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.

‘Purpose’ Wins Big at the 2025 Tony Awards, Spotlighting Chicago Roots and Black Theatre History

‘Purpose’ Wins Big at the 2025 Tony Awards, Spotlighting Chicago Roots and Black Theatre History

CHICAGO — The 2025 Tony Awards delivered a powerful night of recognition for Black theatre, as Branden Jacobs-Jenkins’ play Purpose won Best Play, making ...

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Gun Rights Groups File New Challenge to Illinois Assault Weapons Ban in Federal Appeals Court

Gun Rights Groups File New Challenge to Illinois Assault Weapons Ban in Federal Appeals Court

ILLINOIS — A coalition of gun rights organizations and firearms dealers has filed a response brief in federal court, continuing their challenge to Illinois’ ...

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Courtney Vandersloot Suffers Torn ACL, Will Miss Rest Of Chicago Sky Season

Courtney Vandersloot Suffers Torn ACL, Will Miss Rest Of Chicago Sky Season

CHICAGO — The Chicago Sky will finish the 2025 WNBA season without one of their most decorated players, as Courtney Vandersloot has been ruled ...

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Illinois May Launch Pilot Program to Tax Drivers Per Mile, Sparking Industry Pushback

Illinois May Launch Pilot Program to Tax Drivers Per Mile, Sparking Industry Pushback

ILLINOIS — Illinois lawmakers are reviewing a proposal that could replace the state’s gas tax with a mileage-based fee, igniting fierce debate over fairness, ...

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Inside Chicago’s Booming Luxury Dog Business: Hotels, Groomers & Canine Couture

Inside Chicago’s Booming Luxury Dog Business: Hotels, Groomers & Canine Couture

CHICAGO — Move over, humans. Chicago’s luxury pet industry is on the rise — with high-end dog salons, full-service canine hotels, and fashion boutiques ...

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Illinois EV Battery Project Scrapped, Pope Bobblehead Unveiled In Chicago ‘Quick Hits’

Illinois EV Battery Project Scrapped, Pope Bobblehead Unveiled In Chicago ‘Quick Hits’

CHICAGO — Several fast-moving developments across Illinois this week include the scrapping of a major EV battery project, a youth film competition announcement, and ...

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Illinois Mom Battling Stage 4 Breast Cancer Earns Master’s Degree And Becomes Licensed Counselor

Illinois Mom Battling Stage 4 Breast Cancer Earns Master’s Degree And Becomes Licensed Counselor

ILLINOIS — Despite being in an ongoing battle with stage 4 breast cancer, a determined mother has defied the odds by earning her Master ...

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Jimmy Bannos Jr.’s Kouklas Greek Eatery Set To Bring Mediterranean Warmth To Niles

Jimmy Bannos Jr.’s Kouklas Greek Eatery Set To Bring Mediterranean Warmth To Niles

NILES, Ill. — After decades of redefining Mediterranean cuisine in Chicago, James Beard Award-winning chef Jimmy Bannos Jr. is returning with a deeply personal ...

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Toddler’s Funeral Meltdown Sparks Family Feud, But Dear Abby Urges Compassion And Perspective

Toddler’s Funeral Meltdown Sparks Family Feud, But Dear Abby Urges Compassion And Perspective

CHICAGO — A mother attending a family funeral with her 2-year-old daughter found herself at the center of controversy after the toddler disrupted the ...

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57th Street Art Fair Celebrates 78 Years In Hyde Park With Over 160 Artists, Local Flair

57th Street Art Fair Celebrates 78 Years In Hyde Park With Over 160 Artists, Local Flair

HYDE PARK, CHICAGO — One of the Midwest’s oldest juried art festivals, the 57th Street Art Fair, returned this weekend to Hyde Park for ...

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