What's Happening This Week?
Events in the Kokomo and Howard County area taking place Jan. 29-Feb. 3 and beyond
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TODAY
Genealogy for Night Owls Lite
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a Genealogy Night Owls session on Sun., Jan. 29, from 2-5:30 p.m. This is a Lite event, meaning no meal or door prizes will be provided.
Lego Challenge
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a Lego Challenge event on Sun., Jan. 29, from 2-5:30 p.m. at its Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr. There will be lots of Legos on hand for fun for all ages.
MONDAY
Lego Challenge
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a Lego Challenge event on Mon., Jan. 30, from 9 a.m.-8 p.m. at its Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr. There will be lots of Legos on hand for fun for all ages.
Home School Book Club
First through sixth grade home schoolers can join the library t its main branch, 220 N. Union St., on Mon., Jan. 30, from 10-11 a.m. to talk about books from a variety of genres – from fiction to graphic novels.
Discovery Center Osmo
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold an Osmo event at its Discovery Center at the main branch, 220 N. Union St., on Mon., Jan. 30, from 3-6 p.m. Have fun, meet new friends, and play with the library’s collection of low-tech and high-tech games and activities.
Drums Alive
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold Drums Alive sessions for all ages. Family Beats for all ages will be held at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, from 6:30-7:15 p.m. on Jan. 30, and at the main branch, 220 N. Union St., from 5-6 p.m. on Feb. 1, 8, and 15. Party Beats for adults ages 18 and up will be held at the south branch from 5:30-6:15 p.m. on Jan. 30. Wear comfy clothes and shoes and join the library to use drumsticks and an exercise ball for a fun activity for all ages and abilities. Equipment is limited, so register each person participating by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
TUESDAY
Free Mental Health Walk-In Clinic
Are you an adult struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges? Come talk confidentially to a 4C associate who will help you find help locally. The walk-in clinic will be held on Tue., Jan. 31, from 9 a.m. until noon at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St.
Next Chapter Book Club
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a meeting of the Next Chapter Book Club on Tue., Jan. 31, from 10-11 a.m. at the Main branch, 220 N. Union St. Join the library for a relaxed, small group setting of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to read, learn, and make friends. Register by contacting Ellen at 765-626-0829 or Marsha at 765-626-0813.
Geri-Fit classes
The Connexion Church (formerly St. Luke’s United Methodist), 700 E. Southway Blvd., will host Geri-Fit exercise classes for adults ages 60 and up beginning on Tue., Jan. 31. The classes will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:30 a.m. until noon. These free classes can help increase muscular strength, improve balance and coordination, enhance flexibility and gait, lessen arthritic conditions, manage chronic disease, and boost motor skills and reaction time. The classes are sponsored by the Area Five Agency on Aging. To register, call 574-722-4451 and ask for Susan.
KHCPL Blood Drive
In honor of National Blood Donor Month, the Kokomo Howard County Public Library will host a blood drive on Tue., Jan. 31, from 1:30-6 p.m. at the library’s south branch,. 1755 E. Center Road. The Versiti Bloodmobile will be on hand to conduct the drive. Make sure to eat a healthy meal and drink plenty of water before donating. Donors may receive a Versiti beanie for donating, while supplies last.
Discovery Center Robots
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a Robots event at its Discovery Center at the main branch, 220 N. Union St., on Tue., Jan. 31, from 3-6 p.m. Have fun, meet new friends, and play with the library’s collection of low-tech and high-tech games and activities.
KHS Freshmen Scheduling Night
Kokomo Schools will hold a Freshmen Scheduling Parent Info Night on Tue., Jan. 31, at 5:30 p.m. at Bon Air Middle School, 2796 N. Apperson Way. Families of 8th graders should attend this important session to meet with high school counselors and learn about graduation requirements and pathways, the Kokomo Area Career Center, and elective courses.
STEAM Mania Lego Club
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library for STEAM Mania Lego Club event on Tue., Jan. 31, from 6-7 p.m. at its Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr. The library will supply the Lego sets. You supply the creativity.
WEDNESDAY
Adult Writers Group
Join a group of local amateur fiction writers on Wed., Feb. 1, from 5-8 p.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, as they submit and critique writing and provide honest feedback.
THURSDAY
Teen Writers Group
Do you like to write stories? Do you want a chance to sharpen your creative writing and critiquing skills and receive feedback from your peers? Then join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library for a session of the Teen Writers Group on Thu., Feb. 2, from 5-6 p.m. at the main branch, 220 N. Union St. This event is for students in middle school and high school.
