What's Happening This Week?
Events taking place in Kokomo and Howard County from Sept. 15-21
This article is brought to you by the Coca-Cola Bottling Co. of Kokomo. Discover a Recipe for Magic with Coca-Cola.
(Editor’s note: Due to the large volume of events taking place, this article only contains events that will occur this week. Look for an extended “What’s Happening Soon?” article that will complement this list.)
TODAY
National Linguine Day
Sign up for a library card at Fazoli’s, 622 S. Reed Road, on Sun., Sept. 15, from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. to pick up a Fazoli’s bookmark to help track your readings. Read five books and return your bookmark for a free kid’s meal on your next visit.
Tee Up for Kids
Prevent Child Abuse Howard County will hold its annual Tee Up for Kids four-person golf scramble on Sun., Sept. 15, at Wildcat Creek Golf Course, 3200 Timber Valley Dr. Cost is $75 per person or $300 per team. Registration on the day of the event begins at noon, with a shotgun start at 1 p.m. The cost includes cart and greens fees and lunch. There will be prizes for the top three teams. There also will be longest drive and closest to the pin contests for men and women as well as a $5 putting contest which will take place prior to the scramble’s start. For additional information about the event, including sponsorship opportunities, call Sara Gruber at 765-457-9313 of Jason Hurlock at 765-432-2312.
Chonda Pierce in Concert
Christian comedienne Chonda Pierce will present “Life is Funny” live in concert on Sun., Sept. 15, beginning at 7 p.m. at One Church, 2734 S. Washington St. Calling all those who know that life is too short not to embrace the joy and humor it brings, Chonda will have you laughing at life’s curveballs, celebrating your quirks, and embracing the joy that can be found even in the most unexpected places; For tickets, visit www.awakeningevents.com.
42nd Annual Veteran Reunion
The 42nd Annual All Veterans Reunion will take place Sun., Sept. 15 – Sun., Sept. 22, at the Healing Field off SR 26. Live music on Thursday 4 p.m. – Midnight and Friday- Saturday 2 p.m. – Midnight. Enjoy a silent auction, 50/50 drawings, food and drink vendors, a beer barn, a large vendor building, and more. There will be a Santa Parade and patriotic “Welcome Home” golf cart rides. There also will be Cornhole tournament competitions. Armbands for gate admission are required and cost $15 for full week entry. For more details, visit www.hcvvo.net.
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 meets each Monday from 9:30-11 a.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. The next meeting is Mon., Sept. 16. Caregivers with a baby ages birth to 12 months are welcome to participate. Older siblings are welcome to join also.
Meditation Mondays
Experience change, growth, and vitality through meditation with Raine and Sage Healing Center, 901 S. Courtland Ave. Sessions take place every first and third Monday of the month from 10-10:45 a.m. and are free to all. The next session takes place on Mon., Sept. 16.
Monday Fun Day
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a morning of preschool fun with story time on Monday Fun Day on Mon., Sept. 16, from 10-11 a.m. at the library’s Russiaville branch, 305 Mesa Dr. This event is for children ages 2-5 and their caregivers.
National Guacamole Day
Sign up for a library card at Hacienda, 2006 S. Plate Road, on Mon., Sept. 16, between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Show your library card and receive a complementary single serving of chips and a 4 oz. container of guacamole.
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., Sept. 16, 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.
Recovery Café
Turning Point – A System of Care offers the Recovery Café, a time to connect with love, show respect, cultivate compassion, practice forgiveness, encourage growth, and to give something back. Meetings take place at Turning Point, 1234 N. Courtland Ave., every Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, from 11:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. For additional information, visit https://bit.ly/3VRfRRL .
National Gymnastics Day
Sign up for a library card at Kokomo Flipsters, 2378 W. Boulevard St., on Mon., Sept. 16, from 4:30-6:30 p.m. While you’re there, try the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Kindermusik program and learn about KHCPL’s new Baby Bunch program.
Board Game Night
Snacks and board games! Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Mon., Sept. 16, from 5:30-8 p.m. 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, 315 Mesa Dr.
