What's Happening This Week?
Events in the Kokomo and Howard County area taking place Feb. 5-11 and beyond
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TODAY
Crab Cakes and Murder
Curtain Call Theatre for Children will present a production of “Crab Cakes and Murder” on Feb. 5 at 2 p.m. at the Curtain Call Studio, 2114 N. Armstrong St. Reserved seating is $10. Get tickets by visiting www.kcctc.booktix.com, by emailing info@kcctc.org, or by calling 765-236-6522.
Kokomo Civic Theatre Auditions
Auditions for Kokomo Civic Theatre’s April musical, “The Marvelous Wonderettes,” will be held on Sun., Feb. 5 at 6 p.m. at the KCT Warehouse, 722 N. McCann St. Callbacks will be held on Tue., Feb. 7. “The Marvelous Wonderettes” is being directed by Eily Hite. There are roles for four women. The first act is set at the 1958 Springfield High School prom, and the second act takes place at the 10-year reunion in 1968. Some of the songs include “Mr. Sandman,” “Lollipop,” “Dreamlover,” “Stupid Cupid,” “Secret Love,” “Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me,” “You Don’t Own Me,” “It’s My Party,” and “Leader of the Pack.” Show dates are April 14, 15, 16.
MONDAY
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 Very Early Childhood Education Center on Mon., Feb. 6, from 10-10:45 a.m. for children ages 18 months to 3 years. Your child's movements stimulate the release of chemicals in the brain to support memory and learning!
Real Estate Education Seminar
The Indiana University Kokomo Black Student Center will present “What’s Your Plan?” a seminar to teach real estate tactics, strategies, and hacks to financial freedom on Mon., Feb. 6, from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. at the IUK Kelley Student Center, Room KC 130, 2300 S. Washington St. Speakers for the event include Realtor Angelina Sims, loan originator Haven Russell, insurance agent Karen Julkes, and loan originator Brandon Arnett. Lunch will be provided by the IUK Café. To register, test your name and e-mail address to 765-603-9298.
STEAM Mania Fun and Games
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library for science, technology, engineering, art, and math-related games while making new friends. This event will take place on Mon., Feb. 6, from 3-5 p.m. at the library’s Russiaville location, 315 Mesa Dr.
St. Patrick School Gym Grand Opening
Sts. Joan of Arc and Patrick School will hold a grand opening of its St. Patrick campus gym renovation, 1230 N. Armstrong St., on Mon., Feb. 6, at 5 p.m. A ribbon cutting will take place at 5 p.m., followed by an exhibition basketball game. Free cotton candy and popcorn will be provided while supplies last.
Valentine Assembly Line
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a Valentine Assembly Line service project for kids on Mon., Feb. 6, from 6-7 p.m. at the south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. Kids ages 8-13 will learn teamwork and the value of serving the community by using an assembly line technique to create cards to donate to senior centers. Register for this event by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking Events or by calling any KHCPL location.
TUESDAY
Free Mental Health Walk-In Clinic
Are you an adult struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges? Come talk confidentially to a 4C associate who will help you find help locally. The walk-in clinic will be held on Tue., Feb. 7, from 9 a.m. until noon at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St.
KUBS softball registration
Kokomo United Softball will hold league assessments for the players on Feb. 7 and 9 from 5-8 p.m. at Sycamore Elementary School, 1600 E. Sycamore St. There are leagues available for children ages 4-15. Payments may be made by debit, credit, or ACH. Payment plans are available, and those needing financial assistance should email kokomokubs@gmail.com. To register, visit https://kokomounited.leagueapps.com/
Bilingual Story Time
Introduce your child to the Kokomo Howard County Public Library and bilingual literature in a fun way by reading stories in English and either French, Spanish, or Japanese. This event takes place at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., on Tue., Feb. 7 and 21, from 4:30-5 p.m., and includes age-appropriate activities and a snack.
Narcan and Harm Reduction Training
Turning Point Systems of Care will provide training about Narcan and harm reduction for anyone wanting to know more about the medication and the legal protections for those administering Narcan. This session will take place on Tue., Feb. 7, from 6:30-7 p.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St.