STEM Thursday
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library as it presents The Amazing World and Virtual Reality at its Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr., from 6-7:30 p.m. on Thu., Feb. 2. Children ages 8-13 will have a chance to play virtual reality games and have fun with the green screen while improving their science, technology, engineering, and math skills.
KAA Pastel Classes
The Kokomo Art Association will host Pastel classes for beginners and intermediate artists each Thursday from Feb. 2 to March 2, 2023. This five-week class will teach beginners the basics and explore advanced techniques like “wet pastel” for more experienced users. Learn how to use different surfaces, hard and soft pastels, principles of composition, color theory, and layering techniques from Avon Waters, a juried-in associate member of the Pastel Society of America. Participants who don’t have supplies can share a pastel set during the class. Cost is $15 per session. Reserve a spot with a $5 deposit at www/kaaonline.org/donations or contact Lesley at artisfunlnw@aol.com for additional information.
FRIDAY
First Friday Lunch and Learn
Join Community Howard Regional Health and the Kokomo Family YMCA for a First Friday Lunch and Learn event on Fri., Feb. 3, from 12:10-12:50 p.m. Rachel Wright, a registered nurse from Community Howard's cardiopulmonary rehab program, will talk about heart health, identify the risk factors that can lead to cardiovascular disease, and discuss the lifestyle habits that can lead to a healthier heart. This free healthcare education program takes place at the YMCA of Kokomo, 114 N. Union St. Register by Jan. 29 by calling 800-550-1266 or visiting www.ecommunity.com/events.
Tiny Art Creation
Are you artistic? Stop by the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., on Fri., Feb. 3, from 3:30-5 p.m. and create your own miniature artwork while supplies last. Your work will be shown off during a month-long mini art exhibit in February. This event is for students in middle school and high school.
Black Pearls at Artworks
The Kokomo Art Association will present Black Pearls: A Closer Look at Black Wisdom, Beauty and Culture, beginning on Fri., Feb. 3, with an opening reception on from 6-9 p.m. at Artworks Gallery 210 N. Main St. The exhibition runs through Feb. 25. Featured artists include JC Barnett III, Ramona Daniels, Tashema Davis, Sunday Mahaja, and Shailyn Nash. Author Reba Harris will be signing her new book “Living Life After the Fires of My Sorrows” at the reception, and the KAA Guest Artist is Ethnographer Robin Williams with her exhibit, “Love is a Second Line: Celebration of Life in New Orleans.” Artworks Gallery is open Monday through Saturday from noon until 4 p.m.
Crab Cakes and Murder
Curtain Call Theatre for Children will present a production of “Crab Cakes and Murder” on Feb. 3-5 at the Curtain Call Studio, 2114 N. Armstrong St. Reserved seating is $10. Performances will take place on Fri., Feb. 3, at 7 p.m., Sat., Feb. 4, at 7 p.m., and Sun., Feb. 5, at 2 p.m. Additional performances may be added at a later time. Get tickets by visiting www.kcctc.booktix.com, by emailing info@kcctc.org, or by calling 765-236-6522.
KUBS softball registration
Kokomo United Softball is accepting registrations for players now until Feb. 3. League assessments for the players will take place on Feb. 7 and 9 from 5-8 p.m. at Sycamore Elementary School, 1600 E. Sycamore St. There are leagues available for children ages 4-15. Payments may be made by debit, credit, or ACH. Payment plans are available, and those needing financial assistance should email kokomokubs@gmail.com. To register, visit https://kokomounited.leagueapps.com/
SATURDAY
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 Sat., Feb. 4, from 10-10:30 a.m. for children ages 18 months to 5 years. Your child's movements stimulate the release of chemicals in the brain to support memory and learning!
KUBS Baseball Try-Outs
Kokomo United Baseball will hold baseball tryouts on Sat., Feb. 4, from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. at Lafayette Park Elementary School, 919 N. Korby St. All kids must come to get fitted for uniforms on this day. However, only players who are moving up or changing teams have to try out. Tee ball players do not have to try out.
Reading with Pet Partners
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold sessions of Reading with Pet Partners on Sat., Feb. 4, from 11 a.m. until noon at both its main branch, 220 N. Union St., and its Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr. Kids ages 6-11 can practice their reading skills by reading to trained therapy animals.
Garden Planning
A garden planning party for hobbyists and gardeners will be held at Highland Park Church, 516 W. Sycamore St., on Sat., Feb. 4, from noon until 2 p.m. Bring your seed catalogs and order seeds, eat lunch, and learn from experts in vegetable and flower gardening, and orchard planting and maintenance. Lunch and childcare will be provided. RSVP by emailing pastorluke@highlandpc.com.
