising Ceremony at Woodbridge Corporate Campus
Having been present on April 15, 1976, it was an honor to remember Norton Clapp, George Weyerhaeuser and Howie Meadowcroft as we rededicated the iconic flagpole bordering I-5 today. Thanks to Mayor Jim Ferrell, Councilmembers Jesse Johnson and Susan Honda, as well as the Veterans present at the Flag Raising Ceremony last April 24th.
King County Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer delivers opening remarks at the Flag Raising Ceremony.
Mama Stortini’s Restaurant and Bar now open in Federal Way
On May 3, 2019, Mama Stortini’s kicked off their new restaurant by donating to “Arts 4 Kids.” I served with founder Joe Stortini, and was honored tonight to meet new owner Roger Stilson.
With Roger Stilson, Federal Way Mayor Jim Ferrell, and Joe Stortini
Federal Way Farmers Market Opening Ceremony
If it’s the first Saturday in May, it’s opening day at the Farmers Market. On Saturday, May 4th, we started off the program with dancers from Folklore Mexicano Tonantzin to celebrate Cinco de Mayo.
With Folklore Mexicano Tonantzin at the Farmers Market opening day on May 4, 2019.
Ignite 2019 Spring Gala: Celebrating Past, Present and Future Heroes
On May 4, 2019, IGNITE (Inspiring Girls Now in Technology) held their annual gala at the Showbox Sodo. Federal Way School Superintendent Dr. Tammy Campbell and her team were recognized for their leadership.
Dr. Tammy Campbell, Superintendent, Federal Way Public Schools
With Dr. Tammy Campbell and her team
Government Accountability and Oversight Committee hears from Rideshare Companies about driver security and background checks
On May 6, 2019, the Government Accountability and Oversight (GAO) Committee, which I chair, heard from representatives of Uber and Lyft about the steps they’re taking to improve rider safety. These companies have revolutionized how we meet our transportation needs, but we must do everything we can to continue to protect the riders who use these apps.
King County Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer expressed his concerns about passenger safety amid the issues that rideshare companies are facing.
Annual Identity Theft and Shredding Event
On May 11, 2019, we hosted another successful Identity Theft and Shredding Event at the Federal Way Farmers Market. These events provide residents resources and information about how to prevent identity theft, and the ability to shred private and personal documents. Thanks to Seadrunar Recycling for partnering with us again!
With Bob Celski, Quinn Celski, and Seadrunar Representative.
House Majority Leader discusses business development and homelessness in South King County
On May 22, 2019, Washington State Majority Leader Pat Sullivan joined us at our May Good Eggs breakfast to provide an update on the recently concluded legislative session. Pat discussed the importance of business development in South King County, the state’s increased efforts to address homelessness in our region, and the importance of investing in early learning programs.
With Federal Way Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Tammy Campbell, Representative Pat Sullivan, Pacific Mayor Leanne Guier, Federal Way Mayor Jim Ferrell.
Jack Sikma recognized for Basketball Hall of Fame induction
On May 29, 2019, the Metropolitan King County Council was joined by 3-time Basketball Hall of Fame Player and Coach Lenny Wilkens in recognizing Jack Sikma for his induction into the Basketball Hall of Fame. Lenny and Jack shared stories of the 1979 Seattle SuperSonics, who celebrate the 40th anniversary of their NBA Championship this year.
Jack Sikma joined by King County Councilmembers and his Hall of Fame Coach Lenny Wilkens after the Council recognized Sikma’s Hall of Fame career.
Federal Way Performance Arts and Event Center celebrates new signage
As South King County’s population grows in numbers and diversity, it is critical that we build structures that bring us together. This Performing Arts and Event Center is an anchor for our community and I was pleased to attend the ribbon cutting for the new signs at the PAEC, which were funded by a King County grant.
King County Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer speaks during the ribbon cutting ceremony on May 31, 2019.
With Federal Way Mayor Jim Ferrell, Former Mayor Jeanne Burbidge, Former Mayor and chair of the PAEC Foundation Mary Gates.
Multi-Service Center Crab Feed & Auction 2019
On June 1, 2019, the Multi-Service Center Crab Feed filled the PAEC with neighbors coming together to help neighbors get back on their feet, and they got to enjoy some fresh Alaskan Crab in the process.
Photo L to R: Federal Way City Councilmember Lydia Assefa-Dawson, Martha Maginniss, Federal Way City Councilmember Jesse Johnson, Federal Way Mayor Jim Ferrell, Tyler Pichette, Auburn Mayor Nancy Backus, Todd Suchan, Jack Smith, King County Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer, Sara Smith.
30th Anniversary of the South King County Flag Day Celebration
On Saturday, June 15th, I celebrated the 30th anniversary of the South King County Flag Day Celebration with the women of Soroptimist, recognizing the flag and its importance to those who served in the Armed Forces. Freedom is never free.
