What's Happening This Week?
Events taking place in Kokomo and Howard County from Jan. 21-27 and beyond
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TODAY
Genealogy for Sunday Owls
Ready to dig into your family’s past? Looking for that document, article, or obituary to connect you to your ancestors? Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Sun., Jan. 21, from 2-5:30 p.m. for Genealogy for Sunday Owls. This is light research event is located at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. Register by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking Events or by calling any KHCPL location.
MONDAY
MLK Events This Week
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Omicron Phi Omega Chapter, in partnership with Indiana University Kokomo, is hosting many events in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. this week. The main event features guest speaker Congressman Jonathan Jackson, Representative of Illinois First Congressional District. Born to civil rights leaders Rev. Jesse Jackson and Jacqueline Jackson, the fight for underrepresented people runs in Congressman Jackson’s blood. He has long been an advocate for marginalized communities using his platform to fight for equity and civil rights. He will speak on Sun., Jan. 28 at 3 p.m. in Havens Auditorium, 2300 S. Washington St, on the IU Kokomo campus. Other events include the movie, “Selma” at 5:30 p.m. at Indiana University Kokomo on Mon., Jan. 22, and on Sat., Jan. 27, the documentary film, “Rooted in Love, Lifted in Strength” on the Pettiford/Weaver family, will be shown at Second Missionary Baptist Church at 3 p.m.
Walk a Mile in My Shoes
Registration opens on Mon., Jan. 22, for the Kokomo Rescue Mission’s annual Walk a Mile in My Shoes fundraiser. The event will take place on Sat., Feb. 24. Kick-off will take place at the rescue mission, 321 W. Mulberry St., at 8 a.m. Register as a team or as an individual walker by visiting www.kokomorescuemission.org/walk-a-mile-2024. Once you have registered, stop by the mission to pick up your packet, Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m., or download it from the mission’s website. If you are part of a team, only the captain of your team needs to register.
KPRD Summer Softball League
Registration opens on Jan. 22 for the 2024 Kokomo Parks and Recreation Department’s Summer Softball League, and runs through March 1. Register for men’s, women’s, or co-ed softball. League play begins April 22. For information about fees and other details, contact the KPRD office at 765-456-7275 or visit www.cityofkokomo.org.
New Baby Bunch
Do you have a new bundle of joy? Or do you feel like you’re in the trenches of parenting? Join the New Baby Bunch for friendship, support, and to share your parenting journey with other caregivers. The group will meet on Mon., Jan. 22, from 9:30-11 a.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. Caregivers with a baby ages birth to 12 months are welcome to participate. Older siblings are welcome to join also.
Monday Fun Day
Children ages 2-5 and their adult caregivers will explore early literacy, math, and science activities and a variety of hands-on skill centers, which develop kindergarten readiness at Monday Fun Day. This event takes place at the Russiaville branch of the Kokomo Howard County Public Library, 305 Mesa Dr., on Mon., Jan. 22, from 10 a.m. until noon.
Sew Much
Teens and adults can drop in to learn sewing or quilting basics or get help with their projects at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Sew Much event on Mon., Jan. 22, from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. and from 4-7 p.m. Sewing machines provided. This event takes place at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road.
In the Know Doc Talk
The Kokomo Family YMCA will present Dr. Dana Stewart and her “In the Know Doc Talk” on Mon., Jan. 22, at 12:30 p.m. The talk will take place in the YMCA’s Community Room, 114 N. Union St. Dr. Stewart will delve into the intriguing topic of brain development in infants and toddlers up to age 3. This insightful talk will provide valuable knowledge on how to foster healthy brain development in children. This event is free to the community. Dr. Stewart is an American Board of Pediatrics-certified pediatrician and owner of Meadows Medical Center in Kokomo. She has been in private practice for more than five years and has practiced pediatrics for more than 20 years.
Growing Readers: Tiny Tykes
Introduce your little one to quality literature and the library in a fun, inviting way with age-appropriate activities on Mon., Jan. 22, from 2-2:30 p.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. This event is designed for children ages 0-2.
BP Screenings at the Library
Community Howard Regional Health offers free blood pressure screenings at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library. This is an opportunity to ask questions about chronic diseases and medication management and to receive information on primary care doctors as well as receive a blood pressure check. The next screening will take place on Mon., Jan. 22, from 3:30-5:30 p.m. at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St.
