What's Happening This Week?
Events taking place in Kokomo and Howard County from Feb. 18-Feb. 24 and beyond
This article is brought to you by the Coca-Cola Bottling Co. of Kokomo. Discover Real Magic with Coca-Cola.
TODAY
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 .
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., Feb. 19, 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.
Monday Fun Day
Children ages 2-5 and their adult caregivers will explore early literacy, math, and science activities and a variety of hands-on skill centers, which develop kindergarten readiness at Monday Fun Day. This event takes place at the Russiaville branch of the Kokomo Howard County Public Library, 305 Mesa Dr., on Mon., Feb. 19, from 10 a.m. until noon.
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., Feb. 19, 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.
Growing Readers: Tiny Tykes
Introduce your little one to quality literature and the library in a fun, inviting way with age-appropriate activities on Mon., Feb. 19, from 2-2:30 p.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. This event is designed for children ages 0-2.
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., Feb. 19, from 3:30-5:30 p.m. at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St.
Winter Blues Busters
Beat the winter blues with the Kokomo Howard County Library by joining them for a fun afternoon of building your own bird feeder. The event takes place at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., on Mon., Feb. 19, from 4-5 p.m. This event is designed for children ages 6-13.
Board Game Night
There’s nothing boring about a Board Game Night! Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library at its Russiaville branch, 305 Mesa Dr., on Mon., Feb. 19, from 5:30-8 p.m. for an evening of WarMachine, Dice Throne, Marvel United, Marvel Champions, Riot Quest, and snacks.
Movie Night at IU Kokomo
Join Indiana University Kokomo for a Movie Night on Mon., Feb. 19, at 5:30 p.m. in Kresge Auditorium on the IU Kokomo campus, 2300 S. Washington St. The featured film is “10,000 Black Men Named George.” There will be a discussion following the film. This event is free and open to the public.
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.
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., Feb. 20, from 3-4 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: Hex Bugs
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., Feb. 20, have fun with Hex Bugs at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., from 4-6 p.m. This event is designed for children ages 8-13.
Grateful Heart Restorative Yoga
In this restorative yoga practice, the body is fully supported by props to promote deep relaxation. Grateful Heart Restorative Yoga with the Kokomo Howard County Public Library will take place Tue., Feb. 20, from 5:30-6:45 p.m. at the Jeff Stout Community Center, 650 N. West St., Russiaville.
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., Feb. 21, 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.
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., Feb. 21, 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.
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, on Wed., Feb. 21, from 6-7 p.m.
Creative Writers Series
Meet noted authors Billie Tadros and Saul Lemerod at Indiana University Kokomo’s Creative Writers Series on Wed., Feb. 21, at 6 p.m. in Kresge Auditorium, 2600 S. Washington St. The authors will read their work, answer questions, and sign copies of their books. This event is part of the Department of English and Language Studies’ creative writers series.
Let’s Learn about the Moon
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Wed., Feb. 21, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. as you craft and learn about the moon and its phases. This event takes place at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road and is designed for children ages 3-5.
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
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, 305 Mesa Dr., on Thu., Feb. 22, from 10-10:30 a.m. for children ages 0-3. Your child's movements stimulate the release of chemicals in the brain to support memory and learning!
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., Feb. 22, 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.
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., Feb. 22, from 4-5 p.m.
Discovery Center: Osmos
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 Thu., Feb. 22, have fun with Osmos at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., from 4-6 p.m. This event is designed for children ages 8-13.
STEAM Mania
Focus on problem solving, creativity, and teamwork, and have fun while you do it on Thu., Feb. 22, from 4-6 p.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr. This event is intended for children ages 6-13.
Teen Writers Group
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a Writers Group for teen amateur fiction writers on Thu., Feb. 22, from 5:05-6 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.
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., Feb. 23, 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.