DNA Q&A
Do you need help understanding your Ancestry DNA results? Join DNA Explorer’s Robert Sliwinski as he provides tips and answers questions about Ancestry DNA testing kit results so that you might further your genealogy search. The event will take place on Sat., Feb. 4, from 1:30-2:30 p.m. at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., in meeting rooms A and B. Register for this event by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events or by calling any KHCPL branch.
COMING SOON
Kokomo Civic Theatre Auditions
Auditions for Kokomo Civic Theatre’s April musical, “The Marvelous Wonderettes,” will be held on Sun., Feb. 5 at 6 p.m. at the KCT Warehouse, 722 N. McCann St. Callbacks will be held on Tue., Feb. 7. “The Marvelous Wonderettes” is being directed by Eily Hite. There are roles for four women. The first act is set at the 1958 Springfield High School prom, and the second act takes place at the 10-year reunion in 1968. Some of the songs include “Mr. Sandman,” “Lollipop,” “Dreamlover,” “Stupid Cupid,” “Secret Love,” “Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me,” “You Don’t Own Me,” “It’s My Party,” and “Leader of the Pack.” Show dates are April 14, 15, 16.
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 Very Early Childhood Education Center on Mon., Feb. 6, from 10-10:45 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!
Real Estate Education Seminar
The Indiana University Kokomo Black Student Center will present “What’s Your Plan?” a seminar to teach real estate tactics, strategies, and hacks to financial freedom on Mon., Feb. 6, from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. at the IUK Kelley Student Center, Room KC 130, 2300 S. Washington St. Speakers for the event include Realtor Angelina Sims, loan originator Haven Russell, insurance agent Karen Julkes, and loan originator Brandon Arnett. Lunch will be provided by the IUK Café. To register, test your name and e-mail address to 765-603-9298.
STEAM Mania Fun and Games
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library for science, technology, engineering, art, and math-related games while making new friends. This event will take place on Mon., Feb. 6, from 3-5 p.m. at the library’s Russiaville location, 315 Mesa Dr.
St. Patrick School Gym Grand Opening
Sts. Joan of Arc and Patrick School will hold a grand opening of its St. Patrick campus gym renovation, 1230 N. Armstrong St., on Mon., Feb. 6, at 5 p.m. A ribbon cutting will take place at 5 p.m., followed by an exhibition basketball game. Free cotton candy and popcorn will be provided while supplies last.
Valentine Assembly Line
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a Valentine Assembly Line service project for kids on Mon., Feb. 6, from 6-7 p.m. at the south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. Kids ages 8-13 will learn teamwork and the value of serving the community by using an assembly line technique to create cards to donate to senior centers. Register for this event by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking Events or by calling any KHCPL location.
Bilingual Story Time
Introduce your child to the Kokomo Howard County Public Library and bilingual literature in a fun way by reading stories in English and either French, Spanish, or Japanese. This event takes place at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., on Tue., Feb. 7, from 4:30-5 p.m., and includes age-appropriate activities and a snack.
Narcan and Harm Reduction Training
Turning Point Systems of Care will provide training about Narcan and harm reduction for anyone wanting to know more about the medication and the legal protections for those administering Narcan. This session will take place on Tue., Feb. 7, from 6:30-7 p.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St.
KHCPL Book Discussion
Expand your reading horizons by joining the Kokomo Howard County Public Library as it holds a discussion about the book “Packing for Mars” by Jesse Q. Sutanto on Thu., Feb. 9, from 1-2 p.m. at the library’s Russiavlle branch, 315 Mesa Dr. Registration for this event is required by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking Events.
KHCPL Russiaville Book Discussion
Expand your reading horizons by joining the Kokomo Howard County Public Library as it holds a discussion about the book “Dial A for Aunties” by Mary Roach on Wed., Feb. 8, from 10-11:30 a.m. at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. Registration for this event is required by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking Events.
Teen Writers Group
Do you like to write stories? Do you want a chance to sharpen your creative writing and critiquing skills and receive feedback from your peers? Then join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library for a session of the Teen Writers Group on Thu., Feb. 9, from 5-6 p.m. at the main branch, 220 N. Union St. This event is for students in middle school and high school.
DIY Valentine’s Day Pouch
Visit the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Digital Den, 220 N. Union St., to make something for your sweetheart. The event takes place on Fri., Feb. 10, from 1-2 p.m. Registration for this event is required by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking Events.
