What's Happening This Week?
Events taking place in Kokomo and Howard County from Sept. 17-23 and beyond
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TODAY
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
Sunday Funday
The Kokomo Humane Society will hold a Sunday Funday event on Sun., Sept. 17, from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Cat lovers can visit the humane society’s Cat Café throughout the event to visit the adoptable cats while enjoying a beverage. From 1-4 p.m., bring your camp chairs and watch the adoptable dogs frolic in playgroups.
Kokomo Community Concerts
Single event and season tickets are now on sale for the 2023-24 Kokomo Community Concerts series. Each concert will take place at the Kokomo High School auditorium, 2501 S. Berkley Road, at 2:30 p.m. On Sun., Sept. 17, Divas 3 will entertain. The Folk Legacy Trio is featured on Oct. 8. The Holland and Coots Jazz Quintet takes the stage on Nov. 19. Quartetto Gelato will be featured on March 10, 2024. Brassfire performs on April 7, 2024. Here Comes the Sun closes the season on May 12. For additional information or to order tickets, visit www.kokomocommunityconcerts.org or call 765-210-0686.
MONDAY
New Baby Bunch
Do you have a new bundle of joy? Or do you feel like you’re in the trenches of parenting? Join the New Baby Bunch for friendship, support, and to share your parenting journey with other caregivers. The group meets each Monday from 9:30-11 a.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. The next meeting is Mon., Sept. 18. Caregivers with a baby ages birth to 12 months are welcome to participate. Older siblngs are welcome to join also.
Busy Builders
From simple towers to intricate structures, you and your child can create anything you can imagine with Busy Builders at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr., on Mon., Sept. 18, from 10-11:30 a.m. This event is designed for children ages 0-5.
Sew Much
Teens and adults can drop in to learn sewing or quilting basics or get help with their projects at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Sew Much event on Mon., Sept. 18, 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.
Library Card Sign-Up
Stop by Cook McDoogal’s, 100 N. Main St., on Mon., Sept. 18, to sign up for a library card, and enjoy cheeseburger specials all day. All ages welcome until 9 p.m. The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will be on site from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5:30 to 8 p.m.
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
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., Sept. 18, 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.
Library Card Sign-Up
Visit Kokomo Flipsters, 2378 W. Boulevard St., on Mon., Sept. 18, from 4-7 p.m. to sign up for a library card and receive KHCPL freebies.
Food Insecurity Meeting
What does food insecurity really mean? Find out on Mon., Sept. 18, as the Purdue University Extension Office visits the Russiaville Lions Club, 555 N. Liberty St., to define the term and explain how it impacts to local community. The event runs from 7-8 p.m. This event is presented by the Kokomo Howard County Public Library.
TUESDAY
Walking Readers Club
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library as you make your minds and bodies healthier! Walk around KHCPL Russiaville's neighborhood, 315 Mesa Dr., on Tue., Sept. 19, from 8-9 a.m.
Mental Health Access Days
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., Sept. 19, from 9 a.m. until noon at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St.
Library Card Sign-Up
Show your library card at the Cat Café, 729 E. Hoffer St., on Tue., Sept. 19, from noon until 4 p.m. and receive 10 percent off adoption fees if selected as a new pet parent.
ProPEL U.S. 31 Visits Kokomo
The ProPEL U.S. 31 South study team will visit the Howard County Historical Society, 1200 W. Sycamore St., on Tue., Sept. 19, from 1-3 p.m. The public is invited to meet with the study team, get an update on the study’s progress, and give feedback about the future of U.S. 31 in this community.
Talk Like a Pirate Day
Grab your eyepatch and peg leg for a day of pirate fun at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library! Visit the south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, on Tue., Sept. 19, from 5-7 p.m. to learn to talk like a pirate, create pirate accessories, and hunt for treasure in the library!
Fall Garland DIY
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Tue., Sept. 19, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. to make fall leaf garlands from paper for some festive decorations. The session takes place at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St.
Drums Alive!
Build a sense of community while doing cardio at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Drums Alive! session on Tue., Sept. 19, from 6-6:30 p.m. The event will take place at the library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr. Please wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
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., Sept. 20, from 9 a.m. until noon. No appointment needed.
