Kids, Pets, and Family Magic
Dear Gaithersburg Lifestyle Community, August ushers in a purposeful transition: morn ing swim sessions overlap with back‑to‑school preparations, and more often than not the fam ily dog is along for the ride. It is an ideal moment to present our annual Kids & Pets Issue, one of the most anticipated editions of the year.
Children and animals have a unique ability to transform routine tasks into moments of insight. Their curiosity challenges us to problem‑solve, demon strate patience, and find perspective. In that spirit, this issue explores practical tools and local stories that help families thrive.
In this edition, Swallow Wellness demystifies picky‑eater myths in Mealtime Facts Every Parent Needs. Gaithersburg’s own Elena Juarez and Kayla Jordan demonstrate how athletic discipline translates into leadership off the field. We map an end‑of‑summer escape to Great Wolf Lodge, share preventive insights from All Star Pediatric Dentistry, and spotlight Cookie YAY’s father‑daughter venture that transforms an egg allergy into a business lesson.
You will also find a detailed calendar of upcoming kid‑, pet‑, and family‑ori ented events throughout the DMV and so much more.
Thank you for welcoming Gaithersburg Lifestyle into your community. We look forward to continuing to inform and inspire you in the season ahead.
ADAM TAYLOR, PUBLISHER
@GAITHERSBURGCITYLIFESTYLE
August 2025
PUBLISHER
Adam Taylor | adam.taylor@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Anicia Juarez | anicia.juarez@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
KC Cole | kc.cole@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Bianca Bain Villegas, Jessica DeArmond, David
Robert Lambert, Debra Wallace
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Ruben Quesada
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Evan Deuvall
LAYOUT DESIGNER Meredith Wilson
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
Proverbs 3:5-6
AS A WASHINGTONIAN TOP DENTIST AND THE FACE OF SMILE MAKEOVER,
Smiles of Chevy Chase is known for redefining the dental experience by blending advanced technology, personalized care, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Receive all your dental needs in one location with a team you can trust!
Located in the heart of Chevy Chase, our premier office is designed to provide a luxurious and comfortable environment where your oral health is our top priority.
From general dentistry to cosmetic transformations, state-of-the-art implant surgery, and expertise in sedation dentistry, we combine artistry and precision to create beautiful, healthy smiles that radiate confidence. Whether you’re here for a routine check-up, fillings, whitening, crowns, veneers, extractions, implants, Invisalign, laser-therapy for periodontal disease and Botox for TMJ discomfort, you’ll experience the perfect harmony of cutting-edge techniques, advanced technology, and compassionate care. PRIMESCAN 90 Digital Impressions
3D
Helps to manage pain and anxiety during dental procedures. We offer nitrous oxide for all our patients dental needs. BOTOX
From managing TMJ disorders and bruxism to enhancing dental aesthetics, Botox offers versatile solutions for improved oral health and overall well-being.
Gaithersburg Teen Athletes Elena Juarez and Kayla Gordon Are Thriving
Gaithersburg’s own Kayla Gordon and Elena Juarez beam in Trojan blue, honoring hometown titles won across Montgomery County tracks. Now full-ride roommates at Baltimore’s Morgan State, the childhood duo carries local pride, grit, and possibility.
Ruben Quesada
Lisa Becker
Relax and rejuvenate at Ginger Nail and Spa in Rockville, MD. With 25+ years of experience, we offer expert nail, lash, and facial services in a serene setting—Walk-ins welcome. We pride ourselves on high-quality work, using only the finest polishes and products available. Enjoy a complimentary beer or wine as you relax. Your satisfaction is guaranteed.