Board Game Night
Snacks and board games! Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Mon., Jan. 22, for a fun evening playing games like WarMachine, Dice Throne, Marvel United, Marvel Champions, and Riot Quest! This event takes place at the library’s Russiaville branch, 305 Mesa Dr., from 5:30-8:30 p.m. for teens and adults.
Drums Alive!
Build a sense of community while doing cardio at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Drums Alive! – Family Beats session on Mon., Jan. 22, from 6:30-7:15 p.m. The event will take place at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. Please wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Register by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking Events or by calling any KHCPL location.
TUESDAY
Mental Health Access Days
Are you an adult struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenge? Meet with a professional from 4C Health who can connect you to the support and services you need. Mental Health Access Days are held each Tuesday from 9 a.m. until noon at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St.
Artventure – Exploring the Masters
Discover the world of art through the styles and techniques of renowned artist Vincent Van Gogh. Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Tue., Jan. 23, from 5:30-6:30 p.m. for this exploration of artistic masters at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St.
Gentle Yoga
Curious about yoga and want to give it a try? Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library as you explore this unique exercise program. The event takes place at the Jeff Stout Community Center, 650 W. North St., in Russiaville on Tue. Jan. 23, from 5:30-6:30 p.m.
WEDNESDAY
Legal Aid Clinic
Need Pro bono representation? Have questions for an attorney? Apply with Pro Bono Indiana, Inc. to get the legal assistance you need at no cost to you! This service will be provided at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., from 9 a.m until noon. No appointment needed.
Growing Readers: Little Learners
Introduce your little one to quality literature and the library in a fun, inviting way with age-appropriate activities on Wed., Jan. 24, from 10-10:45 a.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. This event is designed for children ages 3-5.
Shelfie Spectacular
Get ready to show off your literary style and bookish pride at our Shelfie Day event! Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Wed., Jan. 24, for National Library Shelfie Day. Capture your favorite bookshelf arrangement and celebrate the love of reading with fellow bibliophiles! This event takes place at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., from 4-6 p.m.
Manga and Anime Club
Interested in manga and anime? Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Wed., Jan. 24, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Watch and discuss the anime “One Piece” while completing a fun craft! The event takes place at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. Register by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
Blind Tiger Comedy Open Mic
Blind Tiger Comedy hosts an open mic comedy night each Wednesday evening at 9 p.m. at the Elbow Room, 1004 N. Washington St. Anyone is welcome to take to the microphone to try to make people laugh.
THURSDAY
Essential Skills for Managers
Ivy Tech Community College is offering a one-day, instructor-led, training course to prepare leaders for supervisory positions in the workplace. The course, Essential Skills for Managers, will be offered on Thursday, Jan. 25, at Ivy Tech’s Logansport campus, 1 Ivy Tech Drive. The class is set to go from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The $155 fee includes class materials, and a 45-minute working lunch is provided. To register for the Essential Skills for Managers class or for more information, contact Bonnie Devers, program manager for Ivy+ Career Link at Ivy Tech Kokomo, at bdevers3@ivytech.edu or 765-252-5497.
Kindermusik Wiggle and Grow
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library for singing, dancing, and instrument play, which promote cognitive development! Kindermusik Wiggle and Grow will be held at the library’s Russiaville branch, 305 Mesa Dr., on Thu., Jan. 25, from 10-10:30 a.m. for children ages 0-3. Your child's movements stimulate the release of chemicals in the brain to support memory and learning!
Growing Readers: Little Learners
Introduce your little one to quality literature and the library in a fun, inviting way with age-appropriate activities on Thu., Jan. 25, from 11-11:45 a.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. This event is designed for children ages 3-5.
Teen Art Group
Would you like the chance to sketch, color, and paint regularly with your friends? Then join the Teen Art Group at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., on Thu., Jan. 25, from 4-5 p.m.
Discovery Center: 3D Pens
Have fun and meet new friends playing with the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s collection of low-tech and high-tech games and activities. On Thu., Jan. 25, have fun with 3D pens at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., from 4-6 p.m. This event is designed for children ages 8-13.
Sunshine Salutations
This fun and energizing kids’ yoga class introduces them to the magical world of Sun Salutations. Embark on a journey of movement, mindfulness, and imagination with the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Thu., Jan. 25, from 4:30-5:15 p.m. at the south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. This event is designed for children ages 3-11.
Teen Writers Group
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a Writers Group for teen amateur fiction writers on Thu., Jan. 25, from 5:05-6 p.m. at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. Write something to submit and critique. Teens who enjoy writing and want honest feedback are invited to attend. Register for this event by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking Events.
