Chips, Bots & Big Booms

In this sizzling summer episode of Kent NOW, we’re diving into what’s hot—literally and figuratively—around the city!

🥔 Taste Test Alert: We run down 8 wild new chip flavors hitting shelves this summer—from Bacon Grilled Cheese to Thai Red Curry and even Lemonade Chips.

🔥 Wildfire Watch: As warm, dry weather sets in, fire officials share updates on elevated wildfire risk across the state and what that means for your summer plans.

🤖 Inside Amazon Kent: Curious about what happens after you click “Buy Now”? The Kent Fulfillment Center—the most toured in the world—offering public tours. We take you behind the scenes with robots, tech, and tape-measuring machines.

🎆 4th of July Splash: Get the scoop on Kent’s biggest Independence Day celebration at Lake Meridian Park—plus fireworks, food, and free shuttles!

🎉 July = Parks & Rec Month: We spotlight five fun, FREE pop-up events from Kent Parks, including the upcoming Snack and Stroll at Hogan Park.

🏗️ What’s That Being Built?: From bridge construction and fiber installation to Meeker Street makeovers, we give you the rundown on city development and how you can stay in the loop with BuildKentWA.

🛠️ SR 509 Expressway Opens: Hear how this major infrastructure milestone is changing the game for freight and freeway traffic across the Puget Sound region.

🏛️ Kent Commons Interview: We sit down with Dave Heldt, Senior Parks Program Manager, to talk about the renovation of a beloved community space and what makes it uniquely Kent.

🎶 Kent Summer Concerts: Music, magic, and juggling Zaniacs—don’t miss the top acts coming to parks near you, including Heart by Heart and Kent’s own jazz legend, Darren Motamedy.

🏁 NHRA Drag Racing Returns: The roar of engines is back! Preview the NHRA Northwest Nationals, coming to Kent July 18–20.

📚 Did You Know?: We unpack 4th of July fun facts—including why Independence Day didn’t actually happen on July 4.

Whether you’re tuning in for local events, big city updates, or curious trivia, KentNOW has you covered.