Upper Makefield January 2026

UpperMakefield JANUARY 2026

ENERGY HEALER LORI HOFF

TRY IMPROV

WITH UNSCRIPTED PRODUCTIONS

A Mindful

Friendship DRS. BARBARA WINGATE AND RUTH ROSENBERG

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Contents JANUARY 2026

18 F EATU RES

14

A Mindful Friendship

Two Upper Makefield psychiatrists share the importance of getting help when it comes to mental health.

18

A Spiritual Journey Local energy healer Lori Hoff uses spirituality to improve people’s quality of life.

22

Step Into the Spotlight

UnScripted Productions offers creative thinking, laughs, and life lessons through improv.

22 I N EVE RY I S SUE

10

11

26

14

4

PUBLISHER’S NOTE Make the Most of the New Year

6

LOCAL PULSE Bite-Sized Updates

8

Q&A Gregg Schuster

10

LOCAL TASTES A Healthy Start

11

LOCAL ARTS Beauty in Belief

26

LIFE OUTDOORS Travel Time

28

LOCAL EXPERT Home Design

30

LOCAL EXPERT Real Estate

32

PHOTO OP Winter Serenity

COVE R

L to R: Psychiatrists Barbara Wingate and Ruth Rosenberg Photograph by Jennifer Janikic Photography

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PUB LISH ER’S NOTE

AND JUST LIKE THAT… it’s January!

With the holiday rush behind us, the season seems to have flown by in the blink of an eye. As things settle, it’s the perfect moment to pause and look ahead to all the possibilities the new year brings.

In this issue, we celebrate the promise of 2026—sharing ideas and inspiration to explore new goals or revisit ones you’ve been thinking about. We all need a little encouragement from time to time, and this issue offers thoughtful ways to nourish both body and mind.

We are fortunate to have two exceptional psychiatrists right here in Upper Makefield. Barbara Wingate and Ruth Rosenberg are leaders in their field, dedicating their careers to advancing mental health care. At a time when mental health is more important than ever, we are truly privileged to have these accomplished professionals in our midst.

If holistic care and healing are calling

PHOTOGRAPH BY JUAN VIDAL PHOTOGRAPHY

A

MAKE THE MOST OF THE NEW YEAR

to you, look no further than Full Circle Energy Therapies, where Lori Hoff offers a variety of treatments to nurture mind and body. From energy healing sessions to sound bowls, learn how these approaches can support your physical and emotional wellbeing in the year ahead.

For those feeling adventurous, you’ll be excited to learn about the skills of improvisation that exist right in our own backyard. Unscripted Productions, led by Will Dennis, offers participants the chance to step outside their comfort zones and discover improv’s joy and creativity.

Just a glance at the photos shows that if you’re in need of laughter, this is definitely something to try in 2026.

With the new year here, you may be looking for new, healthy recipes, and Health eCooks knows how to satisfy protein needs and sweets cravings.

Perhaps you’re considering fresh ideas for your home. Suburban Marble highlights exciting trends in countertops, with options for classic and bold design styles.

For those dreaming of their next getaway, Rubinsohn Travel inspires us with wonderful spring travel ideas—from skiing to sun.

We hope you agree that the issue is packed with ideas to make the most of the year ahead.

As we begin another year together, I hope this issue brings a little inspiration, a touch of encouragement, and maybe even a nudge to try something new.

Most importantly, I want to wish you—our dear readers—a happy, healthy, and prosperous new year. May all your wishes come true, and I’ll be right here alongside you as we navigate the road of 2026.

XO,

Laura Lazar Publisher

P.S. Please reach out if you have any stories you would like to recommend for a future issue.

Upper Makefield MAGAZINE

Publisher Laura Lazar Local Editor Dari Kotzker Writers Adam Fisher Adrienne Sasson Ashara Shapiro Photographer Jennifer Janikic Photography LLC Expert Contributors Greg Dwornikowski Anthony Petsis Dominique Williams WAINSCOT MEDIA Chairman Carroll V. Dowden President and CEO Mark Dowden SVP, Group Publisher Thomas Flannery VP, Content Strategy Maria Regan Creative Director Kijoo Kim Art Director Rosemary O’Connell Executive Editor Elaine Quilici Associate Editor Sophia Carlisle Advertising Services Director Jacquelynn Fischer Operations Director Catherine Rosario Production Designer Chris Ferrante Print Production Manager Fern Meshulam Advertising Production Associate Griff Dowden

Upper Makefield magazine is published

by Wainscot Media. Serving residents of Upper Makefield Township, the magazine is distributed monthly via U.S. mail. Articles and advertisements contained herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publishers. Copyright 2026 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.

