What's Happening This Week?
Events taking place in Kokomo and Howard County from July 30-Aug. 5 and beyond
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TODAY
Kokomo Jackrabbits
The Kokomo Jackrabbits will play a home game vs. the Rockford Rivets on Sun., July 30, at Kokomo Municipal Stadium. Game time is 5:05 p.m.; For tickets, call 457-5000 or visit www.kokomojackrabbits.com.
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., July 31. Caregivers with a baby ages birth to 12 months are welcome to participate. Older siblngs are welcome to join also.
Storytime with Deputy Swan and Max
Spend some time with Deputy Swan and our favorite police dog, Max, during Storytime at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr., on Mon., July 31, from 10-11 a.m. You'll be able to spend time with Max and check out the police car!
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., July 31, 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.
Parks Master Plan Meeting
The City of Kokomo Parks and Recreation Department will hold a master plan meeting on Mon., July 31, at 5:30 p.m. at Kokomo Municipal Stadium. This will be the public’s first opportunity to offer input on future park planning in the City of Kokomo. A 15-20 minute presentation will be followed by public comment. Attendees will receive a free general admission ticket to that evening’s Kokomo Jackrabbits game, which begins at 7:05 p.m.
Americans and the Holocaust Panel Discussion
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Mon., July 31, for a panel discussion featuring clips from the documentary by Ken Burns, Lynn Novick, and Sarah Botstein: "The U.S. and the Holocaust." The event will take place at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., from 6-7:30 p.m.
Kokomo Jackrabbits
The Kokomo Jackrabbits will play a home game vs. the Traverse City Pit Spitters on Mon., July 31, at Kokomo Municipal Stadium. Game time is 7:05 p.m.; For tickets, call 457-5000 or visit www.kokomojackrabbits.com.
Play On Kokomo Photo Contest
Help the City of Kokomo celebrate National Parks and Recreation Month by posting a photo in July from one of Kokomo’s parks, trails, or from Kokomo Beach. When you post, use the hashtag #PlayonKokomo2023. Prizes will be awarded to the best three photos, with the winner receiving two season passes to Kokomo Beach for 2024 along with 25 day passes. Second place will receive two season passes to Kokomo Beach for 2024, and third place will receive one pass to Kokomo Beach for 2024.
Americans and the Holocaust
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library is proud to be one of 50 U.S. libraries selected to host Americans and the Holocaust: A Traveling Exhibition for Libraries from the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum. The exhibit will be on display through Aug. 17, at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St.
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., Aug. 1, from 8-9 a.m.
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., Aug. 1, from 9 a.m. until noon at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St.
Invasive Species Program
The Purdue University Howard County Extension Office will hold an Invasive Species Signature Program at the Kokomo-Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, on Tue., Aug. 1, from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. The cost $75, and Category 1, 2, 3A, 3B, 6, and RT credits are available. The program will equip communities with interdisciplinary education and programming aimed to provide landowners and industry specialists with the knowledge to track, report, remove, and avoid invasive species across the state. Register at: http://bit.ly/invasivespecies2023.
Book Buddy Book Club
Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities - regardless of reading ability - can join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Tue., Aug. 1, from 10-11:30 a.m. to read, make friends, and have fun. The club will meet at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. Registration is required by calling 765-626-0813.
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., Aug. 1, 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.
Americans and the Holocaust Survivor Stories
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library for Americans and the Holocaust Survivor Stories on Tue., Aug. 1, from 6-8 p.m. at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. Brenda Freedman, a first-generation American, and her spouse, Corey, will tell the story of her parents, Holocaust survivors, as well as the story of a family friend who helped liberate survivors.
Alzheimer’s/Dementia Caregivers Support Group
The Alzheimer’s/Dementia Caregivers Support Group meets the first Tuesday of each month at Chapel Hill Christian Church, 2600 W. Alto Road, from 6:30-8 p.m. The next meeting takes place on Tue., Aug. 1. Enter the building from the east through Door 11. For additional information, contact Debby McCombs at 765-432-6546 or Michelle Sutton at 765-860-4360.
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., on Wed., Aug. 2, from 9 a.m. until noon. No appointment needed.
Intro to Google Applications
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Digital Den, 220 N. Union St., Will hold a class about Google Applications on Wed., Aug. 2, from noon until 1 p.m. Learn about Google Docs, Google Drive, Google Slides, and Google Forms at this session for teens and adults.
Writers Group
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a Writers Group for amateur fiction writers on Wed., Aug. 2, 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.