‘A Christmas Story’ Auditions
Want to be a party of a Christmas classic? Ralphie, Randy, and the rest of the Parker family are looking for new friends. Dust off your bunny suit and join the Kokomo Civic Theatre for auditions for “A Christmas Story: The Musical” on Sept. 16-17 at 6 p.m. each evening. All ages are welcome. The auditions will take place at the Kokomo Civic Theatre’s Warehouse, 722 N. McCann St. There are roles available for all ages, children to adults. Visit www.kokomocivictheatre.org for additional information.
TUESDAY
Walking Readers Club
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library as you make your minds and bodies healthier! Walk around KHCPL Russiaville's neighborhood, 315 Mesa Dr., on Tue., Sept. 17, from 8-9 a.m.
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.
Drums Alive! Community Beats
Build a sense of community while doing cardio at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Drums Alive! – Community Beats session on Tue., Sept. 17, from 10-10:30 a.m. The event will take place at the library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr Please wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
Story Portraits
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library is excited to offer a new storytelling program, Celebrating Community through Story Portraits. Participants ages 65 and over will use storytelling and collage techniques to create a unique story portrait of themselves or an historic or family figure they wish to celebrate during this six-week course. The second session takes place on Tue., Sept. 17, from 10 a.m. until noon at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. Register for this course by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
Adopt a Less-Adoptable Pet Week
Sign up for a library card at the Kokomo Humane Society, 729 E. Hoffer St., on Tue., Sept. 17, between noon and 3 p.m., then visit the main library, 220 N. Union St., to receive 10 percent off your adoption fee with your new card.
Kindermusik Music and Movement
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library for singing, dancing, and instrument play, which promote cognitive development! Kindermusik Music and Movement will be held at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, on Tue., Sept. 17, from 3:30-4 p.m. for children ages 18 months to 5 years. Your child's movements stimulate the release of chemicals in the brain to support memory and learning!
Discovery Center: LEGOs
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., Sept. 17, have fun with LEGOs at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., from 4-6 p.m. This event is designed for children ages 8-13.
What is in Your Soil?
Come to the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Russiaville branch, 205 Mesa Dr., on Tue., Sept. 17, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. to learn how to test your soil to find out what nutrients your soil may need in order to grow your prize-winning petunias or gigantic gourds. This event is led by the Purdue Extension office.
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., Sept. 18, 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.
Medicare and You
Get free, unbiased Medicare information and answers – all without a sales pitch – on Wed., Sept. 18, from 10:30-11:30 a.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. The Samaritan Caregivers and SHIP will be on hand to help.
National Cheeseburger Day
Sign up for a library card at Cook McDoogal’s Irish Pub, 100 N. Main St., from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. and 4-6 p.m. on Wed., Sept. 18. Show your library card and receive 10 percent off cheeseburgers. All ages are welcome to dine until 9 p.m.
Creative Art Classes
The Carver Community Center, 1030 N. Purdum St., holds Creative Art Classes with Lisa Muhs every Wednesday and Friday from 2-3:30 p.m. Cost is $15 per week or $30 per month. To register, call 765-457-9318 or email kokomocarver@gmail.com.
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 Wed., Sept. 18, 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.
Reading with Pet Partners
Kids can practice their reading skills by reading to trained therapy animals at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, on Wed., Sept. 18, from 5-6 p.m.
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 at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, from 6-7 p.m. on Wed., Sept. 18.
Miniature Painting
Grab your miniatures and join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Wed., Sept. 18, from 6-7:30 p.m. to paint alongside professional miniature painter John Brothers in the Digital Den, 220 N. Union St. He will share tips and tricks to teach you the techniques to make your monsters and characters look amazing. Paint and brushes will be supplied. Bring your own mini and learn how to bring your character to life. Priming your miniatures ahead of time is recommended. Register here: https://khcpl.libnet.info/event/10557954.