SCAN Family Trampoline Night
SCAN (Stop Child Abuse and Neglect) will hold a free family trampoline night at Gravity Trampoline Park, 1201 S. Reed Road, on Fri., Feb. 23, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. The event is held in conjunction with Turning Point - A System of Care/REACH and Tobacco Free Howard County. Each participating family will receive free admission to Gravity, plus future passes for the trampoline park. Each family member also will receive a free slice of pizza, a drink, and a pair of Gravity Grip Socks. A waiver must be signed before participating in activities. This is a substance-free social and recreational event.
Yoke and Yoga Benefit
Fierce Yoga and Yoke Social Table are teaming up for an evening of yoga, delicious food, and awareness on the topic of domestic violence. The event will take place on Fri., Feb. 23, at 6:30 p.m. at Fierce Yoga, 400 W. Superior St. Donations are being accepted now for the Kokomo Crisis Shelter, a program of the Family Service Association of Howard County. For those interested in donating items, see the list of needs accompanying this entry. Donations will be accepted at Yoke Social Table, 1928 S. Washington St., between 10:30 a.m. and 9 p.m. through Feb. 23. Every item donated earns an entry into a raffle to win a gift package from Fierce Yoga and Yoke Social Table. The benefit will feature a presentation by guest speaker, Miss Heart of the Midwest, Ari Shanks-Hill; the creator of The Gabby Project, an initiative to end domestic violence. The night starts with a recharging yin yoga flow, led by Ashley Shanks. Food provided by Yoke Social Table will follow. Tickets for this event are $25. Visit https://fierceyoga.as.me/schedule.php?fbclid=IwAR3t2lKJj9v_WRZbdYiMU2IWYvUtXu-0xTMpVCUyZ5XE12CnhUohk1JZNlU to register.
‘The Missing Heirloom’
Kokomo Civic Theatre will present “The Missing Heirloom,” a play by local author Othello Bach, on Feb. 23-25, at IU Kokomo’s Havens Auditorium, 2300 S. Washington St. Performances take place at 7:30 p.m. on Fri., Feb. 23, and Sat., Feb. 24, and at 2 p.m. on Sun., Feb. 25. Tickets are $15 for adults, $13 for seniors (60+), $12 for students (through college), and $10 for children 12 and under. Set in 1955 Kansas, 70-year-old Maggie Henderson receives a letter from the Smithsonian Institute, looking for a gold watch that was given to her grandfather by Theodore Roosevelt. Following a tragic accident, Maggie allows Sophie, a black woman who cleans houses, to stay with her. Maggie’s friend, town busy-body, Betty, can’t help but share all this news with the town, which results in attempt to steal the watch, to take advantage of Maggie’s new-found fortune, and reveals previously unspoken prejudice and disapproval of Maggie and Sophie. "The Missing Heirloom" is a touching story told with humor about prejudice and racism in the 1950s with a positive message. Kokomo Civic Theatre is proud to present this world premiere production. Tickets are available online at www.kokomocivictheatre.org/tickets .
SATURDAY
Walk a Mile in My Shoes
Registration is open for the Kokomo Rescue Mission’s annual Walk a Mile in My Shoes fundraiser. The event will take place on Sat., Feb. 24. Kick-off will take place at the rescue mission, 321 W. Mulberry St., at 8 a.m. Register as a team or as an individual walker by visiting www.kokomorescuemission.org/walk-a-mile-2024. Once you have registered, stop by the mission to pick up your packet, Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m., or download it from the mission’s website. If you are part of a team, only the captain of your team needs to register.
Candy Kingdom Live
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Sat., Feb. 24, from 10 a.m. until noon to play a life-sized version of a childhood favorite board game. The event takes place at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., and is designed for children ages 3-5.
Reading with Pet Partners
Kids can practice their reading skills by reading to trained therapy animals at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., on Sat., Feb. 24, from 11 a.m. until noon.
