Local News and Events for Kent, Washington

This edition of Sound Bites is sponsored by AAA Pest Control.

iLoveKent is on hiatus until Wed., July 5, but we’ve put together our weekly Sound Bites with local news and events to keep you up-to-date. We lost one of our regular advertisers, so we’ll be cutting back on our activity until we find a replacement. Thanks in advance for your understanding.

Have a happy and safe 4th of July!

~ Dana Neuts, Publisher

 

Photo by Michelle Gehlman-Teeter

NEW–Our latest feature: Wear A Big Smile Foundation
Michelle Teeter wrote her latest feature on Wear a Big Smile Foundation, a division of Washington Shoe Company, based here in Kent. The foundation was launched last year to give back to the community. The company donates boots to those in need including clients at the Kent Clothing Bank at Kent Phoenix Academy. Learn more about Wear a Big Smile Foundation here.

REMINDER–iLoveKent & Artsy Fartsy Art Lessons launch KC Days coloring contest
We launched our next coloring contest this week and the coloring pages are now available at three pick-up/drop-off locations. You can also view the rules and download the page here. We will display all entries at Artsy Fartsy Art Lessons downtown during Kent Cornucopia Days and will announce the winners on Saturday, July 15. Thanks to Susan Bagrationoff of Artsy Fartsy Art Lessons for the beautiful street fair design! We are thrilled to have Kent Station donating prizes for this contest. We appreciate their support!

NEW–Kent Police ask for help identifying an armed coffee stand robber
A heavily-disguised, armed robber has been hitting local coffee and espresso stands in Kent, Federal Way and Sumner. The suspect is driving a stolen truck – 2005 Ford F 350 crew cab with a California plate (42431B1). If you have any information about the suspect or the robberies, call 9-1-1 or the Kent PD tip line at 253-856-5808. Learn more and see photos here.

REMINDER–Fireworks are illegal inside Kent City Limits
The city of Kent’s fireworks ban prohibits the sale, possession and use of all consumer fireworks as part of an effort to eliminate fires, injuries and fireworks-related complaints. This marks the first year the ban is effective since Kent City Councilmembers approved it last year. Councilmembers passed the ban after a 2015 advisory ballot measure showed nearly 67 percent of Kent voters supported banning consumer fireworks. The ban makes it illegal to sell, possess and use any fireworks. Violators could face a $250 fine and have their fireworks confiscated. Sparklers or anything with a fuse is “absolutely illegal” in Kent, says Kent Police Chief Ken Thomas. Read more here.

REMINDER–City to host 19th annual Fourth of July Splash
Fireworks may be illegal in Kent now, but families can still enjoy a grand fireworks display, live music, games and other activities at Lake Meridian Park on the Fourth of July at the city’s 19th annual Fourth of July Splash. Click here for details, hours and event schedule.

NEW–100+ public fireworks displays across the state
The state fire marshal says there are more than 100 community fireworks displays planned for the Fourth of July. The office recommends always sitting a safe distance away from the firing area and to not let children pick up any fire debris during or after the show. Some shows are being televised, like the Family Fourth at Lake Union. For more information, including a list of fireworks displays and fireworks laws, click here.

NEW–July Trail Walks in Kent
The City is hosting Trail Walks this summer. There are two self-guided walks in July on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month from 9 AM to 11 AM: July 12, West Fenwick Trails, and July 26, Green River Trail and Riverview Park. On Sun., July 23, there is a leader-guided walk at Clark Lake Park Trails at 11 AM. Get more details here, including a downloadable schedule.

Kent Cornucopia Days' Street FairREMINDER–Kent Cornucopia Days returns to Kent, July 14-16, 2017
South King County’s largest family festival returns the third weekend in July with activities throughout the city, including live entertainment, a street fair and food courts downtown, dragon boat races on Lake Meridian, a soccer tournament, 5K fun run and a grand parade. A HUGE thank you to the Kent Lions for making this event possible! It’s the highlight of Kent’s summer. Read more here.

REMINDER–Free breakfasts and lunches for Kent kids and teens this summer
In lighter news, the Kent School District has partnered with the Washington State Superintendent of Public Instruction and the U.S. Department of Agriculture to provide free breakfasts and lunches to Kent kids and teens this summer. Breakfast will be served at 13 different locations, and lunches will be served at dozens of locations throughout the city. Days and times vary by location. Get more info., including the schedule, here.

Neely-Soames Historic Homestead & Heritage Gardens, Summer 2016
Neely-Soames Historic Home

NEW–Experience Historical Kent this summer
The Greater Kent Historical Society and the City of Kent are hosting a slate of events, starting July 29. Join local residents, visitors and volunteers for the Historical Museum at Kent Farmer’s Market booth, a walking tour of Mill Creek’s historic homes, open houses, a classic car show and much more! See the schedule of events here to plan which ones you want to attend.

NEW–Kent Downtown Partnership announces two August events
Kent Downtown Partnership, part of the Main Street program, will participate in two events next month. On Tues., Aug. 1 (5 to 7 PM), KDP will participate in National Night Out with an Ice Cream Social at Town Square Plaza at the corner of Harrison and 2nd Avenue across from the Kent Regional Library. On Fri., Aug. 18 (6 to 9 PM), KDP will host a summer wine walk. Get more information at http://downtownkentwa.com or call 253-813-6976.

Upcoming Events – Highlights for the Week Ahead

Get additional event details from our July “things to do” list or our Google calendar.

July 3         Coffee, Cake & Islam
July 4         Independence Day
July 4         Fourth of July Splash
July 5         YWCA Support Services for Veteran Families
July 5         Early Literacy Parties in Spanish
July 5         Inventing the Impossible Magic Show
July 7         Teen After-Hours at the Library
July 8         Kent Farmer’s Market
July 8         Build Big, Big Small Science Workshop
July 8         Dog-a-thon Fundraiser at Reds Wine Bar
July 9         Free 13th Movie Showing

Dana Neuts

I am a full-time freelance writer, editor, marketing pro and the publisher of iLoveKent.net.