What's Happening This Week?
Events in the Kokomo and Howard County area taking place Feb. 26-March 4 and beyond
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TODAY
Silent Sky
The Kokomo Civic Theatre will present performances of “Silent Sky,” the true story of astronomer Henrietta Leavitt, on Feb. 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 time is 2 p.m. 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.
College Goal Sunday
The Indiana Commission for Higher Education will hold its annual College Goal Sunday on Feb. 26 at locations all across the state. Locally, the event will take place at Indiana University Kokomo, 2300 S. Washington St, and Ivy Tech Community College in Logansport, 1 Ivy Tech Way, beginning at 2 p.m. Students and their parents may receive assistance filing their FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) at the event. For additional information, visit www.collegegoalsunday.org.
MONDAY
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.
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. 28, 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., 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.
Lego Club
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a Lego Club event on Tue., Feb. 28, from 6-7 p.m. at its Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr. The library will supply the Legos. You supply the creativity. This event is for children ages 6-13.
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.
WEDNESDAY
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.
Writers Group
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a Writers Group for amateur fiction writers on Wed., March 1, from 5-8 p.m. at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. Write something to submit and critique. Adults who enjoy writing and want honest feedback are invited to attend.
Read Across America – Kind Readers
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will celebrate Read Across America on Wed., March 1, with an event for children ages 3-11 at the main branch, 220 N. Union St., from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Participants will read stories about kindness and create bookmarks with inspirational messages. The library also asks participants to consider donating gently used children’s books to be shared with a local agency.
Broadway Trivia with Curtain Call
Curtain Call Theatre for Children will hold a Broadway Trivia Night fundraiser on Wed., March 1, beginning at 6:30 p.m. at Sun King, 500 N. Buckeye St. Have an ABBA-lutely wonderful time by collecting your Broadway-loving friends to compete, raise a glass, and raise funds for Curtain Call. Team size is limited to six. Sign-ups begin at 6:30 p.m. and the questions start at 7 p.m.
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.
THURSDAY
Read Across America – Celebrate Birthdays
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a Read Across America celebration on Thu., March 2, from 10-11 a.m. at its Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr. This event for children ages 5 and under will celebrate birthdays with a diverse selection of birthday stories, songs, a craft, and cake.
Teen Art Group
Would you like the chance to sketch, color, and paint regularly with your friends? Then join the Teen Art Group! This event will be held at the Kokomo Howard County Public Library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., on Thu., March 2, from 4- 5 p.m. Students in middle school and high school are invited to participate.
Read Across America
Calling new readers! Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library for a read aloud party celebrating Read Across America Day. The event takes place on Thu., March 2, from 5-6 p.m. at the library’s south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. Children ages 3-11 are invited to read a book, play a game, and participate in a dance party at this event.
Teen Writers Group
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a Teen Writers Group for amateur fiction writers on Thu., March 2, 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.
STEAM Mania: Virtual Reality
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a STEAM Mania event – The Amazing World of Virtual Reality – on Thu., March 2, from 6-7 p.m. at its Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr. This event is open to children ages 6-13.
Securing the Vote: Women’s Suffrage
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will host a traveling exhibit from the Indiana Historical Society featuring women’s suffrage. The exhibit will be on display at the main branch, 220 N. Union St., throughout the month of March, beginning on March 2. The display explores how women across Indiana labored for suffrage through meetings, campaigns, and grassroots efforts.
FRIDAY
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.
Drums Alive Homeschool Beats
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a Drums Alive Homeschool Beats session on Fri., March 3, from 2:30-3:15 p.m. at its south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. Build a sense of community while doing cardio. Please wear comfortable clothing and shoes to easily move around and stretch. Register by calling any KHCPL location.
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).
SATURDAY
Kindermusik Laugh and Learn
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a session of Kindermusik Laugh and Learn on Sat., March 4, from 10-10:30 a.m. at its south branch, 1755 E. Center Road. Classes are designed for children ages 18 months to 5 to promote cognitive development through singing, dancing, and instrument play.
Reading with Pet Partners
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold Reading with Pet Partners events on Sat., March 4. Kids can practice with reading skills by reading to trained therapy animals at the Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr., and the main branch, 220 N. Union St., from 11 a.m. until noon.
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.
