What's Happening This Week?
Events taking place in Kokomo and Howard County from June 25-July 1 and beyond
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TODAY
Tee Up Fore Kids
Prevent Child Abuse Howard County will hold its Tee Up Fore Kids four-person scramble golf tournament on Sun., June 25, at Wildcat Creek Golf Course, 3200 Timber Valley Dr Cost is $75 per person of $300 per team and includes a cart and green fees. Registration for the tournament begins at noon, with a 1 p.m. shotgun start. Prizes will be awarded for the top three finishers. There will be men’s and women’s longest drive contests and closest to the pin contests. There also will be a $5 putting contest. For more information, contact Sara Gruber at 765-513-8506 or grubers@fsahc.org or Jason Hurlock at 765-432-2312 or Jason.hurlock@dcs.in.gov
Kokomo Jackrabbits
The Kokomo Jackrabbits will play the Wausau Woodchucks on Sun., June 25, at Kokomo Municipal Stadium. Game time is 5:05 p.m. For tickets, call 457-5000 or visit www.kokomojackrabbits.com.
Measure for Measure and A Comedy of Errors
Come to Indiana University Kokomo’s Earth Stage, 2300 S. Washington St., on Sun., June 25, to see “Measure for Measure,” performed by Hoosier Shakes. Bring a chair or blanket, a picnic, and maybe a sun umbrella. The show starts at 7:30 p.m. Admission is free. Hoosier Shakes is in its eighth year of bringing professional theatre to the heartland. Performances are fast-paced, understandable, and entertaining. Come early for live modern preshow music.
MONDAY
Swim Lessons at Kokomo Beach
The Kokomo Parks and Recreation Department will hold swim lessons at Kokomo Beach, with Session 2 starting on Mon., June 26. These two-week sessions run Monday through Thursday from June 26-29 and July 3-6. Cost is $15 per session. Class times are 9-9:30 a.m. and 9:45-10:15 a.m. Classes Are designed for children ages 6 months and up. All registrations must be submitted and paid for at Kokomo Beach. The forms are available there, at the KPRD park office in Highland Park, or online at www.cityofkokomo.org. Session 3 will take place July 17-27, with registration beginning July 10.
STEM Camp
Applications for the NIPSCO STEM Camp are now being accepted! This specialty camp focuses on the STEM disciplines of science, technology, engineering, and math. Campers participate in a variety of fun (and educational!) activities - from making pizza box solar ovens to designing hovercrafts. The NIPSCO STEM Camp is for ages 7-12 and will run June 26-30. Camp hours are 9 a.m.- 4:30 p.m., with wraparound care available from 7:30 a.m.- 6 p.m. Visit www.camptycony.com/stemcamp for more information or email stemcamp@kokomoymca.org.
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 on Mon., June 26, 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., June 5. Caregivers with a baby ages birth to 12 months are welcome to participate. Older siblngs are welcome to join also.
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., June 26, 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.
Summer Slam
Bridges Outreach presents Summer Slam, a daily program for students in grades 6-12 from any school. Summer Slam will meet every Monday through Friday from noon to 2:30 p.m. at the Carver Community Center, 1030 N. Purdum St. Enjoy games, snacks, and a field trip every Friday through July 14. For additional information, call 765-452-5723.
Recreation Adventure Program
The Kokomo Parks and Recreation Department will hold its daily Adventure Program, Mondays through Fridays from 12-5 p.m. at Highland Park, Mohr Park, and Bon Air Park. Supervisors are present to offer children leadership and organized games and sports, not to babysit. Children are free to come and go on their own. The program includes arts and crafts, games, storytelling, sports, and more. Call the Kokomo Parks and Recreation Department at 765-456-7275 for additional information.
Swing for the Green
Grab some friends and test your putting skills at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s mini golf course on Mon., June 26. This event, for children ages 3-13, will take place at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., from 2-6 p.m. All equipment is provided for free.
Nurses in Recovery
The Nurses in Recovery Support Group will be held on Mon., June 26, from 6-7 p.m. at Turning Point System of Care, 1234 N. Courtland Ave. This program is approved by the Indiana Professional Recovery Program. If you are a nurse in recovery or just need support, Turning Point encourages you to come. This support group will be held every Monday from 6-7 p.m.
Stellar Vacation Bible School
Fairview Baptist Church, 2108 E Vaile Ave, invites children to Stellar VBS: Shine Jesus’ Light! from June 26-30. At Stellar, kids discover how they can shine Jesus’ love and hope in everyday life! Kids participate in memorable Bible-learning activities, sing catchy songs, play teamwork-building games, make and devour yummy treats, experience one-of-a-kind Bible Adventures, collect Bible Memory Buddies to remind them of Jesus’ light, and test out Sciency-Fun Gizmos they’ll take home and play with all summer long. Plus, kids will learn to look for evidence of God all around them through something called God Sightings. Each day concludes with a Cosmic Closing that gets everyone involved in living what they’ve learned. Family members and friends are encouraged to join in daily for this special time at 8 p.m. Stellar is for kids from 4 to 12 and will run from 6-8:30 p.m. each day. For more information, call 765-452-9237.
