A Season for Family Adventures
Dear Readers,
Summer has always been my favorite time of year. Longer days, family vacations, backyard barbecues and making memories with the people and pets we love most are what this season is all about. It is also why our annual Kids & Pets issue is one of my favorites.
In these pages, we are celebrating the families, caregivers and experiences that make childhood so special. Whether you are planning one last summer getaway or simply looking for ways to make the most of the season, I hope you will find plenty of inspiration.
For families looking for an unforgettable road trip, we are taking readers underground to the breathtaking Luray Caverns in Virginia, a destination that has amazed visitors for generations and remains one of the country's most extraordinary natural wonders.
We are also spotlighting Virginia native and performer Nikia Lee, who brings one of your children's favorite characters to life on stage in PAW Patrol Live! Her journey is a reminder that dreams really can come true with talent, perseverance and passion.
Closer to home, we introduce readers to Nana A. Adu-Amankwa, M.D., affectionately known as Dr. Nana. Through her work at Total Access Pediatric Urgent Care, she has spent years caring for children and supporting families while also serving as a mentor and community leader.
And because our furry family members deserve the very best, we are proud to feature Best Friends' Veterinary Hospital. For more than 30 years, the practice has provided compassionate care and trusted guidance to generations of pets and the people who love them.
As summer begins to wind down and a new school year approaches, I hope this issue inspires you to slow down, savor the season and create lasting memories with your children, grandchildren and four-legged companions.
Here is to sunshine, adventure and making the most of these precious moments.
Happy reading,
August 2026
PUBLISHER
Adam Taylor | adam.taylor@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Carly Macmanus | carly.mac@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Anicia Juarez | anicia.juarez@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
KC Cole | kc.cole@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Marie Robey Wood, Kali Kasprzyk
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Bill Huffman, Luray Caverns, Primrose School of Gaithersburg, Ethan Amatie - maties.medias, Best Friends' Veterinary Hospital, VSTAR Entertainment Group, Janie Jones
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Zach Miller
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
Proverbs
Lifestyle’s
print + digital packages, your business captures attention wherever our community is looking. Build unmatched local credibility on the page, and drive immediate action online.
Photography: Bill Huffman,
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1-7: On May 1, 2026, the German International School in Potomac—one of the largest German international schools in the United States—hosted its annual WunderbarTogether Gala, bringing together diplomatic, business, and community leaders to celebrate German-American friendship and collaboration.
Photography by Marion Neakem
Discover What’s Next at German International School Washington D.C.
With over 550 students from preschool to 12th grade, we offer high-level academics in a warm, multicultural setting since 1961. Our German curriculum, combined with a global perspective, leads to a dual diploma graduation: the German International Abitur (DIA) and a high school diploma. Focused on world languages and science, we nurture critical thinking and prepare students for top universities worldwide. Please contact admissions@giswashington.org for your personal campus tour. German language skills are NOT a requirement for students enrolling in Preschool through Grade 5, provided the family is highly motivated for their child to learn German, and the child demonstrates strong academic performance.
1-4:
Photography by Gaithersburg Book Festival
Around Town FAMILY ADVENTURES
ARTICLE BY BIANCA BAIN VILLEGAS | PHOTOGRAPHY 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 | ROCKVILLE
What You’ll Find: Nature trails, raptor exhibits, outdoor discovery spaces, wildlife programs, and environmental education.
Hours: Outdoor trails open daily dawn to dusk. Nature center programming varies during ongoing renovations. Days Closed: Building currently undergoing renovations. Outdoor areas remain open.
Cost: Free.
MEADOWSIDE NATURE CENTER
We Rock the Spectrum | Gaithersburg
What You’ll Find: Inclusive sensory gym designed for children of all abilities featuring zip lines, swings, climbing structures, trampoline activities, and imaginative play.
Hours: Daily; hours vary seasonally.
Cost: Approximately $18–$25 per child depending on session and membership options.
WE ROCK THE SPECTRUM
Butler’s Orchard | Germantown
What You’ll Find: Seasonal fruit picking, giant slides, farm animals, pedal tractors, hayrides, and special family festivals throughout the year.
