What's Happening This Week?
Events in the Kokomo and Howard County area taking place Feb. 19-25 and beyond
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TODAY
Digital Den on the Road
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Digital Den as it takes the show on the road to Sun King Kokomo, 500 N. Buckeye St., on Sun. Feb. 19, from 1-4 p.m. Have fun making your own buttons using tools from the KHCPL’s Digital Den. This event is open to teens and adults.
Elite Bridal Gala
The Elite Bridal Gala will take place on Sun., Feb. 19, from 1-4 p.m. at the Elite Banquet and Conference Center, 2820 S. Lafountain St. More than 30 vendors specializing in all things wedding will be on hand. Tickets are free, but limited. Obtain tickets by visiting https://www.eventbrite.com/o/elite-event-center-38875848263.
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 Sun., Feb. 19, from 3-3:30 p.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., and is designed for children ages 6-11.
MONDAY
Winter Blues Busters
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a variety of Winter Blues Busters events on Mon., Feb. 20. A Lego play event takes place at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, from 1:30-2 p.m. for children ages 3-13. A Play Dough Play event takes place at the library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr., from 2-3 p.m. for all ages, and the main branch, 220 N. Union St., will help children ages 3-11 construct their own bird house feeder from 4-5 p.m.
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., Feb. 21, from 9 a.m. until noon at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St.
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. 21, from 4:30-5 p.m., and includes age-appropriate activities and a snack.
Jump Start Gardening
Guest speaker James Knepley will teach you what, how, and when to plant indoors so you get a head start on your garden while it's cold outside; then you can transplant them outside later. This Jump Start on Gardening event will take place on Tue., Feb. 21, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr.
WEDNESDAY
Black History’s Groundbreaking Geniuses
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will present Black History’s Groundbreaking Geniuses on Wed., Feb. 22, from 5-6 p.m. at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. This show, for children ages 6-13, focuses on groundbreakers such as surgeon Daniel Hale Williams, mathematician Dorothy Vaughan, writer Ralph Ellison, and dance and choreographer Alvin Alley. Visit www.khcpl.org for additional information.
THURSDAY
Teen Writers Group
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a Teen Writers Group for amateur fiction writers on Thu., Feb. 23, from 5-6 p.m. at the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St. Write something to submit and critique. Teens who enjoy writing and want honest feedback are invited to attend.
Introduce a Girl to Engineering
Do you know a girl who enjoys science, technology, engineering, art, and math? Bring them to the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, on Thu., Feb. 23, to take part in STEAM Mania’s Crane Design Challenge. The event takes place from 6-7 p.m. and is designed for children ages 8-12. Register here: https://khcpl.libnet.info/event/7323263.
FRIDAY
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.” Show times are 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 2 p.m. on Sunday. 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. Call 765-454-8800 for additional information.
Craft Night
Do you need some motivation to start a craft project or encouragement to complete one? Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library as it offers a fun evening of crafting that can be productive as you would like it to be. The event takes place at the library’s Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr., from 6-8 p.m. on Fri., Feb. 24. Snacks will be provided, and some supplies will be available.
SATURDAY
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.
Peru Circus at Western
The Peru Amateur Circus will perform in the Western High School gymnasium on Sat., Feb. 25. A carnival will take place from 1-6 p.m., featuring games, prizes, clowns, a petting zoo, and concessions, and the circus showtimes are 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. Tickets are available at the event for $10 for adults and $5 for kids ages 7-18. Children ages 6 and under are admitted free. This event is sponsored by Narrow Gate Horse Ranch and Turnabout Community Resource Center.
ABATE Newlywed Game
ABATE of Indiana Region 3 will hold a Newlywed Game event on Sat., Feb. 25, at the Kokomo Shrine Club, 3992 E, CR 00 NS, beginning at 6 p.m. Cost is $10 per couple or $5 per individual. Drinks will be available for purchase. The event includes loads of adult fun, great prize packages, a live auction, and other fundraising activities. All are welcome. For additional information, call Lynn Anderson at 765-631-7635 or Brett Anderson at 765-631-7636.