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LOCAL P ULSE

A HOLIDAY TRADITION The community came together to celebrate the festive holiday season on Nov. 28, 2025, at the Annual Tree Lighting and Santa Visit hosted by the Kiwanis Washington Crossing-Yardley.

NEW BOAT PROJECT REBUILDS HISTORY On Nov. 5, 2025, 22 members of the Independence Seaport Museum (ISM) and the Friends of Washington Crossing Park attended a special behind-the-scenes look at the Durham Boat Project. To celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary, this project allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in history, giving them the unique opportunity to step aboard a hand-built Durham that is a full-scale replica of the vessel that George Washington used to cross the Delaware River in 1776. There will be three additional opportunities to explore the boat at the Boat Shop at ISM’s monthly Table Saw Talks in Philadelphia before its installation at Washington Crossing Historic Park this spring.

Upper Makefield resident and volunteer shopping buddy Heather Roberts (far left) and Upper Makefield Township Police Office Dakota Romberger, with two other volunteers

SHOP WITH A COP Upper Makefield Township Police Department officers along with other Bucks County police departments participated in the annual Shop With a Cop event. This event pairs local law enforcement officers with underprivileged children for a shopping experience to help bring joy during the holiday season.

RELIVE THE REVOLUTION Step back in time with the Traversing the Ten Crucial Days Bus Tour, which begins and ends at Washington Crossing. Guests spend the day retracing the Delaware Crossing on Dec. 25, 1776, and then the American and British military engagements at Trenton, Princeton, and areas in between, which lasted from Dec. 26, 1776, through Jan. 3, 1777.

Historical interpreters recount the remarkable story of these 10 days that breathed crucial new life into the apparently expiring American Revolution.

Upcoming public bus tours are scheduled for Jan. 3 and Jan. 16, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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A LOCAL DOG MAKES THE NATIONAL STAGE Duke George Augustus (George), a 4-yearold Sussex Spaniel from Upper Makefield, competed at the National Dog Show at The Oaks on Nov. 15, 2025, for the title of Best of Breed. George—who was handled by his owner, Vince Scanlan, also of Upper Makefield—placed second. The spaniel’s next stop is the Westminster Dog Show.

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Family, Maternity & Newborn Photography in the Bucks County Area Welcome friends! So glad you’re here!

I’m Jenny, your local Bucks County, Philadelphia and New Jersey Photographer. Some things about me…

I married the love of my life, I’m a mama to two rambunctious boys, I drink more coffee than I should, I love to travel and immerse myself in new cultures and I’m a true hippy at heart! I’m obsessed with sunsets and capturing motherhood, families and couples during the beautiful golden hour. I am captivated by raw, authentic emotion and moments between couples and families.

My work is what I would call emotive storytelling.

I look forward to capturing your family’s story.

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Newtown Friends School Celebrating the Light in Every Child Since 1948

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A New Beginning Gregg Schuster values Upper Makefield’s strong community as township manager.

preservation, good financial stewardship, and the involvement of many community organizations.

I really wanted to be part of what these groups have collectively accomplished.

INTERVIEW WITH

GREGG SCHUSTER GREGG SCHUSTER attended Lehigh University, and for the first 10 years of his career, he worked in business operations in the satellite telecommunications and insurance industries. During that time, he also received a master’s degree in business administration from the University of Connecticut and switched to the public sector 15 years ago. He previously served as township manager for both Pocono Township and Warminster Township and became Upper Makefield’s township manager in August 2025. Here, he talks about his work for the township and what he loves most about it.

What drew you to work for Upper Makefield Township?

The strong sense of community drew me to Upper Makefield. The township has spent years investing in itself through

What are your duties as township manager?

Officially, I’m chief administrative officer and supervise the daily activities of all the township departments. I also implement the directives of the Board of Supervisors and work with our partners to ensure the needs of the community are met. Unofficially, the team and I do whatever we can to solve both the short- and long-term issues within our boundaries. I often say, “Our town, our issue,” meaning that we should do everything possible to keep residents safe and happy.

What are your goals for the township in 2026?

I want to continue advocating for the Mt. Eyre residents, to ensure they get clean water while Sunoco continues its recovery efforts from the pipeline spill. I am also looking forward to working with the Upper Makefield Fire Company on an upcoming Department of Community & Economic Development study on our fire services and how best to prepare for any future challenges. We’re also very excited to finalize our plans in constructing the Rt. 532 streetscape improvements using a grant the township received.

What do you love about working in local government?

I love seeing the results of your work and the impact it has on people’s daily lives. Higher levels of government often implement broad policies and programs that can take years to see results. In local government, we’re able to speak directly with our residents and drive down the street to see the progress being made on initiatives.