Hours: Seasonal operations; generally open daily during harvest seasons.
Cost: Varies by activity and season; pickyour-own admission and festival tickets typically begin around $5–$12.
BUTLER’S ORCHARD
Kids Play Gallery | Gaithersburg
What You’ll Find: Creative indoor town featuring miniature shops, construction zones, grocery stores, and imaginative role-play environments.
Hours: Open daily.
Cost: Approximately $18–$22 per child.
KIDS PLAY GALLERY
National Children’s Museum Washington, D.C.
What You’ll Find: Three floors of STEAMinspired exhibits, interactive science experiences, climbing structures, maker spaces, and hands-on discovery zones. Recommended for children birth through age 12.
Hours: Monday, Wednesday–Sunday, 9:30 a.m.– 4:30 p.m.
Closed: Tuesdays.
Cost: $18.95 per person; children under 1 admitted free.
NATIONAL CHILDREN’S MUSEUM
Wheaton Miniature Train and Carousel
Wheaton Regional Park
What You’ll Find: Scenic miniature train rides through the park and a beautifully restored carousel loved by younger children.
Hours: Seasonal operation, typically spring through fall.
Cost: Approximately $3–$5 per ride.
WHEATON MINIATURE TRAIN
Laugh Out Loud Stations
Mega Fun Center | Greenbelt
What You’ll Find: Laser tag, arcade games, soft play areas, climbing structures, and birthday party experiences.
Hours: Open daily.
Cost: Individual attractions and unlimited play packages available.
LAUGH OUT LOUD STATIONS
MEGA FUN CENTER
Hyper Kidz | Rockville
What You’ll Find: Massive indoor playground with climbing structures, obstacle courses, ball pits, slides, and toddler-specific areas.
Hours: Open daily.
Cost: Approximately $18–$24 per child.
HYPER KIDZ
Jolly Yolly Kids | Bethesda
What You’ll Find: Montessori-inspired indoor play environment emphasizing creativity, exploration, and social development.
Hours: Daily sessions available.
Cost: Approximately $15–$25 depending on age and visit length.
JOLLY YOLLY KIDS
The Little Town Children’s Museum
North Bethesda
What You’ll Find: Child-sized community featuring a market, veterinary clinic, fire station, construction zone, and imaginative role-play spaces.
Hours: Daily with timed admission.
Cost: Approximately $18–$22 per child.
ADVENTURE PARK USA
Recess Play Center | Silver Spring
What You’ll Find: Indoor climbing structures, sensory play stations, toddler zones, and open play sessions.
Hours: Daily.
Cost: Approximately $15–$20 per child.
THE LITTLE TOWN CHILDREN’S MUSEUM
Adventure Park USA | Monrovia
What You’ll Find: Roller coasters, go-karts, laser tag, arcade games, ropes courses, mini golf, and family rides.
Hours: Daily during summer.
Cost: Pay-as-you-go attractions or unlimited ride passes starting around $30.
RECESS PLAY CENTER
Locust Grove Nature Center | Bethesda
What You’ll Find: Woodland trails, wildlife observation, environmental education programs, and family-friendly nature experiences.
Hours: Park open sunrise to sunset; nature center hours vary seasonally.
Cost: Free.
LOCUST GROVE NATURE CENTER
The Adventure Park at Sandy Spring
What You’ll Find: Aerial forest adventure featuring zip lines, rope bridges, climbing challenges, and treetop obstacle courses.
Hours: Daily during peak season.
Cost: Approximately $30–$70 depending on age and course level.
THE ADVENTURE PARK AT SANDY SPRING
Green Meadows Petting Farm | Ijamsville
What You’ll Find: Animal encounters, pony rides, wagon rides, jumping pillows, playgrounds, and seasonal farm activities.
Hours: Seasonal operations.
Cost: Typically $18–$22 admission.
GREEN MEADOWS PETTING FARM
Glen Echo Park Aquarium | Glen Echo
What You’ll Find: Local aquatic wildlife exhibits, educational programs, touch tanks, and conservation-focused experiences.
Hours: Weekends and selected weekdays.
Cost: Generally free or low-cost admission depending on programs.