Broadway Bliss
Kokomo Community Concerts proudly presents “Gary Mauer: Broadway Bliss” on Fri., Feb. 10, at 7 p.m., at Kokomo High School. Mauer is a Broadway and national tour actor who starred in leading roles in Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables, and Show Boat. Mauer, his wife Elizabeth Southard, and accompanist Dan Riddle will perform Broadway favorites from Phantom of the Opera, Les Mis, Gypsy, South Pacific, The Bridges of Madison County, Boys from Syracuse, The Music Man, West Side Story, My Fair Lady, and other Broadway classics. Single tickets are $20 for adults. Students and children accompanied by a ticketed adult are admitted at no cost. Tickets are available at the door by 6:30 p.m. or by calling 765-210-0686.
Walk a Mile in My Shoes
The Kokomo Rescue Mission fundraiser Walk a Mile in My Shoes has been scheduled for Sat., Feb. 11. This event is a one-mile walk where teams or individuals walk to raise support for the Mission’s women’s shelters. The walk begins at the rescue mission, 321 W. Mulberry St., at 8 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. and takes participants to the mission’s Watered Garden and Open Arms women’s shelters. The purpose of the walk in harsh winter weather is to help simulate the challenges faced by the homeless at this time of year. The goal is to raise $150,000 to support the shelters and mission programs. The top three fundraising teams will be awarded travelling trophies, as will the top school team. For additional information, visit www.kokomorescuemission.org.
Play Dough Play
If you think play dough is just for fun, think again! Kids will use it to build a variety of skills: learning their ABCs, listening, storytelling, and more. This event takes place on Sat., Feb. 11, from 10:30-11:30 a.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, and is designed for children ages 6-11.
Valentine Luncheon and Bake Sale
Join the Howard County Democrats as they host a Valentine Luncheon and Bake Sale on Sat., Feb. 11, beginning at 11 a.m. at Howard County Democratic Party headquarters.
Curtain Call FUNdraiser
Curtain Call Theatre for Children will hold a variety show FUNdraiser on Sat., Feb. 11, at the Elite Event Center, 2820 S. Lafountain St., from 1-3 p.m. The show will include performances by Sally Duke, Anna Ely, Sloan Gilbert, Kyle Johnson, Jeff Carnagua and Family, Lucy Featherston, Chloe VanWinkle, Olivia Steele, Toni Price, Samantha DeTurk, Alannah Smith, Kelsey Donson, Colburn Lambert, Claire Orcutt, Dustin Huddleston, the Legacy Dance Studio Dancers and more. Tickets are $15 and may be purchased by calling 765-236-6522, by emailing info@kcctc.org, or by visiting www.kcctc.Booktix.com.
Craft Corner
Drop in to decorate a Mason jar for your kitchen, dining room, fireplace mantle, or bathroom at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, on Sat., Feb. 11, from 1-3 p.m. Registration is not required, however, supplies will be limited to the first 20 participants.
Dungeons and Dragons Terrain Painting
In the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Digital Den, 220 N. Union St., they have printed 3D terrain free for you so you can learn the basics of painting terrain and miniatures to have a more immersive Dungeons and Dragons experience. This event takes place on Sat., Feb. 11, from 2-5 p.m.
Relay for Life Chili Supper
Relay for Life will hold a 2023 Chili Supper Kickoff on Sat., Feb. 11, from 5-7 p.m. at VFW Post 1152, 920 N. Washington St. For additional information, contact Gary Hight by emailing inclassof81@aol.com
Valentine’s Date Night
Welcome to date night! You’ll be getting your hands dirty and adding a touch of your heart while working on the pottery wheel on Sat., Feb. 11, at 5 p.m. or 7 p.m. at the Fired Arts Studio, 106 N. Main St. All participants will have an opportunity to experience the pottery wheel with assistance from instructor Jeremy South. We will work 2 by 2 on the pottery wheel during the class. Each participant will be making their very own mug as well as hand-building a small vase. You’ll then get to choose glaze options to paint your pieces. All work will be dried, clear glazes fired and bagged for pickup at Fired Arts Studio about four weeks after the class. The cost is $65 per person for the basic experience or $150 per couple for the value-added experience, which includes a box of J. Edwards Fine chocolates and a fresh flower bouquet. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit Upcoming Workshops | Fired Arts Studio.
International Art Gala
Central Middle International School, 303 E. Superior St., will hold an International Art Gala on Sat., Feb. 11, from 6-9 p.m. Enjoy a Spanish-inspired meal by Rozzi’s Catering, presentations by Kokomo High School and International students, live performances by the Kokomo Dance Team, Central Jazz Band and Orchestra, and live and silent auctions. Festive attire is encouraged. Tickets can be purchased at the school for $25 per person or $45 per couple. For more information, call 765-454-7000.