WEDNESDAY
KHCPL Russiaville Book Discussion
Expand your reading horizons by joining the Kokomo Howard County Public Library as it holds a discussion about the book “Dial A for Aunties” by Mary Roach on Wed., Feb. 8, from 10-11:30 a.m. at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. Registration for this event is required by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking Events.
Drums Alive
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold Drums Alive sessions for all ages. Family Beats for all ages will be held at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., from 5-6 p.m. on Feb. 8 and 15. Wear comfy clothes and shoes and join the library to use drumsticks and an exercise ball for a fun activity for all ages and abilities. Equipment is limited, so register each person participating by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
THURSDAY
KHCPL Book Discussion
Expand your reading horizons by joining the Kokomo Howard County Public Library as it holds a discussion about the book “Packing for Mars” by Jesse Q. Sutanto on Thu., Feb. 9, from 1-2 p.m. at the library’s Russiavlle branch, 315 Mesa Dr. Registration for this event is required by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking Events.
Teen Writers Group
Do you like to write stories? Do you want a chance to sharpen your creative writing and critiquing skills and receive feedback from your peers? Then join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library for a session of the Teen Writers Group on Thu., Feb. 9, from 5-6 p.m. at the main branch, 220 N. Union St. This event is for students in middle school and high school.
FRIDAY
DIY Valentine’s Day Pouch
Visit the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Digital Den, 220 N. Union St., to make something for your sweetheart. They will teach you how to apply Cricut vinyl to a pouch. The event takes place on Fri., Feb. 10, from 1-2 p.m. Registration for this event is required by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking Events.
Broadway Bliss
Kokomo Community Concerts proudly presents “Gary Mauer: Broadway Bliss” on Fri., Feb. 10, at 7 p.m., at Kokomo High School. Mauer is a Broadway and national tour actor who starred in leading roles in Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables, and Show Boat. Mauer, his wife Elizabeth Southard, and accompanist Dan Riddle will perform Broadway favorites from Phantom of the Opera, Les Mis, Gypsy, South Pacific, The Bridges of Madison County, Boys from Syracuse, The Music Man, West Side Story, My Fair Lady, and other Broadway classics. Single tickets are $20 for adults. Students and children accompanied by a ticketed adult are admitted at no cost. Tickets are available at the door by 6:30 p.m. or by calling 765-210-0686.
SATURDAY
Walk a Mile in My Shoes
The Kokomo Rescue Mission fundraiser Walk a Mile in My Shoes has been scheduled for Sat., Feb. 11. This event is a one-mile walk where teams or individuals walk to raise support for the Mission’s women’s shelters. The walk begins at the rescue mission, 321 W. Mulberry St., at 8 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. and takes participants to the mission’s Watered Garden and Open Arms women’s shelters. The purpose of the walk in harsh winter weather is to help simulate the challenges faced by the homeless at this time of year. The goal is to raise $150,000 to support the shelters and mission programs. The top three fundraising teams will be awarded travelling trophies, as will the top school team. For additional information, visit www.kokomorescuemission.org.
Play Dough Play
If you think play dough is just for fun, think again! Kids will use it to build a variety of skills: learning their ABCs, listening, storytelling, and more. This event takes place on Sat., Feb. 11, from 10:30-11:30 a.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, and is designed for children ages 6-11.
Valentine Luncheon and Bake Sale
Join the Howard County Democrats as they host a Valentine Luncheon and Bake Sale on Sat., Feb. 11, beginning at 11 a.m. at Howard County Democratic Party headquarters. The event includes lunch and a guest speaker. Tickets are $15 and can be obtained by visiting First Annual Valentine's Day Luncheon & BakeSale Tickets, Sat, Feb 11, 2023 at 11:00 AM | Eventbrite
Curtain Call FUNdraiser
Curtain Call Theatre for Children will hold a variety show FUNdraiser on Sat., Feb. 11, at the Elite Event Center, 2820 S. Lafountain St., from 1-3 p.m. The show will include performances by Sally Duke, Anna Ely, Sloan Gilbert, Kyle Johnson, Jeff Carnagua and Family, Lucy Featherston, Chloe VanWinkle, Olivia Steele, Toni Price, Samantha DeTurk, Alannah Smith, Kelsey Donson, Colburn Lambert, Claire Orcutt, Dustin Huddleston, the Legacy Dance Studio Dancers and more. Tickets are $15 and may be purchased by calling 765-236-6522, by emailing info@kcctc.org, or by visiting www.kcctc.Booktix.com.
