Tanya Williams

Tanya Williams

Tanya covers positive and people-centered stories from across Chicago. From neighborhood events to inspiring local residents, she focuses on what brings our communities together. Tanya grew up in the city and believes every neighborhood has a story worth telling.

Chicago’s Famous Turtle “Chonk” Is Back In The River — And She’s Bigger Than Ever
Local News

Chicago’s Famous Turtle “Chonk” Is Back In The River — And She’s Bigger Than Ever

GOOSE ISLAND, CHICAGO — She’s big. She’s calm. She’s a certified Chicago icon — and she’s back. Chicagoans can once again spot Chonkosaurus, the ...

Tanya Williams
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Canadian Smoke, 90° Heat, and Storms: Illinois Braces for Rough Midweek Weather
Local NewsWeather

Canadian Smoke, 90° Heat, and Storms: Illinois Braces for Rough Midweek Weather

CENTRAL ILLINOIS — A wave of Canadian wildfire smoke has drifted into the region, bringing hazy skies, reduced visibility, and air quality issues that ...

Tanya Williams
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$50K Donation Brings Major Expansion to North Lawndale Youth Arts Center
Local News

North Lawndale Arts Center Expands Youth Programs After $50K Donation from Jussie Smollett

$50K Donation Brings Major Expansion to North Lawndale Youth Arts Center NORTH LAWNDALE — A major philanthropic gesture is opening new doors for youth ...

Tanya Williams
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Without legislative action, major service cuts and layoffs could hit CTA, Metra, and Pace by 2026. Illinois lawmakers have until Saturday to fill the $770 million budget hole.
Local News

Illinois Lawmakers Face Deadline to Prevent Major CTA Service Cuts Amid $770 Million Budget Shortfall

CHICAGO — With a looming $770 million budget deficit threatening the operations of CTA, Metra, and Pace, Illinois lawmakers are under urgent pressure to ...

Tanya Williams
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Whitewater Student Brooke Mason Named to Illinois Wesleyan University's Dean's List
Local News

Whitewater Student Brooke Mason Named to Illinois Wesleyan University’s Dean’s List

BLOOMINGTON, IL — Brooke Mason, a first-year student at Illinois Wesleyan University, has been named to the university’s Dean’s List for the Spring 2025 ...

Tanya Williams
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Advocates Rally in Normal to Defend Senior Services Amid Federal Policy Shakeup
Local News

Advocates Rally in Normal to Defend Senior Services Amid Federal Policy Shakeup

NORMAL, IL — Concerned residents, caregivers, and community leaders gathered at the Activity and Recreation Center (ARC) in Normal for a “Day of Action” ...

Tanya Williams
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Albany Park's Creative Revival: $1.2M City Grant to Transform Vacant Building into Arts Hub
Local NewsChicago News

Albany Park’s Creative Revival: $1.2M City Grant to Transform Vacant Building into Arts Hub

CHICAGO — A long-empty building in Albany Park is set to become a vibrant creative space after receiving a $1.2 million grant from the ...

Tanya Williams
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23 Whitney Young Students Get Perfect ACT Scores in Historic Achievement
Chicago News

23 Whitney Young High School Students Earn Perfect ACT Scores, Setting School Record

CHICAGO, IL — Whitney M. Young Magnet High School has just made history. Twenty-three students at the highly-ranked Chicago public school scored a perfect ...

Tanya Williams
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Joe & The Juice Opening New Flagship Store in Streeterville on June 6
Local News

Joe & The Juice Set to Open New Streeterville Location on June 6

CHICAGO – STREETERVILLE – Popular global juice and coffee chain Joe & The Juice is expanding its footprint in Chicago with the grand opening ...

Tanya Williams
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Red Lobster Becomes Official Sponsor of Chicago Sky for 2025 WNBA Season
Finance

Red Lobster Becomes Official Sponsor of Chicago Sky for 2025 WNBA Season

CHICAGO, IL — May 30, 2025 – In a flavorful and fashionable new partnership, Red Lobster has been announced as one of the official ...

Tanya Williams
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