What's Happening This Week?
Events taking place in Kokomo and Howard County from Aug. 27-Sept. 2 and beyond
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TODAY
Escape to Margaritaville
Kokomo Civic Theatre will present Jimmy Buffett’s “Escape to Margaritaville” on Sun., Aug. 27, at 2 p.m. at Havens Auditorium on the Indiana University Kokomo campus, 2300 S. Washington St. Tickets are available now by visiting www.kokomocivictheatre.org/tickets or by calling 765-454-8800.
Music at Christ Lutheran
Christ Lutheran Church, 3401 S. Dixon Road, will sponsor the 17th annual Music at Christ fine arts series, beginning on Sun., Aug. 27, at 3 p.m. with organist Marilyn Keiser. Keiser is Chancellor’s Professor of Music Emerita at the Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University. A reception will follow the concert. Donations are accepted to help underwrite the cost of the fine arts series, and donors of $25 or more will be listed in the series program. Announcements relating to weather emergencies or unexpected cancellations will be posted on www.christlutherankokomo.org.
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., Aug. 28. Caregivers with a baby ages birth to 12 months are welcome to participate. Older siblngs are welcome to join also.
Homeschool Book Club
Homeschoolers, join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library as it reads and discusses books from a variety of genres, from fiction to graphic novels. The club will meet on Mon., Aug. 28, from 10-11 a.m. at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. Call 765-626-0827 for the current booklist.
Go Wild Outside
Bring the kids for some outside fun in the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Nature Explore Outdoor Classroom at the Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr. The event takes place on Mon., Aug. 28, from 10 a.m. until noon. Designed for children ages 2 and up.
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., Aug. 28, 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 System of Care holds get-togethers at the Recovery Café, 1234 N. Courtland Ave., every Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 11:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. Recovery Café is a safe, inclusive, and caring recovery community connecting people through love and purpose. Learn more and get connected by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3VRfRRL
Digital Den: Custom Totes
Grab some books off your reading list. It is time to fill up a custom tote bag you made yourself! Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library in the Digital Den, 220 N. Union St., while they show you how to design your tote with heat transfer vinyl. The activity takes place on Mon., Aug. 28, from noon until 1 p.m. Visit www.khcpl.org and click on Events to register.
Drums Alive! Family Beats
Build a sense of community while doing cardio at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Drums Alive! – Family Beats session on Mon., Aug. 28, from 6:30-7:15 p.m. The event will take place at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. Please wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Register by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking Events or by calling any KHCPL location.
TUESDAY
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. 29, 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. 29, from 9 a.m. until noon at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St.
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. 29, 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.
Tuesday@TheTech
Ivy Tech Kokomo’s next Tuesday@TheTech will focus on the College’s Ivy+ Career Link programs that provide career development services for Ivy Tech students and alumni. The open house for prospective students is set for 6-8 p.m. on Tue., Aug. 29, in the Health Professions Center on the campus at 1815 E. Morgan St. Career Link also provides a variety of talent connection opportunities and employee training for employers. For more information about how to register for this Tuesday@TheTech, go to www.ivytech.edu/tuesdays or email Kokomo-enrollment@ivytech.edu . Walk-ins are welcome. For more information on Ivy+ Career Link, contact Loman at kloman@ivytech.edu or 765-252-5495.
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. 30, 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., Aug. 30, 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.
THURSDAY
Kindermusik Wiggle and Grow
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library for singing, dancing, and instrument play, which promote cognitive development! Kindermusik Wiggle and Grow will be held at the library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr., on Thu., Aug. 31, from 10-10:30 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!
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. 31, 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. 31, 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. 31 show features Rick Alan King. In case of rain, all concerts will be held in the fairgrounds' cattle barn.
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. 1, 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.
First Friday Lunch and Learn
Community Howard Regional Health and the Kokomo Family YMCA will present a First Friday Lunch and Learn on Fri., Sept. 1, at the YMCA, 114 N. Union St., from 12:10-12:50 p.m. Join Community's orthopedic surgeon Courtney Holland, MD, for a discussion on hip and knee pain. Dr. Holland will discuss osteoarthritis and the latest surgical and non-surgical treatment options. The first 60 who register will receive a free lunch courtesy of Century Villa Health Care & Rehabilitation. Register today at https://bit.ly/3YAvzU6 .
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., Sept. 1, 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.