GLEN ECHO PARK AQUARIUM
Brookside Gardens | Wheaton
What You’ll Find: One of Montgomery County’s most beautiful family destinations, Brookside Gardens spans 50 acres of award-winning gardens featuring a Children’s Garden, Butterfly Garden, Japanese-style garden, ponds, walking paths, conservatories, seasonal exhibits, and year-round educational programming. Families especially love the summer Butterfly Experience and the colorful seasonal displays.
Hours: Outdoor Gardens: Sunrise to sunset Visitor Center: Daily, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Conservatory: Daily, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Gift Shop: Daily, 10 a.m.–1 p.m. and 1:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m.
Days Closed: Open daily year-round. Some special exhibits and holiday events have separate schedules.
Cost: General admission: Free. Butterfly Experience (April–September): $10.99 children ages 3–12; $15.99 ages 13+; children under 3 free.
BROOKSIDE GARDENS
Rock Creek Regional Park
Montgomery County
What You’ll Find: Hiking, boating, fishing, playgrounds, picnic areas, lakes, nature trails, and access to Meadowside Nature Center. The 1,800-acre park is one of the region’s premier outdoor family destinations.
Hours: Sunrise to sunset daily.
Cost: Free.
ROCK CREEK REGIONAL PARK
Cabin John Regional Park | Bethesda
What You’ll Find: Miniature train rides, enormous playgrounds, hiking trails, picnic areas, athletic fields, and nature exploration.
Hours: Park open daily.
Cost: Free admission; train rides priced separately.
CABIN JOHN REGIONAL PARK
Wheaton Regional Park | Silver Spring
What You’ll Find: Adventure playground, carousel, miniature train, nature trails, picnic areas, gardens, and one of the region’s most beloved family recreation spaces.
Hours: Daily, dawn to dusk.
Cost: Park admission free; rides and special attractions require tickets.
Traditional Greek cuisine with vegetarian options served in a cozy setting with table and counter service.
With more than twenty years of restaurant experience and hospitality, come and visit Ela Mesa Taste of Greece, located in the heart of Gaithersburg.
We are open seven days a week
Mon-Thurs: 11am -9pm | Fri-Sat: 11am-930pm | Sun: 11am-830pm
Why Choose Us?
Experienced & Caring Educators – Our passionate team supports each child’s unique growth.
Engaging Curriculum – Hands-on activities in literacy, STEM, arts, and social-emotional learning.
Safe & Inclusive Space – A welcoming environment where every child feels valued.
Flexible Programs –
TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
ON MARRIAGE, KIDS, AND THE COMEDY OF REAL LIFE
Trey Kennedy makes a living finding comedy in regular life. Marriage. Toddlers. Yoga pants. The Thursday-night scramble between school dropoffs, soccer practice, and whatever has to be done by morning. Twelve years in, it shows: millions of followers across every platform, three stand-up specials, a sold-out Relatable Tour, and a style of humor fans send each other captioned, “Are you watching me?” He delivers the kind of comedy that travels because everyone’s living some version of it.
Katie, his wife of six years, is a former biomedical engineer who also built a modeling career. She’s now raising their kids and co-hosting Correct Opinions alongside Trey — the show where the two of them swap takes on marriage, parenting, and whatever came up that week.
Trey has been at this longer than people realize. An Edmond, Oklahoma kid who grew up playing basketball described himself as a “shy kid who never thought he’d be an entertainer.” He started making videos while attending Oklahoma State University. After building millions of followers on Vine before the platform shut down, he gave himself six months on Instagram and Facebook to see whether he could rebuild from zero. He did. Stand-up soon followed. His first special, Are You For Real?, streams on YouTube; the second, Grow Up, on Amazon Prime; the third, built around the Relatable Tour, wrapped earlier this year. “I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now,” he says. A slow climb, made one bit at a time.
ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK
JANIE
“I’ve been trying to be funny every week for like twelve years now.”
Most of what Trey writes lately starts in his own kitchen. Thomas is three and a half, and he is, in his father’s words, “a movie.” He narrates his own life from the moment his eyes open and mispronounces words in ways his parents now repeat to each other because no one else would believe them. His younger sister, Eva, is what Katie calls “the calm one.” With a third now in the mix, the Kennedys are officially outnumbered.