Doing the Dream
Ivy Tech Community College Kokomo presents Doing the Dream 2024, featuring Dr. Monique Couvson, on Thu., Jan. 25, beginning at 5:30 p.m. in Ivy Tech’s Hingst Hall, 1815 E. Morgan St. Tickets are $60 per person and are available by calling 765-252-5501.
FRIDAY
Growing Readers: Tiny Tykes
Introduce your little one to quality literature and the library in a fun, inviting way with age-appropriate activities on Fri., Jan. 26, from 10-10:45 a.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. This event is designed for children ages 0-2.
Drums Alive! Homeschool Beats
Build a sense of community while doing cardio at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Drums Alive! – Homeschool Beats session on Fri., Jan. 26, from 2:30-3:15 p.m. The event will take place at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. Please wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Register by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking Events or by calling any KHCPL location.
Viva Las Vista
Join Bona Vista Programs on Fri., Jan. 26, for the return of Viva Las Vista, a casino night fundraiser benefitting Bona Vista Programs. The event will take place at The Venue at Brookestone, 1201 W. Alto Road, beginning at 6 p.m. There will be live casino games, food, and drinks. Tickets are available now for $40 or $70 for a couple. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Visit the Bona Vista Facebook page for more information and to purchase tickets. Or call Brittany at 765-457-8274, ext. 1330.
Reel Relaxation
Escape from the cold for an evening of fun with the Kokomo Howard County Public Library as we watch Paramount's "80 for Brady" starring four incredibly funny women and Harry Hamlin. This event takes place at the library’s Russiaville branch, 305 Mesa Dr., on Fri., Jan. 26, from 6:30-8:30 p.m.
SATURDAY
Reading with Pet Partners
Kids can practice their reading skills by reading to trained therapy animals at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., on Sat., Jan. 27, from 11 a.m. until noon.
Whodunnit? Live Clue
Teens will have the chance to don a new identity and play a live game of Clue at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, on Sat., Jan. 27, from 2-5 p.m. Register for this event by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
Poetry Open Mic Night
The Poetry Society of Indiana is emceeing a poetry open mic night at Pizza Junkiez, 2930 S. Washington St., on Sat., Jan. 27, from 6-8 p.m. Any poets from the Kokomo area are welcome to attend and share their work! Be ready to share your social media presence and/or published works.
COMING SOON
Free Mammograms
If you're uninsured or experiencing financial hardship, Advanced Medical Imaging, 2008 W. Boulevard St., is providing free mammograms to local women in need. Call 765-454-9729 or click here to schedule the appointment today: https://www.amikokomo.com/3d-screening-mammogram-appointments/
Free Tax Prep Service
The United Way serving Howard and Tipton Counties will begin offering free tax preparation services to the community on Mon., Jan. 29. The tax preparation service uses IRS-certified tax preparers and guarantees you will receive 100 percent of your refund, with no fees or interest. The United Way’s tax preparers will also e-file your return and provide free Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit screenings. Starting Jan. 29, pick up a packet which has instructions on what information needs to be provided. Complete the forms in the packet and return it to any of these sites: Kokomo Howard County Public Library Downtown, 220 N. Union St.; Kokomo Howard County Public Library South, 1755 E. Center Road; Kokomo Howard County Public Library Russiaville, 305 Mesa Dr.; Greentown Public Library, 421 S. Harrison St.; Tipton Public Library, 127 E. Madison St. For additional information, call 765-450-7619 or email freetaxprep@unitedwayhoco.org .
Lunch and Learn
The Kokomo Family YMCA and Community Howard Regional Health will present a Lunch and Learn on Fri., Feb. 2, from 12:10-12:50 p.m. in the YMCA’s Community Room, 114 N. Union St. Join Nurse Practitioners Stella Taber and Patricia Keegan from Community Heart and Vascular Care for a discussion around heart health. Stella and Patricia will identify the risk factors for heart disease and discuss steps to protect your heart health, as well as recommended screenings and services available at Community Howard Regional Health. Register here: https://www.ecommunity.com/events/2024/first-friday-lunch-and-learn-february. A free lunch will be provided to the first 60 who register for this 40-minute Lunch and Learn. Registration ends Jan. 29.
Paint a Poem
Calling young artists and dreamers! The Kokomo Howard County Public Library presents a creative adventure exploring the beautiful world of "Brown Girl Dreaming" by Jacqueline Woodson through art. The event takes place Tue., Jan. 30, from 6-7 p.m. at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. This event is designed for children ages 6-11. Register by visiting, www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events, or by calling any KHCPL location.
