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 Black Fathers Find Strength in Peer Support Amid Systemic Struggles

Chicago Black Fathers Find Strength in Peer Support Amid Systemic Struggles

CHICAGO — As Black men in Chicago continue to battle deep-rooted barriers to employment, housing, and economic stability, a growing number of fathers are ...

|
Peoria River Cruise Initiative Approved to Boost Tourism, Join Statewide River Town Coalition

Peoria River Cruise Initiative Approved to Boost Tourism, Join Statewide River Town Coalition

PEORIA — City officials have officially approved a plan that could reintroduce river cruising to Peoria, potentially opening a new chapter in local tourism ...

|
Gun Rights Advocates Challenge Illinois Ban on Carrying Firearms on Public Transit

Gun Rights Advocates Challenge Illinois Ban on Carrying Firearms on Public Transit

ILLINOIS — A federal appeals court is reviewing a case that could reshape how Illinois enforces concealed carry restrictions on mass transit systems. The ...

|
Senator Ventura’s Role in “No Kings” Rally Sparks Debate Across Illinois

Senator Ventura’s Role in “No Kings” Rally Sparks Debate Across Illinois

ILLINOIS — Illinois State Senator Rachel Ventura is facing sharp criticism from conservative voices and community watchdogs after publicly promoting the upcoming “No Kings” ...

|
Illinois Courthouse Sued Over Ten Commandments Monument Display

Illinois Courthouse Sued Over Ten Commandments Monument Display

ILLINOIS — Eight residents have filed a lawsuit against local officials in Jefferson County, seeking the removal of a large Ten Commandments monument displayed ...

|
Illinois Braces as Trump Plans Major ICE Crackdown in Blue States

Illinois Braces as Trump Plans Major ICE Crackdown in Blue States

ILLINOIS – A controversial nationwide crackdown by ICE could soon reach Illinois, as part of former President Donald Trump’s sweeping plan to escalate immigration ...

|
Mayor Brandon Johnson’s Civil War Remark About Trump Sparks Controversy

Mayor Brandon Johnson’s Civil War Remark About Trump Sparks Controversy

CHICAGO — Mayor Brandon Johnson is under fire after suggesting that former President Donald Trump’s immigration enforcement actions are what America would look like ...

|
Illinois Lottery Ticket Worth Over $500K Sold in Small Town Gas Station

Illinois Lottery Ticket Worth Over $500K Sold in Small Town Gas Station

ASHMORE, Ill. — A quiet Coles County town with just 600 residents is buzzing after one of its locals — or possibly a passing ...

|
Hello Kitty Café Truck Rolls Into Chicago Area This Month With Exclusive Treats and Merch

Hello Kitty Café Truck Rolls Into Chicago Area This Month With Exclusive Treats and Merch

CHICAGO — The iconic Hello Kitty Café Truck is rolling through the Chicago area this month as part of its nationwide 2025 anniversary tour, ...

|
Pope Leo Celebration at Rate Field Sells Out in Hours, Sparks Ticket Resale Frenzy

Pope Leo Celebration at Rate Field Sells Out in Hours, Sparks Ticket Resale Frenzy

CHICAGO — Chicagoans hoping to attend the upcoming Pope Leo XIV celebration at Guaranteed Rate Field may now have to pay a premium — ...

|