Summer Swim Camp
Summer Swim Camp starts on Mon., June 26! Don't wait! Register your child today! Summer means playing in or near pools, ponds, and lakes. Swimming is a life skill, and the Kokomo Family YMCA has been teaching children and adults how to swim for over 150 years, helping them to be safe in and around water. Your child will gain confidence around water while making friends and having fun. Regular sessions are held once per week. Camp sessions are held four times per week. The lessons are for children ages six months to 12 years old. Register here: Program Search (daxko.com)
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., June 27, from 8-9 a.m.
Tuesday@TheTech
Enrolled at Ivy Tech Community College or thinking of enrolling? Join Ivy Tech on Tue., June 27, for Tuesday@TheTech from 9-11 a.m. at the main building, 1855 E. Morgan St. This month’s session is about exploring your Career Link, including career development, internship programs, your elevator pitch, interview skills, and job placement. Register by visiting Qualtrics Survey | Qualtrics Experience Management
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., June 27, from 9 a.m. until noon at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St.
Closing the Gap
Register now at the Carver Community Center, 1030 N. Purdum St., for reading and math enhancement classes. These classes for students in grades 3 through 5 will take place each Tuesday and Thursday through June 29. Each session will run from 9 a.m. until noon. For additional information, call 765-457-9318. These classes are conducted with the support of the Kokomo School Corporation. Parents, when registering your child, please provide their end-of-year iReady math and reading scores.
Bookmobile Craft and Storytime
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Bookmobile at Jackson Morrow Park on Tue., June 27, from 9:30-11 a.m. for crafts and storytime.
Kids Brains and Screens
Prevent Child Abuse Howard County and Pinwheels for Prevention will host a webinar entitled, “Kids’ Brains and Screens,” on Tue., June 27, from 10-11:30 a.m. Learn how to stop the screen battles with speaker Laura Hickman, MA, LMHC, a ScreenStrong Ambassador and Therapist. A Q&A session will follow. Register by visiting https://www.eventbrite.com/e/kids-brains-screens-educational-webinar-tickets-652329895277?fbclid=IwAR0TnakiS1Y_-Av_PLyLjNrDxAMRsEAbKr8LYcK8Tpm1HZ2BYXgiwt6dIV8
Wonderfest
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will host Wonderfest, presented by WonderLab, on Tue., June 27, from 2-4 p.m. at its main branch, 220 N. Union St. Wonderfest features fun hands-on activity stations that include foam sculptures, nature of dye, and rainbow paper. This event is designed for children ages 6-13.
Pickleball Tournament
The Haynes Apperson Sports Festival will hold a pickleball tournament on Sat., July 1, at the Carver Community Center 1030 N. Purdum St. There are men’s, women’s, and mixed divisions. Cost is $25 per person. Register at the Carver Community Center by June 27.
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., June 28, from 9 a.m until noon. No appointment needed.
Community CareMobile
Community Howard Regional Health offers a Community CareMobile Walk-In Clinic Wed., June 28, from 9 a.m. until noon and 12:30-4 p.m. at Walgreens, 2349 E. Markland Ave. No appointment needed. Services offered include adult and pediatric sick visits, annual wellness exams for adults, COVID, flu, and strep testing, disease management for adults, flu shots for adults, and specialty care referrals. The Community CareMobile Clinic is a full-service primary care office on wheels, complete with a private exam room and standard testing and lab equipment. Patients are seen by a nurse practitioner and registered nurse. Patient records are securely documented in Epic, and results are available via MyChart. Standard primary care billing rates apply. Financial assistance is available for those without insurance.
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., June 28, 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: 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., June 28, have fun with games at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., from noon until 2 p.m. This event is designed for children ages 8-13.
Caravan of Growing Readers
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library for a weekly adventure of friendship, kindness, and community with the Caravan of Growing Readers. Each session will feature activities involving music, STEM, and art. The next session is Wed., June 28, from 12:30-1:30 p.m. at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St.
Water Spray
The Kokomo Parks and Recreation Department and the Kokomo Fire Department will hold a free water spray at Garden Square, 600 E> Ricketts St., on Wed., June 28, from 1-3 p.m. All ages are welcome to attend and participate. For additional information, call 765-456-7275.
Stories of Exile
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library for a reading and discussion program exploring themes of displacement, migration, and exile. The reading group will take place on Wed., June 28, from 6-7 p.m. at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. This session’s book is “There, There,” by Tommy Orange. Copies are available for pickup one month before the event at all KHCPL locations.
