As a part of the vibrant summer scene on Chicago’s northside, one of the neighborhood’s most beloved traditions never disappoints, the Taste of Lincoln Avenue. This year’s festival promises to be a delightful celebration of culinary arts, live music, and family-friendly fun, for Optima Lakeview® residents and visitors alike for a memorable experience.

Celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, Taste of Lincoln Avenue is set to take place on July 26-28, 2024, transforming one of Chicago’s most iconic streets into a lively hub of gastronomic delights and cultural festivities. This two-day event, from Fullerton Avenue to Wrightwood Avenue, offers a perfect blend of food, music, and entertainment that captures the spirit of the Windy City.

Culinary Delights. For food enthusiasts, Taste of Lincoln Avenue is a paradise. The festival features an extensive selection of food vendors offering a diverse array of dishes. From classic Chicago-style hot dogs and deep-dish pizza to international cuisines that reflect the city’s multicultural heritage, there’s something to tantalize every palate. Local restaurants and food trucks will showcase their specialties, allowing attendees to sample a wide variety of flavors without having to leave the neighborhood.

Live Music and Entertainment. In addition to the culinary offerings, the festival boasts a stellar lineup of live music performances. Multiple stages will host an eclectic mix of genres, from rock and blues to jazz and pop, ensuring that there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Local bands and nationally recognized artists will perform throughout the weekend, providing the perfect soundtrack to this vibrant street festival.

Family Fun and Activities. Taste of Lincoln Avenue is not just for adults; it’s a family-friendly event with plenty of activities for children of all ages. The Kids’ Carnival, a highlight of the festival, features rides, games, and interactive activities designed to keep the little ones entertained. Face painting, arts and crafts, and other engaging experiences ensure that the festival is fun for the entire family. And this year, for the first time, you can enjoy the Dog Parade, taking place in front of the Main Stage on Sunday morning.

Supporting the Community. One of the most significant aspects of Taste of Lincoln Avenue is its commitment to supporting the local community. Proceeds from the event benefit the Wrightwood Neighbors Association, which uses the funds to support neighborhood improvement projects, community events, and local charities. By attending the festival, you’re not only enjoying a fantastic day out but also contributing to the betterment of the Lincoln Park community.

For residents of Optima Lakeview®, Taste of Lincoln Avenue is conveniently located just a short distance away. This proximity makes it easy to enjoy all the festival has to offer without the hassle of long commutes or parking challenges. The walkable nature of the event encourages a leisurely stroll through the neighborhood, enhancing the sense of community and connection.

Join us at the Taste of Lincoln Avenue for a weekend filled with great food, music, and fun. Whether you’re a long-time local or new to the neighborhood, this festival is an excellent opportunity to explore the flavors of Chicago, meet your neighbors, and enjoy the best that the city has to offer.

For more information about the event, including the full lineup of food vendors and performers, visit the official Taste of Lincoln Avenue website. Mark your calendars and get ready to savor the tastes and sounds of Lincoln Avenue. We look forward to seeing you there!

At Optima®, we are passionate about fostering a vibrant community where enterprises thrive alongside our residents, creating a dynamic living experience. In this installment of “Discover Optima’s Commercial Tenants,” we sat down with Jennifer Villamil, Owner at Reform Studios, to learn how her new venture builds community by bringing innovative workout experiences to Optima Signature®.

“I started doing Pilates about 10 years ago, and it immediately became an integral part of my life. Then after my daughter was born — she’s now 20 months old — I realized I wanted to help more people access Pilates because it has such a positive impact on both the mind and body, regardless of your age.

“So I embarked on a journey to launch a Pilates practice that avoids the typical “intimidation factor” for newcomers, provides state-of-the-art equipment, and offers flexible programs and schedules for each and every member.

“When I began to look for space, I started close to home. Literally! My family lives in the building next to Optima Signature® and our daughter attends Guideposts Montessori, which is also in Optima Signature®. So every day I would pass by a vacant retail space on the ground level and admire the abundant sunlight from the floor-to-ceiling windows and minimalist design. As my business plan came together, I reached out to the building team, and they welcomed me and my new venture.