After six years of marriage, Trey and Katie have learned that the partnership runs best when it gets its own time on the calendar. So once a week, they leave the kids with a sitter and go out for coffee. “You need a system,” Katie says. “It’s about taking time to look each other in the eye. Not the kids. Not the cameras. Just each other.”
The same instinct shapes the work. Most of Trey’s trial and error happens onstage or on Instagram, but the first read is always Katie’s. “There’s only been one time ever I’ve had to be like, ‘you’re not doing that,’” she says. The rest of the time, she just laughs first.
FEATURING TREY & KATIE KENNEDY
Trey and Katie talk about marriage, parenting, and the moments that don’t make the Instagram feed.
Watch or listen to the full conversation wherever you get your podcasts.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
JONES HAIR & MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE
An American Treasure Beneath the Surface
Make family memories at Luray Caverns, where history and wonder come together
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 after its discovery, the destination remains one of Virginia's most beloved attractions, blending natural beauty, science, history and adventure into an experience that captivates visitors of all ages.
The story of Luray Caverns began by accident. On Aug. 13, 1878, tinsmith Andrew Campbell noticed a cool draft rising from a small opening in the ground. Along with his friend Benton Stebbins, he spent four hours widening the entrance before descending into a breathtaking underground world that had remained hidden for millions of years.
Today, visitors can explore formations that began forming about 400 million years ago. Towering stalactites, mirrored pools and naturally colored mineral
deposits create a landscape unlike anything above ground. The caverns are still active, with formations continuing to grow at the remarkable rate of about one cubic inch every 120 years.
At a constant 54 degrees year-round, the caverns provide the perfect escape from the summer heat and make an ideal destination for families seeking adventure during the dog days of August.
One of the most remarkable features inside is the Great Stalacpipe Organ, recognized as the world's largest musical instrument. Spanning three and a half acres, the instrument uses natural stalactites to produce beautiful symphonic tones, creating an experience visitors won't soon forget.
The Cathedral Room, the largest chamber inside the caverns, has welcomed more than 500 weddings since 1879. In the late 19th century, thousands gathered there for dances illuminated by the glow of 5,000 candles.
Children especially love the famous Wishing Well, where visitors have tossed coins since 1954. Over the years, more than
$1.1 million has been donated to charitable organizations thanks to the generosity of guests. USA Today once described it as "probably the world's most productive" wishing well.
The adventure continues above ground. Included with admission, the Shenandoah Heritage Village showcases artifacts and buildings dating from the 1750s through the 1920s, offering a glimpse into early American life. Nearby, the Car and Carriage Caravan Museum houses more than 140 transportation artifacts, including the oldest running automobile in America, an 1898 Benz.
Families can also enjoy free concerts at the 117-foot Luray Singing Tower or venture into nearby Shenandoah National Park and Skyline Drive for breathtaking mountain views.
As the nation enters its next chapter following the celebration of America's 250th anniversary, destinations like Luray Caverns serve as reminders that some of the country's greatest treasures are not only preserved in history books but hidden beneath our feet.
For nearly a century and a half, Luray Caverns has inspired wonder, curiosity and countless family memories. Chances are, it will continue to do so for generations to come.
Luray Caverns
970 U.S. Highway 211 West Luray, Virginia 22835 (540) 743-6551
bill.huffman@luraycaverns.com luraycaverns.com
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.
Building
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY PRIMROSE SCHOOL OF GAITHERSBURG
Bright Futures
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 the country, the new Gaithersburg location is bringing a proven approach to early education to Montgomery County families. The school is operated by Early Foundations Childcare, a multi-school owner and operator founded in 2021 with a mission of providing exceptional experiences and outcomes for children and families.
At the heart of the organization is a commitment to nurturing the whole child while fostering strong relationships with families and the surrounding community.
Kindness, compassion and operational excellence are among the values that guide every interaction, creating an environment where children feel supported and parents feel confident in their child's educational journey.