Kokomo Jackrabbits
The Kokomo Jackrabbits will play the Kalamazoo Growlers on Wed., June 28, at Kokomo Municipal Stadium. Game time is 7:05 p.m. For tickets, call 457-5000 or visit www.kokomojackrabbits.com.
Park Band Summer Concerts
The Kokomo Park Band continues its free Summer Concert season on Wed., June 28, at 7:30 p.m. in Highland Park. Conducted by Mo Trout of Purdue University, the concert performance is themed “Jazz in the Park.” The band performs each Wednesday in the summer. Admission is free. For more information, visit www.kokomoparkband.org.
THURSDAY
Mud Day
Is there anything better than the feeling of mud squishing between your fingers as you make a mud pie? Come celebrate International Mud Day with a variety of sensory experiences at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr., on Thu., June 29, from 10-11 a.m. Dress for a mess! This event is designed for children ages 3-11
The Notebook of Doom
Meet the “Notebook of Doom: Rise of the Balloon Goons” author Troy Cummings at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, on Thu., June 29, from 10-11 a.m. Find out the secrets to writing, and illustrate a brand-new, super-cool, one-of-a-kind monster from scratch. Do not forget to bring your book to get autographed!
Off the Books Podcast
Join Kokomo Howard County Public Library employees Bethann and Samantha on Thu., June 29, from 2-3 p.m. as they chat about all things books. If you're an avid reader or library lover, tune in using any podcasting platform.
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., June 29, 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., June 29, 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.
Discovery Center: Robots
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., June 29, have fun with robots at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., from 4-6 p.m. This event is designed for children ages 8-13.
Haynes Apperson Festival
The Haynes Apperson Festival celebrates Kokomo’s automotive heritage and features carnival rides, free concerts, food, vendors, cruise-ins, sports festival, a parade, and much more. On Thu., June 29, the festival will be open from 5-11 p.m. in Foster Park. All rides and vendors will be open during festival hours. Sports festival events will take place at various locations throughout the festival. There will be a Car Show Kickoff Commemorative Run from 4-5 p.m., starting at 2064 S. Goyer Road. A Cruise-in will follow from 6-9 p.m. at Foster Park. The evening’s concerts begin at 6 p.m., with Here Come the Mummies taking the stage at 8 p.m. VIP tickets are available by visiting www.haynesappersonfestival.org. Handicapped parking is located in the lot below Fire Station No. 1. No smoking in the park. No pets during festival hours.
Kokomo Jackrabbits
The Kokomo Jackrabbits will play the Kalamazoo Growlers on Thu., June 29, at Kokomo Municipal Stadium. Game time is 7:05 p.m. For tickets, call 457-5000 or visit www.kokomojackrabbits.com.
FRIDAY
Colored Pencil Drawing Class
The Kokomo Art Association will host colored pencil drawing classes for children ages 9-12 on Fri., June 30, July 7, and July 14 at the Artworks Gallery, 210 N. Main St. The classes run from 1-2:30 p.m. each session. Cost is $60 and includes all supplies needed. Register at the Artworks Gallery. Class size is limited. For additional information, contact Cheryl at kokomoartassociation2014@gmail.com.
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., June 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 0-2.
Seize the Rays Family Field Day
Belonging week means fun for everyone! Drop in at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, from 2-4 p.m. on Fri., June 30, for outdoor games including kickball, badminton, and water toys.
Haynes Apperson Festival
The Haynes Apperson Festival celebrates Kokomo’s automotive heritage and features carnival rides, free concerts, food, vendors, cruise-ins, sports festival, a parade, and much more. On Fri., June 30, the festival will be open from 5-11 p.m. in Foster Park. All rides and vendors will be open during festival hours. Sports festival events will take place at various locations throughout the festival. Registration for the Haynes Apperson Festival Car Show will take place in the Excel Center parking lot from 1-4 p.m. A cruise-in will take place in Foster Park from 6-9 p.m. The evening’s concerts begin at 6:30 p.m., with Ace Frehley of KISS taking the stage at 8 p.m. VIP tickets are available by visiting www.haynesappersonfestival.org. Handicapped parking is located in the lot below Fire Station No. 1. No smoking in the park. No pets during festival hours.
An Artist’s Retrospective
The Kokomo Art Association hosts “An Artist’s Retrospective,” by Deb Edwards during the month of June. Visit the association at 210 N. Main St., and be inspired by the variety and beauty of Deb’s art, including works in acrylic, airbrush art, pastel, oil and watercolor, as well as woven and ribbon art. A lifetime of her artistic talents are on display! The exhibit will run through June 30. Hours are Thursdays through Saturdays from 1-4 p.m.
SATURDAY
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., or the Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr., on Sat., July 1, from 11 a.m. until noon.