Lisa Seltzer Becker, Maryland and D.C licensed since 1996, concen trates on family and education law. She litigates and mediates divorces, custody modifications, domes tic violence cases, and premarital agreements, using collaborative methods to reduce cost. Her edu cation practice defends students in special education, bullying, suspension, expulsion, Title IX and academic misconduct proceed ings. An AU law graduate, she serves clients from Offit Kurman’s Bethes da, Baltimore and Columbia offices, chairs the Montgomery County Bar’s Education section, and is a Maryland Super Lawyer (2023 25). www.offitkurman.com
Shanti Sethi
Shanti Sethi, a retired Navy officer with 30 years of high level leader ship, now coaches professionals to advance with clarity, confidence, and authenticity. Diagnosed late with ADHD, she turns neurodiverse workarounds into mindful, empow ering tools. Shanti guides clients to pinpoint priorities, sharpen commu nication, build executive presence, and forge genuine connections, delivering practical, results driven strategies for career transitions or leadership growth. www.empoweringleaderscoaching.com
Dr. Farnoush Jamali
Dr. Farnoush Jamali, MD, a board cer tified pediatrician at Prime Pediatrics in Gaithersburg, delivers leading care across the greater Washington, D.C. area. Recognized among the region’s best, she pairs rigorous academic and clinical training with ongoing continuing education to ensure evidence based treatment for every child. Prime Pediatrics embraces a collaborative, team based philos ophy, working closely with parents to make each visit supportive and stress free. Dr. Jamali is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics. https://www.primepedsmd.com/
the CITY LIST
We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our res idents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.
Pet Groomer
Groomaster
https://www.thegroomaster.com | 240.974.0516
Doggy Spaw
https://doggy-spaw.jimdosite.com | 240.956.9038
Groomingville
https://www.groomingville.com | 301.770.3501
Fidoz N’ Felinez Grooming Salon & Day Spa https://fidoznfelinez.com | 301.916.6832
Doodle Doodle Grooming Salon
https://www.doodledoodlemd.com | 240.370.2961
Doggy Day Care
Dog’s Day Farm
https://dogsdayfarm.com | 240.449.9993
Best Friends Pet Hotel
https://bestfriendspetcare.com/locations/gaithersburg | 301.926.6005
DogiZone https://www.dogizone.com | 240.793.5787
Want to suggest a monthly pick?
Healthy Hound Playground
https://healthyhoundplayground.com | 703.464.0056
Olde Towne Pet Resort https://oldetownepetresort.com | 703.455.9000
Summer Camp
Georgetown Hill Early School
https://georgetownhill.com/daycare-programs/summer-winter-and-spring-break-camps 301.963.3000
AoPS Academy Gaithersburg https://aopsacademy.org/campus/gaithersburg | 240.252.3430
Camp Sonshine
https://campsonshine.org | 301.835.2267
Holton-Arms Creative Summer https://www.holtoncreativesummer.org | 301.365.6003
Landon Summer https://www.landonsummer.com | 301.320.1044
Child Care Center
The Goddard School https://www.goddardschool.com | 301.208.8787
La Petite Academy of Gaithersburg https://www.lapetite.com | 877- 271-6466
World of Discovery Child Care Center https://worldofdiscoverycenter.com | 240-912-4408
Primrose School at Gaithersburg https://www.primroseschools.com/schools/gaithersburg | 301.708.3184
Chesterbrook Academy Preschool https://www.chesterbrookacademy.com/preschools/md/montgomery-county/gaithersburg-kentlands 301.820.7722
Pediatrician
Total Access Pediatric Urgent Care https://totalaccesspuc.com/ | 240.499.8664
Children’s National Pediatricians & Associates https://www.childrensnational.org | 301.926.3633
Prime Pediatrics https://www.primepedsmd.com | 301.977.2440
PM Pediatric Urgent Care https://pmpediatriccare.com | 301.528.5437
Pediatric and Adolescent Care https://www.pacare.com | 301.869.2292
MEALTIME FACTS EVERY PARENT NEEDS
When mealtimes become stressful for babies and young children, parents often turn to the inter net or social media for answers, only to be met with conflicting advice and persistent myths. Understanding a few key, scientifically supported facts about feeding and swallowing can help cut through the noise and bring confidence, calm, and even joy back to the table.
