What's Happening This Week?
Events taking place in Kokomo and Howard County from Jan. 14-20 and beyond
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TODAY
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.
MONDAY
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 .
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.
Fantasy Fiction Book Tasting
Magic, wonder and maybe even dragons! Visit the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Russiaville branch, 305 Mesa Dr., all day on Tue., Jan. 16, through Sun., Jan. 21 to explore our Fantasy Fiction Book Tasting!
Book Buddy Book Club
Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities - regardless of reading ability - can join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Tue., Jan. 16, 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.
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.
STEAM Mania
Enjoy fun and games related to science, technology, engineering, art, and math on Tue., Jan. 16, from 4:30-5:30 p.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr. This event is intended for children ages 6-13.
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 .
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., Jan. 17, 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: Hex Bugs
Have fun and meet new friends playing with the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s collection of low-tech and high-tech games and activities. On Wed., Jan. 17, 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.
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 on Wed., Jan. 17, at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, from 6-7 p.m.
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. 18, 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. 18, from 11-11:45 a.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. This event is designed for children ages 3-5.
Teen Art Group
Would you like the chance to sketch, color, and paint regularly with your friends? Then join the Teen Art Group at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., on Thu., Jan. 18, from 4-5 p.m.
STEAM Mania
Enjoy fun and games related to science, technology, engineering, art, and math on Thu., Jan. 18, from 4:30-5:30 p.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr. This event is intended for children ages 6-13.
Teen Writers Group
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a Writers Group for teen amateur fiction writers on Thu., Jan. 18, 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.
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.
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. 19, 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. 19, 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.
SATURDAY
City of Firsts Game Fest
The City of Firsts Game Fest will hold its inaugural event on Sat., Jan 20, at Sts. Joan of Arc & Patrick School, 3155 S, 200 W, Kokomo. Doors open at 8:30 a.m., and the event ends at 9:30 p.m. Enjoy a variety of games of different genres and styles, as the famous Gen Con Games Library will be available for play at the event. Gen Con is known as the largest gaming convention in the world. Admission is $20 per person or $60 per family in advance. Admission is $25 per person at the door. Pay one price and play all day. There will be Magic: The Gathering events throughout the day. Attendance for this event is limited to 200 people, so make sure to purchase your badge by visiting https://tabletop.events/con.../city-of-firsts-game-fest-2024 . This event is made possible by the support of Comics Cubed and Kingdom Cards and Games. For additional information, call 765-865-9960.
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.
Reading with Pet Partners
Kids can practice their reading skills by reading to trained therapy animals at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., on Sat., Jan. 20, from 11 a.m. until noon.
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.
COMING SOON
Russiaville Girls Softball
Spring sign-up for the Russiaville Girls Softball League is open now. The league will have 8U, 10U, and 12U divisions. Cost of registration is $105 per child. A buy-out on the fee is available by working shifts at the concession stand for reimbursement. Register by visiting Welcome | Spring 2024 softball | Russiaville Girls Softball League (sportngin.com)
Genealogy 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 Genealogy 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.
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., Jan. 22, from 9:30-11 a.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. Caregivers with a baby ages birth to 12 months are welcome to participate. Older siblings are welcome to join also.
Monday Fun Day
Children ages 2-5 and their adult caregivers will explore early literacy, math, and science activities and a variety of hands-on skill centers, which develop kindergarten readiness at Monday Fun Day. This event takes place at the Russiaville branch of the Kokomo Howard County Public Library, 305 Mesa Dr., on Mon., Jan. 22, from 10 a.m. until noon.
In the Know Doc Talk
The Kokomo Family YMCA will present Dr. Dana Stewart and her “In the Know Doc Talk” on Sun., Jan. 22, at 12:30 p.m. The talk will take place in the YMCA’s Community Room, 114 N. Union St. Dr. Stewart will delve into the intriguing topic of brain development in infants and toddlers up to age 3. This insightful talk will provide valuable knowledge on how to foster healthy brain development in children. This event is free to the community. Dr. Stewart is an American Board of Pediatrics-certified pediatrician and owner of Meadows Medical Center in Kokomo. She has been in private practice for more than five years and has practiced pediatrics for more than 20 years.