Clue! Who Dunnit?
Children ages 8 and up will have the chance to don a new identity and play a game of Clue! Solve a mystery with the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Sat., July 1, from noon until 2 p.m. The event takes place at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. Register by visiting https://khcpl.libnet.info/event/8470666
Haynes Apperson 5K
On Sat., July 1, participants can walk/run the scenic course through downtown Kokomo and Foster Park along the Walk of Excellence trail as part of the Haynes Apperson Festival 5K. This timed, family-friendly race starts at 9 a.m. The Haynes Apperson 5K race and packet pick-up will be located at the Kokomo Family YMCA, 114 N. Union St.. Parking is located in the parking garages across from the YMCA and any open street downtown. The race will start at the YMCA and go through Foster Park, UCT, Kokomo Beach and back on the Wildcat Walk of Excellence Trail that will lead back to the Y. For more information, visit: https://runsignup.com/Race/IN/Kokomo/HaynesApperson5K
Haynes Apperson Festival
The Haynes Apperson Festival celebrates Kokomo’s automotive heritage and features carnival rides, free concerts, food, vendors, cruise-ins, sports festival, a parade, and much more. On Sat., July 1, the festival will be open from noon-11 p.m. in Foster Park. All rides and vendors will be open during festival hours. Sports festival events will take place at various locations throughout the festival. A car show will take place in Foster Park from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m., with awards given at 3:30 p.m. The Haynes Apperson Parade takes place at 2 p.m. along Main Street through downtown. The evening’s concerts begin at 6:30 p.m., featuring Starship with Mickey Thomas at 8 p.m. VIP tickets are available by visiting www.haynesappersonfestival.org. A fireworks show will take place immediately following the concert. Handicapped parking is located in the lot below Fire Station No. 1. No smoking in the park. No pets during festival hours.
KAA 2023 Photo Show
The Kokomo Art Association will feature its 2023 Photo Show from July 1-29. The show will take place at the Artworks Gallery, 210 N. Main St. For more information, email kokomoartassociation2014@gmail.com.
Firefighters Local 396 Charity Golf Outing
The Professional Firefighters of Kokomo Local 396 will hold its 2023 Charity Golf Outing on Sun., July 16, at the American Legion Post 6 golf course. Entry fee is $50 per player and includes food, beer, and a t-shirt. Entries are made in teams of four. The deadline for entries is July 1. Registration begins at 8 a.m. on the day of the event, which features a shotgun start at 9 a.m. Due to limited space, a team’s place is not secured until the entry fee is paid. A portion of the proceeds from this event will go to the Marty Myers Scholarship Foundation. Completed entry forms and payments may be dropped off in the office at Fire Station No. 1. For additional information, contact C.J. Guerre at 765-437-2085 or Jeremy Hillis at 765-860-8646.
COMING SOON
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., July 3, from 10 a.m. until noon. Designed for children ages 2 and up.
Banzai! Money Basics for Kids
This free program teaches kids what they need to know about spending, saving, budgeting, and more. Presented by Solidarity Community Federal Credit Union, Banzai! Money Basics for Kids will be held at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, on Mon., July 3, from 3-4 p.m. This program is designed for kids ages 6-11. Register for this event online by visiting https://khcpl.libnet.info/event/8414281
Intro to Crochet
Do you want to learn how to crochet? Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library in this two-hour introductory course on Mon., July 3, from 6-8 p.m. at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. This event is designed for people ages 12 and up. Register for this event by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
Independence Day at the Museum
Admission to the Howard County Historical Museum and Seiberling Mansion, 1200 W. Sycamore St., will be free to all veterans on Tue., July 4, from 1-4 p.m. For more information, visit www.howardcountymuseum.org
Digital Den: DIY Paper Flowers
If you love books and flowers, this is the craft for you! Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Wed., July 5, from 5-6 p.m. at the Digital Den, 220 N. Union St. In this class, you will learn how to make beautiful paper flowers from old book pages using the Cricut Maker!
Hedgehog Hannah
What animals will you get to meet and learn about? Maybe a fox or an alligator? You'll have to wait and see. Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Thu., July 6, to learn why it's important to keep as many animals in the wild as we can. This event takes place at the library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr., from 10-11 a.m. and at the South branch, 1755 E. Center Road, from 2-3 p.m.
Dog Days of Summer
The Kokomo Humane Society will host a Dog Days of Summer fair on Sat., July 8, from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. at the Humane Society “fairgrounds,” 729 E. Hoffer St. There will be kids games, fantastic food, and spectacular canine performances. Tickets for the event Are $10 for adults and $5 for kids. Pets attend free. Proceeds from the event will support the humane society’s pet assistance program. There will be vendors, a 50/50 raffle, and activities for pets, kids, and adults.