“Fast forward to today. Reform Studios is up and running. I chose the name because it means ‘change’ and at the end of the day, our fitness journeys are really about making small changes day by day that ultimately have a big impact. We coined the slogan “Momentum Ignites,” to acknowledge that these small decisions ultimately drive transformation. We have an exclusive license for ReformRX, the world’s first digitally-connected reformers, which is really exciting, and allows us to have group classes and individual sessions — along with on-demand, self-guided sessions of 30 or 60 minutes. From the moment guests enter the space, they are greeted with a calming playlist, a luxurious scent, and a high level of customer service. Besides the Pilates studio, we built luxurious locker rooms and a beautiful boutique.

“I have a fantastic team of instructors who share my passion for creating a healthy, welcoming community with a culture that celebrates the choices every member makes when they walk into the space. And beyond a place that has incredible physical and mental benefits, we’re all about the neighborhood. We commissioned a mural about the history of Streeterville on a large interior wall by a local artist, and we donate 1% of our proceeds back into the neighborhood. We’re a proud business partner of SOAR, the Streeterville Organization of Active Residents and prioritize clothing brands that are Chicago-based.

“Since our opening, the response from the Optima Signature® residents has been incredible. Many of our first guests are from the building, and so far, 100% of them have returned for multiple workouts and are well on their way to becoming regulars. They are enthusiastic about how our studio augments the fitness options in the building, and are doing a great job spreading the word about Reform Studios. And I can’t say enough about the Optima Signature® property team and engineers who helped with the buildout of the space. Honestly, they are some of the best I’ve ever worked with, and together we have forged a great partnership. Among the great people I’ve been working with, I have to give a shout-out to Bill Duke, one of the chief engineers, who has gone above and beyond to make sure everything was perfect with our space.

“The property managers couldn’t be more supportive. They have been promoting Reform Studios with residents and donated beverages for the Grand Opening. They often stop by to check in, and are planning some special collaborations over the next few months to draw new guests. We are so lucky to have them in our corner!”

Jennifer’s dedication to creating an inclusive, welcoming environment where residents can embark on their fitness journeys is evident in every aspect of the Reform Studios and embodies the values that make Optima Signature® a unique and supportive place to live and thrive. We are excited to see how Reform Studios continues to grow and contribute to the well-being of our residents, fostering a dynamic and health-conscious community.

As summer heats up in Arizona, so does the excitement for WNBA All-Star 2024, a premier event in women’s basketball that promises to be an unforgettable experience for sports enthusiasts and the local community alike. Hosted in Phoenix for the third time, WNBA All-Star 2024 is scheduled to take place from July 18-20 in a weekend that brings together the league’s top talent for a series of thrilling events, games, and celebrations that highlight the best in women’s basketball. And for all the fans at Optima Sonoran Village® and Optima Kierland Apartments®, this weekend is going to be stellar.

The centerpiece of the weekend will be the All-Star Game on July 20 at the Footprint Center, home of the Phoenix Mercury. Fans can look forward to a spectacular display of athleticism and skill as the league’s brightest stars take the court. Because the 2024 Summer Olympics will take place in late July, the WNBA has announced that the 2024 WNBA All-Star Game will feature a matchup between the WNBA All-Stars who comprise the USA Basketball Women’s National Team versus the remaining WNBA All-Stars.

Events and Activities
Beyond the All-Star Game itself, the weekend is packed with a variety of events that cater to all ages and interests. Festivities kick off on July 18 with a special WNBA Cares Community Day, where players and fans come together to give back to the community through volunteer efforts and service projects. This day of action embodies the WNBA’s commitment to positive social impact and community engagement.

On July 19, the skills competitions take center stage, featuring the popular Three-Point Contest and Skills Challenge. These events showcase the incredible talents of WNBA players in a fun and engaging format, allowing fans to see their favorite athletes up close in a more relaxed and interactive setting.

As part of the full slate of activities, the Phoenix Convention Center will hold WNBA Live, a two-day fan festival from July 19-20 that celebrates the intersection of the WNBA, fashion, music and culture.

Engaging the Local Community
For residents of Optima Kierland Apartments® and Optima Sonoran Village®, the WNBA All-Star 2024 offers a unique opportunity to engage with the vibrant sports culture of Phoenix. Whether you’re a die-hard basketball fan or simply looking for an exciting way to spend a summer weekend, the All-Star events provide a perfect blend of entertainment, community spirit, and athletic excellence.