King County Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer delivered his remarks during the Annual Flag Day Celebration held in Federal Way on June 15, 2019.
Photo L to R: with Federal Way Mayor Jim Ferrell, Soroptimist International Club of Federal Way Event Co-Chair Linda Staples, Federal Way Deputy Mayor and Event Co-Chair Susan Honda, USO Northwest Executive Director Don Leingang, and Federal Way VFW Commander Tom Leonard.
HUD Regional Administrator meets with South King County leaders
On June 19, 2019, Jeff McMorris, Regional Administrator for the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Administration, joined us at our June Good Eggs breakfast to discuss HUD services in South King County. In our district, there are 5,800 FHA loans worth $1.6 Billion in value, 83% of which are held by first time homeowners.
With Auburn Mayor Nancy Backus, HUD Region X Administrator Jeff McMorris, Kent Mayor Dana Ralph, and Federal Way Mayor Jim Ferrell.
South King County Scholar Athlete Breakfast with Steve Raible and Jim Zorn
On June 29, 2019, over 240 South King County community members enthusiastically raised over $55,000 for Auburn and Federal Way School Districts’ Scholar-Athletes. Jim Zorn, the first Seattle Seahawks quarterback, was the guest speaker; while Steve Raible, KIRO 7 News Anchor and former Seattle Seahawks wide receiver, was the emcee.
South King County community members filled the Federal Way Performing Arts & Event Center during the SKC Scholar Athlete Breakfast
With Steve Raible, Jim Zorn and Federal Way High School Basketball Team
Tacoma Mayor Victoria Woodards Emphasizes “The South Sound Way”
On July 10, 2019, Tacoma Mayor Victoria Woodards joined us at our July Good Eggs breakfast to discuss her efforts to promote economic development, accessible transportation, and affordable housing. Tacoma is the 3rd hottest real estate market in the country, and Mayor Woodards is working hard with regional partners to ensure this growth occurs in a sustainable way.
Photo L to R: King County Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer, Algona Mayor Dave Hill, Covington Mayor Jeff Wagner, Auburn Mayor Nancy Backus, Tacoma Mayor Victoria Woodards, Federal Way Mayor Jim Ferrell, Maple Valley Mayor Sean Kelly, Pacific Mayor Leanne Guier.
Rhythm and Brews Concert at Townsquare Park in Federal Way”
On July 20th, Rhythm and Brews Concert brought out hundreds of music fans, dozens of local breweries and wineries, all in support of the Federal Way Symphony and its effort to bring music to South King County.
With Cindy Ducich and Jeff Stock Jr. of Caffé D’Arte of Federal Way
Rhythm and Brews Festival Performers at Town Square Park
King County Employee Day at Emerald Downs
Sunday, July 21st, brought the return of King County Employee Day to Emerald Downs. In recognition of her 20 years of service to King County, Brooke Caddock was Honorary Steward for the King County Express Stakes, and I was privileged to join this Special Olympics Gold Medalist in the winner’s circle for the trophy presentation.
With Special Olympic Champion Brooke Caddock
King County Express Stakes trophy presentation
Neely Mansion’s 125th Anniversary Recognition
On July 24th, I had the privilege to help recognize the 125th anniversary of the Neely Mansion. The mansion serves as a reminder of South King County’s rich agricultural and pioneer heritage, and the dedicated and hard-working immigrant families who made the mansion (and South King County) their home.
Photo L to R: Councilmembers Jeanne Kohl-Welles, Claudia Balducci, Pete von Reichbauer and Kathy Lambert, Neely Mansion Board Member Eileen Yamada Lamphere, Director Julie Acosta and President Carol Grimes, Councilmember Reagan Dunn, Director Karen Meador, Councilmember Dave Upthegrove, Treasurer Linda van Nest, Councilmembers Joe McDermott and Larry Gossett, and Council Chair Rod Dembowski.
Annual Salmon Bake with Kiwanis Club of Federal Way
For its 63rd year in a row, the Kiwanis Salmon Bake at Steel Lake was a great success! Kiwanis is about service and as a former Club President, I was happy to help serve food to former Mayor Mary Gates and young families like Kim and Todd Suchan.
With former Federal Way Mayor Mary Gates
With Todd Suchan and his daughter
26th Annual FUSION Gala at Dumas Bay Center
On August 7th, FUSION held its 26th annual art and auction event at Dumas Bay Center. Speaker of the House Frank Chopp and I were honored by FUSION for our bi-partisan, state-county jointeffort to support transitional family housing in Federal Way. Also joining us were Mayor Dana Ralph of Kent and Dr. John Mosby of Highline College. Thanks to Peggy LaPorte, Robin O’Grady and all the volunteers.