"Early childhood is one of the most important stages of development," the team believes. "By investing in children early, we help create a strong foundation for lifelong success."
Beyond academics, Primrose Schools place an emphasis on character development and community involvement. Across the country, Primrose schools have become known for their culture of giving, participating in initiatives ranging from toy drives and school supply collections to fundraising efforts benefiting St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. These efforts teach children valuable lessons about empathy, generosity and serving others.
The opening of Primrose School of Gaithersburg represents more than a new educational option. It brings a community-focused approach to early childhood education, one that prioritizes curiosity, creativity and meaningful relationships.
For working parents, the school offers peace of mind. For children, it provides a safe and engaging environment designed to help them thrive academically, socially and emotionally.
As families throughout Montgomery County prepare for a new school year, the arrival of Primrose School of Gaithersburg offers an exciting opportunity to give young learners a strong start. Through nurturing teachers, innovative learning experiences and a commitment to building character, the school is helping shape the next generation, one child at a time. Because while little hands may seem small today, they are busy building the future.
Primrose School of Gaithersburg
Address: 902 Wind River Ln, Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Phone: (301) 708-3184
For more information you can visit: primroseschools.com/ schools/gaithersburg
COMBINING ARTISTRY AND PRECISION TO CREATE BEAUTIFUL, HEALTHY SMILES THAT RADIATE CONFIDENCE.
Looking to enhance your smile with personalized cosmetic dentistry treatments? Our practice offers every cosmetic dental service, from whitening to veneers, and everything in between. We specialize in finding the right solution to create a radiant, confident smile.
Our Smile Makeover is a personalized treatment plan that combines various cosmetic dentistry treatments and restorative dental procedures to enhance the appearance and health of your smile. Dr. Markogiannakis will work with you to create a custom plan that addresses your unique concerns and goals.
We offer ZOOM! Whitening treatment for immediate results with our in-office professional supervision. Our whitening solutions can remove years of stains caused by coffee, tea, wine, and tobacco, revealing a dramatically brighter smile.
Restore damaged teeth or replace missing ones with our custom-made crowns and bridges. Crowns cover and protect weakened teeth, while bridges fill the gaps left by missing teeth.
For minor imperfections, dental bonding and contouring offer a quick and effective solution. Bonding uses tooth-colored resin to repair chips, close small gaps, or improve the shape of teeth. Contouring involves gently reshaping the enamel to improve the appearance of slightly misshapen teeth.
Our practice also specializes in dental crowns and bridges, tooth colored fillings, gum contouring, porcelain veneers, and orthodontic options. Your journey to optimal oral health begins in a setting where expertise meets elegance, and your comfort and satisfaction are always our ultimate goals.
ARTICLE BY MARIE ROBEY WOOD PHOTOGRAPHY BY ETHAN AMATIE - MATIES.MEDIAS
Dr. AduAmankwa
More Than a Pediatrician!
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 my life, it's not the only part of my life," she says.
As a physician and community leader, Dr. Nana has built a life centered on service, family and mentorship. She credits her success to strong role models, including her mother, whom she describes as "one of the most hardworking women I know," her sister Bernice, who is also a physician, and a close circle of friends she affectionately calls her "sister friends."
Raised in Accra, Ghana, and Rockville, Dr. Nana attended Achimota School in Accra for her secondary education before moving to Washington, D.C., for college. She always knew she wanted to become a physician. After earning a degree in economics from George Washington University, she attended the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. She completed her pediatric internship at
Howard University Hospital and went on to complete her pediatric residency, chief residency and fellowship training in neonatal and perinatal medicine at Children's National Hospital in Washington, D.C.
After spending nearly a decade practicing in neonatal intensive care units throughout the region, she recognized a growing need for pediatric urgent care services. Eight years ago, she opened Total Access Pediatric Urgent Care.
Despite the demands of running a medical practice, family remains her highest priority.
"My most important role is as a mother," she says.
Her daughter, a business major at the University of Maryland, and her tween son, who enjoys reading, soccer and video games, have taught her as much as she has taught them.
"In 20 or 30 years, people may not remember the kind of doctor I was," she says. "But they will meet my children. It's important to me that they are kind, hardworking and wellrounded people."