As feeding specialists, we’re here to clear the confusion. Below are three of the most common questions parents ask:
1. IS PICKY EATING NORMAL?
Picky eating is common between ages 2 and 5, but if it lasts more than two years, includes fewer than 10 foods, or eliminates entire food groups, it may indicate Pediatric Feeding Disorder (PFD). Around 50% of children with feeding issues need specialized support.
2. ARE TONGUE TIES A FAD?
Tongue ties have always existed. What’s changed is awareness. Diagnosis should be based on func tion, not just appearance, and evaluated across all feeding types.
3. CAN EATING CAUSE INFECTIONS?
Yes. Improper tongue movement or reclined feeding can lead to food entering the lungs or ears, causing recurrent infections that need deeper evaluation.
For more Information about how we can assist you:
The Swallowing Wellness Center 4641 Montgomery Ave., Suite 300 Bethesda, MD 20814 (301) 288 1313 info@swallowingwellness.com www.swallowingwellness.com
WHO CAN HELP?
Call in an SLP
A Speech Language Pathologist can help uncover the root cause of feeding struggles.
More Than Speech
SLPs are experts in feeding, oral motor skills, and communication.
Connected Challenges
They address how feeding impacts ear health, milestones, and sensory needs.
Specialized Support Matters
Choose an SLP with training in pediatric feeding and swallowing.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Swallow Wellness
Answers Parents’ Top Feeding Questions
AROUND TOWN
What’s Happening this Month in Potomac and Beyond
ARTICLE BY BIANCA BAIN VILLEGAS | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Open Year-Round on Saturdays
MAIN STREET FARMERS MARKET | OPEN YEAR-ROUND ON SATURDAYS | KENTLANDS, GAITHERSBURG
The year round Main Street Farmers Market is open Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 301 Main St., in the Kentlands. Shop fresh, local ly grown fruits, vegetables, microgreens, mushrooms, plants, and flowers. Take home savory prepared meals, homemade breads, and artisan sweet treats, and find your favor ite drink with spirits, fresh ground coffee, and onsite created juices. Meet local artisans and crafters, chat with Master Gardeners, and enjoy live music by local musicians and songwriters on select Saturdays. Saturdays, year round.
Various Saturdays
DOG SOCIAL YAPPY HOUR
| VARIOUS SATURDAYS DURING THE SUMMER | 555 8TH ST NW, WASHINGTON, DC
Bring your pup and join us for a fun filled Dog Social Yappy Hour and Pool Party! It’s the perfect spot for dogs to socialize while their owners sip on drinks and enjoy tasty bites in a laid back relaxed atmosphere. If you don’t have a pup Humane Rescue Alliance will be on site for you to meet adoptable pups and learn about their mission. We will feature Pup Cups for our furry friends! Food and Drink Specials will also be available for the people. A portion of proceeds will be donated to Humane Res cue Alliance.
CASEY FARMERS MARKET
| JUNE 5-NOVEMBER 20, 2025 | GAITHERSBURG
June 5thNovember 20th August 9th August 8th–16th
The Casey Farmers Market is open Thurs days from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. through November 20 at Casey Community Center, 810 S. Frederick Ave. The Casey Farmers Market focuses on community building, providing accessible, nutritious foods, including hard to find specialty produce. Fresh, locally grown produce and eggs, freshly baked breads and sweets, and locally brewed coffees, beer, and spirits all await you at the Casey Market. Plus, enjoy a variety of food trucks and vendors with “Let’s Lunch at Casey” every week.
August 2nd – 4th
OTAKON | AUGUST 2 – 4 | WALTER E. WASHINGTON CONVENTION CENTER WASHINGTON, DC
This annual convention celebrates all aspects of Asian pop culture including anime, manga, music, movies, video games, and more. Check out the weekend schedule for family friendly activities, teen focused highlights, and much more. Go online to register. Please note that chil dren 8 and under can attend for FREE.
76TH MONTGOMERY COUNTY
AGRICULTURAL FAIR | AUGUST 8–16, 2025 | MONTGOMERY COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS, GAITHERSBURG, MD
A long standing tradition featuring car nival rides, games, animal exhibits, live entertainment, and delicious fair food. The KidZone offers interactive activ ities for children. This event is perfect for families looking for a day of fun and excitement. Free admission for all youth ages 11 and under, everyday.
