What's Happening Soon?
Events in Kokomo and Howard County taking place Nov. 10, 2024, and beyond
This article is brought to you by Solidarity Community Federal Credit Union. 🎁 Stop by either Solidarity location and make a donation for Toys For Tots! Until early December, you can help us spread holiday cheer. Know a family in need? They can apply for toys at heyor.ca/cHPsKs. Let's make this season unforgettable! ✨
#ToysForTots #HolidayMagic
COMING SOON
Seasonal Volunteers Needed
The Kokomo Rescue Mission is searching for volunteers to assist with seasonal activities. Sign up to help wrap Christmas presents, deliver Thanksgiving meals, or deliver Christmas boxes. Sign-ups are accepted by visiting www.kokomorescuemission.org/volunteer
Toys for Tots Drop-Off
Solidarity Community Federal Credit Union is serving as a drop-off partner with Toys for Tots. Stop by either Solidarity location and make a donation until early December. You can help spread holiday cheer with your donation of new, packaged toys. Know a family in need? Encourage them to apply for toys at heyor.ca/cHPsKs
Howard County Farm Toy Show
The Howard County Farm Toy Show will take place at Eastern High School, 421 S. Harrison St., in Greentown from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. on Sun., Nov. 10. Admission is $3. Children ages 10 and under are admitted free.
Free Meal for Veterans
This Veterans Day, join Community First Bank of Indiana for a free drive-thru lunch provided by Swayzee Loinz and the CFB Cares Committee. If you are a veteran near the Community First service area, stop by the branch at 1308 E. Hoffer St. on Mon., Nov. 11, between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. to enjoy a tenderloin meal as a gesture of appreciation for your service! For more information, visit www.cfbindiana.com/veterans
Marine Memorial Dedication
The Howard County Memorial Corp. will celebrate the unveiling and dedication of its monument to Opha Mae Johnson, America’s first female Marine, on Veterans’ Day, Mon., Nov. 11, at 1 p.m. in the Howard County Veterans’ Memorial Park, 600 S. Goyer Road, Kokomo.
Brick and Console
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Tue., Nov 12, from 6-7 p.m. for a video game adventure in which the virtual world of Lego video games meets the tangible fun of building with real Lego bricks. This event takes place at the library’s South branch, 1755 E. Center Road, and is designed for children ages 6-11.
Growing Indoor Plants
It’s getting colder outside, but plants can be kept indoors as well. Visit the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr., on Tue., Nov. 12, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. as the Purdue Extension Office shows how to keep your indoor plants healthy and happy.
Jurassic Story Time
Jurassic Story Time is a delightful and educational event that transports children to a world of adventure and discovery. Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library at its south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, on Wed., Nov. 13, from 10-10:45 a.m. to take part in the fun.
Family Literacy Night
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library, 220 N. Union St., on Wed., Nov. 13, from 5-6 p.m. for a magical evening of stories, learning, and fun at the Family Literacy Night.
Christmas Open House
Cross America, 840 Daniel Dr., will host its annual Christmas Open House on Thu., Nov. 15, and Fri., Nov. 15, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. each day. There will be door prizes, discounts, sweet treats, shopping, and more. For more information, visit www.crossamerica.net.
Dino Stomp
Visit the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., on Fri., Nov. 15, from 4-5 p.m. to make dinosaur art, play games, create paper dinosaurs, and learn about amazing prehistoric creatures. Dino Stomp is designed for children ages 3-11.
Shiny Penny at Rhine Hall
Shiny Penny will perform a one-night, hometown show on Fri., Nov. 15, at Rhine Hall Event Venue, 507 N. Union St. Experience the long-awaited return of Shiny Penny with an up-close performance of original songs and stories. This event will feature original music from the artist, including new and unreleased songs, along with hallmark tracks that many Shiny Penny fans know and enjoy. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and the show starts at 7:30 p.m. General admission tickets are still available at $20, and premium tickets are available for $30. Premium tickets include access to Shiny Penny’s sound check and a private acoustic performance by the artist before the concert.
Jurassic Science
Dive into the world of dinosaurs and paleontology with award-winning author Stephanie Bearce, who will share about her book, “Mary Anning and Paleontology for Kids.” This interactive story time will take place at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., on Sat., Nov. 16, from 10-11 a.m. This event is designed for children ages 8-13.
Creative Nonfiction Writing Workshop
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library as it hosts Leah Lederman, an experienced writer, editor, and instructor, for a creative nonfiction writing workshop. Lederman will teach techniques for crafting your life experiences into a written narrative. The workshop takes place at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., on Sat., Nov. 16, from 1-2:30 p.m. Register for this event by visiting https://khcpl.libnet.info/event/11192911
Cowboy Church
On the third Saturday of each month, Fairview Baptist Church holds Cowboy Church. It’s a combination of Southern Gospel, Bluegrass, Hymns and a lot of serious goofing off. The next Cowboy Church will take place Sat., Nov. 16, at 5 p.m. Fairview Baptist Church is located at 2108 E. Vaile Ave. behind the Kmart Plaza.