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
Redeemer Lutheran School 40th Anniversary
Were you a student, parent, teacher, on staff, or a loyal supporter of Redeemer Lutheran School? They invite you to help celebrate the school’s 40th anniversary on Thu., Sept. 19, for a ribbon cutting ceremony at 9 a.m. at the school, 705 E. Southway Blvd. The celebration will continue Sun., Sept. 22, with a church service at 11 a.m. and a pitch-in dinner from noon until 2 p.m. Bring a hot or cold dish and/or dessert.
Kindermusik Music and Movement
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library for singing, dancing, and instrument play, which promote cognitive development! Kindermusik Music and Movement will be held at the library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr., on Thu., Sept. 19, from 10-10:30 a.m. for children ages 18 months to 5 years. Your child's movements stimulate the release of chemicals in the brain to support memory and learning!
Story Time for Little Learners
Introduce your little one to quality literature and the library in a fun, inviting way with age-appropriate activities on Thu., Sept. 19, 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.
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. On Thu., Sept. 19, Dr. Richard Gunderman will discuss poet Walt Whitman’s experience tending to soldiers during the Civil War. On Oct. 17, Dr. Canada will discuss the works of Edgar Allan Poe.
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., Sept. 19, from 4-4:55 p.m.
Youth Art Classes
The Carver Community Center, 1030 N. Purdum St., hosts Youth Art Classes with Rhonda Eads on Thursdays. Two sessions will be held from 4-6 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. Cost is $10 a week or $25 a month, with a discount for Carver members. To register, call 765-457-9318 or email kokomocarver@gmail.com.
Teen Writers Group
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a Writers Group for teen amateur fiction writers on Thu., Sept. 19, 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.
United Way Campaign Kick-Off
United Way Serving Howard and Tipton Counties will hold its 2024 Campaign Kick-Off on Thu., Sept. 19, from 5-7 p.m. at Bel Air Events, 3014 S. Webster St. Join the United Way as it introduces the 2024 campaign chairperson, announces this year’s fundraising goal, and awards $200,000 in grants to local non-profit organizations. Light refreshments will be served. To RSVP for this event, click here.
IU Kokomo Faculty Art
The IU Kokomo Faculty Biennial Exhibition continues through Thu., Sept. 19, in the IU Kokomo Art Gallery, 2300 S. Washington St. It features work by Minda Douglas, associate professor of fine arts; Michael Glassburn, adjunct faculty member; Tarja Harney, adjunct faculty member; Michael Koerner, associate professor of new media; Aaron Pickens, assistant professor of new media; and Gregory Steel, professor of fine arts and new media. Admission and parking are free. The exhibition will close with a gallery talk at 5:30 p.m. on Thu., Sept. 19, with Douglas and Pickens discussing their work.
Alternatives to Suicide
Alt2Su is a national organization, founded in 2008, which is focused on peer-to-peer support for people with suicidal ideation, intrusive thoughts, and depression. Join Alt2Su at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., on Thu., Sept. 19, from 5:45-7:45 p.m. Learn from a trained peer facilitator. Enjoy snacks and coloring while discussing emotional challenges and offering support to others. Confidentiality is respected and expected during meetings.
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., Sept. 20, 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 and their caregivers.
LARA Open House
Join LARA Educational Opportunities, an organization devoted to adult education, as it celebrates the opening of its new location in Kokomo with an open house on Fri., Sept. 20, from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. The event takes place at the Scouting America Sagamore Council Building’s second floor, 518 N. Main St. Food will be provided. RSVP by emailing jgeiermoriarty@lara.lafayette.in.us. For more information, visi www.laralafayette.org.
National Fried Rice Day
Show your library card at Panda Express, 1227 S. Reed Road, on Fri., Sept. 20, from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. and receive an order of cream cheese rangoon with the purchase of any plate with fried rice.