5TH ANNUAL MONTGOMERY COUNTY CHILDREN’S
BUSINESS FAIR | AUGUST 9, 2025 11AM-2PM | ROCKVILLE TOWN SQUARE, ROCKVILLE
An inspiring marketplace where young entrepreneurs (ages 6–15) showcase their products and services. Children have the opportunity to create, market, and sell their ideas, fostering creativity and business skills.
August 9th
SUMMER FAMILY DAY | AUGUST 9, 2025 | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM | WOODLAWN MANOR CULTURAL PARK
Enjoy hands on activities about life in the 1800s, play 19th century games, and get FREE admission to the Woodlawn Museum. All Ages.
August 9th
DC ARAB CULTURE FESTIVAL | AUGUST 9, 5PM | THE SKY PAVILION AT THE KENNEDY CENTER, WASHINGTON, DC
The DC Arab Culture Festival is a vibrant celebration of Arab and Arab American heritage. It aims to create a safe space for communal solidarity through Art. The fes tival will feature an Art Bazaar and musical performances, showcasing the rich tap estry of Arab and Middle Eastern cultural experiences in DC. FREE Entry.
August 9th & 10th
WATER LANTERN FESTIVAL |
AUGUST 9 &10 | 802 NATIONAL HARBOR BLVD, OXON HILL
This event gives you the opportunity to share a unique experience with your family. Tickets are required. Gates open at 5:30pm. You can enjoy music and food trucks and design your lantern at 8pm. Launch time is from 8:30pm until 9:30m. Note that the hosting organization will clean up all the lanterns after the event and the lanterns are eco friendly.
August 23rd
AROUND THE WORLD
CULTURAL FOOD FESTIVAL | AUGUST 23, 2025 11AM-7PM | ORONOCO BAY PARK, ALEXANDRIA, VA
Celebrate and learn about cultures around the world at this FREE event (food and beverages available for purchase). Attendees can enjoy food from restaurants representing a wide variety of countries, along with singing and dancing perfor mances, vendors, and artisans.
August 23rd
PARK POTOMAC ICE CREAM SOCIAL & BACK PACK DRIVE WITH POTOMAC LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE & WASHINGTON COMMANDERS | AUGUST 23RD-11-3 PM
Come join us at Park Potomac for a sweet treat and a good cause! Our Ice Cream Social is the perfect way to cool off on a hot day while giving back to the community. Don’t forget to bring a backpack to donate to those in need. Let’s make a difference together! See you there!
August 24th
AFRICAN + CARIBBEAN MUSIC & ARTS FESTIVAL | AUGUST 24, 2025 12PM-9PM | VETERANS PLAZA, SILVER SPRING
A celebration of African and Caribbean cultures with live music performances, including a steel orchestra and jazz ensem ble, arts and crafts, and food vendors. This free festival offers a rich cultural experi ence for all ages.
August 24th
OPERA IN THE OUTFIELD | AUGUST 24, 2025 4:30PM | NATIONALS PARK, WASHINGTON, DC
A unique opportunity to watch a live opera broadcast of Puccini’s Turandot on the big screen in the stadium. Activities. Seating is available in the stands or on the grass in the outfield. The event will feature pre opera activities, including photo opportunities, prize giveaways, performances by the Taal Academy of Dance, Musico the Magnificent, and Step Afrika!.
August 26th-31st
TANGLED ROOTS: FAMILIES OF TUDOR PLACE | AUGUST 26TH-31ST, 2025 | TUDOR PLACE, WASHINGTON, D.C.
Currently on view. Take a guided tour of the historic house and explore the lives and legacies of the multi gener ational Black and white families who shaped this iconic Georgetown estate.