Kokomo Art Association Photo Show
The Kokomo Art Association presents the 2024 Photo Show, March 1-30, at Artworks Gallery, 210 N. Main St. Do you have an eye for artful photography? Have you wanted an opportunity to share your gifts with others who appreciate photo art? Entry forms for the show are available at Artworks or online at www.kaaonline.org. Works must be dropped off on Sat., Feb. 24, from noon to 4 p.m. For additional information, contact Cheryl at kokomoartassociation2014@gmail.com.
BINGO Day at KUO
Play BINGO with Kokomo Urban Outreach, 1701 S. Locke St., on Sat., Feb. 24, beginning at 1 p.m. The entire community is invited to come and play. There will be free food and chances to win prizes. Entry is just $5 for adults. Kids will play for free in their own game, held in a different room. For additional information, visit (1) Bingo Day @KokomoUrbanOutreach | Facebook
Western Circus and Carnival
Western High School’s Band and Guard will hold a Circus and Carnival, featuring performers from the Peru Amateur Circus, on Sat., Feb. 24. The event will take place in the Western High School Gymnasium. Circus show times are 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. The carnival is open from 1-6 p.m. and will include games, prizes, and concessions; Tickets are available at the gate and cost $10 for adults, $5 for students ages 7-18, Children ages 6 and under are admitted free. Carnival games cost $1 each to play. This event is a fundraiser for the Western band and guard programs.
Ballads and Baked Spaghetti
The Greentown Public Library, 421 S. Harrison St., Greentown, will hold a “Ballads and Baked Spaghetti” fundraiser on Sat., Feb. 24, from 6-8 p.m., featuring Keyton Romero & Band. Keyton will perform her blend of country and rock & roll while the library staff serves up baked spaghetti, salad, and more. This event is free to the public, but freewill donations are accepted. Register for this event by calling 765-628-3534.
COMING SOON
Free Tax Prep Service
The United Way serving Howard and Tipton Counties is offering free tax preparation services to the community. The tax preparation service uses IRS-certified tax preparers and guarantees you will receive 100 percent of your refund, with no fees or interest. The United Way’s tax preparers will also e-file your return and provide free Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit screenings. Pick up a packet which has instructions on what information needs to be provided. Complete the forms in the packet and return it to any of these sites: Kokomo Howard County Public Library Downtown, 220 N. Union St.; Kokomo Howard County Public Library South, 1755 E. Center Road; Kokomo Howard County Public Library Russiaville, 305 Mesa Dr.; Greentown Public Library, 421 S. Harrison St.; Tipton Public Library, 127 E. Madison St. For additional information, call 765-450-7619 or email freetaxprep@unitedwayhoco.org .
Free Mammograms
If you're uninsured or experiencing financial hardship, Advanced Medical Imaging, 2008 W. Boulevard St., is providing free mammograms to local women in need. Call 765-454-9729 or click here to schedule the appointment today: https://www.amikokomo.com/3d-screening-mammogram-appointments/
Winter Blues Busters
Beat the winter blues with the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Mon., Feb. 26, with “Minute-to-Win-It” games. This event takes place at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., from 4-5 p.m. and is designed from children ages 6-13.
Dark as Dusk: The Bad Astronomer
Indiana University Kokomo is offering a dinner and presentation with Phil Plait, The Bad Astronomer, on Mon., Feb. 26, as part of its Dark As Dusk series leading up to the total solar eclipse on April 8. There are still tickets available for the dinner with The Bad Astronomer, which are $50 each. Dinner begins at 5:30 p.m. Register by visiting www.go.iu.edu/4Rtv . A presentation by Plait will follow at 7 p.m. and is free to the public. Register for the presentation by visiting www.go.iu.edu/4RMj .
Train Your Brain
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library and the Purdue Extension Office will team up to present Train Your Brain: Nutrition, Neurobics, and Notable Ways to Keep Your Brain Healthy on Tue., Feb. 27, from 2-3:30 p.m. at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road.