Craft Corner
Drop in to decorate a Mason jar for your kitchen, dining room, fireplace mantle, or bathroom at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, on Sat., Feb. 11, from 1-3 p.m. Registration is not required, however, supplies will be limited to the first 20 participants.
Dungeons and Dragons Terrain Painting
In the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Digital Den, 220 N. Union St., they have printed 3D terrain free for you so you can learn the basics of painting terrain and miniatures to have a more immersive Dungeons and Dragons experience. This event takes place on Sat., Feb. 11, from 2-5 p.m.
Relay for Life Chili Supper
Relay for Life will hold a 2023 Chili Supper Kickoff on Sat., Feb. 11, from 5-7 p.m. at VFW Post 1152, 920 N. Washington St. For additional information, contact Gary Hight by emailing inclassof81@aol.com
Valentine’s Date Night
Welcome to date night! You’ll be getting your hands dirty and adding a touch of your heart while working on the pottery wheel on Sat., Feb. 11, at 5 p.m. or 7 p.m. at the Fired Arts Studio, 106 N. Main St. All participants will have an opportunity to experience the pottery wheel with assistance from instructor Jeremy South. We will work 2 by 2 on the pottery wheel during the class. Each participant will be making their very own mug as well as hand-building a small vase. You’ll then get to choose glaze options to paint your pieces. All work will be dried, clear glazes fired and bagged for pickup at Fired Arts Studio about four weeks after the class. The cost is $65 per person for the basic experience or $150 per couple for the value-added experience, which includes a box of J. Edwards Fine chocolates and a fresh flower bouquet. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit Upcoming Workshops | Fired Arts Studio.
International Art Gala
Central Middle International School, 303 E. Superior St., will hold an International Art Gala on Sat., Feb. 11, from 6-9 p.m. Enjoy a Spanish-inspired meal by Rozzi’s Catering, presentations by Kokomo High School and International students, live performances by the Kokomo Dance Team, Central Jazz Band and Orchestra, and live and silent auctions. Festive attire is encouraged. Tickets can be purchased at the school for $25 per person or $45 per couple. For more information, call 765-454-7000.
COMING SOON
Kokomo Park Band Winter Concert
The Kokomo Park Band will hold its Winter Concert on Sun., Feb. 12, at Indiana University Kokomo’s Havens Auditorium, 2300 S. Washington St., beginning at 3 p.m. The concert will feature violin soloist Joshua Facello of the Purdue Philharmonic Orchestra, vocalists Cheressa Lawson and Sally Duke, and the IU Kokomo Chorus. Pre-concert selections will be performed by the IU Kokomo Flute Choir.
Galentine’s Day
Celebrate the Valentine’s Day holiday by enjoying indulgences with your friends at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Galentine’s Day event on Mon., Feb. 13, from 6-8 p.m. at the library’s South branch, 1755 E. Center Road. Tickets are free, but required, and can be obtained at the south branch. This event is for people ages 21 and over.
Next Chapter Book Club
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a meeting of the Next Chapter Book Club on Tue., Feb. 14, from 10-11 a.m. at the Main branch, 220 N. Union St. Join the library for a relaxed, small group setting of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to read, learn, and make friends. Register by contacting Ellen at 765-626-0829 or Marsha at 765-626-0813.
Well Read and Badly Behaved Book Club
We are well read and badly behaved. Are you? Yeah. We see you nodding. And hear you laughing. So, you definitely need to join us on Wed., Feb. 15, from 6-7 p.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, when the group will discuss “Spare” by Prince Henry.