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.
Black Pearls at Artworks
The Kokomo Art Association presents Black Pearls: A Closer Look at Black Wisdom, Beauty and Culture, 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, and Robin Williams. Artworks Gallery is open Monday through Saturday from noon until 4 p.m.
COMING SOON
Home School Book Club
First- through sixth-grade homeschoolers, join us to talk about books at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., on Mon., Feb. 27, from 10-11 a.m. We read and discuss a variety of genres, from fiction to graphic novels.
Next Chapter Book Club
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a meeting of the Next Chapter Book Club on Tue., Feb. 28, 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.
STEAM Mania: Beat the Motion Sensor
Kids will use science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) skills and a variety of materials to try to go undetected by the motion sensor at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, on Tue., Feb. 28, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. The activity is suited for kids 8 and up.
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.
IUK High School Exhibition
Indiana University Kokomo’s Art Gallery, 2300 S. Washington St., will host its annual high school exhibition on March 1-30. The exhibition will feature art from students attending 11 area high schools. An opening reception will be held on Wed., March 1, from 4-7 p.m. Awards to participating artists will be announced at 5 p.m. This event is free and open to the public.
KAA Fiber Arts Exhibition
The Kokomo Art Association will showcase fiber artists in March at Artworks Gallery, 210 N Main St. The event will run Wed., March 1 through Sat., March 25. On March 4 there will be a reception from 1–4 p.m. with demonstrations by the artists. See quilting, felting, weaving, rug hooking, macrame, crocheting, fashion embroidering, and more, created and for sale by local artists.
Third House
State lawmakers representing the local community will be on hand for a Third House session on Fri., March 3, from 8-9 a.m. at Ivy Tech Community College’s Hingst Hall, 1815 E. Morgan St. This event is free and open to the public. For additional information, call 765-457-5301 or visit www.greaterkokomo.com.
First Friday Lunch and Learn
Community Howard Regional Health and the Kokomo Family YMCA will hold a First Friday Lunch and Learn on Fri., March 3, from 12:10-12:50 p.m. at the YMCA, 114 N. Union St. The March topic will be Lung Health, featuring Dr. Daniel Livingston, a pulmonologist with Community Pulmonary and Critical Care. Dr. Livingston will discuss two common health issues that impact lung health: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and asthma. He will talk about the impact these diseases have on lung health, their prevalence, and will clear up common misconceptions about them. This is a free program, but registration is required by Feb. 28. To register, call 800-550-1266 or visit www.ecommunity.com/events.
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).
YMCA Cornhole Tournament
The Kokomo Family YMCA, 114 N. Union St., will hold a cornhole tournament on Sat., March 4. Do you think your cornhole game is good enough to leave the backyard to win $250? Register now for the one-day, tailgate-style tourney. Winner takes all! There will be custom-painted boards, Middle of Nowhere food truck, TVs, music, and a raffle drawing to win Kokomo Bobkats tickets! Don't miss out on the party atmosphere and competitive cornhole. The YMCA has the boards and bags. You just bring your teammate and your best game. Spots are limited to the first 24 teams (limit of two people per team). This is a tournament just for YMCA members! The entry fee is $50, and participants must be YMCA members ages 12 and over. This is a single-elimination tournament, with check-in at 11:30 a.m. and the first round beginning at noon. To register, visit https://kokomoymca.org/special-events/march-cornhole-tournament.
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 $75 until March 4. To purchase tickets, visit www.acaciaacademy.org/artinbloom.
Kokomo Community Concerts: Frisson Ensemble
Kokomo Community Concerts will present Frisson Ensemble on Sun., March 5, at 2:30 p.m. in the Kokomo High School Auditorium, 2501 S. Berkley Road. This woodwind, string, and piano ensemble brings frisson – shivers or thrills – with its program of classical, popular, folk, and jazz favorites from George Gershwin, Cole Porter, Scott Joplin, and other Amer4ican artists. Tickets for this event are available by calling 765-210-0686 or visiting www.kokomocommunityconcerts.org.