August 27th – 31st
DC JAZZ FESTIVAL | AUGUST 27TH – 31ST | VARIOUS LOCATIONS, WASHINGTON, DC
Among the headliners are NEA Jazz Masters Eddie Palmieri, Ron Carter, Branford Marsalis, Gary Bartz,and Marshall Allen leading the Sun Ra Arkestra, alongside acclaimed vocalists Lalah Hathaway and Cécile McLorin Salvant; and John Scofield, Emmet Cohen, Keyon Harrold, The Baylor Project, and The String Queens. The festival will also showcase the JazzDC All Stars directed by Allyn Johnson. Check out the website for schedules and ticketing information.
August 28th
P OP-UP PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO AT ELYSIEM | AUGUST 28, 2025 | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM | ELYSIEM, 4913 FAIRMONT AVE, BETHESDA
A free professional photography ses sion for you and your pet, including a downloadable photo and compli mentary doggie bags
GAITHERSBURG TEEN ATHLETES ELENA JUAREZ AND KAYLA GORDON ARE THRIVING
Star Athletes Leave Lasting Legacies
ARTICLE BY DEBRA WALLACE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY RUBEN QUESADA
“I love pushing myself past my limits and seeing that hard work actually pays off.” —Elena Juarez.
Elena Juarez and Kayla Gordon formed an unbreakable bond starting in elementary school that has carried them to many track and field championships through out their high school career and beyond.
Today, the newly minted Gaithersburg High School graduates have accepted full scholarships to Morgan State University in Baltimore, where they will be col lege roommates, continuing their unique connection, an extremely rare occurrence.
Their coach, Adrian McDaniel, who has been the head track coach at Gaithersburg High for 17 years, played high school, college, and Canadian football, and was also a Hall of Famer at Central State University in Ohio in 2013. After he finished playing sports, he felt compelled to give back to local high school ath letes. In addition to track, he was previously a football and girls' basketball coach.
He says when he meets a young athlete, he can never tell how much they will accomplish because it goes beyond raw talent.
“It’s about hard work, determination, and commit ment. These two young ladies deserve every acco lade and pat on the back because of everything they earned for their hard work and dedication,” explains McDaniel. “I would take these girls on my team any day of the week.”
Kayla runs the 100, 200, and 400 meter events, and is the Maryland state champion for the 400, and her coach says that she has exceptional leadership skills.
Elena runs the 100 and 300 meter events and is a member of the 4 x 1 relay team. As a hurdler, she has excellent technique and great speed. She is a county and regional champ in hurdles and placed fourth in the state.
Role Models for Future Generations
In addition to their hard work and commitment, says McDaniel, these young women are “true role models who encourage our 9th and 10th graders by example, showing them every day what true leadership is.”
Their coach says their lifelong friendship that will continue to college is “an awesome testament to their relationship on and off the track.
“I am going to miss these two,” he said. “I try to be a mentor, so it is not about coaching sports, it’s about so much more. At some point, each of them is going to put down the spikes (or other equipment) and do life, so I coach life lessons.”
His prediction for their future is a bright one. “If they continue the hard work, dedication, and con tinue to stay focused and humble, the sky is the limit. I know they will do an excellent job in every aspect of their college experiences.”
Wisdom from Elena Juarez
Eighteen year old Elena Juarez is excited about her bright future. She says the best part of excelling at sports is the feeling of accomplishment after knowing how much time and effort she has put into it.
“I love pushing myself past my limits and seeing that hard work actually pays off,” explains the deter mined and competitive Elena. “Training helps me stay focused and grounded, and competing gives me this adrenaline rush that’s hard to describe. It’s where everything comes together, and I get to show what I’ve been working for.”
She attributes her friendship with Kayla to the fact that they have “always had each other’s backs. We’ve grown up together through so many different phases of life, so it’s amazing to know we’re going into this next chapter side by side. This feels like always having a piece of home with me.”
Kayla Gordon on Friendship and Role Models
Eighteen year old Kayla Gordon believes in the importance of being a positive example for future generations. “To be a role model for younger athletes is to exude positive and humble energy,” she says. “It means showing them that anything can happen as long as you try.”