Growing Readers: Little Learners
Introduce your little one to quality literature and the library in a fun, inviting way with age-appropriate activities on Wed., Sept. 20, from 10-10:45 a.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. This event is designed for children ages 3-5.
Library Card Sign-Up
Show your library card on Wed., Sept. 20, from 10:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. at Panda Express, 1227 S. Reed Road, and receive 10 percent off your order. Don’t have a library card? Sign up for one during your visit.
Library Card Sign-Up
Show your library card at the Cat Café, 729 E. Hoffer St., on Wed., Sept. 20, from noon until 4 p.m. and receive 10 percent off adoption fees if selected as a new pet parent.
Grandparents Day at Redeemer Lutheran
Redeemer Lutheran School, 705 E. Southway Blvd., will observe Grandparents Day on Wed., Sept. 20, from 1-3:15 p.m. On open house takes place from 1-2 p.m., where patrons can visit classrooms, and the book fair, enjoy refreshments and get pictures taken with the grandkids. From 2:15-3:15 p.m., join the school staff and students in the sanctuary for a devotion and a choir performance.
Tween Mindfulness
Practice yoga as well as meditation and breathwork at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Wed., Sept. 20, from 5-6 p.m. The session takes place at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., and 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, from 6-7 p.m. on Wed., Sept. 20.
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., Sept. 21, 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!
Fall Open House
Cross America Community Center, 840 Daniel Dr., will hold a Fall Open House on Thu., Sept. 21, and Fri., Sept. 22, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. each day. Stop in and enjoy a cup of coffee, a sweet treat, and shop in their inspirational gift, card, and book shop. Door prizes and discount coupons available. Visit www.crossamerica.net for information.
Growing Readers: Little Learners
Introduce your little one to quality literature and the library in a fun, inviting way with age-appropriate activities on Wed., Sept. 21, from 11 a.m. until noon at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. This event is designed for children ages 3-5.
Turning Point Rapid Access Navigator
Turning Point System of Care offers resources to support those with mental health and addiction challenges. If you’re overwhelmed or simply need assistance, stop by the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., On Wed., Sept. 21, from noon until 5 p.m. for Rapid Access Navigator Assistance.
Digital Den Designs: Photo Refrigerator Magnets
You can always use another refrigerator magnet! In this class, we'll show you how to make one using your photos from your smart phone! Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Digital Den, 220 N. Union St., on Thu., Sept. 21, from 1-2 p.m. for this event. Register in advance by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
KHCPL Russiaville Book Discussion
Expand your reading horizons by joining the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Thu. Sept. 21, from 1-2 p.m. for engaging and lively discussions of books from different genres. The discussion takes place at the library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr. Registration is required by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
Off the Books Podcast
Join Kokomo Howard County Public Library employees Bethann and Samantha on Thu., Sept. 21, 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., Sept. 21, from 4-4:50 p.m.
Teen Writers Group
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a Writers Group for teen amateur fiction writers on Thu., Sept. 21, 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.
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.
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 main branch, 220 N. Union St., from 6-6:45 p.m. Classes are designed for children ages 18 months to 3 to promote cognitive development through singing, dancing, and instrument play.
Soil Testing
Come to the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Russiaville branch, 305 Mesa Dr., on Thu., Sept. 21, from 6:30-7:30- p.m. and learn about how to test your soil to find out what nutrients your soil may need in order to grow your prize-winning petunias or gigantic gourds. This event takes place with the assistance of the Purdue University Extension Office.
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. 22, 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.
Library Card Sign-Up
Show your library card at Cone Palace, 55 W, CR 300 S, on Fri., Sept. 22, from 3-5 p.m. and receive a free ice cream cone. Don't have a library card? Sign up for one on site!