Prune with Precision
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Tue., Jan. 30, to learn how to prune those evergreen and deciduous shrubs that seem to always be overgrown with Master Gardener Buddy Knepley! The event takes place from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at the library’s Russiaville branch, 305 Mesa Dr.
County Museum Reopens
The Howard County Historical Museum and Seiberling Mansion are currently closed for cleaning and redecorating. They will reopen on Feb. 1. Until then, the historical society office and archives remain open during regular hours, Tues.-Fri. from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. For information, call 765-452-4314 or email info@howardcountytmuseum.org .
Russiaville Girls Softball
Spring sign-up for the Russiaville Girls Softball League is open online until Feb. 1 and in person until Feb. 4. The league will have 8U, 10U, and 12U divisions. Late registrations will be assigned to a waiting list. The number of teams will depend upon the number of girls registered and the number of volunteer coaches available. All girls will need to have a copy of their birth certificate. Tryouts will be held for all divisions on Feb. 11. Cost of registration is $105 per child, and fees are due at the time of registration. This includes a concession stand fee that can be reimbursed by working shifts at the concession stand. For additional information, email rgsl1977@yahoo.com. Register by visiting Welcome | Spring 2024 softball | Russiaville Girls Softball League (sportngin.com)
Black Pearls Exhibition
The Kokomo Art Association presents the 2nd Annual Black Pearls Exhibition, featuring wisdom, beauty, and culture from a Black viewpoint. The event takes place Fri., Feb. 2, from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at Artworks Gallery, 210 N. Main St. Artists on display at the event include Ramona Daniels, Sukari Woodson, Janice Purnell, J.C. Barnett III, Tashema Davis, Shailyn Nash, and Sunday Mahaja. The event also will feature ethnographer Robin Williams and her work, “MAMA AFRICA: Journey of a Lifetime,” and Gilead House founder Reba Harris, signing her book, “Living Life after the Fires of my Sorrows.” This event is free to attend. Artwork on display will be available for sale.
Comedy Night for the Humane Society
Sun King Kokomo, 500 N. Buckeye St., is proud to host the 2nd Annual Kokomo Humane Society Comedy Show on Fri., Feb. 2. Brace yourself for an uproarious night of laughter featuring Brian Pitre, Kristin Carnes, and Alex Ortiz. These talented comedians are sure to tickle your funny bone. Each ticket includes access to the hors d'oeuvre table and one beverage. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and the show starts at 7 p.m. The comedy show is located in the upstairs Depot Room, which is not handicap accessible. Adult material may be discussed during the performances. Tickets are available in the Sun King Kokomo taproom or at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2nd-annual-kokomo-humane-society-comedy-show-tickets-774550670907?fbclid=IwAR22bjNNVduWIKl1GvnmVEClB808zI_Ktxdv5xrDBsyD4zp_vlHXNDzy1lw
Decade of Dreams Black-Tie Event
Kokomo CEO, a program designed to shape youth of today into the entrepreneurs of tomorrow, will hold a black-tie (optional) celebration, “Decade of Dreams: A Night to Remember,” on Sat., Feb. 3, from 6-9:30 p.m. at The Venue, 1201 W. Alto Road. Tickets are $60 each. Get ready for a night of pure magic and good vibes. Magician Chris Egelston will bring his A-game with mind-blowing tricks that'll leave you in awe. Dinner? A feast of deliciousness brought to you by Rozzi's Catering that'll make your taste buds dance. There also will be guest speakers and live entertainment. Secure your spot at the town's must-attend event! Visit www.ceoxgala.com for additional information and to purchase tickets.
Greentown Softball 2024
Registration is open for the Greentown Girls Softball League for girls seeking to join 6U, 8U, 10U, 12U, and middle school teams. Registration will close Feb. 3. To register, visit www.greentownsoftball.com . Gyms are open at Eastern High School every Saturday until the weather is good enough to be on the fields. Middle school softball players practice from 10-11 a.m. in the multipurpose room (MPR) and 11 a.m. until noon in the auxiliary gym (AG). Enter through Door #8. 12U players have open gym from 10-11 a.m. in AG and from 11 a.m. until noon in the MPR. 10U players have open gym from 8-8:45 a.m. in AG and from 9-9:45 a.m. in MPR. 8U players have open gym from 8-8:45 a.m. in MPR and from 9-9:45 a.m. in AG. 6U players have open gym from 9-9:45 a.m. in AG.