Phoenix, with its rich sports history and passionate fan base, is the ideal host city for this marquee event. The city’s commitment to supporting women’s sports is evident in the enthusiastic turnout for the Phoenix Mercury’s games and the extensive local support for the WNBA.

A Weekend to Remember
For those who can’t attend in person, the All-Star Game and surrounding events will be broadcast live on ESPN, ensuring that fans around the world can join in the excitement.

The WNBA All-Star 2024 in Phoenix is more than just a game; it’s a celebration of the incredible talent, dedication, and spirit of women’s basketball. As we cheer on our favorite players and teams, we also celebrate the progress and impact of the WNBA as it continues to inspire and empower the next generation of athletes.

For Optima residents, this event is a chance to connect with the broader community, enjoy world-class sports entertainment, and be part of a historic moment in the world of basketball. Mark your calendars for July 18-20, and get ready to experience the best of the WNBA right here in Phoenix.

For more information on the event schedule, tickets, and viewing options, visit the official WNBA All-Star website.

At Optima®, we are passionate about fostering a vibrant community where enterprises thrive alongside our residents, creating a dynamic living experience. In this installment of “Discover Optima’s Commercial Tenants,” we sat down with Brooke Graves, CEO & Owner at Kaleidoscope Juice, to share her thoughts about how her business brings a healthy fast-casual experience to residents at Optima Sonoran Village®.

Tell us about Kaleidoscope Juice and your history at Optima Sonoran Village®.
Kaleidoscope Juice was founded by Alexandra Maw in 2012 where she had received a business grant from Arizona State University for the concept of creating healthy food and organic juice in Scottsdale, Arizona. We were partners for many years, before she decided to retire from the business and I became the sole owner. I started at Kaleidoscope as one of Alexandra’s original hires, just after finishing my undergrad studies in nutrition dietetics and entering grad school to study human nutrition and functional medicine. From the beginning, my interests were completely aligned with the business and Alexandra’s vision for growth.

Optima Sonoran Village® was our second or third store and we’ve been there for nearly nine years. From the beginning it has been such a great location. Our customers are so friendly and all know each other — I love going there because I feel like I’m at a popular neighborhood bar, with a loyal, regular clientele, that serves juice and healthy food instead of alcohol!

What is most distinctive about your business operations?
Kaleidoscope Juice is entirely female-run, which is something we take great pride in. We have found enormous success with uplifting women and promoting them from within. All of my management team now is women that I’ve worked with for nearly 10 years. Together we’ve created a welcoming, safe, fun, and female-empowered environment.

What’s happening with the business that has you most excited?
The brand expansion. Since I stepped into the CEO role four years ago, we’ve been growing our footprint and now we’re gearing up to open our eighth location in Arcadia in July (2024). I just completed my PhD in nutrition this spring, which feeds directly into our vision for Kaleidoscope as an enterprise on the leading edge of nutrition science where our menu keeps pace with the latest research in therapeutic culinary medicine. My recent studies have also allowed me to bring into the business a focus on exemplary product quality and sustainable sourcing, which I think are crucial to our future success.

We’ll probably max out at nine to 10 stores in the valley. Then, I’m hoping to take Kaleidoscope Juice out of state within the next two to three years, into markets in Texas or Florida. And that’s either in Texas or in Florida.

At the heart of the brand expansion is the work we’ve done to streamline our operations across multiple locations. In the early years, each store was different. Some had kitchens, others didn’t. The menus varied from store to store. We’ve now standardized our locations in terms of layout and menu, which allows for cross-training and seamless expansion; at the same time we are very intentional about delivering a unique customer experience based on location. I hire different designers for each new store and work with them to reflect unique characteristics of the neighborhood we’re in through the interior design.

Who are some of your wholesale customers?
Special events are an important part of our business, both in terms of revenue and brand awareness. Last year, we were in New York Fashion Week and did juice for Marie Claire’s New York Fashion Week dinner that they had sponsored with J. Crew. Earlier this year, we provided product for a women’s business summit sponsored by Marie Claire. We juice weekly for the Phoenix Suns and the Phoenix Mercury, and a number of other sports teams, too.