Kokomo Community Concerts
The next Kokomo Community Concert will take place on Sun., Nov. 17, featuring Gilles Vonsattel. A Swiss-born American classical pianist of world renown and talent, Mr. Vonsattel loves to perform a program featuring some classical “war horses” intermingled with some lesser-known pieces. He is quite comfortable making friends with every audience while displaying his musicality, dynamism, power, and sensitivity. This program will feature Beethoven’s sonatas, one or two each performance, balanced with some familiar melodies. Mr. Vonsattel is a professor of piano at UMass Amherst, has played around the world, and is a Steinway artist. The performance will take place at the Kokomo High School Auditorium, 2501 S. Berkley Road, at 2:30 p.m. For tickets, call 210-0686 or visit www.kokomocommunityconcerts.org.
Taylor Thanksgiving Dinner
The Taylor Community School Corp. will present its 5th annual community Thanksgiving dinner on Tue., Nov. 19, from 5-7 p.m. at Taylor High School. The school corporation invites everyone to join them for a free dinner. There also will be a free coat drive, free family games, and free shuttle rides to the school from Taylor Elementary. An entry ticket will be given at the door. Limit one dinner and coat per person or child. You must be present to participate. To donate to this effort, visit https://elweb.app/puqdayr
Coats for Kids and Christmas Food Assistance
Those in need of assistance during the Christmas season are encouraged to apply now for aid through the Salvation Army Kokomo Corps’ Coats for Kids and Christmas Food Assistance programs. Applications are being taken by appointment only on Mondays and Tuesdays through Nov. 19. To make an appointment, call 765-456-3846. Make sure to bring a photo ID for all adults, recent proof of address, and either a birth certificate, a Medicaid card, or Social Security card for each child. Those applying for food assistance must bring proof of income and expenses for the last 30 days.
Apprenticeship Accelerator
Ivy Tech Community College Kokomo is inviting area employers and educators to a program that will focus on the value of apprenticeships and the ways the model is being expanded into new career fields. The Apprenticeship Accelerator program is scheduled as part of National Apprenticeship Week (Nov. 17-23) and is set for 9 a.m. until noon on Thu., Nov. 21, in Hingst Hall on the Ivy Tech campus. For more information about this event, contact Mariola Hernandez at mhernandez35@ivytech.edu or call 574-398-6097. Register for this event by visiting https://rb.gy/db83ft
Go Screenless at IUK
Indiana University Kokomo Chancellor Mark Canada will host Screenless – two hours of reading, sketching, journaling, and social time – on the third Thursday of each month at the Kelley House on the Indiana University Kokomo campus from 3-5 p.m. From 3-4 p.m., books from the chancellor’s extensive library, along with pencils and sketchbooks, will be available, and attendees are welcome to bring their own reading or art materials. From 4-5 p.m., a guest artist, musician, scholar, craftsperson, or local leader will offer a program. The next session is Thu., Nov. 21.
Coat Giveaway
Coordinated Assistance Ministries, 625 N. Union St., will hold a coat giveaway on Fri., Nov. 22, as part of Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week. From 3-6 p.m., coats will be available in sizes for the entire family. CAM also will offer scarves, gloves, and hats. For more information, call 765-452-8963 or visit www.camhope.org
‘Rocking Kokomo by Candlelight’
The Kokomo Symphony will offer “Rocking Kokomo by Candlelight,” a fundraising event, on Fri., Nov. 22, at The Hobson, 110 N. Washington St. Doors open at 6 p.m. with charcuterie boards and a cash bar. The KSO rock quintet begins performing at 7 p.m. A live auction and more music will follow. The orchestra will perform music from Queen, Coldplay, Led Zeppelin, and more. Tickets for this event are $30 and are available by call9ing 765-236-0251 or by visiting www.kokomosymphony.net .
Carver Youth Basketball
Basketball at the Carver Community Center, 1030 N. Purdum St., will be as strong as it's ever been, with more than 50 teams and 400 players expected again this year. The goal is to provide quality basketball at every level, giving kids an enjoyable learning experience without losing competitiveness. This year will re-introduce a player draft, which will be an experience the kids will not forget for some time. Draft Night will be a “Red Carpet” event. Player selections will be announced with a gym full of applause from family and friends. Individual registrants will participate in this event and be selected for a team by coaches who have opted in to the draft. There will be coaches who opt out of draft to keep players from the previous year. Only coaches that register as a non-Carver team can register as a full team. There will be divisions by grade levels for boys and girls: K-2; 3-5; 6-8; and 9-12. There will be 10 games in the season, and one practice each week. There also will be a Holiday Tournament. Registration is open until Nov. 22 at a cost of $90. Register by visiting www.kokomocarver.org.
