DURAND, Ill. — The Smithsonian traveling exhibit ‘Spark! Places of Innovation’ will come to Durand, Ill. from Dec. 2 to Jan. 6.

“It really is quite unique to be able to host an exhibit of this nature…we’re the first in the northern half of Illinois to do so,” Kelly Giovanine, of Durand Charm, the exhibit host, wrote in an email.

In addition to the exhibit itself, Durand Charm is offering a companion exhibit curated by the Smithsonian about rural innovation, including the fact Durand was the first funded volunteer fire department in Illinois. 

“We’ll also be hosting two Illinois Road Scholars and two Santa visits. Durand’s fully restored 1926 Pieter Pirsch fire engine will also be on display,” Giovanine said.

For more information, go to  ILHumanities.org/Durand.

DARLINGTON — The monthly Second Harvest Mobile Food Pantry will take place at 4 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 1, at the Baptist Church of Darlington, 15691 County Road K. 

There are no income eligibility requirements for people wishing to participate. 

The pantry continues to operate as a drive-through. It is asked that individuals remain in their vehicles and drive through the line, and grocery items will be placed in the trunks of their vehicles. Have the trunk area cleaned out and ready for the boxes of food. 

Volunteers are needed. If interested, arrive by 3 p.m. to volunteer. For any questions, call/text Shyntel at 608-745-7095.