That philosophy extends to her practice as well. She encourages her team to treat every patient as they would want their own loved ones treated.
Motherhood has also broadened her perspective. Through her children's interests
“We don’t treat just the child’s illness. We treat children in the context of their families.”
- Dr. Adu-Amankwa
typical day in the
and activities, she has gained a deeper appreciation for experiences outside her own. A hands-on mother and her children's biggest cheerleader, she credits a strong support system for helping her family thrive.
"I've created a wonderful village of people who love and support my kids and our family," she says. "I think that's made us all better people."
Her role as a physician often extends beyond the exam room. Because she cares for children over many years, she becomes part of their milestones and celebrations. Families regularly invite her to birthday parties, graduations, sporting events and community gatherings.
"While we see kids when they're sick, I'm interested in their overall well-being," she says. "We don't treat just the child's illness. We treat children in the context of their families."
CONTINUED >
A
life of Dr. Nana: balancing emails, problem-solving, and the beautiful demands of motherhood—all at once.
SUMMER STARTS ON THE FIELD
Outside the office, Dr. Nana serves as her family's travel planner. Together, they have explored destinations across the United States, Africa, Europe and South America. She also loves to cook and jokes that if she were not practicing medicine, she would likely be a professional chef.
Her commitment to nurturing the next generation extends to aspiring health care professionals as well. For several years, Total Access Pediatric Urgent Care has hosted high school interns through Montgomery County Public Schools' Allied Health Professions Program. Students gain firsthand exposure to both the clinical and business sides of medicine.
She also holds a faculty appointment at George Washington University, where she works with premedical students. Mentorship, particularly for young women interested in medicine, is a cause she values deeply.
"I've had several young women from our office go on to medical school," she says. "It's important that they can see someone who looks like them and realize that path is possible."
Despite her many responsibilities, Dr. Nana makes self-care a priority. During the pandemic, she purchased a Peloton bike when gyms closed and developed a regular fitness routine. Today, she participates in Peloton challenges, practices yoga, incorporates strength training, prioritizes annual health screenings and makes sleep a priority.
She also carves out time for herself through spa visits, girls' trips with longtime friends and travel adventures that help her recharge.
Underlying everything she does is a deep faith in God that sustains her personally and professionally. Her family has attended Church of the Redeemer in Gaithersburg for more than two decades, and both of her children have served in its ministries.
"My Christian faith is of paramount importance to me," she says. "God is my source that keeps me going every day."
Whether caring for patients, mentoring future physicians, raising her children or serving her community, Dr. Nana approaches each role with compassion and purpose. Her guiding principle is simple: give back generously.
"To whom much is given, much is required," she says.
For the many families who know her as both a physician and trusted friend, that commitment is evident every day.
• Summer camps & training programs
• Ages 5–19 | All skill levels welcome
• Professional coaching in a positive environment
• Skill development, conditioning & teamwork
• Competitive & recreational pathways available
Dr. Nana proves that balance is possible—successfully juggling motherhood, medicine, and fitness.
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.
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 hours to ensure local exotic pets had access to local quality care. Word spread quickly, and before long, Best Friends' Veterinary Hospital opened its doors in Gaithersburg.
Today, the practice has cared for animals on Lindbergh Drive for nearly three decades, building lasting relationships with families and treating everything from cats and dogs to birds, reptiles, rabbits, fish, arthropods, and other exotic pets.
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY BEST FRIENDS’ VETERINARY HOSPITAL
From routine wellness exams and vaccinations to surgery, dental care, advanced diagnostics, boarding, and emergency appointments when space allows, the hospital provides comprehensive care tailored to each animal's unique needs. One of the things that sets the practice apart is its expertise in exotic pet medicine, an area many veterinary hospitals do not offer.
Best Friends' Veterinary Hospital
Behind every appointment is a team dedicated to compassionate care. Dr. Hollifield, a graduate of Tuskegee University's College of Veterinary Medicine and former commissioned officer with the U.S. Public Health Service at the NIH, works alongside Hospital Manager Sabrina Ponton, Assistant Hospital Manager and Client Success Manager Angelina Brannigan, Lead Technician
Mia Brannigan, and a talented group of veterinary assistants and technicians, many of whom are pursuing careers in veterinary medicine.
