Block Club Chicago’s lens turns to the city’s vibrant scenes, showcasing students headed back to school, Bam Bam’s homecoming, and real-time views of recent floods. This photo essay provides a glimpse into the pulse of Chicago’s neighborhoods during one eventful week.
This Week In Photos: Back To School, Bam Bam Comes Home, Flooding And More

Key Takeaways:
- This photo essay focuses on the return to school and local life in Chicago.
- “Bam Bam” comes home, adding a personal story angle to the images.
- Recent flooding highlights the city’s ongoing environmental challenges.
- Readers see the city through the Block Club Chicago staff’s unique photographic perspective.
Introduction
Chicago springs into motion each August, when students fill classrooms and the city’s streets come alive with renewed energy. In this week’s photos, Block Club Chicago zeroes in on the start of a new school year, the return of a local figure known as “Bam Bam,” and the visible aftermath of recent flooding.
Back to School
Nothing signifies late summer in the Windy City more than the hustle and bustle of students heading back for another academic year. Photographers captured these bright faces, busy hallways, and the excitement of teachers and families. It all underscores the hope and anticipation that comes with a new beginning.
Bam Bam Comes Home
Another highlight of the collection shows Bam Bam’s return to Chicago. While the details behind Bam Bam’s story remain unique to the community, his homecoming resonates through the photographs, offering a glimpse at local enthusiasm and the spirit of celebration that accompanies his arrival.
Flooding and the City’s Environment
The series also documents a reality check: recent flooding that disrupted routines and threatened infrastructure. From waterlogged streets to impromptu cleanup efforts, the images throw light on how nature can shift daily life in a matter of hours, reminding viewers of the city’s resilience.
Why Photos Matter
These images—and the stories behind them—are more than snapshots. They reflect the vibrancy of Chicago’s neighborhoods and the everyday encounters that shape the city. By bringing these images together, Block Club Chicago offers a testament to the enduring narrative of a city that simultaneously celebrates new beginnings, welcomes familiar faces, and battles environmental hurdles.
Conclusion
Through this collection, readers can immerse themselves in the city’s rhythms—from its bustling schools to its resilient response to flooding—all while celebrating the return of Bam Bam. It’s a vivid look at Chicago life, seen through the dedicated lenses of local photojournalists.