If you don’t have the right mental attitude, you won’t be successful. —Kayla Gordon. “
Kayla Gordon
Elena Juarez
Kayla adds that when she has difficult training days, she reminds herself that “this is just temporary, if my body isn’t doing well, I’ll go easy on myself, but most of the time I try and push myself.”
Overall, she has learned many life lessons so far during her athletic career that she is eager to share with others. “I have learned that my time is going to come, regardless
of the hardships, and if you don’t have the right mental attitude, you won’t be successful.”
Kayla says she and Elena, “have stayed friends so long because we always have the best interests of one another. I feel extremely excited about going to college together because we’re going to build so many more lasting memories.”
DISCOVER THE Magic OF Great Wolf Lodge!
Looking for an unforgettable adventure for the whole family?
Great Wolf Lodge is an incredible indoor water park resort that’s perfect for kids of all ages! From the moment you step inside, you’re transported to a world of excitement and fun. Splash and play in giant water slides, lazy rivers, wave pools, and interactive play zones, all under one roof! Kids love the chance to brave the thrilling rides or build sandcastles in the special kids’ splash areas.
But it’s not just about water. Great Wolf Lodge also has themed arcade games, mini golf, story time adventures with MagiQuest, and even magic shows! After a day full of adven ture, families can cozy up in themed suites that look like cas tles, forests, or pirate ships.
The best part? Everything is kept safe and clean, so parents can relax while kids have an amazing time. Whether you visit for a weekend or a whole week, Great Wolf Lodge creates memories that last a lifetime. It’s the perfect place where kids can laugh, explore, and make new friends, all inside a magical wolf howling at the moon!
ARTICLE BY JESSICA DEARMOND PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
We provide comprehensive dental solutions and restorative treatment under Nitrous Oxide. From infancy through adolescence, All Star Pediatric Dentistry can guide them on their journey to a healthy, beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime. Multilingual team speaks Korean, Vietnamese, French, and Spanish to ensure you feel fully understood and comfortable.
$99 Promo for uninsured patients
We are accepting new patients allstar-pediatricdentistry.com | 301.388.8588 451 Hungerford Dr. Ste. 100 • Rockville, MD 20850
Medical & Cosmetic Dermatology Solutions For Your Family
As board certified specialists in dermatology, our goal is to provide you with the most progressive and advanced level of dermatologic care. Acne | Rashes | Moles | Skin Cancer | Botox | Fillers Lasers | Hair Removal | Spider Veins | Skin Tightening
Our commitment to you is a highly personalized approach to the practice of dermatology. We take the time to listen to all of your concerns, and strive to do our best to educate you fully about diagnosis and treatment options. It is extremely important to us that our patients thoroughly understand their conditions and feel comfortable with their treatment.
301.977.2070 | cccderm.com VB | 18310 Montgomery Village Ave, Suite 700 Gaithersburg, MD 20879
habla Español
PROVIDING A WIDE RANGE OF DENTAL CARE FOR INFANTS, CHILDREN, AND ADOLESCENTS.
ARTICLE BY DAVID ROBERT LAMBERT PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALL STAR PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY
Carolyn S. Chang, DMD, and Minhthu V. Phan, DDS, are co owners of All Star Pediatric Dentistry in Rockville, Maryland.
The term “pediatric” generally refers to the medical care of individuals from birth to age 18. This age range encompasses infants, children, and adolescents. All Star Pediatric Dentistry offers gentle, personal ized dental care for children from infancy through their teen years.
Dr. Phan said, “We like to start as soon as you know the child has a tooth, but some patients are even born with natal teeth!”
WIDE RANGE OF SERVICES
All Star provides the following services: baby’s first visit, digital x rays, sealants, composite fillings, baby crowns, baby root canals, extractions, space maintainers, oral appliances, athletic mouthguards,
Doctors Phan and Chang
teeth whitening, soft tissue laser therapy, and sedation dentistry.
Don’t forget to call if you have a dental emergency!
THE OWNERS
Dr. Carolyn Chang is a native of Maryland and grew up in Montgomery County. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing at Georgetown University and is also a Registered Nurse (RN). Dr. Chang then went on to complete her dental edu cation at the University of Pennsylvania, where she earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine degree.