What new products are you working on?
We just had a product launch for a juice called Anne. We tend to name our juices after the customers who inspired them. In the case of Anne, she was a friend of the business who passed away a year and a half ago from cancer. Last year, through my oncology nutrition classes, I learned so much about how to help people who are going through chemotherapy deal with symptoms like dehydration, mouth sores, constipation, and anxiety. And while I was too late to help Anne, we were able to create a juice for other customers undergoing chemotherapy, which is so satisfying for our entire team.

Brooke and her company’s innovative approach to nutrition, coupled with a strong sense of community and customer-centric design, have made Kaleidoscope Juice a beloved fixture at Optima Sonoran Village® and beyond. We celebrate their success and prospects for a bright future as they continue to  bring their healthy concept to more communities.

Nestled in the heart of downtown Phoenix lies a serene escape that offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Japanese landscape architecture and culture. The Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix, also known as RoHoEn, is a symbol of friendship and cultural exchange between the sister cities of Phoenix  and Himeji, Japan. For residents of Optima Sonoran Village®,  Optima Kierland Apartments® and Optima McDowell Mountain,  the garden offers an ideal destination for relaxation, reflection, and a deeper appreciation of Japanese artistry and horticulture.

A Symbol of Friendship
The idea for the Japanese Friendship Garden began in 1987 as part of the sister city relationship between Phoenix and Himeji. This relationship, established in 1976, aimed to foster mutual understanding and cultural exchange. The garden project officially took shape in 1988, with the garden opening to the public in 1996. Its name, RoHoEn, is derived from three Japanese words: Ro, meaning heron, a bird symbolizing Himeji; Ho, meaning phoenix, symbolizing Phoenix; and En, meaning garden.

The Japanese Friendship Garden spans 3.5 acres and is meticulously designed to reflect traditional Japanese garden aesthetics. The garden was constructed with the expertise of landscape architects from Himeji and features over 1,500 tons of hand-picked rock, more than 50 varieties of plants, and a tranquil koi pond. Each element within the garden is carefully placed to create harmony and balance, following the principles of traditional Japanese landscaping.

One of the most striking features of the garden is its 12-foot waterfall, which cascades into a koi pond that is home to over 300 colorful koi fish. The pond, winding pathways, and stone lanterns offer visitors a tranquil setting for meditation and reflection. Additionally, the garden features a tea house, where traditional Japanese tea ceremonies are held, providing an immersive cultural experience for visitors.

Cultural Events and Activities
Beyond being a place of beauty, the Japanese Friendship Garden serves as a hub for cultural activities and events. Throughout the year, the garden hosts a variety of programs that celebrate Japanese culture, including tea ceremonies, ikebana (flower arranging) classes, calligraphy workshops, and traditional music and dance performances. These events provide a wonderful opportunity for residents of Optima Sonoran Village® and Optima Kierland Apartments® to engage with Japanese traditions and learn from master artists and practitioners.

The Japanese Friendship Garden is a testament to the enduring friendship between Phoenix and Himeji and a cultural treasure for the community. It serves as a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Its emphasis on natural beauty and tranquility aligns with Optima®’s own values of creating harmonious living environments that enhance well-being. The garden’s lush landscapes and serene atmosphere offer a perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll, a quiet moment of reflection, or a shared experience with friends and family.

The garden is open to the public from October through May, with adjusted hours during the summer months. It is located at 1125 North 3rd Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85003. Visitors can find more information about hours, admission fees, and upcoming events on the garden’s official website.

At Optima® communities in Arizona, we celebrate the blend of nature, history, and architecture that makes our state unique. One such gem is the Petrified Forest National Park, a high-desert treasure chest that offers a captivating blend of geology, archaeology, paleontology, and architectural marvels. Located near Holbrook in northern Arizona and stretching for miles on both sides of Interstate 40, this park is a must-visit for residents and visitors alike.

