What's Happening This Week?
Events taking place in Kokomo and Howard County from March 3-9 and beyond
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TODAY
Kokomo Park Band Winter Concert
The Kokomo Park Band will present its annual Winter Concert, “A Kaleidoscope of Color,” on Sun., March 3, at 3 p.m. in Havens Auditorium on the Indiana University Kokomo campus, 2300 S. Washington St. This year’s concert wil feature trombonist John Huntoon, vocalist J’lan Stewart, and the IU Kokomo Flute Choir. Park Band Artistic Director Jay Gephart will direct. And IUK will preview its upcoming production of “Oklahoma!” in the lobby. This is a free concert, but the park band asks those attending to bring toiletry items to be donated to Coordinated Assistance Ministries (CAM).
Paper Bag Princess Day Adventure
Your royal presence is requested at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., on Sun., March 3, from 3-4 p.m. Don't miss this royal rendezvous where imagination reigns and fairy tales come to life! Celebrate a magical day with your little royalty.
Kokomo Bobkats Basketball
The Kokomo Bobkats will play a home game against the St. Louis Griffins on Sun., March 3, at Kokomo Memorial Gymnasium, 200 N. Apperson Way. Game time is 3:05 p.m. Gates open one hour before tip-off. Tickets are $20 for lower bowl seating and $10 for upper bowl seating; Season tickets are $200 for lower bowl and $100 for upper bowl. Buy tickets by visiting www.kokomobobkats.com.
Iditarod Watch Party
What does it take to prepare for a long mission in an extreme environment, whether it be Alaska or space? What do astronauts and dog mushers have in common? Find out by participating in the Iditarod Watch Party on Sun., March 3, from 5:30-6:30 p.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Russiaville branch, 305 Mesa Dr.
Greenlawn Cemetery Clean-Up
Greenlawn Cemetery, 745 E, CR 50 N, will hold its Spring clean-up March 3-9. A complete clean-off will take place on March 10. Those wanting to keep decorations need to remove them by March 9. Anything remaining on grave spaces will be removed and disposed of by cemetery personnel. Families wintering in the south should arrange for a friend or family member to remove decoration they want kept.
MONDAY
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., March 4, 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.
Growing Readers: Little Learners
Introduce your little one to quality literature and the library in a fun, inviting way with age-appropriate activities on Mon., March 4, from 10-10:30 a.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Russiaville branch, 305 Mesa Dr. This event is designed for children ages 3-5.
Peek-a-Boo Playdate
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Mon. March 4, from 11-11:30 a.m. for a playful storytime full of fun rhymes and songs for babies and toddlers. This event is designed for children ages 0-2.
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., March 4, from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. and from 4-5:30 p.m. Sewing machines provided. This event takes place at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road.
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., March 4, from 3:30-5:30 p.m. at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St.
Kokomo Young Life
Kokomo Young Life is a hangout on Monday nights at the Kokomo Family YMCA, 114 N. Union St., for all high school students. No YMCA membership required. The hangout is completely free to students. Events consist of fun, games, food, and a short and simple Bible lesson! The club meets each Monday at 7:07 p.m.
Carver Adult Basketball League
Registration is open now for the Carver Community Center’s Adult Basketball League, which begins on March 17. The cost is $600 per team. There will be A and B divisions. Registration deadline is March 4. Register by visiting the Carver office, 1030 N. Purdum St., or by visiting www.kokomocarver.org . For questions or more information, call 765-457-9318.
Pint-Size Chef
The Kokomo Parks and Recreation Department will begin accepting registrations for its Spring session of Pint-Size Chef. The classes will take place on Tuesdays from April 9 until May 14. The cost is $30 per child, and there are just 12 spaces per class. Classes will take place from 5:30-6:30 p.m. for ages 5-8 and from 6:45-7:45 p.m. for ages 9-12. For additional information, including location of the classes and registration beginning March 4, call the KPRD office at 765-456-7275.
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.
PAL Spring Soccer
Registration is open now for the Police Athletic League Spring Soccer League until the end of April. Sign up now by visiting www.kokomopalsports.com. The fee is $72 and must be paid at the time of registration. In-person registration is available every Tuesday and Thursday in March and April from 10 a.m. until noon at the PAL Field, 3520 W. Boulevard St. The season will begin the first weekend of May and will run until the end of June. Games are played on Saturdays and Sundays, depending on the number of teams. All games and practices will take place at the PAL field. The league currently needs coaches. Those interested in serving should note this on the registration form. Age groups are 4-5, 6-8, and 9-13. A 14+ group may be added if there is enough interest. For additional information, call 765-455-2440 or email palsports3520@yahoo.com .
