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.

Bronzeville Soul Sees Sales Surge During Beyoncé’s ‘Cowboy Carter’ Tour Stop In Chicago

Bronzeville Soul Sees Sales Surge During Beyoncé’s ‘Cowboy Carter’ Tour Stop In Chicago

CHICAGO, IL — As Beyoncé’s “Cowboy Carter Tour” took over Soldier Field in mid-May, it wasn’t just music fans who benefited. One local soul ...

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Black Bear Spotted Again in Illinois: Wildlife Officials Issue Safety Guidance

Black Bear Spotted Again in Illinois: Wildlife Officials Issue Safety Guidance

ST. CLAIR COUNTY, IL — A black bear has been spotted again in southwestern Illinois, triggering a safety advisory from state officials and raising ...

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Nature-Inspired Art Takes Center Stage In Will County This Summer

Nature-Inspired Art Takes Center Stage In Will County This Summer

WILL COUNTY, IL — Nature lovers and art enthusiasts in Will County are in for a treat this summer, as two unique art exhibits ...

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Warrenville Receives $19K Grant To Replant Parkway Trees Lost To Invasive Pest

CHICAGO — A major environmental restoration effort is underway in suburban Warrenville, where city officials have secured a $19,000 grant to replace trees lost ...

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

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 ...

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

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 ...

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$50K Donation Brings Major Expansion to North Lawndale Youth Arts Center

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 ...

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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.

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 ...

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

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 ...

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

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” ...

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