Breast in Show 2024
It’s time for the Breast in Show 2024: Bras, Boots and Bluegrass! Get ready for a fun-filled day of country music, boot stomping, and showcasing the best bras at Breast in Show 2024, located at the Legacy Barn, 951 N, CR 600 W, from 5:30-9:30 p.m. on Fri., Sept. 20. There will be dinner, music, a bra auction, and fun. Proceeds benefit uninsured patients and those in need of a screening or diagnostic mammogram at Advanced Medical Imaging. Tickets are $50 or $450 for a table of 10 and are available on EventBrite.
Dueling Pianos at Ivy Tech
Ivy Tech Kokomo is promising an evening of unforgettable fun when “Dueling Pianos International” returns Friday, Sept. 20, for the Kokomo Scholarships for Student Success fundraiser. Two sharp-witted and incredibly talented musicians will be on hand to entertain in the high-energy, all-request, sing-along, clap-along, rock ’n’ roll show designed to raise funds to support students throughout the six Hoosier counties in Ivy Tech’s Kokomo Service Area. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. in Hingst Hall on the Ivy Tech Kokomo Campus on Sept. 20 with the program starting promptly at 6 p.m. The event will feature “Dueling Pianos,” dinner catered by The Angry Donkey, a cash bar, and a live scholarship “auction.” Tickets for the Celebration for Student Success are $50 each and may be purchased at https://link.ivytech.edu/2024DuelingPianos or by calling Miriam Thomas of the Ivy Tech Foundation at 765-252-5500.
Grocery BINGO
The Kokomo Parks and Recreation Department will hold a night of Grocery BINGO on Fri., Sept. 20, from 6-8:30 p.m. For just $5 per person at the door, participants can bring friends and family to Rodgers Pavilion in Highland Park for a chance to win awesome prizes and enjoy great company. The entry fee gets you two cards which can be switched out during the evening. Every BINGO wins a grocery/non-perishable prize. Some Super BINGO wins will get to pick from larger home goods prizes.
Dance Party and Movie Night
Dance along with DJ Gerry as the Kokomo Howard County Public Library and the Russiaville Police Department celebrate fall fun with a dance party and family movie at the library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr., on Fri., Sept. 20, from 6:30-7:45 p.m. bring a chair or blanket for the family movie.
Fast Play Football
Fast Play Sports brings local high school football to you live every Friday night through the season. Stream every game by visiting www.fastplaysports.com or following the Fast Play Sports Facebook page. All broadcasts start at 6:35 p.m. On Sept. 20, Kokomo travels to Marion.
Steps for Pets
The Steps for Pets 5K, hosted by Elite Therapy, is scheduled for Sat., Sept. 28, from 7 a.m. until noon in Jackson Morrow Park. This 5K benefits the Kokomo Humane Society. This special 5K allows you to bring your dog with you to join in the run. Registration is $20 for individuals or $25 for runners and their canine companions. Running teams of five can register at a discount: $75 per team or $100 per team with canines. Registering by Sept. 20 will provide participants with t-shirts and/or bandanas. Canines must be on a leash at all times during the event. No exceptions. For more information or to register, call 765-459-7275 or email swright@elitehrh.com .
SATURDAY
Phenomenal Women’s Empowerment Conference
A Phenomenal Women’s Empowerment Conference will be held on Sat., Sept. 21. Designed to create an inspiring atmosphere to uplift women, the conference will take place at Friends Meeting in Kokomo, 1801 W. Zartman Road. Registration starts at 9 a.m., and the conference runs from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. The conference will be followed by a special Sunday worship service on Sept. 22, featuring Presiding Elder Lenore G. Williams. Tickets are $25, which includes breakfast and a gift bag for those who register in advance by clicking here.
Downtown Farmers Market
The Kokomo Downtown Farmers Market continues its 2024 season on Sat., Sept. 21, from 9 a.m. until noon, on the market grounds at the corner of Mulberry and Washington streets. The KHCPL Bookmobile will be present. The market will be held each Saturday through September. For more information, visit www.kokomofarmersmarket.com .