What have you found most interesting about working with residents in Upper Makefield Township?

I have found their longevity in the township most interesting. I’ve met so many people who have lived here for a long time or whose families have had multiple generations grow up in Upper Makefield. That results in a lot of passion and a genuine interest in the well-being of the community.

What is a fun fact people don’t know about you?

I’ve been a private pilot for about 10 years and enjoy spending my free time in the air. Sometimes it helps to change your perspective.

What’s your favorite thing to do in Upper Makefield?

Without a doubt, it’s working with the team here. Our employees are fantastic, and they have a great attitude while doing their work. I see them all doing whatever they can do to help residents with the issues they bring to our attention—always with a smile. Their local knowledge is impressive, and every day, they help me do a better job.

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LO CAL TA ST ES

A Healthy START Kick off your year with delicious low-calorie, high-protein meals.

BY ADAM FISHER THE HOLIDAYS ARE OVER, and January is here for a post-season refresh. This month is the perfect time to set new wellness goals while introducing quick and easy meals that boost protein and keep calories low. It’s all about implementing sustainable changes in the kitchen to make 2026 your healthiest, and tastiest, year yet.

Make achieving your wellness goals a pleasurable experience with a curated lineup of dietitian-approved recipes. Health eCooks’ recipes are approved by chefs in the company’s Washington Crossing-based test kitchen. These meals maximize flavor while keeping calories low and protein high, which is the perfect combination for starting fresh after the holidays. From a fruity oatmeal bake to protein-packed dinners, here are some ideas to help set you up for success in 2026.

BAKE-AND-GO BLUEBERRY POWER

High-protein Blueberry Banana Oatmeal Casserole is a meal-prep dream for breakfast.

It’s assembled in minutes and bakes while you get ready, yielding multiple servings that provide slow-release energy to keep you full until lunch.

Tip: Save time in the morning by prepping it the night before, then just bake in the morning. For extra protein, use fat-free or low-fat milk.

THE ULTIMATE KALE CRUNCH

Ditch the bland desk salad. Chicken Kale Crunch Salad is a vibrant, protein-packed lunch featuring lean chicken breast, crunchy kale, and a flavorful homemade dressing. It stays fresh for days, making it easy to stay

Chicken Kale Crunch Salad on track throughout the week.

Tip: : If you’re short on time, use precooked, shredded rotisserie chicken for instant protein. Not a fan of kale? Swap it out for more tender dark, leafy greens such as baby spinach or arugula.

MEDITERRANEAN MAGIC

Ready in just over an hour with a minimal amount of cleanup required, Mediterranean Sheet Pan Chicken is the definition of easy cooking. Tender chicken and colorful vegetables, including bell peppers and zucchini, are tossed in a savory blend of herbs and lemon and

For this and other easy 30-minute recipes, visit www.healthecooks.com or scan the QR code.

then roasted together in one pan.

Tip: Need to get dinner on the table fast during the week? Chop all your vegetables the weekend before and store them in the fridge. For extra protein, fiber, and texture, serve with a handful of Crispy Chickpeas (for this and other easy, nutrient-packed meals, visit www.healthecooks.com).

Adam Fisher is the food and digital content editor of Health eCooks.

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LO CAL ART S

Beauty in Belief Colleen Attara embodies the art of small repairs in her mixed-media works.

BY ASHARA SHAPIRO IN THE LANDSCAPE of contemporary art—where speed often overshadows tenderness and novelty is prized over nuance—there is an artist who insists on something quieter, deeper, and profoundly necessary. Colleen Attara is a storyteller, a mixed-media artist, and at her core, a defiant creative. Hers is a practice shaped by possibility: the radical belief that beauty lives in what is overlooked, forgotten, or fractured— and that every person holds an inner reservoir of creativity waiting to be reawakened.

A BUILDER OF WORLDS Walking into one of Attara’s workshops is like stepping back into childhood— into an era when play was instinctive, joyful, and unburdened. This is not an accident. Her superpower is connection, guiding others back to their own creative spark, the one they

may have set aside in adulthood but never truly lost. With paint, paper, thread, and found materials, she coaxes out memory, imagination, and courage.

She creates environments where people feel held enough to take risks, tender enough to soften, and brave enough to make something honest.

ART AS REPAIR, REPAIR AS ART At the heart of Attara’s philosophy is a profound and timely belief: There is beauty in the small repairs. The world she observes is resetting. We

UPCOMING ART EVENTS “Feeling our way Forward into 2026 … entering the new year feeling steady, ready & calm” Colleen Attara hosts this two-day workshop.

