Challenged to capture Forest Park in 36 hours of photos, Erica Benson, local resident and photographer set out to find some of the community threads that bind our community together and keep us all coming out for more.

At Field Stevenson, every student learns the Go Sharks song from teacher Meeghan Leikel who fosters a creative outlet for students in her music classes. Credit: Erica Benson
  • The Forest Bark Dog Park at Lehmer and Circle provides zoomie space, exercise and friendships for Cooper and his owner, Rob Schule.
April Vasquez helps customers at the sweet shop Twisted Cookie at 7401 Madison where the aroma of warm butter, vanilla and caramelized sugar bring comfort to those who stop in. Credit: Erica Benson
  • Students share their talents and expertise at Proviso Math and Science Academy at Roosevelt and First Ave. Together they are encouraged to explore their creativity to solve problems and promote a culture of excellence. Credit: Erica Benson
  • Credit: Erica Benson
Busy as a beaver Public Works employee Dan Michaels chips wood plies left at curbs among many other village responsibilitie. Credit: Erica Benson
Members of the Free Range Ukulele Society of Oak Park gather to play for their meet-up sessions at Eagles Hall (Fraternal Order of the Eagles).
St. Paul’s Lutheran Thai Church at Brown and Dixon serves to guide and strengthen bonds, provide mutual support and sense of belonging to members while Smith Samaharn and Aran Anthony add a musical touch. Credit: Erica Benson
  • For 85 years Circle Lanes has been drawing teams, families and friends together at this classic, neighborhood spot with a bar, pool tables and a comforting atmosphere.
  • People including Gregory Peters of Chicago enjoy bowling during their league held at Circle Lanes Thursday March 12, 2026.
The steady traffic outside the drive thru to the famous Portillos at Roosevelt and Deplaines is a testament to the popular Italian beef, Chicago style hot dog, charbroiled burgers and chocolate sheet cakes. Credit: Erica Benson
Disabled American Veterans meet at the Howard Mohr Community Center at Desplaines and Jackson once a month as one of the many groups that call the center home. Credit: Erica Benson
Dancing is always in fashion at Rhythm and Blues Cafe at Ferdinand and Madison. Instructor Jackie Parker (left) and Davyana King enjoy line dancing before enjoying southern comfort food with a modern twist.
Credit: Erica Benson
Night life in Forest Park includes standup entertainment from comedians, including Cassandra Simpson, and hilarious improve teams at Babs Comedy Club.
Tommy Kelliher pours a variety of beers to accompany the menu at the popular O’Sullivan’s Public House. Credit: Erica Benson
Music is on tap at Roberts West Side, located at Madison and Circle. Equipped with two stages for local bands, open jams, bocce leagues and fundraisers. Credit: Erica Benson
The CTA Blue Line brings late-night patrons home to the end-of-the-line stop, Forest Park.
Like other cemeteries nestled along the Desplaines River, Forest Home Cemetery has been a source of comfort, serenity and space to honor the lives of many people from near and far.