Professional Services

Caring for Every Creature

For over 30 years, Best Friends' Veterinary Hospital has been helping generations of local families keep their beloved pets healthy and happy. Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by Best Friends' Veterinary Hospital What started as a small evening practice out of Dr. Hollifield's home has grown into one of Montgomery County's most trusted veterinary hospitals. While serving full-time at the National Institutes of Health and raising a young son, Dr. Hollifield began seeing patients after...

Life + Culture

From Small-Town Dreams To Big Stages

Virginia performer Nikia Lee is bringing joy to families one pup at a time Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by VSTAR Entertainment Group Long before national tours, theatrical spotlights and sold-out performances, Nikia Lee was a little girl in Buckingham, Virginia, with a dream and a room full of imagination. Growing up in what she lovingly calls "the heart of Virginia," Lee was surrounded by music from the very beginning. Creativity was not simply encouraged in her family. It was...

Life + Culture

Building Bright Futures

Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by Primrose School of Gaithersburg For parents, choosing a preschool is about much more than finding childcare. It is about finding a place where children are encouraged to explore, build confidence and develop a lifelong love of learning. That is exactly what families will find at the recently opened Primrose School of Gaithersburg. Part of the nationally recognized Primrose Schools system, which includes nearly 500 accredited private preschools across...

Education

An American Treasure Beneath the Surface

Make family memories at Luray Caverns, where history and wonder come together Article by Carly Mac Manus | Photography by Bill Huffman, Luray Caverns As America reflects on its 250th anniversary, families looking to continue the celebration of the nation's rich history need look no further than the Shenandoah Valley, home to one of the country's most extraordinary natural landmarks. Located in Luray, Virginia, Luray Caverns has welcomed generations of travelers since 1878. Nearly 150 years...

Arts + Culture

AROUND TOWN

Family Adventures Article by Bianca Bain Villegas | Photography by Provided Whether you’re looking to spark curiosity, burn off energy, connect with nature, or create unforgettable family memories, the Washington metropolitan area offers an abundance of kid-friendly destinations. From hands-on museums and nature centers to indoor play spaces, farms, trains, ropes courses, and amusement parks, these family favorites provide something for every age and interest. Meadowside Nature Center |...

Health + Wellness

Dr. Adu-Amankwa

More Than a Pediatrician! Article by Marie Robey Wood | Photography by Ethan Amatie - maties.medias Nana A. Adu-Amankwa, M.D., known to many patients as "Dr. A" or simply "Dr. Nana," is the physician-owner and medical director of Total Access Pediatric Urgent Care in Rockville. A board-certified pediatrician, she is widely respected for her professional accomplishments, yet she is quick to point out that medicine is only one facet of her life. "While the practice is a very important part of...

Professional Services

Traps in Agreeing to a Recorded Statement with an Insurance Claims Adjuster After an Automobile Accident

After an automobile accident, one of the first calls you may receive is from an insurance claims adjuster. The adjuster may sound friendly, professional, and helpful. During the conversation, the adjuster may ask if you would be willing to provide a recorded statement.Many accident victims agree without hesitation.After all, if you have done nothing wrong, why not simply tell your side of the story?The answer is that a recorded statement can create problems that you may not anticipate...

Professional Services

Ten Biggest Insurance Mistakes After a Car Crash

A car accident can turn your life upside down in a matter of seconds. Between vehicle damage, medical treatment, missed work, and insurance paperwork, it is easy to make mistakes that can affect both your health and your financial recovery.Most people involved in an accident have little experience dealing with insurance claims. Insurance companies handle thousands of claims every year.This guide discusses ten of the most common mistakes accident victims make and how you can avoid them.Mistake...

Professional Services

Insurance GAP Guide

One of the most frustrating discoveries many accident victims make after a serious collision is learning that the insurance company has declared their vehicle a total loss, yet they still owe money on their vehicle loan.Many people assume that if their vehicle is destroyed, the insurance company will pay off the entire loan balance. Unfortunately, that is not always the case.This guide explains what GAP insurance is, how it works, and what you should do if your vehicle has been declared a total...

Professional Services

Child Safety Seat Replacement Information

One of the most important safety devices in your vehicle is your child's safety seat. Whether your child uses an infant carrier, convertible car seat, forward-facing seat, booster seat, or other child restraint system, the seat is designed to protect your child during a collision.What many parents do not realize is that a child safety seat may need to be replaced after an accident—even when it appears completely undamaged.This guide explains why replacement may be necessary, what steps you...