Good Neighbor Bonfire and Food Truck Extravaganza
Bring a chair and enjoy an evening of food, fun, and community on Fri., Sept. 22, as the Kokomo Howard County Public Library hosts a Good Neighbor Bonfire and Food Truck Extravaganza at the Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr. The evening starts at 4 p.m. with food trucks stationed behind the Russiaville Town Hall. The trucks will serve until 6:30 p.m. Then, stroll down to the library for a bonfire, desserts, and live music from Higher Ground from 6-8 p.m. This event takes place in partnership with the Russiaville Police Department.
Family Farm Adventures
The Kendall Family Farm Adventures Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch will open Fridays from 5-9 p.m., Saturdays from 11 a.m. – 9 p.m., and Sundays from 12-6 p.m. through Oct. 29. The farm is located at 9717 East, CR 600 North, Greentown. Activities include a five-acre corn maze, a four-acre you-pick pumpkin patch, hayrides, a putt-putt golf course, a pedal kart track, live animals, a mini-straw maze, corn-filled sandboxes, yard games, concessions, a gift shop, and evening bonfires; For more information and admission prices, visit www.kendallfamilyfarmadventures.com.
Breast in Show
Join Advanced Medical Imaging, sportin’ your most radical prom attire, for a bodacious night of fun on Fri., Sept. 22. Let’s amp up awareness for breast cancer screenings with a celebration at Bel Air Events, 3014 S. Webster St., from 5-10 p.m. Tickets are available on EventBrite - Breast in Show Back to the 80's Prom Night! Tickets, Fri, Sep 22, 2023 at 5:00 PM | Eventbrite
SATURDAY
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.
Fall Craft Bazaar
The Howard Masonic Lodge will present a Fall Craft Bazaar on Sat., Sept. 23, from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Masonic Lodge, 316 N. Washington St. Find crocheted items, handmade jewelry, paper items, quilts and quilted items and much more. For more information, email starlitephotography@hotmail.com.
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.
Creature Feature
The Kokomo Parks and Recreation Department will host a Creature Feature with Indiana WILD at the Kirkendall Nature Center in Jackson Morrow Park, 4200 S. Park Road, on Sat., Sept. 23, from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. This Informative and interactive event will feature live creatures and is free and open to the public. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Call the Kokomo Parks and Recreation Department at 765-456-7275 for additional information.
Library Card Sign-Up
Show your library card at Comics Cubed, 121 E. Sycamore St., on Sat., Sept. 23, from noon until 5 p.m. and receive a free comic book. Don't have a library card? Sign up for one on site!
Birch Bayh Democracy Dinner
The Howard County Democratic Party will hold its first Birch Bayh Democracy Dinner on Sat., Sept. 23, from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at Bel Air Events, 3014 South Webster St. Join the Democrats as they honor Sen. Birch Bayh. His work on Title IX gender equality legislation is the focus of this year’s event. Speakers include former Sen. Evan Bayh, USMC 2nd Lt. Beau Bayh, Western High School girls basketball coach and member of the ’92-’93 Kokomo High School girls basketball state champions Misty Oliver, and former Indiana Superintendent of Public Instruction Jennifer McCormick. Tickets are $50 each and can be purchased by visiting https://secure.actblue.com/donate/bbdd2023
COMING SOON
Library Card Sign-Up
The first 50 people to show their library card or sign up for a card at the Kokomo Family YMCA, 114 N. Union St., on Sun., Sept. 24, from 9 a.m. until noon will get a free day pass for that day only.
Beginning Finger Knitting
Are you looking to learn a new craft? Come join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Sun., Sept. 24, from 2:30-4 p.m. at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., and learn to finger knit. Join the wait list by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events or by calling any KHCPL location. Chunky style yarn will be provided for participants.
Lifeline Turnabout Fall Banquet
Don’t forget to get your tickets for Lifeline 2023! You won’t want to miss this opportunity to hear what God is doing at the Turnabout Community Resource Center on Sun., Sept. 24, at Crossroads Community Church, 4254 S, CR 00 EW. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. Dinner and a concert by Out of the Dust will take place at 5 p.m. Guest speakers will be Dr. Matt Oliver from Turning Point System of Care, Howard County Sheriff Jerry Asher, Howard County Coroner Dr. Steven Seele, and Paul Wyman. Purchase tickets here: https://lifelineturnabout.wedoauctions.com
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., Sept. 25, from 10-11 a.m. at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. Call 765-626-0827 for the current booklist.