After graduating from dental school, she completed a General Practice Residency at the Washington DC/VA Medical Center
where she provided comprehensive dental care to veterans.
Dr. Chang said, “During the years that I have treated adult patients as a gen eral dentist, I learned that most of the dental fear and anxiety that patients experienced usually stemmed from negative, traumatic dental visits during their young childhood. As a pediatric dentist, my goal is to provide a warm, gentle, and fun environment where our young patients can establish confidence and a positive attitude toward dentistry throughout their childhood.”
Dr. Chang is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry and is an active member of the American Dental Association, American Academy
All Star Pediatric Dentistry Exam Room
“ALL STAR PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY OFFERS GENTLE, PERSONALIZED DENTAL CARE FOR CHILDREN FROM INFANCY THROUGH THEIR TEEN YEARS.”
of Pediatric Dentistry, Maryland Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, and the College of Diplomates of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.
Outside of the office, Dr. Chang enjoys spending time with her family and loves to travel the world as well as explore new cuisines with her husband, Bryan, a former 3 time Olympic swimmer for South Korea.
Dr. Minhthu Phan was born in Saigon, Vietnam, and moved to Rockville, Maryland, when she was nine years old. She graduated from Richard Montgomery High School, where she was a starting player for the Rockets volleyball team.
Dr. Phan said, “Based on my dental experiences as a child, I knew I wanted to be a dentist.”
She received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Maryland, College Park, and earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the Baltimore College of Dental Surgery at the University of Maryland in Baltimore.
While at dental school, Dr. Phan received the Pediatric Dental Award for exemplifying qualities of ethical standards, kindness, and humanitarianism, as well as dedication, service, and empathy towards underserved child populations in Maryland.
She said, “I love working with kids to shape their perception of dentistry. Working with them to see that dentistry is exciting and positive is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do.”
Dr. Phan is currently a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry and
is a member of the Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.
Outside of dentistry, Dr. Phan enjoys the outdoors through hiking and gardening, cake decorating, and spending time with family and friends.
ALL STAR PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY
Dr. Chang and Dr. Phan met when they were in the same Pediatric Dentistry Residency Program at the University of Maryland. They became friends and in November 2018, they established All Star Pediatric Dentistry.
This year, they received a Certificate of Volunteer Appreciation from Stonegate Elementary School in Silver Spring for attending Career Day and discussing the importance of oral hygiene and the edu cational requirements for working in den tistry. They visit schools every February for Children’s Dental Health Month.
Their office is located at 451 Hungerford Drive, Suite 100, in Rockville. It’s in Exchange Place near the UPS Store and First National Bank. There is ample free parking, and a ground level entrance is available directly from the parking lot. The office is within walking distance of the Rockville Metro station and Rockville Town Center.
Appointment requests can be made on their website https://www.allstar-pediatricdentistry.com, by Email to kids@all star pediatricdentistry.com, or by calling (301) 388 8588.
David Robert Lambert is a freelance writer who has lived in Potomac for over 30 years. He and his wife, Deborah, enjoy traveling the world together.
All Star Pediatric Dentistry Staff
All Star Pediatric Dentistry Waiting Area
Recipe for Raising a Young Entrepreneur
HOW COOKIE YAY EMPOWERS KIDS TO LEARN BY DOING BUSINESS.
ARTICLE BY ANICIA JUAREZ | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
At 11, Madyson couldn’t find egg safe cookies she liked, so she and her dad—exercise physiologist Yusef Battle—started Cookie YAY. In months the boxed treats hit Maryland farm ers’ markets, earned local press, fueled Howard University’s football team, and dedicates a slice of every sale to youth business education. Below, Yusef explains their approach.
Yusef Battle
BEYOND COOKIES
I said “yes” because I saw more than cookies—I saw a classroom. A way to teach leadership, financial literacy, negotiation, grit, and purpose. I wanted to give my daughter a foundation not just to earn money, but to build a legacy. Cookie YAY became our tool to help her continue to develop the confidence, skills, and mindset to be her own boss one day—and more importantly, her own banker, decision maker, and creator of possibilities.