Artsapalooza
First Friday’s “Artsapalooza” will take place in downtown Kokomo on Fri., Sept. 1. Experience art everywhere! Try it, hear it and appreciate it; Don’t miss the opening of the 10th annual Artist Alley exhibit and Hawgin’ the Block for Bridges Outreach from 5:30-9 p.m. 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. For information, call 457-5301 or visit www.firstfridaykokomo.com.
48-Hour Film Contest
Do you love making or watching local films? Come to the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s 48-Hour Film Contest! Movie screenings will be on Fri., Sept. 1, from 7-9 p.m. at the Sun King Depot Room, 500 N. Buckeye St.
SATURDAY
JCYBC 3-on-3
The JCYBC Bobby Pettigrew Blacktop Reunion 3-on-3 basketball tournament will take place on Sat., Sept. 2, in Studebaker Park, 1030 N. Purdum St. Games begin at 9 a.m. Age groups are 3rd and 4th grade, 5th and 6th grade, and 7th and 8th grade. Winners will receive medals. Call 765-863-1025 to register.
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. 2, from 11 a.m. until noon.
COMING SOON
KPRD Winter Basketball League
The Kokomo Parks and Recreation Department is now accepting registrations for its 2023-24 winter basketball league. There will be a men’s league and a women’s 3-on-3 league. Registration is open through Oct. 20. Leagues begin play on Nov. 5. For information on fees and further details, call the KPRD office at 765-456-7275 or visit www.cityofkokomo.org.
Library Card Sign-Up
Visit any Kokomo Howard County Public Library branch and get a library card because September will be a celebration for all cardholders. On Sun., Sept. 3, from 1-4 p.m., library card holders can visit Heritage Lanes, 1301 W. Lincoln Road and receive a coupon for their next visit. If you don’t have a library card, you can sign up for one at this event.
Vince Osman Championship and Fireworks
The annual Vince Osman Championship will take place at the Kokomo Speedway, 2455 N. Davis Road, on Sun., Sept. 3. The event will feature sprint cars, modifieds, thunder cars, and fireworks. General admission is $15. HARF members get $5 off with a valid membership. Kids 12 and under attend free. Pit passes are $30. Pit Gates open at 3 p.m. General admission gates open at 4 p.m. Hot laps are at 6 p.m., and racing begins at 7 p.m.
Park Band Concert
The Kokomo Park Band will perform on Sun., Sept. 3, at 7 p.m. on the Highland Park stage. The concert is entitled “Game On.” This is a free concert. Visit www.kokomoparkband.org for additional information.
Library Card Sign-Up
Visit any Kokomo Howard County Public Library branch and get a library card because September will be a celebration for all cardholders. On Tue., Sept. 5, from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m., library card holders can visit Oscar’s Pizza, 515 N. Buckeye St., to enjoy a slice and receive KHCPL freebies. If you don’t have a library card, you can sign up for one at this event.
Cosmic Adventures Lego Space
Build a spaceship to escape our planet with a launchpad to blast off. Use your imagination to build and play with other LEGO® enthusiasts on Tue., Sept. 5, from 5:30-6:30 p.m. This event, for children ages 6-11, will take place at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road.
Pint Size Chef
Registration is open now for the Kokomo Parks and Recreation Department’s fall session of Pint Size Chef. Classes will be held each Tuesday from Sept. 5 until Oct. 10. Cost is $30 per child. Classes will take place from 5:30-6:30 p.m. for children ages 5-8, and from 6:45-7:45 p.m. for children ages 9-12. There are only 12 spaces per class, so register early. For additional information, call 765-456-7275.
Digital Den: Into to Google Apps 2
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Digital Den for a lesson in its Intro to Google Applications series on Wed., Sept. 6, from noon until 1 p.m. The focus will be on Google Drive. In addition, we will go over the basics of Docs, Slides, and Forms and how they relate to Google Drive. The Digital Den is located at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. Register for this event by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
Library Card Sign-Up
Visit any Kokomo Howard County Public Library branch and get a library card because September will be a celebration for all cardholders. On Wed., Sept. 6, from 3:30-6:30 p.m., library card holders can visit Wally and Olly’s Ice Cream, 419 E. Gano St., to enjoy a free kids scoop of ice cream. If you don’t have a library card, you can sign up for one at this event.
