What's Happening This Week?
Events taking place in Kokomo and Howard County from Feb. 25-March 2 and beyond
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TODAY
‘The Missing Heirloom’
Kokomo Civic Theatre will present “The Missing Heirloom,” a play by local author Othello Bach, on Sun., Feb. 25, at IU Kokomo’s Havens Auditorium, 2300 S. Washington St. The final performance takes place 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 .
Youth Baseball Umpire Training
Youth baseball umpires are needed in Howard County as more baseball games come to the Kokomo area. Umpire Dan Adams will hold training sessions for the 2024 season, beginning on Sun., Feb. 25. Anyone looking to make some extra money between April and July is invited to participate. Uniform costs are at your expense, but umpires are typically paid after each game. Prospective umpires must be at least 16 years old. For more information, email umpiredan@comcast.net.
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. 26, 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.
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., Feb. 26, from 10-11 a.m. at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. Call 765-626-0827 for the current booklist. This club is for homeschoolers in grades 1-6.
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. 26, 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. 26, 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.
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. 26, 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 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.
Greentown Lions Annual Fish Fry
The Greentown Lions Club annual fish fry takes place Mon., Feb. 26, from 4:30-7:30 p.m. at the Eastern High School cafeteria. Cost is $13 for adults and $8 for children ages 5-12. Children ages 4 and under eat free. All-you-can-eat fish and tenderloins, with baked beans and potato salad. Apple sauce is available for the kids. Dessert will be available for an additional charge. Proceeds will go to benefit the Lions Club Scholarship Fund for Eastern High School graduating seniors.
“Red Tails” Movie Night
Join Indiana University Kokomo’s Black Student Center and the Howard County Memorial Corporation on Monday, Feb. 26, at 5:30 p.m. as they conclude the Black History Month Film Series with “Red Tails” in IU Kokomo’s Kresge Auditorium, 2300 S. Washington St. Special guest Zellie Orr will join them to share her experiences with the Tuskegee Airmen as well as her involvement with the creation of the film. Orr, of Atlanta, is a hero to surviving members of the famed Tuskegee Airmen not only for keeping their exploits alive but for finding a long-missing trophy some of the flyers won in a nearly forgotten competition against their white comrades just after World War II. Orr served as a consultant to George Lucas for the film, “Red Tails” and will share her stories and experiences following the film.
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 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 go.iu.edu/4RMj .
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.
Book Buddy Book Club
Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities - regardless of reading ability - can join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Tue., Feb. 27, 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.
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.
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. 27, 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!
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.
Kokomo Boys Soccer Academy
Directed by KHS Boys Varsity Soccer Coach Aaron Blessing, the Kokomo Boys Soccer Academy provides an introduction to organized soccer. This eight-week academy provides a one-hour instruction session each week to help young boys learn the game of soccer with their friends in the Kokomo community. The academy will be held at the Kokomo High School football turf practice field on Tuesdays from Feb. 27 until April 30. The cost is $50 per player, which covers all sessions, and all area boys in Kindergarten through 5th grade are welcome to participate.
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. 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.
IU Kokomo High School Art Exhibit
The Indiana University Kokomo Art Gallery, 2300 S. Washington St., room KA102, will host the 26th annual High School Art Exhibition from Feb. 28-March 27. The exhibition features art from area high school juniors and seniors. An opening reception for the exhibit will be held from 4-7 p.m. on Wed., Feb. 28. The gallery is open Mon.-Thu. from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.
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.
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.
CASA St. Patrick’s Day 5k
Support CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) by joining them for the St. Patrick’s Day 5K on Sat., March 16. The run begins and ends at Sun King Kokomo, 500 N. Buckeye St. Online registration is available now by visiting https://casa5k.itsyourrace.com/event.aspx?id=13220 until March 15. In-person registration is available on the day of the event from 1:45-2:45 p.m. The race begins at 3 p.m. The race includes chip timing, a costume contest, pizza squares along the route from Bruno’s Pizza, and one free beer with registration. The Overgrown Pasture and the Howard County Homebrew Club will be on-site. Entry fee is $25 before March 1 and $30 after. Commemorative t-shirts not guaranteed for registrations after March 3.
THURSDAY
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.
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. 29, 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.
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.
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. 29, from 4-5 p.m.
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., Feb. 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.
Teen Writers Group
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a Writers Group for teen amateur fiction writers on Thu., Feb. 29, 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.
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., on Thu., Feb.29, from 6-7 p.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!
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!
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., March 1, from 10-10:45 a.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. This event is designed for children ages 0-2.
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.
Embrace Grace Fish Fry
Embrace Grace and the 8th grade class from Sts. Joan of Arc and Patrick School will hold a drive-thru fish fry fundraiser on Fri., March 1, from 4:30-7 p.m. on the St. Joan of Arc campus. The cost is $12 for adults and $7 for children ages 6-12. The proceeds will be used to fund a class trip.
