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IBM to join new algorithm center on Illinois quantum campus

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IBM to join new algorithm center on Illinois quantum campus


CHICAGO (WGEM) – The Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park (IQMP) is getting a major addition. The quantum campus in Chicago is adding the new National Quantum Algorithm Center with the technology company IBM being its first major tenant.

“For decades, IBM has established itself as a worldwide leader in computing and technology solutions, so it’s really humbling that they believe in our vision for creating a first-of-its-kind global hub for quantum scale-up,” said IQMP CEO Harley Johnson.

IBM will house its next-generation, modular quantum computer at the center, “IBM Quantum Systems Two.”

The governor’s office said the algorithm center will aim to advance the exploration of quantum-centric supercomputing across industries.

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“This center will be a home for groundbreaking new research and exploration on applications and advancements that will solve complex challenges across industries,” said Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker.

He said in addition to IBM, partners in the new algorithm center will include universities, national labs, private computing software and hardware companies, and corporate users from various industries.

“Quantum has the potential to open a world of possibilities. The work that will take place at the National Quantum Algorithm Center and across the Illinois quantum infrastructure will help us wrestle with the most pressing questions of the day in climate change, in national security, health care and beyond,” Pritzker said.

Wednesday’s announcement that IBM will be joining the campus is part of the state’s larger quest to make Illinois a quantum hub. Pritzker signed legislation creating a Quantum Enterprise Zone in June with an initial state investment of $500 million into the quantum computing campus. In July, the state signed a memorandum of understanding with the U.S. Department of Defense’s Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency to create a quantum proving ground.

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Large fire at bakery in McHenry, Illinois, prompts response from multiple departments

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Large fire at bakery in McHenry, Illinois, prompts response from multiple departments



Firefighters in McHenry, Illinois, battled a large fire that broke out at a popular suburban bakery Sunday afternoon.

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McHenry firefighters were called to the Riverside Bakery shop around 2 p.m. and found smoke billowing out of the roof.

The cold made fighting the fire difficult, and crews had to be called in from surrounding communities to get it under control. The fire has since been extinguished.

Two people, including a civilian and a firefighter, suffered minor injuries outside and were not involved in the fire. They were taken to Northwestern McHenry Hospital for treatment.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation. 

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Central Illinois food bank adds dates to mobile service

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Central Illinois food bank adds dates to mobile service


URBANA, Ill. (WCIA) — The Eastern Illinois Food Bank’s mobile food truck may be rolling near you soon. The program’s truck covers 21 counties and is adding more stops.

This month, the food bank has added two more stops in two different counties. The executive director, Amanda Borden, shares more on why the bank chose these areas to add.

“We’ve added two additional stops so far, one in McLean County and one in Vermilion County,” Borden said. “We looked at the data, and we assessed the areas that were the most impacted by the SNAP disruptions as part of the government shutdown. We were able to find some locations and add additional distribution so that we can ensure that we’re able to get more nutritious food into the hands of people who need it the most.”

She also said the government shutdown may be over, but people are still catching up. For the added dates, you can visit Eastern Illinois Food Bank’s website.

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Illinois’ Historic State Park An Hour Outside Chicago Has A Scenic Canal Trail, Camping, And Canoeing – Islands

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Illinois’ Historic State Park An Hour Outside Chicago Has A Scenic Canal Trail, Camping, And Canoeing – Islands






Chicago is home to famous green spaces like Millennium Park, Grant Park, and Lincoln Park, which offer a number of outdoor activities in the metropolis. But if you need to escape the Windy City for something more rugged, there are plenty of nearby options. Close to Chicago — which was voted the “World’s Most Beautiful City” in 2025 — is Channahon State Park, a historic area that became a state park in 1932 and is certainly worth exploring.

Channahon State Park is located at the confluence of the Des Plaines, DuPage, and Kankakee Rivers, so there’s nature to enjoy as well as history. First, step back in time at Lock 6, where you’ll find the original locktender’s house on the Illinois & Michigan Canal. These historic sites were restored by the Civilian Conservation Corps, making them a well-preserved glimpse into the past. Elsewhere in the park, the Forgotten Warrior Memorial honors those in the U.S. Army who have been affected by PTSD.

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Channahon State Park is well-known for its scenic canal trail — the Illinois & Michigan Canal Trail. This travels alongside the canal for 61 miles between Rockdale and LaSalle. It’s primarily composed of crushed gravel and paved surfaces, making it an ideal spot for bikers and hikers. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like great blue herons and other birds, as they’re common sightings in the area. Want to squeeze in even more miles? It’s possible to connect to more scenic trails in McKinley Woods and Gebhard Woods State Park along the way.

More activities in Channahon State Park

The state park has a number of other outdoor activities to enjoy. While the I & M Canal Trail provides recreation for hiking and biking, you can also canoe part of the canal itself. There are 15 miles suitable for canoeing between Channahon and Morris; Illinois DNR highlights the pretty scenery and opportunities for wildlife spotting you can enjoy on your paddle. Fishing is popular here, too — anglers can cast a line in either the DuPage River or the I & M Canal. Common fish include bluegill, crappie, bass, and more.

Camping is available at Channahon State Park, although it’s limited to basic tent camping. After getting a permit from the information center, you’ll need to carry your gear to campsites. One reviewer for The Dyrt notes that parking is close by, so it shouldn’t be much of an ordeal. Campground facilities include picnic tables, grills, and fire pits; there are also pit toilets and a drinking fountain nearby for campers to use.

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Channahon State Park is easily accessible from Chicago — it’s just a 1-hour drive away, which makes it an appealing option for a day trip or weekend getaway. Although Midway International Airport is the closest airport, O’ Hare International Airport, the most well-connected airport in the country, is the best option with more flights and international connections. It’s about an hour’s drive from the airport to the park. As per the Illinois DNR, there is no admission fee to visit Channahon State Park. As it’s a rural area, you’ll want your own vehicle to get around.





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