Preschool STEAM
Families with children ages 3-5 can come to the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Tue., March 5, to participate in Scoop ‘n Sprout gardening. This event takes place at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union, from 2:30-3:30 p.m.
Kindermusik Laugh and Learn
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library for singing, dancing, and instrument play, which promote cognitive development! Kindermusik Laugh and Learn will be held at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, on Tue., March 5, from 3:30-4 p.m. for children ages 0-5 years. Your child's movements stimulate the release of chemicals in the brain to support memory and learning!
Discovery Center: Video Games
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 Tue., March 5, have fun with video games at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., from 4-6 p.m. This event is designed for children ages 8-13.
Teens’ Choice Book Club
Teens meet up once a month at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., to discuss a book with their peers. Each month will have a theme. The next meeting is Tue., March 5, from 5-6 p.m. Teens will talk about what they liked about their book, what they didn't, and how it fits the theme.
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.
Essential Skills for Managers
Ivy Tech Community College, 1815 E. Morgan St., 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 Wed., March 6 from 9 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. The focus of this class is to provide a foundational base of skills for all managers using research-based best practices. Essential Skills for Managers exposes and trains supervisors to develop the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to successfully manage others. The $199 fee includes class materials, and a 45-minute working lunch is provided. To register 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.
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., March 6, 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.
Girls Who Code Book Club
Kids in third through fifth grades will read "Learn to Code and Change the World" by Reshma Saujanai and complete fun coding activities on Wed., March 6, from 5-6:30 p.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. For more information call the facilitator at 765-626-0830.
Kokomo Kid Quest: KSC Early Education Fair
Kokomo Schools Corp. will hold its Kokomo Kid Quest Early Education Fair on Wed., March 6, from 5-7 p.m. at Memorial Gymnasium. The free event is open to families with students in preschool through 5th grade. Visit with five preschools, eight elementary schools, and 20 community partners. Connect with KSC principals, teachers, staff, students, and families. Explore programs available to students through Kokomo Schools. Enjoy activities, games, and giveaways!
KHS Transitions Fair
Kokomo High School will hold a Transitions Fair on Wed., March 6, from 5-7 p.m. at the high school, 2501. S. Berkley Road. This free event is for all area families with students in Kindergarten through Grade 12. Connect with local support services, advocacy organizations, and helpful resources for students who are transitioning into adult life after high school. Focus topics include: guardianship waivers, alternate diplomas, and community Involvement. This event is designed for families with students who have special needs, require additional services, or need connected with community resources.
Writers Group
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a Writers Group for amateur fiction writers on Wed., March 6, from 5-8 p.m. at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. Write something to submit and critique. Adults who enjoy writing and want honest feedback are invited to attend.
Think Outside the Trash
Ever wonder exactly what to do with leftover cleaners and pesticides? Have old electronics that need disposed of but not sure how to do it? Learn what you can toss in the recycling bins by joining the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Wed., March 6, from 6-7 p.m. at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road.
Howard County Music Festival
The 67th annual Howard County Music Festival takes place on Wed., March 6, at Northwestern High School. The event will feature the combined music departments of Eastern, Northwestern, Taylor, and Western high schools. Guest conductors will be Beth Fabrizio leading the festival band and Dan Andersen leading the festival choir. Doors open at 6 p.m. Performances begin at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for students. Rehearsals will take place in the evening on Tue., March 5, at Northwestern High School. Thanks to a sponsorship from Music for All, participating students will receive a free clinic in student leadership from clinician Jeff Young. Other sponsors of the event include Paige’s Music and Sound of Music.
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
Story Art
Using picture books as inspiration, join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Thu., March 7, from 10-10:30 a.m. to create art with a variety of media. This event takes place at the library’s Russiaville branch, 305 Mesa Dr. Designed for children ages 2 and up.
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., March 7, 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.
Little Meteorologists
Do you know that clouds have names? Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Thu., March 7, from 1-2 p.m. as we learn more about the whimsical world of clouds and spark our creativity through a hands-on activity. This event takes place at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, and is designed for children ages 0-5.
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., March 7, from 4-4:55 p.m.
Teen Writers Group
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a Writers Group for teen amateur fiction writers on Thu., March 7, 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. Register for this event by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking Events.
The Amazing World of Virtual Reality
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library as it enters the world of Virtual Reality on Thu., March 7, from 6-7 p.m. at the library’s Russiaville branch, 305 Mesa Dr. This event is designed for children ages 6-13. Register for this event by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
Kids’ Art Club
Calling all young artists! Unleash creativity through fun projects and learn artistic skills in a supportive, lively environment at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., on Thu., March 7, from 6-7 p.m. The club is designed for kids ages 8-13.