IU Kokomo Golf Outing
Indiana University Kokomo's annual golf outing is back this September. The event will take place on Sept. 7 at Wildcat Creek Golf Course. Join them on the links and support the Cougars! Teams of four can choose to participate in either the morning or afternoon round of golf. Lunch is served at noon and includes a discussion of the innovations and accomplishments taking place at IU Kokomo. To register, visit go.iu.edu/4Ohj
Runway Fun Day
Whether you're a costume lover or fashionista, come dressed in your best and walk down the runway! Check out books on famous designers and how clothes are made, and make your own fashion accessory! The Runway Fun Day will take place at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., on Thu., Sept. 7, from 6-7 p.m.
Smiles for Vets
Dr. Melissa Jarrell and her team at Family and Cosmetic Dentistry of Kokomo, PC, 5111 Clinton Dr., will host Smiles for Vets, providing hundreds of U.S. Veterans with free dental care. The line begins at 8 a.m. Doors open at 9 a.m., and dental services will be offered until 3 p.m.; Call 453-4369 or visit https://jarrelldentistry.com/services/smiles-for-vets for information.
9/11 Remembrance Ruck March
The Stellantis Veterans Group will hold its third annual 9/11 Remembrance Ruck March on Fri., Sept. 8, at the Indiana Transmission Plant I north parking lot along the Nickel Plate Trail. Check-in begins at 4 p.m. A ceremony will be held at 4:30 p.m. This event is open to everyone. Bring a new backpack filled with new, non-perishable food, hygiene items, cleaning supplies, socks, and underwear. Walk, run, or roll two miles with the backpack to symbolize the load carried by our military and first responders. All donations will go to Jackson Street Commons and Coordinated Assistance Ministries for their homeless veterans transitional facilities and assistance program. An event t-shirt will be given to all registered participants. RSVP at https://tinyurl.com/ycyrsryt
9/11 Memorial Tribute Challenge
Honor those who gave their lives in the Twin Towers on 9/11 by participating in one of four events to take place on Sat., Sept. 9, from 8:45 a.m. until 5 p.m., at Kokomo Municipal Stadium. Participate in more than one event to receive a discount. The cost is $25 for one event, $45 for two events, $70 for three events, and $80 for all four events. The money raised will be split equally between the Marty Meyers Scholarship Foundation (Kokomo Fire Department), Carl Koontz (Howard County Sheriff's Department) Scholarship Foundation, and the FOP Scholarship Foundation (Kokomo Police Department). For additional information or to register, visit 9/11 Memorial Tribute Challenge (runsignup.com)
CAM Golf Tournament
On Sat., Sept. 9, at the American Legion Golf Course, Coordinated Assistance Ministries will host its annual golf tournament. The cost is $400 per team of four. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Check-in begins at 9 a.m., with tee time at 10 a.m. Free beverages and snacks are included with player registration. Trophies will be awarded for first, second and third place teams. Registration ends on Fri., Sept. 1. All funds raised for this event will be matched up to $10,000!
Forensic Genealogy
Cold cases are being solved using genetic genealogy. Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Sat., Sept. 9, from 9:30-11 a.m. to learn how forensic genealogy can be used. The event takes place at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St.
Craft Corner – Wooden Bead Wreath
Create an end-of-summer wooden bead wreath decorated with handmade felt flowers. Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Sat., Sept. 9, from 1-3 p.m. to create a 10" wreath; the perfect addition to your fall display! The event takes place at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. Register by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
Summer Concert Series: Runaway June
Runaway June is a Grammy-nominated country music trio made up of Jennifer Wayne, Natalie Stovall, and Stevie Woodward. They made their first public performance together at Nashville’s historic Grand Ole Opry and are currently on the road hitting stages in cities across the U.S. The trio recently signed to Quartz Hill Records, released their current single “Make Me Wanna Smoke” and have toured with Carrie Underwood and Luke Bryan. The group will be in concert in Foster Park in downtown Kokomo on Sat., Sept. 9. Walker Montgomery will open for Runaway June at 6 p.m. Free admission.
Touch a Truck
The City of Kokomo will host a Touch-a-Truck event on Sun., Sept. 10, from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. in the parking lot at Inventrek, 700 E. Firmin St. Bring the family out to experience the equipment employed by city workers, police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel. A sensory hour, involving no lights or sirens, will take place from 11 a.m. until noon.