Charity Car and Bike Show
The 2nd Annual Gospel Light Mission Charity Car and Bike Show will take place on Sat., Sept. 21, from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. at Gospel Light Mission Church, 1407 Belmont Ave. Join them to help raise funds for a family needing assistance with medical bills. Gospel Light’s daycare director has had 12 surgeries in three years dealing with constant kidney stones. The car or motorcycle entry fee is a free will donation. There will also be food available by free will donation as well. There will be a bounce house and other activities for the kids, so bring the family and come enjoy the day.
Drums Along the Wildcat
On Saturday, Sept. 21, from 10 a.m. until dark at Foster Park, 721 W. Superior St., “Drums Along the Wildcat,” a multi-tribal traditional gathering featuring exhibitions, merchandise and community services information will take place. The rain-or-shine event is free and open to the public. All are welcome. Vendors open at 10 a.m., and the ceremonial event starts with the Grand Entry of flags and dancers into the dancing circle at 11 a.m. Special honor recognitions and various dancing and drumming exhibitions will take place periodically throughout the day, with Evening Grand Entry at 6 p.m. The event will also feature vendors selling authentic tribal merchandise and food, as well as community and health organizations providing information about their services for the public. This event is sponsored by Kokomo Native Initiative, an alliance of organizations in Howard County, Indiana, including the City of Kokomo, the Howard County Historical Society, Indiana University Kokomo, and the Kokomo Early History Learning Center, Inc.
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., Sept. 21, from 11 a.m. until noon and at the Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr., from 11 a.m. until noon.
KPRD Creature Feature
Join the Kokomo Parks and Recreation Department on Sat., Sept. 21, for Indiana WILD, part of the department’s Creature Feature programming. Interact with animals and learn about them in a controlled and safe setting. The event takes place from 11 a.m. until noon and from 1-2 p.m. at the Kirkendall Nature Center in Jackson Morrow Park. The Creature Feature is free and open to the public.
Great Faith Christian BBQ
Great Faith Christian Center Church, 210 W. King St., will hold a BBQ fundraiser on Sat., Sept. 21, from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. Plates will include pulled pork, mac & cheese, baked beans, and cole slaw for $15. All proceeds from the fundraiser will support Great Faith’s 2025 Vacation Bible School and repairs and beautification efforts on the church building. To place an order, call the church at 765-452-4273. Delivery available for orders of 10 or more plates, pre-purchased.
Dungeons & Dragons: Attack of the Tarrasque
Roleplayers will sweep into the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 2230 N. Union St., on Sat., Sept. 21, from 2-8 p.m. for a Dungeons & Dragons adventure, Attack of the Tarrasque. This Kaiju No. 8-inspired event features the biggest and baddest monster in all of Dungeons & Dragons. Will you be able to stop the rampage of the tarrasque, or will the kingdom be flattened? Register for this event by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
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., Sept. 21, at 5 p.m. Fairview Baptist Church is located at 2108 E Vaile Ave. behind the Walmart Plaza.
Hero’s Ball
The Kokomo Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #078 will host the Hero’s Ball on Sat., Sept. 21, starting at 6 p.m. at The Experience, 1801 Country Club Dr. This formal attire event will feature a silent auction, a live DJ, a 50/50 drawing and more. Tickets are $40 each. Table Sponsorships are available. For information, call Joanna at 765-431-8443.
Riverwalk Concert Series
Enjoy an evening of music on the Riverwalk Stage along the Walk of Excellence Trail in downtown Kokomo on Sat., Sept. 21, as Hyryder takes the stage from 6-10 p.m. Free admission. Visit www.visitkokomo.org for a complete list of performers.
Fight Breast Cancer Fundraiser
The United Autoworkers Local 685 Women's Committee will hold a Fight the Fight Against Breast Cancer fundraiser on Sat., Sept. 21, at the Local 685 union hall, 929 E. Hoffer St., beginning at 7 p.m. Enjoy a concert by The Time Travelers while bidding on silent auction items, enjoying delicious food from food trucks, indulging at the cash bar, visiting vendor booths, and dancing the night away for a great cause. Tickets are $10 per person or tables of 8 for $100. For reservations or additional information, contact Tammy Mohr at 765-419-1957.