Manga and Anime Club
Interested in manga and anime? Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Thu., March 7, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. for the first of a two-part event featuring “Fruits Basket.” Participants discuss the book and will attempt to recreate the zodiac stones. The event takes place at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. Register by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
YMCA Swim Camp
The Kokomo Family YMCA’s two-week swim camp starts on Thu., March 7! Don't wait. Register your child today! Spring break and pool season will be here before you know it, so be sure to sign up your child for swim camp! Swimming is a life skill, and the YMCA has been teaching children and adults how to swim for more than 150 years, helping them to be safe in and around water. Your child will gain confidence around water while making friends and having fun. Dive in and register today by visiting Program Search (daxko.com)
FRIDAY
International Women’s Day
Drop into any Kokomo Howard County Public Library location on International Women’s Day, Fri., March 8, to contribute to library’s celebration.
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., March 8, 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.
Empty Bowl
Kokomo Urban Outreach’s Empty Bowl fundraising event is coming Fri., March 8, to Cross America, 840 Daniel Dr. 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.” Enjoy a simple menu of soup and bread, and take home a bowl painted by an area child. The cost is a freewill donation. Lunch is served from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m., and dinner is served from 4-6:30 p.m. The celebrity bowl auction will take place at 5 p.m. For more information, call 765-252-9954.
Whodunnit? Live Game of 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 Russiaville branch, 305 Mesa Dr., on Fri., March 8, from 6-9 p.m. This event is designed for teens in middle and high school. Register by visiting www.khcpl,org and clicking on Events.
SATURDAY
Mental Health Fair
The Suicide Prevention Coalition of Howard County will present a Mental Health Fair on Sat., March 9, from 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. as part of Mental Health Month. The event will take place at the United Autoworkers Local 685 Union Hall, 929 E. Hoffer St. Information will be available at the event regarding local mental health services and resources. Vendor space is available by emailing suicideprevention@turningpointsoc.org .
Be a SHEro 5k Run/Walk
Club Kokomo Roadrunners and Palmer’s Jewelry will host the second annual Be a SHEro 5k Run/Walk on Sat., March 9, at 1:30 p.m. at Grace United Methodist Church, 219 W. Mulberry St. This women-only fundraising event celebrates International Women’s Day (March 8) while encouraging healthy activity. Registration is $30, and proceeds will be donated to the Family Service Association of Howard County’s domestic violence shelter. Registrants will be able to participate in the run/walk and will receive a t-shirt and a finisher medal while supplies last. They also will receive a swag bag and will have the chance to win special awards donated by Palmer’s Jewelry. They also will have access to the post-race party, which concludes at 4 p.m. Early packet pick-up takes place on Fri., March 8, from 6-8 p.m., coinciding with the Kokomo Women’s Expo, also at Grace United Methodist Church. The keynote address will take place at 6:30 p.m., along with a free yoga class. Packets are also available for pick-up on the day of the race from 11:30 a.m. until 1:15 p.m. For questions or more information, contact race director Alli Lee by emailing mikenalli711@gmail.com.
Art in Bloom
Acacia Academy, 830 S. Main St., will host its 15th annual “Art in Bloom: Around the World” scholarship fundraiser on Sat., March 9, beginning at 5:30 p.m. Acacia will transform its classrooms into Greece, India, Mexico, Italy, Egypt, Niger, Australia, and the U.S.A., filling the evening with ethnic bites, cultural activities, creative projects, songs, auctions, and surprises. Go to https://www.acaciaacademy.org/artinbloom to learn more, purchase tickets, donate. Ticket quantities are limited.
Comedy Date Night
Join the Literacy Coalition for a hilarious evening of laughter at Comedy Date Night on Sat., March 9, from 6:30-9:30 p.m. This over 21 in-person event will be held at Rhine Hall Entertainment & Event Venue, 507 N. Union St. Sit back, relax, and enjoy as talented comedians Greg Hahn, Willie Griswold, and Randy Maurer take the stage to deliver gut-busting jokes and witty one-liners. Before the show, there will be a rare bourbon whisky auction. Twelve bottles of various bourbons, such as Uncle Nearest 1884 or Woodford, will be up for sale. Doors open at 5.30 p.m. to preview the collection. The auction begins at 6.30 p.m. The comedy show follows at 7 p.m. Tickets are $50 each and are available by visiting HERE.
COMING SOON
Quartetto Gelato
Kokomo Community Concerts presents Quartetto Gelato as the 2023-2024 season continues. This latest example of world-class entertainment performing in Kokomo will take place on Sunday., March 10, at 2:30 p.m. The concert takes place in the Kokomo High School Auditorium, 2501 S. Berkley Road. Tickets are available at the door for $25 or by visiting www.kokomocommunityconcerts.org. Call 765-210-0686 for additional information.