Art in Bloom
Pull out your bright party dresses and patterned ties! Art in Bloom will be in-person on March 11 at 6 p.m. at Acacia Academy inside the Main Street United Methodist Church, 830 S. Main St. A delectable dinner, unique student artwork, entertaining and compelling presentations, a silent auction, and more await you in our transformed space. Please enter through the Main Street entrance on the West side of the building when arriving for the event. Join us as we celebrate Acacia and raise money for student scholarships! Individual tickets are $60 prior to Feb. 15 and $75 from Feb. 15 until March 4. To purchase tickets, visit www.acaciaacademy.org/artinbloom.
Teen Writers Group
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a Writers Group for teen fiction writers on Thu., Feb. 16, from 5-6 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.
Girls Who Code Book Club
Kids in grades 3-5 will read “Learn to Code and Change the World” by Reshma Saujanai and complete fun coding activities on Fri., Feb. 17, from 4:30-5:30 p.m. at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. register by calling any KHCPL location.
Stuffed Animal Sleepover
Drop off your stuffed animals for a sleepover! Pick up your friend the next day, and find out what kinds of fun they had while the library was closed. This event takes place all day on Fri., Feb. 17, at all library branches.
Little Red Hen Bread Baking Club
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will offer take-and-make kits for its Little Red Hen Bread Baking Club on Fri., Feb. 17. Create family memories while reading the Russian folktale, “The Little Red Hen,” and then bake some form of bread. Register for a kit by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events, or by calling any library branch location.
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., Feb. 18, from 11 a.m. until noon.
Skywarn Storm Spotter Training
Howard County Skywarn will hold a severe storm spotter training and severe weather safety event on Sat., Feb. 18 at 2 p.m. at the Eastern Howard Performing Arts Center, 421 S. Harrison St., Greentown. This event, presented by the National Weather Service, is free for all ages to attend. Event sponsors are the Kokomo Amateur Radio Club and the Howard County Department of Emergency Management. For additional information, contact Howard County EMA at 765-456-2242.
Digital Den on the Road
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Digital Den as it takes the show on the road to Sun King Kokomo, 500 N. Buckeye St., on Sun. Feb. 19, from 1-4 p.m. Have fun making your own buttons using tools from the KHCPL’s Digital Den. This event is open to teens and adults.
Elite Bridal Gala
The Elite Bridal Gala will take place on Sun., Feb. 19, from 1-4 p.m. at the Elite Banquet and Conference Center, 2820 S. Lafountain St. More than 30 vendors specializing in all things wedding will be on hand. Tickets are free, but limited. Obtain tickets by visiting https://www.eventbrite.com/o/elite-event-center-38875848263
Black History’s Groundbreaking Geniuses
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will present Black History’s Groundbreaking Geniuses on Wed., Feb. 22, from 5-6 p.m. at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. This show, for children ages 6-13, focuses on groundbreakers such as surgeon Daniel Hale Williams, mathematician Dorothy Vaughan, writer Ralph Ellison, and dance and choreographer Alvin Alley. Visit www.khcpl.org for additional information.
Silent Sky
The Kokomo Civic Theatre will present performances of “Silent Sky,” the true story of astronomer Henrietta Leavitt, on Feb. 24-26 at Havens Auditorium at Indiana University Kokomo, 2300 S. Washington St. The play “explores a woman’s place in society during a time when women’s ideas were dismissed until men claimed credit for them.” Tickets are available for $15 for adults, $12 for seniors, and $10 for students and children, and can be purchased by visiting www.kokomocivictheatre.org/tickets.
Black Pearls at Artworks
The Kokomo Art Association will present Black Pearls: A Closer Look at Black Wisdom, Beauty and Culture at Artworks Gallery, 210 N. Main St. The exhibition runs through Feb. 25. Featured artists include JC Barnett III, Ramona Daniels, Tashema Davis, Sunday Mahaja, Robin Williams, and Shailyn Nash. Artworks Gallery is open Monday through Saturday from noon until 4 p.m.