Hollywood, Nazism, and the Holocaust
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold an Americans and the Holocaust event on Wed., Aug. 2, from 6-7 p.m. at its main branch, 220 N. Union St. The program – Hollywood, Nazism, and the Holocaust – will feature a Q&A with author Steve Alan Carr.
Kokomo Jackrabbits
The Kokomo Jackrabbits will play a home game vs. the Traverse City Pit Spitters on Wed., Aug. 2, at Kokomo Municipal Stadium. Game time is 7:05 p.m.; For tickets, call 457-5000 or visit www.kokomojackrabbits.com.
THURSDAY
Pastel Sessions
The Kokomo Art Association will host beginner to intermediate Pastel Sessions with Avon Waters each Thursday in August from 2-4 p.m. Learn to mix colors on the page, different approaches to painting the images in pure dry pigment, how different surfaces create different effects, and much more. The classes will meet at the Kokomo Art Center, 525 E. Ricketts St. The cost is $15 per session, and participants are asked to pay in advance either at the art center or online at www.kaaonline.org. Email Lesley Wysong at artisfunlnw@aol.com with questions or for a detailed supply list. No supplies will be needed for the first class.
KHCPL Blood Drive
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will host a blood drive on Thu., Aug. 3, from 1:25-6 p.m. at its south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. Register ahead of time by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
Back to School Bingo
Kindergarteners through fifth graders, kick off your school year with the Kokomo Howard County Public Library with a Back to School Bingo night on Thu., Aug. 3, from 5-6 p.m. Play for a chance to win books and school supplies. The event will take place at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St.
Amazing World of Virtual Reality
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will explore the Amazing World of Virtual Reality on Thu., Aug. 3, from 6-7 p.m. at the library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr. STEM is part of virtual reality fun. Other cool STEM gadgets will be available for play during the event. This activity is designed for children Ages 8-13. Register by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
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., Aug. 3, 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., Aug. 3, 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.
Music at the Fairgrounds
The Greentown Main Street Association presents Music at the Fairgrounds, a weekly concert series which takes place in front of the Community Building at the Howard County 4H Fairgrounds. The concerts will take place each Thursday evening at 7 p.m. The Aug. 3 show features Pastime. In case of rain, all concerts will be held in the fairgrounds' cattle barn.
FRIDAY
First Friday Lunch and Learn
Community Howard Regional Health will hold a First Friday Lunch and Learn on Fri., Aug. 4, from 12:10-12:50 p.m. at the Kokomo Family YMCA, 114 N. Union St. The August topic will be “Nutrition and Brain Health.” Join Megan Allen, RD, LD, CDCES, registered dietician with Community Health Network, for a discussion on nutrition and brain health. Allen will explain the nutrients that are important for cognitive function and how to include those foods in your diet. The lunch is sponsored by Century Villa Health Care and Rehabilitation. Registration is required by calling 800-550-1266 or visiting www.ecommunity.com/firstfriday .
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., Aug. 4, 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.
Rescue Mission 70th Celebration
Join the Kokomo Rescue Mission on Fri., Aug. 4, for its 70th anniversary celebration. The event takes place at the rescue mission, 321 W. Mulberry St., from 5-9 p.m. There will be live music, food trucks, games, a bounce house, and a special performance by the Peru Circus on the Road.
Paint or Draw a Poem
The Kokomo Art Association is partnering with the Poetry Society of Indiana for a workshop that brings a unique translation of Poetry into Visual Art. Visit Artworks Gallery, 210 N. Main St., on Fri., Aug. 4, to interpret a poem by Heather McHugh into a visual work of art. Finished artwork will be displayed at Artworks Gallery throughout the month of August. The workshop starts at 5:30 p.m. Space is limited, so arrive early. Supplies will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis. This is a free event open to the public. To pre-register, contact Cheryl at kokomoartassociation2014@gmail.com.
Great Kokomo Treasure Hunt
First Friday in downtown Kokomo takes place on Fri., Aug. 4, from 5:30-9 p.m., featuring “The Great Kokomo Treasure Hunt.” Search for treasure around downtown with a chance to win great prizes from local businesses. There will be an Arts-based open house tour of downtown Kokomo. Visitors to the downtown area during the event will find discounts and activities at shops and restaurants, and live music, public art, family-friendly activities and more. Call 457-5301 or visit www.firstfridaykokomo.com for more information.
