What's Happening This Week?
Events taking place in Kokomo and Howard County from Jan. 7-13 and beyond
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TODAY
Greentown Softball 2024
The Greentown Girls Softball League will start its Spring 2024 season with registration opening on Jan. 7, for girls seeking to join 6U, 8U, 10U, 12U, and middle school teams. Registration will close Feb. 3. To register, visit www.greentownsoftball.com. Open gyms at Eastern High School for middle school softball players begin on Jan. 6 from 10-11 a.m. in the multipurpose room (MPR) and 11 a.m. until noon in the auxiliary gym (AG). Enter through Door #8. Beginning Jan. 13, 12U players have open gym from 10-11 a.m. in AG and from 11 a.m. until noon in the MPR. 10U players have open gym from 8-8:45 a.m. in AG and from 9-9:45 a.m. in MPR. 8U players have open gym from 8-8:45 a.m. in MPR and from 9-9:45 a.m. in AG. 6U players have open gym from 9-9:45 a.m. in AG. The auxiliary gym and indoor batting cages will be available each Saturday until the weather is good enough to be on the fields.
Frozen Sandlot
The Frozen Sandlot will open for the season on select days through Jan. 7, 2024. This outdoor ice-skating rink will take place at Kokomo Municipal Stadium. The Frozen Sandlot is operated by Bridges Outreach, and proceeds from ticket sales benefit its programming for area students. For a full schedule of open skating times, prices, and information, visit www.frozensandlot.com.
MONDAY
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. The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold this event on Mon., Jan. 8, from 10 a.m. until noon at the library’s Russiaville branch, 305 Mesa Dr. This event is designed from children ages 3-5.
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., Jan. 8, 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., Jan. 8, 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
Starting Jan. 8, Community Howard Regional Health will offer 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 received a blood pressure check. The next screening will take place on Mon., Jan. 8, from 3:30-5:30 p.m. 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 Mon., Jan. 8, 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
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.
Preschool STEAM
Enjoy fun and games related to science, technology, engineering, art, and math on Tue., Jan. 9, from 2:30-3:30 p.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. This event is intended for children ages 3-5.
Discovery Center: 3D Pens
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., Jan. 9, 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.
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.
KHCPL Main Book Discussion
Expand your reading horizons by joining the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Wed., Jan. 10, from 10-11:30 a.m. for engaging and lively discussions of books from different genres. This month’s book is “Killers of the Flower Moon,” by David Grann. The discussion takes place at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. Registration is required. Visit www.khcpl.org and click on Events to register.
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., Jan. 10, 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.
Girls Who Code Book Club
Kids in third through fifth grades will read "Learn to Code and Change the World" by Reshma Saujanai and complete fun coding activities on Wed., Jan. 10, from 5-6:30 p.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. For more information call the facilitator at 765-626-0830.
Here Comes the Sun
Learn more about the biggest star of our solar system with the Kokomo Howard County Public Library. On Wed., Jan. 10, from 6-7 p.m., the library will observe a Countdown to Darkness at its South branch, 1755 E. Center Road. Create a suncatcher and make your very own sun clock! This event is designed for children ages 6-11. To register for this event, visit www.khcpl.org and click on Events or call any KHCPL location.
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., Jan. 11, from 10-10:30 a.m. for children ages 3-5, and at the main branch, 220 N. Union St., from 6-6:45 p.m. for children ages 18 months to 2 years. 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., Jan. 11, 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.
KHCPL Russiaville Book Discussion
Expand your reading horizons by joining the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Thu., Jan. 11, from 1-2 p.m. for engaging and lively discussions of books from different genres. This month’s book is “Bewilderment,” by Richard Powers. The discussion takes place at the library’s Russiaville branch, 305 Mesa Dr. Registration is required. Visit khcpl.org and click on Events to register.
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., Jan. 11, from 4-5 p.m.
Winter Perler Wonderland
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library in crafting your own pixel art masterpieces using colorful beads, and bring the magic of the season to life, one bead at a time! This event takes place at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., on Thu., Jan 11, from 4-6 p.m. and is designed 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., Jan. 11, 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., Jan. 12, 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.
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., Jan. 12, 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.
Cricut and Scrapbook Night
Are you a scrapbooker? Have you ever wanted to try your hand at creating something with the Cricut? Morgan from the Digital Den will help you create cool shapes with the Cricut! Join Morgan on Fri., Jan. 12, from 6-8 p.m. at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St.
Kokomo CEO Sign-Ups
Are you a high school student who wants life experience, connections, and real-world knowledge that will drive your future success? Check out Kokomo CEO! The application to join the Class of 2025 is open now until Jan. 12, 2024. Visit www.kokomoceo.com for more information and to start the application.
SATURDAY
Valentine Assembly Line
This heartwarming community initiative is designed to bring joy and love to seniors in our community during the Valentine's season. Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Sat., Jan. 13, from 1-3 p.m. at its South branch, 1755 E. Center Road, for this Craft Corner Service Project.
Tyranny of Dragons Mega Dungeon
Five chromatic dragons have discovered a way to summon the evil dragon goddess Tiamat. It's up to your guild to stop them by entering the dragon lair and taking them out before they end the world. Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Sat., Jan. 13, from 2-8 p.m. for an evening of Dungeons and Dragons action! This event takes place at the library’s Main branch, 220 N. Union St., and registration is required. Register by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events or call any KHCPL location.