African American Genealogy Workshop
Acclaimed author, speaker, and genealogist Timothy Pinnick will lead an African American Genealogy Workshop in conjunction with the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Sat., Feb. 25, from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. at the Carver Community Center, 1030 N. Purdum St. Participants will learn research strategies to trace Black ancestors. The first 25 in-person participants will receive a copy of Pinnick’s “A Genealogist’s Guide to Discovering Your African-American Ancestors.” Register for this event online by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
Peru Circus at Western
The Peru Amateur Circus will perform in the Western High School gymnasium on Sat., Feb. 25. A carnival will take place from 1-6 p.m., featuring games, prizes, clowns, a petting zoo, and concessions, and the circus showtimes are 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. Tickets are available at the event for $10 for adults and $5 for kids ages 7-18. Children ages 6 and under are admitted free. This event is sponsored by Narrow Gate Horse Ranch and Turnabout Community Resource Center.
Humane Society Stand-Up Comedy
The Kokomo Humane Society will hold a February FUNdraiser featuring stand-up comedy on Sat., Feb. 25, from 7-9 p.m. at Kokomo Sun King, 500 N. Buckeye St. Comedians Dave Dugan and Dave Wilson will headline the event, which will include drinks, snacks, and adorable dogs for people to meet. Tickets are $65 and can be obtained by visiting https://www.jotform.com/build/223415369798167. Sponsorship opportunities are also available by visiting https://form.jotform.com/223415572312044.
Diaper Drive
Maple Grove Community Church, 3113 W. Boulevard St., is holding a Diaper Drive now through Feb. 28. The drive will accept diapers and pull-ups of any size as well as baby wipes, diaper cream, formula, and new bottles. These donations will be given to Foster the Need and the Department of Child Services of Howard County to meet the needs of many children in the county. Donations may be placed inside the front door of the church.
KPRD Summer Softball League
Registration is now open for the 2023 Kokomo Parks and Recreation Department Summer Softball League. Teams may register for men’s, women’s, and CoEd divisions. Registration ends March 3. League play begins April 24. For information about fees and other league details, contact the KPRD office at 765-456-7275 or visit www.cityofkokomo.org.
Running the Distance for Ainsley’s Angels
Ainsley’s Angels will hold a 4x4x48 run on Fri., March 3, through Sun., March 5. The run begins at FIT 365, 1308 Home Ave., where runners will pick up the Kokomo Industrial Heritage Trail and run two miles, then return on the same route. There are multiple runs scheduled for this event, so runners can choose the time that works best for them. Runs will take place every four hours, beginning on March 3 at 11 p.m., March 4 at 3 a.m., 7 a.m., 11 a.m., 3 p.m., 7 p.m., and 11 p.m., and on March 5 at 3 a.m., 7 a.m., 11 a.m., 3 p.m., 7 p.m., and 11 p.m. Register for this event by visiting Running the Distance 4x4x48 for Ainsley's Angels (runsignup.com).
Taylor Elementary School Round-Up
Taylor Community Schools’ Kindergarten and Titan Titans preschool round-up for the 2022-23 school year will take place at Taylor Elementary School on Wed., March 15, from 9-11 a.m. and 1-6:30 p.m. Parents must make an appointment by calling 765-453-3800. Parents also should visit the Taylor Elementary School website at www.taylor.k12.in.us to complete new student enrollment prior to coming to the round-up. Children should also attend the round-up in order to meet the Kindergarten and preschool teachers and to participate in activities. To attend Kindergarten, a child must be 5 years of age on or before Aug. 1. To attend Pre-K, a child must be 4 years of age by Aug. 1. To attend preschool, a child must be 3 years old by Aug. 1 and be potty trained. Parents need to bring their child’s official birth certificate, proof of immunizations, Social Security card, and proof of residency. A $50 registration fee is also due to secure your child’s spot in the Tiny Titans program, as space is limited. For additional information, call 765-453-3800.