WHY ENTREPRENEURSHIP?
Entrepreneurship connects the dots between school subjects and real world skills. Math becomes budgeting. Writing becomes marketing. Social Studies becomes under standing people. Even failure becomes a powerful teacher. It’s hands on learning with real stakes, which motivates kids to take ownership of their growth. When children solve real problems creatively, they don’t just learn business—they learn how to think, adapt, and lead.
TEACHING STYLE?
I believe “work” isn’t punishment—it’s a path to becoming. So we focus on what excites her first: a fun idea, a creative flavor, or a goal to earn money for something she wants. From there, I embed the lessons gently: What’s the cost? What will customers think? What do we do if it doesn’t sell? We turn
Madyson Battle, CookieYAY, co-Founder
curiosity into strategy. I try not to lead with lectures—I lead with questions, and she leads the discovery part.
COMMUNITY BOOST?
Community is the amplifier. When a child sees familiar faces show up, cheer, and invest in their ideas, it reinforces their sense of worth. We’ve had moments—like driving to compete in a Philly pitch competition and having cousins meet us for dinner—that left lasting impact. Sometimes a word of encouragement from someone else lands deeper than from a parent. Community makes the entrepreneurial journey feel less lonely and more possible.
WHAT’S NEXT?
We’re stepping into some exciting terri tory. This summer, we’re launching all nat ural ice cream sandwiches using regional creamery partners. We’re also beta testing an edible ink made from clean ingredients to print company logos directly on cook ies—a game changer for corporate gifting. We’re also designing a fundraising cookie line to help youth organizations earn money through our snacks. On top of that, more delicious vegan, gluten free, and low sugar flavors are on the way!
ADVICE FOR PARENTS ?
Start small—but start. Enroll them in a local youth business fair. Let them set goals, make products, talk to customers, and feel the thrill of selling something they created. Cookie YAY supports parents with resources, event alerts, and mentor ship. Parents just have to sign up on our email newsletter through http://www. CookieYAY.com. We’ve taken 2 3 hour road trips to four youth business fairs. My daughter has participated in about ten dif ferent fairs in all—it’s been both business and bonding. The key is to let the child lead, even when it’s messy. That’s where the growth really happens.
“I love when customers enjoy the seasonal cookie flavors that I make,” said Madyson, adding that post-fair Philly cheesesteaks, thrift trips, and farmers’ market sales with friends make entrepreneurship an adventure.
ARTICLE BY BRITTANY FORD PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Furry Friend Finds
Founded in 1977, this family run, bou tique pet groomer offers grooming, supplies, healthy treats and holistic pet food in Ashburn, Va. Their warm demeanor, clean facility and inclusiv ity for all breeds won us over immedi ately. Check out their second location in Herndon! Caninecarousel.com
This alluring hotel oozes with style and pizazz. The Kimpton boasts the least restrictive pet policy we’ve seen, permitting any pet without fees or species restrictions. Their chic inte rior serves as a perfect backdrop for photos with your pet! Monaco-dc.com
This hot tub cabana is the perfect oasis to unwind with your friends and pups! Accommodating up to 8 people, this unique gem offers a private campfire experience, plush robes, and entic ing cocktails. A truly unexpected DC experience! Hookhall.com
Located in Old Town Alexandria, this waterfront restaurant is sure to make your pup drool! We were greeted with their official “Pooch Menu” and the best sangria we’ve ever had. You must try the crab hush puppies and the herb crusted rockfish! Volasdockside.com
Humane Rescue Alliance connects people and pets, saving lives and keep ing families together through much needed pet resources. Want to help? Adopt or foster a shelter pet, and give them the second chance they deserve. Humanerescuealliance.org
Canine Carousel
Vola’s Dockside Grill
Humane Rescue Alliance
Kimpton Hotel Monaco DC
Hook Hall
BrittanyFordphotographed by Axel MakeupAcademy