Kokomo Park Band Winter Concert
The Kokomo Park Band will hold its Winter Concert on Sun., Feb. 12, at Indiana University Kokomo’s Havens Auditorium, 2300 S. Washington St., beginning at 3 p.m. The concert will feature violin soloist Joshua Facello of the Purdue Philharmonic Orchestra, vocalists Cheressa Lawson and Sally Duke, and the IU Kokomo Chorus. Pre-concert selections will be performed by the IU Kokomo Flute Choir.
Art in Bloom
Pull out your bright party dresses and patterned ties! Art in Bloom will be in-person on March 11 at 6 p.m. at Acacia Academy inside the Main Street United Methodist Church, 830 S. Main St. A delectable dinner, unique student artwork, entertaining and compelling presentations, a silent auction, and more await you in our transformed space. Please enter through the Main Street entrance on the West side of the building when arriving for the event. Join us as we celebrate Acacia and raise money for student scholarships! Individual tickets are $60 prior to Feb. 15 and $75 from Feb. 15 until March 4. To purchase tickets, visit www.acaciaacademy.org/artinbloom.
Skywarn Storm Spotter Training
Howard County Skywarn will hold a severe storm spotter training and severe weather safety event on Sat., Feb. 18 at 2 p.m. at the Eastern Howard Performing Arts Center, 421 S. Harrison St., Greentown. This event, presented by the National Weather Service, is free for all ages to attend. Event sponsors are the Kokomo Amateur Radio Club and the Howard County Department of Emergency Management. For additional information, contact Howard County EMA at 765-456-2242.
Silent Sky
The Kokomo Civic Theatre will present performances of “Silent Sky,” the true story of astronomer Henrietta Leavitt, on Feb. 24-26 at Havens Auditorium at Indiana University Kokomo, 2300 S. Washington St. The play “explores a woman’s place in society during a time when women’s ideas were dismissed until men claimed credit for them.” Tickets are available for $15 for adults, $12 for seniors, and $10 for students and children, and can be purchased by visiting www.kokomocivictheatre.org/tickets.
African American Genealogy Workshop
Acclaimed author, speaker, and genealogist Timothy Pinnick will lead an African American Genealogy Workshop in conjunction with the Kokomo Howard County Public Library on Sat., Feb. 25, from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. at the Carver Community Center, 1030 N. Purdum St. Participants will learn research strategies to trace Black ancestors. The first 25 in-person participants will receive a copy of Pinnick’s “A Genealogist’s Guide to Discovering Your African-American Ancestors.” Register for this event online by visiting www.khcpl.org and clicking on Events.
Humane Society Stand-Up Comedy
The Kokomo Humane Society will hold a February FUNdraiser featuring stand-up comedy on Sat., Feb. 25, from 7-9 p.m. at Kokomo Sun King, 500 N. Buckeye St. Comedians Dave Dugan and Dave Wilson will headline the event, which will include drinks, snacks, and adorable dogs for people to meet. Tickets are $65 and can be obtained by visiting https://www.jotform.com/build/223415369798167. Sponsorship opportunities are also available by visiting https://form.jotform.com/223415572312044.
Diaper Drive
Maple Grove Community Church, 3113 W. Boulevard St., is holding a Diaper Drive now through Feb. 28. The drive will accept diapers and pull-ups of any size as well as baby wipes, diaper cream, formula, and new bottles. These donations will be given to Foster the Need and the Department of Child Services of Howard County to meet the needs of many children in the county. Donations may be placed inside the front door of the church.
KPRD Summer Softball League
Registration is now open for the 2023 Kokomo Parks and Recreation Department Summer Softball League. Teams may register for men’s, women’s, and CoEd divisions. Registration ends March 3. League play begins April 24. For information about fees and other league details, contact the KPRD office at 765-456-7275 or visit www.cityofkokomo.org.
Running the Distance for Ainsley’s Angels
Ainsley’s Angels will hold a 4x4x48 run on Fri., March 3, through Sun., March 5. The run begins at FIT 365, 1308 Home Ave., where runners will pick up the Kokomo Industrial Heritage Trail and run two miles, then return on the same route. There are multiple runs scheduled for this event, so runners can choose the time that works best for them. Runs will take place every four hours, beginning on March 3 at 11 p.m., March 4 at 3 a.m., 7 a.m., 11 a.m., 3 p.m., 7 p.m., and 11 p.m., and on March 5 at 3 a.m., 7 a.m., 11 a.m., 3 p.m., 7 p.m., and 11 p.m. Register for this event by visiting Running the Distance 4x4x48 for Ainsley's Angels (runsignup.com).