Cosmic Adventures – Galaxy Pastel
Create a galactic empire with chalk pastels at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Mon., Sept. 25, from 4-4:30 p.m. at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. This event is designed for children ages 3-11. Dress for a mess.
Library Card Sign-Up
Show your library card at Choo Choo McGoo’s, 816 E. Markland Ave., on Tue., Sept. 26, between 7-11 a.m. and receive 20 percent off pancakes. Don't have a library card? Sign up for one on site!
Book Buddy Book Club
Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities - regardless of reading ability - can join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Tue., Sept. 26, 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.
‘Stories of Exile’ Reading Group
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Wed., Sept. 27, from 6-7 p.m. for a reading and discussion program exploring themes of displacement, migration, and exile. The event takes place at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. This month’s book is “The Glatstein Chronicles” by Jacob Glatstein. Copies are available for pickup one month before the event at all KHCPL locations.
FOP Blood Drive
The Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 78 will hold a blood drive on Thu., Sept. 28, from 11 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. at the FOP Lodge, 102 W. Markland Ave. Blood is an essential medicine that cannot be manufactured. Whether you are looking for a way to give back to the community or support a friend who is fighting an illness, blood donation is a generous and vital gift. Donate and be entered for a chance to win two tickets and a VIP experience at an Indianapolis Colts game.
Hip and Knee Pain Dinner Seminar
Don’t let hip or knee pain keep you from the activities you love. Learn from orthopedic surgeon Clifford Evans, DO, about the latest non-surgical and surgical treatment options at Community Howard Regional Health’s free dinner seminar on Thu., Sept. 28, from 6-7:30 p.m. at the Elite Banquet and Conference Center, 2820 S. Lafountain St. Space is limited. Register by visiting ecommunity.com/jointcenter or by calling 800-777-7775.
Manga and Anime Club
Interested in manga and anime? Read "Spy X Family" Volume 1, and join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Thu., Sept. 28, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. for crafts and an escape room! The event takes place at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. Register by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
Cooking Matters – Smart Shopping
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library and Purdue University’s Howard County Extension Office on Thu., Sept. 28, from 7-8 p.m. for a Cooking Matters! program. This program, held at the Russiaville Lions Club, 555 N. Liberty St., will explore strategies to maximize your grocery budget, including using store sales, coupons, and meal planning.
KHS Homecoming Food Truck Tailgate
Join Kokomo High School for some pre-game fun on Fri., Sept. 29, from 5:30-7 p.m. before the Homecoming football game at Walter Cross Field, 2501 S. Berkley Road. A variety of food trucks will be located on the east side of the high school.
Walk to End Alzheimer’s
The Alzheimer’s Association will hold its annual Walk to End Alzheimer’s fundraiser on Sat., Sept. 30, in Foster Park. There is no registration fee or minimum fundraising requirement, but all participants are encouraged to raise funds that allow the Alzheimer’s Association to provide 24/7 care and support and to advance research toward methods of prevention, treatment, and a cure. Raise $100 or more to receive an official t-shirt. For additional information, contact Avery Smith at 317-587-2235 or at acsmith@alz.org.
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
FSA Angel Walk
The Family Service Association’s 2023 Angel Walk takes place Tue., Oct. 24, with a rally beginning at 5:30 p.m. and a one-mile walk following at 6 p.m. on the campus of Indiana University Kokomo, 2300 S. Washington St. To form or join a team, contact Tracy Martino at martinot@fsahc.org or by calling 765-457-9313. For more information about the event, email slcd@iu.edu or call 765-455-9586.
Laughs for Literacy
Join the Literacy Coalition of Howard County for a night of comedy on Sat., Oct. 28, as it joins First Farmers Bank and Trust for a Laughs for Literacy fundraising event. The show takes place at the Rhine Hall, 507 N. Union St., at 8 p.m. and will feature performances by Dave Dugan, John Branyan, and Luke McKinney. Tickets are $50 and are available by visiting www.literacycoalition.com.