Fall Pickleball League
The Kokomo Parks and Recreation Department will hold a Fall Pickleball League, beginning Aug. 13. Registration for the league is open until Aug. 4. There will be mixed doubles leagues, recreational and competitive, playing on Sundays starting at noon over seven weeks. A one-week championship tournament will follow the regular season. Participants must be age 14 or older. The cost is $50 per team. All registrations must be turned in at the KPRD office in Highland Park. Call 765-456-7275 for more information.
SATURDAY
Warbirds Cruise-In
The Grissom Air Museum, 1000 W. Hoosier Blvd., Peru, will hold its annual Warbirds Cruise-In on Sat., Aug. 5, from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Visit www.grissomairmuseum.com or call 689-8011 for additional information.
Spongebob Musical Auditions
Curtain Call Theatre for Children will hold auditions for its production of “The Spongebob Musical” on Sat., Aug. 5, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. at the Curtain Call Studio, 2114 N. Armstrong St. Call-back auditions will take place on Sun., Aug. 6, by invitation only. Visit www.kcctc.org to sign-up for an audition time.
No One Rides Alone
The No One Rides Alone breast cancer ride will take place on Sat., Aug. 5, from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. as part of Harley-Davidson of Kokomo’s 25th anniversary celebration at 335 S, County Road 00 EW. Participation in the ride costs a $20 donation per person. The donation includes the ride, lunch, and a door prize ticket. Registration runs from 10-11 a.m. Kickstands are up at 11:10 a.m. The first 50 bikes receive a free ride t-shirt. This is an EMA-escorted ride. All Jeeps and motorcycles are welcome. City of Firsts HOG Chapter is raffling off a new 2023 Harley-Davidson Low Rider ST. Raffle tickets are $40 each or three tickets for $100. To learn more, click here bit.ly/43u9yqU.
BBQ Cook-Off and Back-in-School Celebration
The City of 1st Charity BBQ Cook-Off and Back-in-School Celebration will take place on Sat., Aug. 5, from 10 a.m. until 7:30 p.m. in the parking lot of The Excel Center, 101 W. Superior St. This event is hosted by All Out the Blue Resource Foundation. For entry and vendor information, email allouttheblueinc19@gmail.com.
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., Aug. 5, from 11 a.m. until noon, and at the Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr., from 11 a.m. until noon.
Symphony brings The Piano Man
The Kokomo Symphony Orchestra and the City of Kokomo have teamed up for a special night of music in Foster Park on Sat., Aug. 5. They are bringing Nick Davies, “The Piano Man,” to town for an evening of fun. Davies and his band will join the symphony orchestra to celebrate the musical influences of Billy Joel and Elton John in concert at the arts pavilion within Foster Park. The performance is part of a larger Kokomo Symphony event, which includes a car show from 4-7 p.m. before the concert begins at 8 p.m. Attending the car show and concert is free, but there are VIP tables and seats available close to the stage. VIP Tables are $450 for eight seats. Individual seats are $60 each. The VIP area is fenced in at the foot of the stage, and it will include a cash bar along with a few snacks, soda, and water. Details on the car show and registration forms can be found at www.kokomosymphony.net . To purchase VIP seating or for other information about the symphony, visit the symphony’s website or call 765-236-0251.
COMING SOON
Kokomo Jackrabbits
The Kokomo Jackrabbits will play a home game vs. the Kenosha Kingfish on Sun., Aug. 6, at Kokomo Municipal Stadium. Game time is 5:05 p.m.; For tickets, call 457-5000 or visit www.kokomojackrabbits.com.
Kumihimo Friendship Bracelet DIY
Stop by the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, on Mon., Aug. 7, to make your own friendship bracelets. The event takes place from 4-5 p.m. and is designed for middle school and high school students.
Intro to Crochet – Let’s get Hooked!
Do you want to learn how to crochet? Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Mon., Aug. 7, from 6-8 p.m. for this two-hour introductory course, and learn the basics of crochet. The workshop takes place at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. For ages 12 and up. Register by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
Kokomo Jackrabbits
The Kokomo Jackrabbits will play a home game vs. the Kalamazoo Growlers on Mon., Aug. 7, at Kokomo Municipal Stadium. Game time is 7:05 p.m.; For tickets, call 457-5000 or visit www.kokomojackrabbits.com.
Greentown Art and Photography Show
A judged show that allows local artists and photographers to display their work and win cash awards and ribbons will take place on Sat., Aug. 12, at the Meridian Street Christian Church, 205 N. Meridian St., Greentown. Free admission. Handicap accessible. For entry forms or questions call Lisa at 765-610-8461. Deadline to enter is August 7.