COMING SOON
IUK Observatory Open House
Learn about current topics in astronomy at the Indiana University Kokomo Observatory free open house. Dr. Patrick Motl, professor of physics, will begin the open house at 7 p.m. Sun., Jan. 14, and lead the discussion. After the presentation, stargazers can utilize the observatory’s telescopes, weather permitting. The Observatory is located at 2660 S. Washington St. Free parking is available on campus.
MLK Community Ecumenical Service
Second Missionary Baptist Church, 818 N. Apperson Way, will host the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Ecumenical Service on Mon, Jan. 15, at 11 a.m. A march to the MLK Memorial for wreath laying will take place following the service. A Shuttle will be provided. The guest speaker for this service is Rev. Dr. Reginald Blount of the Garret-Evangelical Theological Seminary in Chicago. The entire community is welcome to attend. For additional information, visit www.smbchurch.com.
Meals in a Mug
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library for a one-hour program about how to make different recipes in a mug using a microwave, courtesy of Purdue Extension. In addition to receiving a recipe guide, mug selection and microwave basics will also be discussed. This event takes place on Tue., Jan. 16, from 2-3 p.m. at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road.
DIY Sundial
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library for sunny creations where we explore the wonders of the sun and craft timeless sundials. Discover the science of timekeeping with our hands-on, sun-inspired creations! This event takes place on Tue., Jan. 16, from 4-6 p.m. at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., and is designed for children ages 8-13.
Symphony Needs Singers
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. In preparation for the concert, the symphony is searching for singers for its rendition of “Messiah!” Rehearsals will take place on Tuesday evenings from 7-8:30 p.m., beginning on Tue., Jan. 16. All singers are welcome. For additional information or questions, email caddyorganist@gmail.com. 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 .
Kitchen Chemistry
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library invites 1st-6th graders to ignite their curiosity with science experiments using items found in your kitchen at the library’s Kitchen Chemistry program on Thu., Jan. 18, from 5:30-6:30 p.m. at the main branch, 220 N. Union St.
You Should See Me in A Crown
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Sat., Jan. 20, from 10-11 a.m. for a vibrant, dynamic art project paying tribute to legendary artist Jean-Michel Basquiat, incorporating elements of his unique style. This event takes place at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, and is designed for children ages 6-11. Register by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking Events or by calling any KHCPL location.
Intro to Dungeons & Dragons
Want to try Dungeons & Dragons but don’t know where to begin? The Kokomo Howard County Public Library has you covered. Join them on Sat., Jan. 20, from 5-8 p.m. at the library’s Russiaville branch, 305 Mesa Dr., to experience the endless possibilities for adventure and storytelling. Register by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking Events or by calling any KHCPL location.
Geneaology for Sunday Owls
Ready to dig into your family’s past? Looking for that document, article, or obituary to connect you to your ancestors? Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Sun., Jan. 21, from 2-5:30 p.m. for Geneaology for Sunday Owls. This is light research event is located at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. Register by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking Events or by calling any KHCPL location.
Cowboy Church
On the third Saturday of each month, Fairview Baptist Church holds Cowboy Church. It’s a combination of Southern Gospel, Bluegrass, Hymns and a lot of serious goofing off. The next Cowboy Church will take place Sat., Jan. 21, at 5 p.m. Fairview Baptist Church is located at 2108 E Vaile Ave. behind the Walmart Plaza.
Doing the Dream
Ivy Tech Community College Kokomo presents Doing the Dream 2024, featuring Dr. Monique Couvson, on Thu., Jan. 25, beginning at 5:30 p.m. in Ivy Tech’s Hingst Hall, 1815 E. Morgan St. Tickets are $60 per person and are available by calling 765-252-5501.
Viva Las Vista
Join Bona Vista Programs on Fri., Jan. 26, for the return of Viva Las Vista, a casino night fundraiser benefitting Bona Vista Programs. The event will take place at The Venue at Brookestone, 1201 W. Alto Road, beginning at 6 p.m. There will be live casino games, food, and drinks. Tickets are available now for $40 or $70 for a couple. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Visit the Bona Vista Facebook page for more information and to purchase tickets. Or call Brittany at 765-457-8274, ext. 1330.
Poetry Open Mic Night
The Poetry Society of Indiana is emceeing a poetry open mic night at Pizza Junkiez, 2930 S. Washington St., on Sat., Jan. 27, from 6-8 p.m. Any poets from the Kokomo area are welcome to attend and share their work! Be ready to share your social media presence and/or published works.
County Museum Reopens
The Howard County Historical Museum and Seiberling Mansion are currently closed for cleaning and redecorating. They will reopen on Feb. 1. Until then, the historical society office and archives remain open during regular hours, Tues.-Fri. from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. For information, call 765-452-4314 or email info@howardcountytmuseum.org .
Comedy Night for the Humane Society
Sun King Kokomo, 500 N. Buckeye St., is proud to host the 2nd Annual Kokomo Humane Society Comedy Show on Fri., Feb. 2. Brace yourself for an uproarious night of laughter featuring Brian Pitre, Kristin Carnes, and Alex Ortiz. These talented comedians are sure to tickle your funny bone. Each ticket includes access to the hors d'oeuvre table and one beverage. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and the show starts at 7 p.m. The comedy show is located in the upstairs Depot Room, which is not handicap accessible. Adult material may be discussed during the performances. Tickets are available in the Sun King Kokomo taproom or at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2nd-annual-kokomo-humane-society-comedy-show-tickets-774550670907?fbclid=IwAR22bjNNVduWIKl1GvnmVEClB808zI_Ktxdv5xrDBsyD4zp_vlHXNDzy1lw
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.
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
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.