Exhibit to show 125 years of Des Plaines Fire Department

The Des Plaines Fire Department has partnered with the Des Plaines History Center to create an exhibit in honor of its 125th anniversary. The display, which will include firefighting gear, dozens of photos, videotaped interviews, and a life-size statue of a fallen firefighter, will open Tuesday, May 17, from 4-7 p.m. at the History Center, 781 Pearson St., Des Plaines.

"This anniversary confirms my belief in this tradition-rich job," said Des Plaines Fire Department Battalion Chief Ken Palenik, who recently celebrated 30 years of service. "It really hasn't changed much. Firemen are family."

Palenik volunteered to coordinate anniversary activities for the fire department and approached the History Center late last year. Shari Caine, executive director of the History Center, supported the idea of hosting an exhibit. Maine West High School senior Nathan Spero has been actively involved in the project to fulfill his internship program requirements. He has spent hours scouring the archives and conducting interviews with a half-dozen retired and current fire personnel. His work will be incorporated into the exhibit.

"Commemorating the history and service of a long-standing community institution such as the Des Plaines Fire Department is a great subject for an exhibit at the History Center," said Caine. "We're delighted to have this opportunity and to welcome not only the fire department but also all of the community to gather and talk about the achievements of the courageous firefighters and the good works that they've done."

Palenik credits ongoing training as the force behind the department's success.

"Training is our priority," he said. "We stand out. We're a well-trained and well-respected department."

The exhibit is free and open to the public. Palenik encourages residents to come and view and touch the equipment that will be on display. He and other fire department personnel will be available to answer questions. The exhibit will run through September.

A firefighter will also be on hand at the History Center Wednesday, August 3, from 1-3 p.m. to present a summer program called "Blazing Good Time!" to children, ages 5-12, attending with an adult. Red firefighter hats will be given to the first 25 children.

For information, visit desplaineshistory.org or call (847) 391-5399. The Des Plaines History Center is supported by the City of Des Plaines, the Des Plaines Park District, its members, and other local business and community contributors.

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