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., Jan. 22, from 3:30-5:30 p.m. at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St.
Board Game Night
Snacks and board games! Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Mon., Jan. 22, for a fun evening playing games like WarMachine, Dice Throne, Marvel United, Marvel Champions, and Riot Quest! This event takes place at the library’s Russiaville branch, 305 Mesa Dr., from 5:30-8:30 p.m. for teens and adults.
Artventure – Exploring the Masters
Discover the world of art through the styles and techniques of renowned artists from different periods in history. Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Tue., Jan. 23, from 5:30-6:30 p.m. for this exploration of artistic masters at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St.
Gentle Yoga
Curious about yoga and want to give it a try? Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library as you explore this unique exercise program. The event takes place at the Jeff Stout Community Center, 650 W. North St., in Russiaville on Tue. Jan. 23, from 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Shelfie Spectacular
Get ready to show off your literary style and bookish pride at our Shelfie Day event! Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Wed., Jan. 24, for National Library Shelfie Day. Capture your favorite bookshelf arrangement and celebrate the love of reading with fellow bibliophiles! This event takes place at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., from 4-6 p.m.
Essential Skills for Managers
Ivy Tech Community College is offering a one-day, instructor-led, training course to prepare leaders for supervisory positions in the workplace. The course, Essential Skills for Managers, will be offered on Thursday, Jan. 25, at Ivy Tech’s Logansport campus, 1 Ivy Tech Drive. The class is set to go from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The $155 fee includes class materials, and a 45-minute working lunch is provided. To register for the Essential Skills for Managers class or for more information, contact Bonnie Devers, program manager for Ivy+ Career Link at Ivy Tech Kokomo, at bdevers3@ivytech.edu or 765-252-5497.
Sunshine Salutations
This fun and energizing kids yoga class introduces them to the magical world of Sun Salutations. Embark on a journey of movement, mindfulness, and imagination with the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Thu., Jan. 25, from 4:30-5:15 p.m. at the south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. This event is designed for children ages 3-11.
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.
Reel Relaxation
Escape from the cold for an evening of fun with the Kokomo Howard County Public Library as we watch Paramount's "80 for Brady" starring four incredibly funny women and Harry Hamlin. This event takes place at the library’s Russiaville branch, 305 Mesa Dr., on Fri., Jan. 26, from 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Whodunnit? Live 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., Jan. 27, from 2-5 p.m. Register for this event by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
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.
Free Tax Prep Service
The United Way serving Howard and Tipton Counties will begin offering free tax preparation services to the community on Mon., Jan. 29. The tax preparation service uses IRS-certified tax preparers and guarantees you will receive 100 percent of your refund, with no fees or interest. The United Way’s tax preparers will also e-file your return and provide free Earned Income Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit screenings. Starting Jan. 29, pick up a packet which has instructions on what information needs to be provided. Complete the forms in the packet and return it to any of these sites: Kokomo Howard County Public Library Downtown, 220 N. Union St.; Kokomo Howard County Public Library South, 1755 E. Center Road; Kokomo Howard County Public Library Russiaville, 305 Mesa Dr.; Greentown Public Library, 421 S. Harrison St.; Tipton Public Library, 127 E. Madison St. For additional information, call 765-450-7619 or email freetaxprep@unitedwayhoco.org .
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 .
Black Pearls Exhibition
The Kokomo Art Association presents the 2nd Annual Black Pearls Exhibition, featuring wisdom, beauty, and culture from a Black viewpoint. The event takes place Fri., Feb. 2, from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at Artworks Gallery, 210 N. Main St. Artists on display at the event include Ramona Daniels, Sukari Woodson, Janice Purnell, J.C. Barnett III, Tashema Davis, Shailyn Nash, and Sunday Mahaja. The event also will feature ethnographer Robin Williams and her work, “MAMA AFRICA: Journey of a Lifetime,” and Gilead House founder Reba Harris, signing her book, “Living Life after the Fires of my Sorrows.” This event is free to attend. Artwork on display will be available for sale.