Petrified Forest National Park is renowned for its stunning petrified wood, which dates back millions of years. The park’s southern section is particularly rich in these ancient trees, scientifically known as Araucarioxylon arizonicum. Over time, these trees have transformed into almost solid quartz, exhibiting vibrant colors due to iron, carbon, and manganese deposits. Trails like Crystal Forest, Giant Logs, and Long Logs offer close-up views of these fascinating petrified wood deposits, immense logs, and even an ancient log jam.

In addition to its geological wonders, the park is home to The Painted Desert, a sprawling expanse of vibrant, multicolored badlands that sweep through the park. The views from various viewpoints along the Main Park Road are truly breathtaking and provide countless photo opportunities.

A Journey Through Time
For those interested in paleontology, the Rainbow Forest Museum, located in the park’s southern section, offers a trove of prehistoric animal skeletons. The museum’s paleontological displays provide a glimpse into the ancient fauna that once roamed the area.

Archaeology enthusiasts will find the park equally fascinating. The south side of the park features Puerco Pueblo, a 100-room compound occupied over 600 years ago by the Ancestral Puebloan people. Visitors can also explore nearby petroglyphs and Agate House, an eight-room pueblo constructed from petrified wood and occupied between 1050 and 1300.

While the park is known for its natural and archaeological wonders, it also boasts significant architectural landmarks. The Painted Desert Inn, located on the park’s north side, dates back to the 1920s. Over the years, it has been updated by prominent figures such as National Park Service architect Lyle Bennett, the Civilian Conservation Corps, and the Fred Harvey Company’s lead architect, Mary Colter. The inn features murals painted by noted Hopi artist Fred Kabotie and offers exhibits on Petrified Forest history. In the summer, visitors can enjoy a treat from the ice cream counter.

The Painted Desert Visitor Center complex, recently deemed a National Treasure by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, is another architectural highlight. Designed in 1958 by Richard Alexander and renowned modernist Richard Neutra, the complex epitomizes mid century modern style with its simple glass and steel materials, low profile, and clean lines.

Visiting the Park
The park is a 3-½ hour drive from Optima Sonoran Village® and Optima Kierland Apartments®, and offers an enriching and educational experience for all. Its two main visitor centers — the Painted Desert Visitor Center in the north and the Rainbow Forest Museum in the south — provide exhibits, books, gifts, limited food service, and restrooms. The 28-mile-long Main Park Road connects these centers, winding past viewpoints, trailheads, and other attractions.

To plan your visit, get the details here.

At Optima®, we are always excited to engage with the vibrant arts and cultural events in our communities. This summer, we invite you to join us for Art in the Village — the Winnetka Fine Art Fair, a two-day celebration of fine arts taking place on June 22 and 23, 2024, from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm at Hubbard Woods Park. It’s just a short drive from Optima Verdana® and a summer celebration you won’t want to miss.

Event Details:

• Date: June 22-23, 2024
• Time: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
• Location: Hubbard Woods Park, 939 Green Bay Rd., Winnetka, IL 60093
• Admission: Free

Sponsored by the storied North Shore Art League, the 11th edition of the fair promises to be an enriching experience, featuring the incredible talents of 70 jury-selected local and national artists. Visitors can explore a diverse range of artistic mediums, including oil paintings, mixed media, photography, sculpture, and more. Whether you are an art enthusiast or simply looking for a delightful weekend activity, the fair offers something for everyone.

Hubbard Woods Park provides a picturesque backdrop for this boutique exhibition, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of nature while discovering exquisite artworks. Take a leisurely stroll through the park and immerse yourself in the creativity and craftsmanship on display.

One of the highlights of the fair is the opportunity to meet the artists behind the works. Engage in conversations about their inspirations and techniques, and perhaps find the perfect piece to add to your collection.

On Sunday, don’t miss the chance to see NSAL faculty member and portrait artist Lisa DePinto in action. Lisa will be on-site painting quick oil portraits, providing a unique opportunity to witness her artistic process firsthand and perhaps even take home a personalized piece of art.

Explore Green Bay Road
Before or after your visit to the fair, take some time to explore the shops and restaurants along Green Bay Road. This charming area offers a variety of dining and shopping options, making it a perfect complement to your art fair experience.

Art in the Village is a wonderful opportunity to connect with North Shore neighbors, support artists, and enjoy a weekend filled with art and culture. View more information and the list of participating artists here.