COMING SOON
Art Anderson Bowl-a-Thon
The Boy Scouts of America Sagamore Council will hold its 10th annual Art Anderson Bowl-a-Thon on Sun., March 5, at Heritage Lanes, 1301 W. Lincoln Road. Registration and check-in begin at 11:30 a.m. Tickets are $20 per person, which includes shoe rental and three games. A silent auction will be held during the event. All proceeds from the event will fund the Art Anderson Scholarship which helps send youth to a Boy Scouts summer camp. For additional information, contact Jeremy Ramberger at 765-319-3425 or call the Boy Scouts Hingst Service Center at 765-452-8253.
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.
STEAM Mania
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold STEAM Mania events on Sun., March 5, in honor of World Engineering Day. Join the library at its south branch, 1755 E. Center Road, for an hour of Lego Challenges from 2-4 p.m. And visit the library’s main branch, 220 N. Union St., from 4-5 p.m. to learn about careers in engineering while participating in engineering activities.
Iditarod Watch Party
Join the Kokomo Howard County Public Library for an evening of fun at its Russiaville branch, 315 Mesa Dr. Watch the start of the 51st running of the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, from 5:30-7 p.m. You'll be able to feel the energy of the crowd and hear the excitement of the dogs!
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.
Prevent Child Abuse Webinar
Prevent Child Abuse Howard County’s Church Committee and the Family Service Association of Howard County will host a virtual webinar on Trauma and Brain Development on Tue., March 7, from 10 a.m. until noon. The presentation will discuss the effects of trauma on brain development and behavior, the long-term effects of adverse childhood experiences, and the importance of building and promoting resilience. This webinar is free and open to the public, but registration is required. To register, contact Stacie Gollner at 765-252-3995 or email her at stacieecec@gmail.com.
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.
Kokomo INSight
Kokomo INSight is a newly reformed support group for Howard County residents experiencing blindness, low vision, and vision loss. The group provides educational and emotional support to help members reach their full potential within the community and provides tips and solutions to everyday problems that arise from living with vision loss. The group will meet on Thu., March 9, from 2-3 p.m. at the Kokomo Senior Citizens Center in Foster Park. For additional information, send a text to 765-513-8724 or check out the Kokomo INSight Facebook page.
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.
Craft Corner
The Kokomo Howard County Public Library will hold a Craft Corner, featuring a papercraft seasonal sampler, on Sat., March 11, from 1-3 p.m. at its South branch, 1755 E. Center Road. Adults will make a free craft, with supplies provided to the first 20 participants to register. Visit www.khcpl.org and click on “Events” to register, or call any KHCPL location.
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.
Basketball Training and Call-Out
The JC Barnett School of Jump Shooting will hold a basketball training session and call-out for exhibition tour teams on Sat., March 11, at the St. Patrick Church gymnasium, 1204 N. Armstrong St. Sessions will run from 6-7 p.m. for students in grades 3 and 4, and from 7-8:30 p.m. for students in grades 7 and 8. For additional information, contact Barnett at 765-863-1025.
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.
Kokomo Middle School Athletics Try-Outs
Kokomo Center Township Consolidated Schools announces its Spring middle school athletics try-outs. Students interested in 7th and 8th grade softball and baseball will attend try-outs on Mon., March 13, at Maple Crest Middle School, 2727 S. Washington St., in the new gym from 6-7:30 p.m. Try-outs for 6th through 8th grade girls soccer will be held on Mon., March 13, at Maple Crest in the old gym from 4-5:30 p.m. Try-outs for 6th through 8th grade boys soccer will be held on Mon., March 13, at Memorial Gymnasium, 303 E. Superior St., upstairs, from 4-5:30 p.m. Track and Field try-outs for students in 6th through 8th grade will be held on Tue., March 21, from 4:30-6 p.m. at Kokomo High School, 2501 S. Berkley Road. Enter through Door 13. Try-outs for 6th through 8th grade golf will be held on April 10 at a time and location to be announced.
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.
Sunday in the Park Car Show
The Kokomo Automotive Museum will hold its annual Sunday in the Park Car Show on Father’s Day, Sun., June 18, in Highland Park. Dash plaques will be given to the first 100 entries. The event will include music, door prizes, food vendors, plenty of shade, and open parking. Details to follow soon.
KAA 2023 Photo Show
The Kokomo Art Association will feature its 2023 Photo Show from July 1-29. Drop-off for works to be considered for the show is June 24. The show will take place at the Artworks Gallery, 210 N. Main St. For more information, email kokomoartassociation2014@gmail.com.