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
Decade of Dreams Black-Tie Event
Kokomo CEO, a program designed to shape youth of today into the entrepreneurs of tomorrow, will hold a black-tie (optional) celebration, “Decade of Dreams: A Night to Remember,” on Sat., Feb. 3, from 6-9:30 p.m. at The Venue, 1201 W. Alto Road. Tickets are $60 each. Get ready for a night of pure magic and good vibes. Magician Chris Egelston will bring his A-game with mind-blowing tricks that'll leave you in awe. Dinner? A feast of deliciousness brought to you by Rozzi's Catering that'll make your taste buds dance. There also will be guest speakers and live entertainment. Secure your spot at the town's must-attend event! Visit www.ceoxgala.com for additional information and to purchase tickets.
Greentown Softball 2024
Registration is open for the Greentown Girls Softball League for girls seeking to join 6U, 8U, 10U, 12U, and middle school teams. Registration will close Feb. 3. To register, visit www.greentownsoftball.com . Gyms are open at Eastern High School every Saturday until the weather is good enough to be on the fields. Middle school softball players practice 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. 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.
Smackdown XIII
The Kokomo Speedway announces the return of the Elliott’s Custom Trailer and Carts Sprint Car Smackdown XIII on Aug. 22-24. Ticket renewals for this event go on sale Feb. 5-9, from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Ticket sales for the general public will begin on Feb. 12. The three-day pass includes reserved seating and a pit pass if purchased by March 29. Single-day general admission tickets will be on sale each race day for $30 on Thursday and Friday, and $40 on Saturday. Reserved camping renewals go on sale March 11-15 for $50 for the weekend. To purchase tickets, call 779-230-1310 or email smackdowntix@gmail.com.
Single Mingle
Meet new friends and other singles in the area at the Single Mingle Meet-a-Friend event on Fri., Feb. 9, ay 5:30 p.m. at Sun King Kokomo, 500 N. Buckeye St. Enjoy food, karaoke, and games during the event. Tickets are $25, and registration is required. Please register by Feb. 1. Sponsored by Widow’s Purse, City of Firsts Cremation, Sun King, and B.A. Star Productions.
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.
‘The Missing Heirloom’
Kokomo Civic Theatre will present “The Missing Heirloom,” a play by local author Othello Bach, on Feb. 23-25, at IU Kokomo’s Havens Auditorium, 2300 S. Washington St. Performances take place at 7:30 p.m. on Fri., Feb. 23, and Sat., Feb. 24, and at 2 p.m. on Sun., Feb. 25. Tickets are $15 for adults, $13 for seniors (60+), $12 for students (through college), and $10 for children 12 and under. Set in 1955 Kansas, 70-year-old Maggie Henderson receives a letter from the Smithsonian Institute, looking for a gold watch that was given to her grandfather by Theodore Roosevelt. Following a tragic accident, Maggie allows Sophie, a black woman who cleans houses, to stay with her. Maggie’s friend, town busy-body, Betty, can’t help but share all this news with the town, which results in attempt to steal the watch, to take advantage of Maggie’s new-found fortune, and reveals previously unspoken prejudice and disapproval of Maggie and Sophie. "The Missing Heirloom" is a touching story told with humor about prejudice and racism in the 1950s with a positive message. Kokomo Civic Theatre is proud to present this world premiere production. Tickets are available online at www.kokomocivictheatre.org/tickets .
Kokomo Art Association Photo Show
The Kokomo Art Association presents the 2024 Photo Show, March 1-30, at Artworks Gallery, 210 N. Main St. Do you have an eye for artful photography? Have you wanted an opportunity to share your gifts with others who appreciate photo art? Entry forms for the show are available at Artworks or online at www.kaaonline.org. Works must be dropped off on Sat., Feb. 24, from noon to 4 p.m. For additional information, contact Cheryl at kokomoartassociation2014@gmail.com.
KPRD Summer Softball League
Registration is open now for the 2024 Kokomo Parks and Recreation Department’s Summer Softball League. 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