With Speaker of the House Frank Chopp and FUSION Executive Director Robin O’Grady
With Kent Mayor Dana Ralph and Highline Community College President Dr. John Mosby
Lenny Wilkens Foundation raises $600,000 for Odessa Brown Children’s Clinic
What better way to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Seattle’s first championship than with Lenny Wilkens. On August 10th, I was happy to join ESPN’s Kenny Mayne (Thomas Jefferson High School), KIRO’s Jesse Jones and former Seattle Mayor Norm Rice with Federal Way High School Coaches Reed, Stone and their daughters at the Lenny Wilkens Foundation’s Final Dinner and Auction. The event raised $600,000 for the Odessa Brown Children’s Clinic.
With ESPN’s Kenny Mayne, Federal Way High School Coaches Reed, Stone and their daughters
With Federal Way High School Coach Reed and his daughter, Sonic Legend Lenny Wilkens, Coach Stone and his daughter
With Former Seattle Mayor Norm Rice, KIRO’s JesseJones and Coaches Reed, Stone
Washington State Auditor Pat McCarthy Discusses Government Audits and Fraud Investigations
On August 28th, Washington State Auditor Pat McCarthy joined us at Phoenix Rising Café to talk about her office’s work to help local governments and agencies improve their services. Pat has 450 employees in 15 offices across the state that are dedicated to promoting accountable and transparent government.
Photo L to R: Algona Mayor Dave Hill, King County Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer, Auburn Mayor Nancy Backus, State Auditor Pat McCarthy, Kent Mayor Dana Ralph, Pacific Mayor Leanne Guier, Enumclaw Mayor Jan Molinaro.
Muckleshoot Casino Hotel Groundbreaking Ceremony
On September 5th, I was honored to join the elders and members of the Muckleshoot Tribe as they broke ground for their new 18-story, 400 room hotel. Congratulations to Tribal Chair Jaison Elkins and the council. Preserving the old, preparing for the new!
With Muckleshoot Tribal Council Chair Jaison Elkins
Muckleshoot Tribe’s Ceremonial Groundbreaking
Federal Way Boys and Girls Club Breakfast with Tod Leiweke
While many individual athletes and coaches have had an effect on sports in the Pacific Northwest, no individual has had as profound an impact on our professional sports world as Tod Leiweke, former President of the Seahawks, Sounders and Trailblazers and new President of NHL Seattle. Thanks Tod for speaking to the Federal Way Boys and Girls Club breakfast. Family, Faith and Friends are at his core!
With Thomas Jefferson High School students and Athletic Director Mike Grady, and NHL Seattle’s Tod Leiweke
With Kent Mayor Dana Ralph, Tod Leiweke, and Boys and Girls Club “Youth of the Year” Jaylen Green
Sound Transit CEO Peter Rogoff provides update on South King County projects
On September 18th, Sound Transit CEO Peter Rogoff joined us at Twin Lakes Golf and Country Club to give an update on projects in South King County. Future stations in Federal Way will help accommodate the 1.8 million NEW people who will move to our region by 2050, and attract new jobs and economic development to our area.
Photo L to R: Photo L to R: ST Fabrication CEO Jesse Cherian, King County Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer, Sound Transit CEO Peter Rogoff, El Centro De La Raza Executive Director Estela Ortega, State Sen. Claire Wilson, WSU Regent Scott Carson.
Community Service Area Town Hall with Department of Local Services
On September 24th, representatives from various County agencies joined us for our Community Service Area Town Hall at Thomas Jefferson High School to help those working and living in unincorporated King County better connect with the services they need.
Photo L to R: King County Assessor John Wilson, King County Director of Elections Julie Wise, King County Sheriff Mitzi Johanknecht and King County Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer.
Auburn Chamber Connect: Spotlight Awards Gala
The Auburn Chamber of Commerce hosted their annual dinner in the Chinook Room at the Muckleshoot Reservation. Under Kacie Bray’s leadership, the chamber has built bridges within the growing (and divergent) community interests of South King County.
Photo L to R: Fire Chief Brent Swearingen, Lori Swearingen, Auburn School Board Member Robyn Mulenga, Dr. Alan Spicciati, Councilmember Pete von Reichbauer, Debbie Christian, Rep. Drew Stokesbary, Mary Lou Walen.
2019 Van Donation Program Recipients in South King County
As Budget Chair in 1996, I started the surplus van program. King County has since “retired” hundreds of vans to community organizations who meet the mobility needs of our neighbors. Each year, I appreciate the opportunity to meet with the South King County recipients of this program, and this year was no different.
With Bobby Jennings and Charissa Eggleston of the Federal WayYouth Action Team
With Harry Schreiber and Char Ashcraft of the Federal Way Senior Center
With Liz Tilton of the Puget Sound Educational Service District’s Road to Independence
With Nep Scheirer, Melanie Thompson, Hasan Hasan, Aniah McDougal, and Chloe Frank of the Auburn School District’s Transition Assistance Program