Inspired by Nature
Visit the Inspired by Nature exhibition at the Kokomo Art Center, 525 W. Ricketts St., now through Nov. 23. Enjoy a selection of 22 nature influenced artworks created by local artists Myndie Everling, Lisa Freeland, Lana Kirtley, Tammy Roe, Robert Wavra, Shelley Wilder, Keith Woods, and Lesley Wysong; Autumnal paintings from the KAA permanent collection are interspersed throughout the exhibition including works by Dorothy Barnes, Francis Clark Brown, Lydia Hankemeier, Seth Mast, Shirley Quakenbush, Geraldine Armstrong Scott, and Kenn Torno. The KAA is open Tuesdays-Saturdays from 1-4 p.m. The exhibit is free and open to the public. Visit kaaonline.org for more information.
Bobkats Try-Out
The Kokomo Bobkats pro basketball team will hold their first try-out on Sun., Nov. 24, from 1-4 p.m. at the Carver Community Center, 1030 N. Purdum St. Door open at noon. The fee for a try-out spot is $175 until the day of the event. The fee will be $200 at the door that day. Register by clicking here.
Turkey Trot
The Kokomo Family YMCA will present its annual Turkey Trot 5K on Nov. 28. Run the race before you stuff your face! This is a timed, family-friendly run/walk race. Participants receive a t-shirt and a medal. Proceeds from the event benefit the YMCA’s annual campaign. Register now by clicking here.
Wild for Pollinators
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will a “Wild for Pollinators” exhibition of paintings and photographs at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, through Nov. 30. Gallery hours are 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and from 2-5:30 p.m. on Sundays.
Community Cereal Drive
Join the Center Township Trustee’s Office in aiding the Hand Up Food Pantry’s Community Cereal Drive. Now through Nov. 30, you can help families in Center Township by donating kids’ cereal, granola, hot oatmeal, or any other non-perishable breakfast items. Drop off your items at the Center Township Trustee’s Office, 213 E. Jefferson St., during normal operating hours. Monetary donations also are accepted. To make arrangements for items to be picked up, or for any questions, call 765-452-8259.
Kokomo Christmas Parade
The City of Kokomo’s annual Christmas Parade will take place Sat., Dec. 7, in downtown Kokomo. The parade will begin at 6:30 p.m. Additional details to come.
Holiday Extravaganza
Silver Birch of Kokomo, 408 S. Washington St., invites the community to attend its annual Holiday Extravaganza on Fri., Dec. 13, from 3:30-5:30 p.m. There will be a candy cane scavenger hunt, games, cookies, Christmas shopping booths from local vendors, a silent auction of baked goods and crafts, music by DJ Tic Toc and a visit from Santa Claus.
Battle of the Christmas Cookies
Kokomo Urban Outreach will hold its annual Battle of the Christmas Cookies on Sat., Dec. 14, from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. at Northside Village Church, 2430 N. Jay St. Enter your favorite Christmas cookies for prizes and bragging rights. Cookies will be available by the dozen for a donation. Enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells of Christmas with the UP programs. For more information, or to be a baker, judge, or sponsor of this event, call 765-457-1983 or email boccookies@gmail.com
YMCA Winter Camp
No school, no problem! Registration for Winter Camp at YMCA Camp Tycony is now open! Winter Camp will run on select dates from December 23 - January 3. Winter Camp will be “snow” much fun for everyone! Your camper will have the opportunity to participate in various outdoor activities (weather-permitting), indoor activities, and extra-special Christmas-themed activities. You won't want to miss this! To register, visit https://operations.daxko.com/Online/5014/ProgramsV2/Home.mvc
New Year’s Bash
Join Rhine Hall Entertainment and Events in celebrating one year in operation as well as the arrival of a new year! Rhine Hall, 507 N. Union St., will hold a New Year’s Bash on Tue., Dec. 31. Doors will open at 8 p.m., and dinner will be served as 8:30 p.m. At 9 p.m. Mike Milligan and Steam Shovel will be joined by the United States Blues Band for a concert to welcome 2025. Tickets are available now at the pre-sale price of $85 each. Admission includes party favors, a champagne toast, and a photo booth. Visit www.rhinehallevents.com/event-details-registration/new-years-eve-bash to purchase tickets.
Homestead Exemptions
Now is the time to file the homestead exemption on your property! If you purchased or refinanced a home in 2024, or if you added or removed anyone from the deed to your home via quit claim, you will need to file for a homestead exemption to your property taxes. An exemption is valid only for your primary residence. File your mortgage and/or homestead exemptions at the Howard County Auditor’s Office, 220 N. Main St., Room 222, by Dec. 31, 2024.