First Friday: Hoop It Up
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. This month’s theme is “Hoop It Up,” featuring the Kokomo Bobkats and basketball-related activities. 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.
Southwest Beaded Art Exhibit
During First Friday on Fri., March 1, the Kokomo Art Association will feature artist Corinne McAuley and her Southwest Beaded Tapestries, as well as the 2024 Photo Show. Art from both events will be on exhibit in March. There will be a reception for both events at Artworks Gallery, 210 N. Main St., from 5:30-8 p.m.
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.
YMCA Summer Camp
YMCA Summer Camp 2024 registration opens March 1! Mark your calendar and secure your child's spot early. Our Summer Camp offers your child the opportunity to have fun exploring nature on 52 beautiful acres with hiking trails, ponds, wooded areas, and more! They will discover new talents, try new activities, gain independence, and create lasting friendships and memories all in a safe environment. Summer Camp starts on May 28. Please note that spots for the Summer Camp are limited, and they will fill up quickly! Explore. Play. Repeat. For more information about camp visit: https://camptycony.com
Center Township Food Drive
The Center Township Trustee’s Office will present a community food drive from March 1-15. Help members of the community have enough food every day through your donations. The office is in need of non-perishable food items, such as dry cereal, rice, pasta, canned goods, peanut butter, jams, crackers, beans, granola bars, and canned fruit. Drop off your donations at the Center Township Trustee’s office, 213 E. Jefferson St. To arrange for a pick-up or for more information, call 765-452-8259.
Kokomo Art Association Photo Show
The Kokomo Art Association presents the 2024 Photo Show, March 1-30, at Artworks Gallery, 210 N. Main St. For additional information, contact Cheryl at kokomoartassociation2014@gmail.com.
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
SATURDAY
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.
Curtain Call Spring Auditions
Join Kokomo Curtain Call Theatre for auditions for its Spring studio show, “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown.” Auditions for middle school and high school students take place on Sat., March 2, from 10 a.m. until noon at the Curtain Call Studio, 2114 N. Armstrong St. For questions or to sign up for an audition, email Amanda Marvin at amarvin@kcctc.org.
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., and at the library’s Russiaville branch, 305 Mesa Dr., on Sat., March 2, from 11 a.m. until noon.
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.
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.
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.
COMING SOON
Kokomo Park Band Winter Concert
The Kokomo Park Band will present its annual Winter Concert, “A Kaleidoscope of Color,” on Sun., March 3, at 3 p.m. in Havens Auditorium on the Indiana University Kokomo campus, 2300 S. Washington St. This year’s concert wil feature trombonist John Huntoon, vocalist J’lan Stewart, and the IU Kokomo Flute Choir. Park Band Artistic Director Jay Gephart will direct. And IUK will preview its upcoming production of “Oklahoma!” in the lobby. This is a free concert, but the park band asks those attending to bring toiletry items to be donated to Coordinated Assistance Ministries (CAM).
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.
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.
Kokomo Kid Quest: KSC Early Education Fair
Kokomo Schools Corp. will hold its Kokomo Kid Quest Early Education Fair on Wed., March 6, from 5-7 p.m. at Memorial Gymnasium. The free event is open to families with students in preschool through 5th grade. Visit with five preschools, eight elementary schools, and 20 community partners. Connect with KSC principals, teachers, staff, students, and families. Explore programs available to students through Kokomo Schools. Enjoy activities, games, and giveaways!
KHS Transitions Fair
Kokomo High School will hold a Transitions Fair on Wed., March 6, from 5-7 p.m. at the high school, xx. S. Berkley Road. This free event is for all area families with students in Kindergarten through Grade 12. Connect with local support services, advocacy organizations, and helpful resources for students who are transitioning into adult life after high school. Focus topics include: guardianship waivers, alternate diplomas, and community Involvement. This event is designed for families with students who have special needs, require additional services, or need connected with community resources.
YMCA Swim Camp
The Kokomo Family YMCA’s two-week swim camp starts on Thu., March 7! Don't wait. Register your child today! Spring break and pool season will be here before you know it, so be sure to sign up your child for swim camp! Swimming is a life skill, and the YMCA has been teaching children and adults how to swim for more than 150 years, helping them to be safe in and around water. Your child will gain confidence around water while making friends and having fun. Dive in and register today by visiting Program Search (daxko.com)
Empty Bowl
Kokomo Urban Outreach’s Empty Bowl fundraising event is coming Fri., March 8, to Cross America, 840 Daniel Dr. 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.” Enjoy a simple menu of soup and bread, and take home a bowl painted by an area child. The cost is a freewill donation. Lunch is served from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m., and dinner is served from 4-6:30 p.m. The celebrity bowl auction will take place at 5 p.m. 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 .