• Cheers to Write a Blessing Media for “I Celebrate You,” a program honoring local residents for their efforts to improve the lives of others. The Nov. 15 event drew a packed house at the Knutzen Family Theatre. On a side note, The Mirror is privileged to print event organizer Nandell Palmer’s columns, which often focus on family values, community inspiration and a universal message of love. Those themes sat center stage at “I Celebrate You.”

• Jeers to the state Supreme Court’s ruling against the Federal Way School District’s effort to achieve funding on the same level as other school districts. When the lawsuit began three years ago, Federal Way ranked 263 out of the 296 districts in dollars-per-student funding. Money may not solve all of Federal Way’s problems, but at the very least, school funding deserves a statewide adjustment. It’s up to you, District 30 legislators.

• Cheers to Friends of the Hylebos, a local conservation organization, for helping to save Federal Way’s forests. For starters, the group will remove the invasive and destructive English ivy from Dumas Bay Park. If the invasive species are left alone, they will overtake forests and restrict new growth. Each aspect of the Puget Sound environment, from the trees to the water, is connected. The region’s economy and quality of life depends on the health of the overall environment.

• Jeers to any potential Federal Way espresso stand that employs bikini baristas. No offense to those who like their coffee “extra hot,” but the bikini barista gimmick is just plain trashy.

• Cheers to Federal Way police and Department of Corrections officers for checking on registered sex offenders during Halloween. Any effort to protect children and families is an effort well spent. Level one offenders registered in Federal Way are contacted at least once per year. Level two offenders are contacted at least twice per year. Level three offenders, the most likely to re-offend, are contacted every 90 days.

• Jeers to the unfortunate Dec. 31 closure of Metropolitan Market, the anchor store at Dash Point Village. The announcement comes as a shock in the Federal Way business community. Aside from quality foods, the store’s crucial involvement with local charities such as FUSION will be missed. One silver lining: The store’s 65 employees have been offered jobs at other Metropolitan Market locations in the region.