For Dr. Hollifield, serving the community is about much more than medicine.
"Many of the families who walk through our doors have been with us for decades," she says. "I've cared for their first pets, their children's pets, and now even their grandchildren's pets."
That connection extends beyond the hospital walls. Best Friends' Veterinary Hospital partners with local shelters, rescue organizations, and adoption programs while also helping educate future veterinary professionals.
Summer is one of the busiest times of the year for veterinary care. Heatrelated illnesses, allergies, parasites, and injuries from outdoor adventures are among the most common concerns seen by the team. Whether families are staying close to home or traveling with their furry companions, Dr. Hollifield encourages pet owners to remain vigilant and prioritize safety during the hottest months of the year.
Five Summer Pet Safety Tips
1. Walk During Cooler Hours
Take dogs out early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid extreme heat and hot pavement that can burn sensitive paw pads.
2. Keep Fresh Water Available
Hydration is essential during the summer months. Always make sure pets have access to clean, cool water.
3. Know the Signs of Overheating
Heavy panting, excessive drooling, lethargy, vomiting, pale gums, or unusual behavior can all signal heat exhaustion and should never be ignored.
4. Never Leave Pets in a Parked Car
Even a few minutes inside a vehicle can become dangerous. This advice applies to all species, including rabbits, birds, and other exotic pets.
5. Travel Smart
Pack medications, regular food, and favorite toys, and keep identification tags and microchip information up to date. Frequent breaks and proper ventilation can make all the difference.
Families can also look forward to several special events throughout the year. The hospital's annual Blessing of the Animals takes place each October, where every pet receives an individual blessing, commemorative charm, and blessing card. During the holiday season, Pictures with Santa returns every Saturday morning through December 19, creating memories that have become cherished traditions for many local families.
Whether it's treating a beloved dog, helping a first-time reptile owner, or supporting the next generation of veterinarians, Best Friends' Veterinary Hospital continues to live up to its name by treating every patient like family.
Best Friends' Veterinary Hospital 7600 Lindbergh Dr., Suite H Gaithersburg, MD 20879
(301) 977-1881 bestfriendsvethosp.com
Best Friends' Veterinary Hospital Team
Full Service Pediatric Urgent Care
From Small-Town Dreams To Big Stages
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 woven into daily life. Gospel singers, musicians and performers filled generations of family history, creating an environment where music felt less like a hobby and more like a birthright.
“My mom said she sang to me while I was still in the womb,” Lee says.
As early as age two, she remembers dressing up, singing, dancing and embracing all things glamorous. Hair, makeup and performance quickly became second nature. Family members recognized her natural talent early, and what started as church performances and community events slowly evolved into something bigger.
Still, her journey was anything but conventional.
Lee balanced creative pursuits with athletics throughout school, spending six years running track while continuing to sing and perform outside the classroom. It was not until college at Randolph-Macon that she faced a defining choice: continue athletics or fully pursue performance.
She chose the stage.
The decision ultimately opened doors she had dreamed about since childhood. Lee immersed herself in choir programs, theater productions, voice lessons and music studies
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY VSTAR ENTERTAINMENT GROUP
while earning a degree in Arts Management with a music concentration and minors in theater and education.
Just weeks before graduation, she attended her first professional audition at Kings Dominion.
She booked the job.
That first role quickly led to more opportunities as a vocalist, actor and dancer. Regional theater followed, then larger productions including The Color Purple, Matilda and Hairspray. Eventually, national touring entered the picture.
When a friend suggested she submit materials to VStar Entertainment Group, Lee decided to take a chance.
Days later, she received an email that would change everything.
The production needed an immediate replacement for PAW Patrol Live! “Heroes Unite.” Suddenly, her first national tour became reality. Today, Lee is performing in PAW Patrol Live! “A Mighty Adventure,” bringing one of children's most beloved worlds to life for families across the country.
Virginia performer Nikia Lee is bringing joy to families one pup at a time