Lucky Charm Meet and Greet
A Lucky Charm Meet and Greet, hosted by the Howard County Democrat Women’s Committee, will take place on Mon., March 6, from 5:30-8 p.m. at Cook McDoogal’s, 100 N. Main St. Enjoy complementary light appetizers as the Democrats build a new and fresh women’s committee. Bring your lucky charm, and share your story with the group. All are welcome to attend.
Eastern Kindergarten Round-Up
Eastern Howard School Corp. will hold its Kindergarten Round-Up on Wed., March 8, at 6 p.m. in the cafeteria of Eastern Elementary School, 308 S. Harrison St., Greentown. Parents with children who will be 5 years old by Aug. 1 are welcome to attend, but participants are asked to sign up in advance by visiting https://bit.ly/3lMiLe3 and filling out the form.
KUO Empty Bowl Fundraiser
Kokomo Urban Outreach will hold its annual Empty Bowl Fundraiser on Fri., March 10, from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. and 4-6:30 p.m. at Cross America, 840 Daniel Dr. Enjoy soup, bread, and cookies during the event. An auction of bowls painted by local celebrities will take place at 5:45 p.m.
Western Band and Guard Fish Fry
The Western Band and Guard will hold a fish fry to support its middle school and high school programs on Fri., March 10, from 4:30-7:30 p.m. at the Jeff Stout Community Center, 650 N. West St., Russiaville. The price is $12 for adults and $9 for children ages 12 and under, which includes all-you-can-eat fish, chicken, and tenderloin, plus sides and a drink. Desserts are $1. Curbside pickup/to-go is available.
Elite Father-Daughter Gala
The Elite Father-Daughter Gala will be held on Fri., March 10, and Sat., March 11, from 7-9 p.m. each evening at the Elite Banquet and Conference Center, 2820 S. Lafountain St. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Dinner will be served. The Frozen Trio of Elsa, Anna, and Olaf will be in attendance to dance and interact with attendees, along with a DJ and plenty of dancing. Admission is $30 per person. Limited tickets are available for purchase on EventBrite.
Carver Adult Basketball
The Carver Community Center’s Adult Basketball League begins on March 19, and registration is open now until March 10. The cost is $600 per team, and the competition is split into three divisions: A, B, and 35+. Register at the Carver Center office, 1030 N. Purdum St., or by calling 765-457-9318.
Be a SHEro 5K Run/Walk
The Family Service Association of Howard County will hold its Be a SHEro 5K Run/Walk on Sat., March 11, in Foster Park, 721 W. Superior St. The SHEro 5K is a women’s race celebrating International Women’s Day while encouraging healthy activity in the community. Registration is $30 and includes a participant t-shirt and finisher medal while supplies last, as well as a registration swag bag with promotions from local businesses and access to the post-race party at 6:30 p.m. the post-race party will include free snacks while supplies last as well as local food trucks, vendors, music, and fun! Proceeds will benefit the Howard County Domestic Violence Shelter. Early packet pick-up will be available on Fri., March 10 at Grace United Methodist Church, 219 W. Mulberry St. from 5-8 p.m. Packet pick up also will be available the day of the race at the registration table from 3:30-4:15 p.m. On-site registration begins at 3:30 p.m. Dressing up and creating fundraising groups is encouraged. Please park in the Kokomo Beach parking lot. Get more information and register at https://www.raceplace.com/events/127695/be-a-shero-5k-run-walk.