Moonlight Marvels
Explore the lunar phases with the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Tue., Feb. 27, from 4-6 p.m. Discover the enchanting world of the moon as the library delves into its mesmerizing phases, from the crescent to the full moon. And then create an illuminating craft. This event takes place at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. and is designed for children ages 8-13.
Planting a Vegetable Garden
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library as Master Gardener Buddy Knepley shares information about when and what you'll need to plant a vegetable garden. This talk will take place on Tue., Feb. 27, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road.
Artventure: Picasso
Discover the world of art through the styles and techniques of renowned artists from different periods in time. This event takes place at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., on Wed., Feb. 28, from 5:30-6:30 p.m. and is designed for children ages 6-13.
Leap into Froggy Fun
Designed to make Leap Year memorable, this Kokomo Howard County Public Library program will be filled with delightful froggy surprises, combining frog-related activities, stories, games, and a special froggy snack. The Leap Day adventure runs from 10-11 a.m. on Thu., Feb. 29, at the library’s Russiaville branch, 305 Mesa Dr. and is designed for children ages 3-5.
BorgWarner Dislocated Workers Job Fair
WorkOne West Central invites employers to participate in the upcoming Rapid Response Job Fair on behalf of BorgWarner dislocated workers Join with other area employers to assist in the re-employment of this experienced workforce. The job fair takes place Thu., Feb. 29, from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. at BorgWarner Kokomo Morgan Street, 1501 E, CR 200 N. RSVP your attendance by calling Faith Willoughby at 765-476-9359.
George Crum’s Culinary Adventure
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Thu., Feb. 29, for a fun-filled kids’ event that celebrates the delicious legacy of George Crum, the inventor of the potato chip! The event takes place at the library’ south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, from 3:30-4:15 p.m. and is designed for children ages 3-11.
Kokomo Filmmakers Meet and Greet
Want to meet other local people interested in making movies? Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Thu., Feb. 29, from 6-7:30 p.m. for this event in the Digital Den, 220 N. Union St., to make contacts, learn about filmmaking resources, and more!
Paper Bag Princess Day Adventure
Your royal presence is requested at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, on Fri., March 1, from 2-2:30 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.
First Friday
First Friday returns to downtown Kokomo on Fri., March 1, beginning at 5:30 p.m. Take a free, arts-based, open-house tour of beautiful downtown Kokomo. Each month features a theme with downtown venues catering their activities to the month’s theme. 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; Visit www.firstfridaykokomo.com for more information.
Cricut Fun: Plant Markers
Are you ready to plant your garden? Let the Kokomo Howard County Public Library help you easily identify your plants. In this class at the library’s Russiaville branch, 305 Mesa Dr., you will learn how to create plant markers in Cricut Design Space! The class takes place on Fri., March 1, from 6-7 p.m.
Paper Bag Princess Day Adventure
Your royal presence is requested at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Russiaville branch, 305 Mesa Dr., on Sat., March 2, from 10-11 a.m. Don't miss this royal rendezvous where imagination reigns and fairy tales come to life! Celebrate a magical day with your little royalty.
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 south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, on Sat., March 2, from 1-4 p.m. This event is designed for teens in middle and high school.
Handbell Festival
The 40th Annual Kokomo Handbell Festival will take place on Sat., March 2, at 5:30 p.m. at Bible Baptist Church, 2635 S. Dixon Road. Seven local handbell choirs will be joined by guest director Mike Keller and the Circle City Ringers of Indianapolis. The event is free, but a freewill offering will be taken.
KPRD Summer Softball League
Registration is open for the 2024 Kokomo Parks and Recreation Department’s Summer Softball League and runs through March 1. Register for men’s, women’s, or co-ed softball. League play begins April 22. For information about fees and other details, contact the KPRD office at 765-456-7275 or visit www.cityofkokomo.org.