A Handle on Handel
The Kokomo Symphony Orchestra will present “Getting a Handle on Handel” on Sun., March 10, at 3 p.m. at Grace United Methodist Church, 219 W. Mulberry St. Experience the magic of Handel's "Messiah" with the Kokomo Symphony Orchestra and Motif Community Choir. This Easter season, immerse yourself in the stunning sounds of this beloved masterpiece, brought to life by the finest musicians in the region. Joining the symphony and choir for this performance is organist Matt Gerhard, performing one of Handel’s organ concertos. Tickets are available now by visiting www.kokomosymphony.com .
Kokomo Bobkats Basketball
The Kokomo Bobkats will play a home game against the Medora Timberjacks on Sun., March 10, at Kokomo Memorial Gymnasium, 200 N. Apperson Way. Game time is 3:05 p.m. Gates open one hour before tip-off. Tickets are $20 for lower bowl seating and $10 for upper bowl seating; Season tickets are $200 for lower bowl and $100 for upper bowl. Buy tickets by visiting www.kokomobobkats.com.
Voices Unveiled
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library as it presents “Voices Unveiled, a Celebration of Inclusion,” on Tue., March 12, from 6-7 p.m. at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. This event features authors Leah Johnson, Angela Jackson-Brown, and Jalysa King. Tickets for this are free, but required. They may be obtained at any KHCPL location.
United Way Campaign Celebration
United Way serving Howard and Tipton Counties will hold its 2023-24 Campaign Celebration on Thu., March 14, from 5-7 p.m. at The Hobson, 110 N. Washington St. This free event is an opportunity to celebrate the work completed by United Way staff, board, and campaign volunteers as it announces the fundraising total and awards the first grants to agencies in the community. The evening will begin with a cash bar and light appetizers, followed by a brief program, networking, and mingling. RSVP by visiting HERE.
Center Township Food Drive
The Center Township Trustee’s Office will present a community food drive through March 15. Help members of the community have enough food every day through your donations. The office is in need of non-perishable food items, such as dry cereal, rice, pasta, canned goods, peanut butter, jams, crackers, beans, granola bars, and canned fruit. Drop off your donations at the Center Township Trustee’s office, 213 E. Jefferson St. To arrange for a pick-up or for more information, call 765-452-8259.
Building Kingdom Marriages
Mt. Pisgah Missionary Baptist Church, 1599 E. Sycamore St., will host a power-packed luncheon where couples are equipped with the tools to build unbreakable, rock-solid marriages. This event takes place on Sat., March 16, from noon until 3 p.m. Register on EventBrite.
Relay for Life Kick-Off
Join the Kokomo chapter of Relay for Life as it kicks off the 2024 event on Sat., March 16, from 1-4 p.m. at Crossroads Community Church, 1338 S. Delphos St. There will be sign-ups for Relay teams and survivors as well as information on the upcoming Relay.
A Touch of the Irish
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day a day early with the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Sat., March 16, from 2-3:15 p.m. and discover your Celtic heritage. This genealogy exercise takes place at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. Register by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
YMCA Cornhole Tourney
Is your cornhole game good enough to win cash prizes? Register now for the Kokomo Family YMCA’s Cornhole Tournament on Sat., March 16, for a winner-takes-all event. This event is open to the entire community. Entry fee is $60 for a team of two. The first round will begin at noon. For more information or to register, visit HERE.
CASA St. Patrick’s Day 5k
Support CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) by joining them for the St. Patrick’s Day 5K on Sat., March 16. The run begins and ends at Sun King Kokomo, 500 N. Buckeye St. Online registration is available now by visiting https://casa5k.itsyourrace.com/event.aspx?id=13220 until March 15. In-person registration is available on the day of the event from 1:45-2:45 p.m. The race begins at 3 p.m. The race includes chip timing, a costume contest, pizza squares along the route from Bruno’s Pizza, and one free beer with registration. The Overgrown Pasture and the Howard County Homebrew Club will be on-site. Entry fee is $30.
Sandcastle Date
When is the last time you played in the sand? Have you ever been to the beach, walked by amazing sandcastles, and thought “I could never do that!” On Sat., March 16, Sandcastle expert Anthony Downing will show you how to build sandcastle masterpieces! You and your partner will work together to learn the simple tricks and tips and go from dumping a bucket of sand on the beach to creating a one-of-a-kind showpiece! With a little patience and a lot of fun, you’ll be sand artists in no time! This event is hosted by Northview Church, 3409 S, CR 200 W, and it takes place from 6:30-8 p.m. Childcare is available for $7 per child. Registration for childcare ends at midnight on Tue., March 12. To register, visit Sandcastle Date - Better Together .