Girls Basketball Fall League
The Carver Community Center will hold its middle school girls fall basketball league for girls in grades 6-8, beginning Sept. 10. This off-season developmental league features Sunday games against top-notch competition. Two games per day. Each game has 18-minute halves with a running clock. The cost is $250 per team or $100 for individual sign-ups. To register, call 765-457-9318 or visit www.kokomocarver.org
Access to Rock
Project Access will hold an Access to Rock event on Sat., Sept. 16, from 5-10 p.m. Three bands will perform live at 500 N. Buckeye St. in front of Sun King. This is a 21 and over event. Tickets are $20 and can be obtained by visiting https://www.eventbrite.com/e/access-to-rock-tickets-675357942787?fbclid=IwAR11iieb4A_c3Q1Vnqcd-U5B4PTMb0rN-CDmpT1-nPNXyrySDtkNiCyjX5c
Shoot for the Stars Benefit
Help increase access to healthcare for area veterans on Sun., Sept. 17, by spending a morning at the Izaak Walton League sporting clay range, 2629 S, County Road 200 E. The Community Howard Regional Health Foundation's sporting clay fundraiser is back, and registration is open for teams and sponsors. Registration is 8-9 a.m. on the day of the event. A safety meeting will be held at 9:15 a.m. Lunch and beverages are included, following the shoot. Cost is $400 per team. You must supply your own 12-gauge or 20-gauge shotgun, as well as eye and ear protection. You may supply your own 8 or 9 shells or purchase them from the Izaak Walton League. There will be cash prizes, and clay mulligans are available. Proceeds will go to support a special fund to help cover the cost of care for veterans. To register, or receive more information, call 765-776-8458 or email reastman@ecommunity.com
Black and White Masquerade
The Black and White Masquerade, a charity event to benefit Kokomo Urban Outreach’s UP Program, will take place on Thu. Sept. 21, at 6 p.m. at the Bel Air, 3014 S. Webster St. The event will include stories from UP participants, a mask contest, a silent auction, comedians John and Luke Branyan, and most importantly, an opportunity to change lives. Tickets are available now by visiting https://www.eventbrite.com/e/669605878207 or by stopping by the KUO office, 1701 S. Locke St.
Solidarity Scholarship Golf
Mark your calendars for Sat., Sept. 23, as Solidarity Community Federal Credit Union holds its annual scholarship golf outing. There will be an 8 a.m. shotgun start. The cost is $125 per golfer, which includes cart, prizes, two drinks, and lunch. Sponsorship opportunities are available. click here bit.ly/463bGIA to register.
Drums Along the Wildcat
The City of Kokomo and the Kokomo Native Initiative are proud to announce the first-ever pow-wow in Kokomo. Drums Along the Wildcat will take place on Sat., Sept. 23, from 10 a.m. until dark in Foster Park. The event is free to the public. A Grand Entry will take place at 11 a.m. and at 6 p.m. There will be a break for dinner at 4:30 p.m. For additional information, contact Sally Tuttle at 765-438-6652 or by emailing tuttle.ss@comcast.net.
Glo in the ‘Mo
Here we GLO again! Glo in the 'Mo early bird registration is now open! The Kokomo Family YMCA’s family-friendly, neon night run is happening on Friday, Oct. 6. The party starts during First Friday outside of the Y with glow in the dark powder, glow sticks, a DJ pumping out tunes, and a foam party! Run or walk the scenic course that leads through downtown, winding through Foster Park along the Walk of Excellence trail and around Kokomo Beach. There will be local vendors to come out and support, too. Don't miss out on Glo in the ‘Mo early bird pricing and to be guaranteed a shirt on race day. Register here: https://secure.getmeregistered.com/get_information.php?event_id=138823
YMCA Pickleball Tournament
Grab a paddle and your teammate for the YMCA's first annual Pickleball Tournament on Sat., Oct. 28, at 8 a.m. This doubles tournament is for ages 18 and older. You are welcome to bring your own paddles and indoor pickleballs. All proceeds will go toward the YMCA’s Annual Campaign. Register your team of two, same-gender or co-ed. There will be age divisions for those ages 18-49 and for those 50 and above. It is a double-elimination tournament. Cost is $50 per team. Pickleball is recognized as America’s fastest growing sport so get registered online at: https://operations.daxko.com/Online/5014/ProgramsV2/Search.mvc?category_ids=TAG1907 For more information, visit our website: https://kokomoymca.org/events/pickleball-tournament/