Community Foundation Scholarships
Applications are being accepted now for general scholarships from the Community Foundation Serving Howard, Clinton, and Carroll Counties. Seniors, now is the time to apply! One application will help you apply to all the scholarships for which you are eligible. The application deadline is March 1. To apply, visit https://www.grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=cfhinscholarship&fbclid=IwAR1_QM2RgO1fve_uHUdhb8qB-WpwLVnwmD7KuNdT38kQjEjW8kyzVz2-OV8
Spring Junk Journaling
Got the winter blahs? Join the Kokomo Art Association in making spring junk journals. This class is for anyone who likes to scrapbook, make cards, paper crafts, or journaling. Learn to make a unique junk journal to give as a gift or to keep for yourself. The classes will take place on Saturday, March 2, 9, 16, and 23, from 1:30-3:30 p.m. at Artworks Gallery, 210 N. Main St. The fee for the classes in $50, which includes all supplies. To register, call 765-459-4579, visit www.kaaonline.org, or walk into the gallery during normal hours.
AMVETS Chili Cookoff
AMVETS Post 27 will hold a chili cookoff on Sat., March 2, from 3-7 p.m. at the Jeff Stout Community Center, 650 N. West St., Russiaville. Make the best chili to win a t-shirt, apron, and bragging rights. Competitors should provide three to five gallons of chili. The competition will be judged by participating tasters. Competitors will pay $25 to enter the competition. Tasters will pay $10 to participate. Children ages 12 and under taste for half price. All proceeds from this event will go toward counseling for veterans and their families. For more information, contact Chuck Mooney at 765-432-2766.
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.
CASA St. Patrick’s Day 5K
Howard County Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) will hold its annual St. Patrick’s Day 5K on Sat., March 16, from 3-6:30 p.m. Registration is open now by visiting https://casa5k.itsyourrace.com/event.aspx?id=13220 . Registration fee is $25 per person now, but $30 after March 1. Those registering by Feb. 28 will receive a free t-shirt. The race will begin at Sun King Kokomo, 500 N. Buckeye St.
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.
KUO Empty Bowl
Kokomo Urban Outreach’s Empty Bowl fundraising event is coming March 8! Save the date now. More information to follow. 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.” For more information, call 765-252-9954.
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 .
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. Get ready to have your funny bone tickled and your cheeks sore from smiling. This over 21 in-person event will be held at Rhine Hall Entertainment & Event Venue, 507 N. Union St. Grab your partner, friends, everyone is welcome! 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. Laugh until your sides hurt and make unforgettable memories. Don't miss out on this night filled with humor and good vibes. 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 https://www.eventbrite.com/e/literacy-coalitions-comedy-date-night-tickets-828874484897?aff=efbevent&fbclid=IwAR0ZTUCFLqNTMvaVVptWw9KWnLo6Kpvp1iVD6A1QvPj5tUCeJOT-LP6DSVk
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 .
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 https://operations.daxko.com/Online/5014/ProgramsV2/Search.mvc?category_ids=TAG18552
Civic Theatre Takes on Shakespeare
The dates have changed! Kokomo Civic Theatre presents “The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (abridged).” All 37 plays in 97 minutes. The show will feature general admission, as well as on-stage seating for an intimate and hilarious theatrical experience. This performance will take place at IU Kokomo Havens Auditorium, 2600 S. Washington St., on Friday, March 22, and Sat., March 23, at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, March 24, at 2 p.m. All existing tickets will be honored for the new date. For tickets, call 765-454-8800 or visit www.kokomocivictheatre.org.
Ethereal Exhibition
The Indiana University Kokomo Art Gallery is accepting artists’ submission now for its upcoming Ethereal Exhibition, which will go on display from June 5-27. Art should reflect or interpret the show’s theme: Ethereal, a quality that possesses almost perfect or extremely delicate features pertaining to a spiritual realm rather than of this earth. Artists are invited to submit work that is inspired by or hold this mystical essence. Entries are due by April 17, and the entry fee is $25.Entry forms are available by visiting https://go.iu.edu/4RTx . For more information, call 765-455-9523 or email gallery2@iu.edu.