D&D Miniature Painting
Want to get into painting Dungeons & Dragons miniatures, but don't know where to start? Throughout this series, Shawn Hilton from Comics Cubed will teach you all the steps to paint incredible miniatures! The first class takes place on Sun., Feb. 4, from 2:30-4:30 p.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Digital Den, 220 N. Union St. Register by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
Winter Blues Busters
Beat the winter blues with the Kokomo Howard County Library by joining them for a fun afternoon of Play-Doh play, created specifically to brighten the dark days of winter. The event takes place at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., on Mon., Feb. 5, from 4-5 p.m. This event is designed for children ages 3-13.
Dragon Delight
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Tue., Feb. 6, from 6-7 p.m. for a Lunar New Year extravaganza! The event takes place at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. This celebration is designed especially for children and families, offering a magical journey into the heart of the Lunar New Year festivities.
Single Mingle
Meet new friends and other singles in the area at the Single Mingle Meet-a-Friend event on Fri., Feb. 9, ay 5:30 p.m. at Sun King Kokomo, 500 N. Buckeye St. Enjoy food, karaoke, and games during the event. Tickets are $25, and registration is required. Please register by Feb. 1. Sponsored by Widow’s Purse, City of Firsts Cremation, Sun King, and B.A. Star Productions.
Valentine’s Gala
Preserve Marriage Ministries presents a Valentine’s Gala on Sat., Feb. 10, from 6-10 p.m. at Bel-Air Events, 3014 S. Webster St. The evening will include appetizers, a disc jockey, a three-course dinner, live and silent auctions, and dancing. The cost $75 per couple. Attire is semi-formal. Call 864-2100 or visit www.preservemarriages.com/valentines-gala for tickets.
Saints Gala
Sts. Joan of Arc and Patrick School presents the first Saints Gala: A Mardi Gras Masquerade, on Sat., Feb. 10, at 6 p.m., located at The Hobson, 110 N. Washington St. Cocktail attire and masks encouraged. This is an age 21 and over event, featuring an evening of dinner and dancing. A cash bar will be available. There will be a silent auction, and sponsorship opportunities are available. Tickets can be obtained at the parish offices or by visiting http://surl.li/nizxp.
SOC Breakfast Club
Turning Point System of Care will hold its monthly SOC Breakfast Club on Fri., Feb. 16, from 8:30-9:30 a.m. at Turning Point, 1234 N. Courtland Ave. Light breakfast and coffee are provided. The speaker for the event will be Devon Jones, talking about Whole Person Health and Wellness in Recovery. This event is free and open to the entire community.
SCAN Family Trampoline Night
SCAN (Stop Child Abuse and Neglect) will hold a free family trampoline night at Gravity Trampoline Park, 1201 S. Reed Road, on Fri., Feb. 23, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. The event is held in conjunction with Turning Point - A System of Care/REACH and Tobacco Free Howard County. Each participating family will receive free admission to Gravity, plus future passes for the trampoline park. Each family member also will receive a free slice of pizza, a drink, and a pair of Gravity Grip Socks. A waiver must be signed before participating in activities. This is a substance-free social and recreational event.
Kokomo Art Association Photo Show
The Kokomo Art Association presents the 2024 Photo Show, March 1-30, at Artworks Gallery, 210 N. Main St. Do you have an eye for artful photography? Have you wanted an opportunity to share your gifts with others who appreciate photo art? Entry forms for the show are available at Artworks or online at www.kaaonline.org. Works must be dropped off on Sat., Feb. 24, from noon to 4 p.m. For additional information, contact Cheryl at kokomoartassociation2014@gmail.com.
Community Foundation Scholarships
Applications are being accepted now for general scholarships from the Community Foundation Serving Howard, Clinton, and Carroll Counties. Seniors, now is the time to apply! One application will help you apply to all the scholarships for which you are eligible. The application deadline is March 1. To apply, visit https://www.grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=cfhinscholarship&fbclid=IwAR1_QM2RgO1fve_uHUdhb8qB-WpwLVnwmD7KuNdT38kQjEjW8kyzVz2-OV8
Empty Bowl
Kokomo Urban Outreach’s Empty Bowl fundraising event is coming March 8! Save the date now. More information to follow. Help KUO teach kids important life skills, a work ethic, and responsibility by participating in this fun event, which will include the auction of painted bowls designed by KUO youth and local “celebrities.” For more information, call 765-252-9954.