Life + Culture

Neveen Kurtom Phillips

Helping others navigate life's transitions while building her own new chapter Article by Deborah Blumberg | Photography by Dr. Ceylon Mitchell | Mitchell M3 Media For nearly two decades, family law attorney Neveen Kurtom Phillips has guided Maryland families through some of life's most difficult transitions. From high-conflict custody disputes to complex divorces, she has built a reputation as a fierce advocate and trusted counselor for clients facing uncertainty about their future. At the...

Education

C2 Education of Potomac

The Leading Local Individualized Tutoring and College Prep Program Article by Elizabeth McKinley | Photography by Provided As academic expectations continue to rise, C2 Education provides personalized tutoring, test preparation, and college admissions guidance, empowering students to build confidence, achieve excellence, and pursue their educational goals. Test Prep For three decades, C2 Education has helped students unlock their academic potential through a highly personalized approach to...

Life + Culture

Building Families Across Borders

The Global Reach of Global Star Surrogacy Article by Bianca Bain Villegas | Photography by Provided For many individuals and couples, the journey to parenthood is among life’s most meaningful aspirations. Yet for those facing infertility, medical challenges, or circumstances that make traditional family building difficult, the path can be far more complex. In an increasingly global world, intended parents are seeking trusted partners capable of navigating both the emotional and logistical...

Fitness

Leading by Example

How Ian Zakharenka Inspires the Next Generation Article by Finn Aldrich | Photography by Provided When Ian Zakharenka first stepped into the Taekwondo studio at age six, few could have predicted the remarkable journey ahead of him. Today, the Potomac teen is not only a nationally ranked black belt and two-time USA National Taekwondo Team member, but also a mentor, coach, and role-model for younger athletes throughout the community. "Ian is one of the most exceptional students I've taught in...

Life + Culture

Bach to Rock: Making Music Fun

The heart of rock and roll is beating strong at Bach to Rock in Bethesda Article by Mindy Toran | Photography by Provided On any given afternoon, when you walk into Bach to Rock in Bethesda, the building is pulsating with the sounds of music and joy.  From classical to country, rock to reggae, to pop, modern, jazz and more, every genre is available to students who are looking the learn the art of playing and performing music.  Founded by Jeff Levin, a former middle school music teacher and...

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...

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 |...

Arts + Culture

125 Years in Perfect Tune

The Enduring Craft of Schaeffer's Piano Article by David Robert Lambert | Photography by Courtesy of Schaeffer's Piano Company Rick Schaeffer has spent his entire life around pianos. Today, he owns and runs a family business that started 125 years ago. It all began with his grandfather tuning pianos along the Washington, DC-to-Glen Echo trolley line in 1901. In a country turning 250 this year, 125 years is a remarkable legacy. Yet for the Schaeffers, it was never about longevity but a love for...

Life + Culture

The Greater Bethesda Chamber Of Commerce

Celebrating a Century of leadership, advocacy, and growth in Bethesda and beyond Article by Bianca Bain Villegas | Photography by Courtesy of GBCC For a century, the  Greater Bethesda Chamber of Commerce has served as one of the defining forces behind the growth and evolution of Bethesda and the surrounding Montgomery County region. What began in 1926 as a modest gathering of local business leaders has grown into one of the area’s most influential civic and economic organizations, shaping not...

Arts + Culture

America Turns 250!

Your Guide to What's Around Town this Month Article by Bianca Bain Villegas | Photography by Provided SummerFest Bohrer Park at Summit Hall Farm June 28 | 6PM - 11PM Celebrate America’s independence with friends and family at Gaithersburg’s illuminating summer festival on the expansive Bohrer Park grounds. Enjoy LIVE music, food trucks, and family fun for all with. Fireworks and a SummerGlo after party. visitmontgomery.com National Parks Month Kickoff Politics and Prose...