Kokomo Symphony Shreds Classic Rock
The Kokomo Symphony Orchestra’s Acoustic Strings will shred classic rock at their concert on Sun., March 12, at 3 p.m. The concert will take place at Grace United Methodist Church, 219 W. Mulberry St., and will feature the music of Led Zeppelin, Queen, The Beatles, and more. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for college students. Students in K-12 and younger children are admitted free. This concert is not included in the KSO season pass. Call the symphony office at 765-236-0251 to obtain tickets.
Taylor Health Fair
Taylor Schools, in conjunction with the Howard County Health Department, will hold a Health Resources and Immunization Fair on Tue., March 14 from 4-7 p.m. at the Taylor Middle School Gymnasium, 3802 E, CR 300 S. Participants should use the Activities Entrance, Door 16. The event will feature prize basket drawings, vendor giveaways, a bounce house, a parent talk on teen vaping, and free food from The Middle of Nowhere.
Taylor Elementary School Round-Up
Taylor Community Schools’ Kindergarten and Titan Titans preschool round-up for the 2022-23 school year will take place at Taylor Elementary School on Wed., March 15, from 9-11 a.m. and 1-6:30 p.m. Parents must make an appointment by calling 765-453-3800. Parents also should visit the Taylor Elementary School website at www.taylor.k12.in.us to complete new student enrollment prior to coming to the round-up. Children should also attend the round-up in order to meet the Kindergarten and preschool teachers and to participate in activities. To attend Kindergarten, a child must be 5 years of age on or before Aug. 1. To attend Pre-K, a child must be 4 years of age by Aug. 1. To attend preschool, a child must be 3 years old by Aug. 1 and be potty trained. Parents need to bring their child’s official birth certificate, proof of immunizations, Social Security card, and proof of residency. A $50 registration fee is also due to secure your child’s spot in the Tiny Titans program, as space is limited. For additional information, call 765-453-3800.
The Music Man at EHPAC
Eastern High School will present “The Music Man” on Fri., March 17, at 7:30 p.m. and Sat., March 18, at 4:30 p.m. at the Eastern Howard Performing Arts Center. Reserved ticket seating is $10, $12, and $15, and tickets will go on sale beginning March 7. Reserve your tickets by visiting www.eastern.booktix.com.
There’s a Monster in My Closet
Curtain Call Theatre for Children will present “There’s a Monster in My Closet” on March 17-18 at IU Kokomo’s Havens Auditorium, 2300 S. Washington St., at 7 p.m. each evening. Reserved seating is $15. Tickets can be obtained by calling 765-236-6522, emailing info@kcctc.org, or by visiting www.kcctc.booktix.com.
CASA St. Patrick’s 5K
CASA of Howard County will hold a St. Patrick’s Day 5K on Sat., March 18, beginning at noon. The race will start and end at Sun King Brewery, 500 N. Buckeye St. The entry fee is $25 per person and includes one free Sun King beer for participants ages 21 and up. A free t-shirt will be given to each participant who registers by Feb. 28. Register by visiting https://casa5k.itsyourrace.com/event.aspx?id=13220.
Disability Awareness Basketball
The annual Bona Vista Disability Awareness Basketball Game will take place Wed., March 22, at 6 p.m. in Kokomo High School’s Memorial Gymnasium, 303 E. Superior St. The contest pits Bona Vista’s All-Stars against a team of Kokomo Celebrities, and the game is free to the public.
Candidate Forum
A candidate forum for the City of Kokomo May 2 primary election will be held on Thu., March 23, from 6-8 p.m. at Indiana University Kokomo’s Kresge Auditorium, 2300 S. Washington St. The Greater Kokomo Chamber of Commerce, League of Women Voters, and Kokomo Tribune have partnered to host this event, which provides an opportunity to hear directly from candidates running for local office. Admission is free. Call 765-457-5301 or visit www.greaterkokomo.com for additional information.
Cross America Spring Open House
The Cross America Community Center, 840 Daniel Dr., will hold a Spring Open House on Thu., March 23, and Fri., March 24. The event will include door prizes, sweet treats, and discounts for the gift shop. For more information, visit www.crossamerica.net.