Kokomo Jackrabbits
The Kokomo Jackrabbits will play a home game vs. the Kalamazoo Growlers on Tue., Aug. 8, at Kokomo Municipal Stadium. Game time is 7:05 p.m.; For tickets, call 457-5000 or visit www.kokomojackrabbits.com.
Booster Bash
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library and the Family Service Association of Howard County to make sure your child is traveling in the right car seat. Visit the library’s main branch parking lot, 220 N. Union St., on Wed., Aug. 9, from 4-6 p.m. Register to get your car seat checked and receive a free booster seat by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
Books and Booze
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Wed., Aug. 9, at The Coterie, 107 W. Sycamore St., as they celebrate National Book Lovers Day. The event takes place from 5:30-8:30 p.m. and includes a book fair for adults. Bring your gently loved books to swap, or purchase items from the library’s book sale. Cash only. Participants must be 21 or over.
Homeschool Resource Fair
Are you a homeschool parent? The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will have fun activities for kids while sharing with parents the resources it has to help them teach their children. The event takes place on Fri., Aug. 11, from 2-4 p.m. at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. Registration begins at 1:45 p.m.
Ride of Hope
The 2023 Ride of Hope, sponsored by Turning Point - System of Care and Tyler's Triumphs, will take place on Sat., Aug. 12. The ride is held to raise awareness and support those struggling with substance abuse and addiction. The cost is $30 per rider and $10 per passenger. Bikes and Jeeps are welcome. Registration begins at 10:30 a.m. at Harley-Davidson of Kokomo, 335 S, 00 EW. Kickstands up at 11:30 a.m. The lunch stop for the ride will take place from 1-2:30 p.m. at the Whiskey & Wine Saloon, 4986 White Point Dr., in Monticello. The after-party takes place at 4 p.m. at Cooper's Pub, 113 E. Sycamore St., featuring live music from The Checkered Vans, provided by Cooper's Pub. Register at turningpointsoc.org/events. For additional information, call 765-860-8365 or email tiffanyd@turningpointsoc.org.
Pooches at the Pool
Pooches at the Pool will take place at the Kokomo Beach Family Aquatic Center, 802 W. Park Ave., on Sun., Aug. 13, from 5-7 p.m. Fee is $5 per dog with a limit of one dog per person. Water play is for pets only. Visit https://www.cityofkokomo.org/departments/kokomo_beach.php for more information.
Bridges Outreach Resumes
Bridges Outreach is excited to launch its 20th year in Kokomo Middle and High schools. After-school sessions will begin on Aug. 14 at Bon Air and Central middle schools and will meet on Mondays and Wednesdays. Sessions begin on Aug. 15 at Maple Crest and BTC (high school) and will meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Bridges Outreach offers fields trips, snacks, life lessons, games, and homework help. Applications for the program are available at each school’s main office.
Howard County Hall of Legends
The Howard County Historical Society will induct its latest class into the Howard County Hall of Legends on Thu., Aug. 17. Inductees this year include Meta Christy, Ben Cotner, Rachel Jenkins, Rev. Robert A. Lee, Dr. Lance Washington, and Don Moore, who will join a remarkable group of people and organizations with at least one thing in common: a commitment to improving life for others in Howard County, the state of Indiana, and nationwide. The event takes place at The Venue at Brookstone, 1201 W. Alto Road. For more event information and to purchase tickets, visit www.howardcountymuseum.org. Tickets are $60 and are tax-deductible. Doors open at 5 p.m., and dinner begins at 6 p.m. For sponsorship information, please call 765-452-4314 or email anne.shaw@howardcountymuseum.org.
You Got Game! Youth Summit
Alpha Kappa Alpha Inc., Omicron Phi Omega Chapter, will present its 6th annual Youth Summit – You Got Game! – on Sat., Aug. 19, at Indiana University Kokomo, 2300 S. Washington St. Doors open at 10:30 a.m., and the summit runs from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. There will be gift cards given away, a parent workshop, and lunch provided. Register for this event by visiting https://www.eventbrite.com/e/677099421597 .
Dungeons and Dragons: Battle Royale
In this D&D 5E tournament, there are no allies, only enemies. Converge upon the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., on Sat., Aug. 19, from 2-8 p.m. You'll fight everyone around you to become the last one standing. All experience levels welcome. Guaranteed at least two rounds of combat. Visiting www.khcpl.org and click on Events to register.