ArtWRKD, Newtown Jan. 10 and 11, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

“The Creative Genes Exhibition” This exhibition has historic and contemporary artworks and writing from personal collections, the Moravian Archives, the Petrucci Family Foundation Collection of African American Art, and The Volta Center for Writing Arts.

Hicks Art Center Gallery, Newtown Through Feb. 28 “Creatures from the Collection” This selection of works from the Michener’s permanent collection features animal motifs.

Michener Art Museum, Doylestown Jan. 10 to May 3

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CINDY FATSIS

collectively carry grief, change, and uncertainty, yet Attara insists that tending to what feels fragile—within ourselves and each other—can be generative. It can heal. “I believe we are all connected,” she says. “When one of us is hurting, we are all hurting.” Her work honors that interconnection. It is repair as ritual, mending as meaning.

A VESSEL FOR CREATIVITY To encounter Attara’s work—whether in a workshop, on a gallery wall, or through the hands of those she has taught—is to witness someone using herself as a vessel. She pulls from the ether with extraordinary intuition, channeling what others often struggle to articulate. Her deepest wish is simple and luminous: that what she offers is what someone’s heart needs to see. She is, in every sense, a magical artist—one whose presence invites repair, whose process emboldens truth, and whose legacy is woven not only through her own creations but through the countless creatives who rediscover themselves in her care.

Ashara Shapiro is gallerist and curator of ArtWRKD in Newtown, an art consortium with a mission for discovering, fostering, and sharing original work by emerging artists through its workshop and exhibition space.

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A Mindful Friendship Two Upper Makefield psychiatrists share the importance of getting help when it comes to mental health.

i

IN THE UNITED STATES, approximately 24% of adults experienced mental illness last year, with one in seven youths ages 6 to 17 experiencing a mental health disorder, according to the National Alliance on Mental Health. Upper Makefield Township is lucky to have the expertise of two renowned psychiatrists specializing in this important field.

Barbara Wingate, MD, is the medical director of her own private practice, where she sees adult patients for all mental health issues. In 2000, she was named one of the Top Doctors in Psychiatry

by Philadelphia Magazine. Ruth Rosenberg, MD, also has a private practice, where she specializes in child, adolescent, adult, and family psychotherapy. She has been named to the Best of Bucks list for her important work. Both doctors took different paths to attain their careers, but they have the same intention: to help people achieve their therapy goals.

DISCOVERING THEIR PASSION Dr. Wingate initially majored in political science, then after earning her master’s degree in social work,

PHOTOGRAPHS BY JENNIFER JANIKIC PHOTOGRAPHY

BY DARI KOTZKER

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she decided she wanted to go to medical school at the age of 32. While working at her residency at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP) in psychiatry, she underwent special training in eating disorders. She then became the medical director of the Renfrew Center for Eating Disorders in Florida.

Eventually, Dr. Wingate moved back to Philadelphia and started her private practice. She says she is known for her integrative care of complex medical cases enhanced by her years of working at HUP as a consult liaison psychiatrist. She also earned her board certification in holistic medicine and is certified in Kundalini yoga.

“I’ve always had a longstanding interest in listening to people’s stories with empathy as they develop positive and holistic plans for health, which resonates with many looking for a little humility,” she says.

Dr. Rosenberg attended the University of Pennsylvania for her undergraduate education and received her medical degree from New York University School of Medicine.

She trained at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia as a pediatric resident and adolescent psychiatry fellow, and then at HUP for general psychiatry. After moving to New Mexico for nine years

working in the psychiatry field with children, adolescents, and adults, she made the move to Upper Makefield Township with her family. She started her own private practice and says she remains most passionate about the family dynamic work she does.

“I think I was always destined to be a psychiatrist,” Dr. Rosenberg says. “I have always thought a lot about people’s thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and motivation. I also feel things very deeply. It feels good to know I’ve helped other people feel better.”

TWO PATHS, ONE DESTINATION Drs. Wingate and Rosenberg met at HUP when Dr. Wingate was Dr. Rosenberg’s residency supervisor. When Dr. Rosenberg moved to Bucks County from New Mexico, she reached out to Dr. Wingate to tell her she was back in the Philadelphia area.

As they spoke, they realized they were both living in the same town. Dr. Wingate moved JANUARY 2026 |

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to Upper Makefield Township in 1998 and Dr. Rosenberg in 2003.

“I moved here because I knew there was a need for a child and adolescent psychiatrist, and I could work from my home,” Dr. Rosenberg says. “Upper Makefield Township is also the most beautiful place I’ve ever lived. It’s bucolic.”

Dr. Wingate says she has made friends with many people in the community since she’s lived in Upper Makefield for such a long time. She frequents popular local businesses, including taking her dogs to Washington Crossing Animal Hospital and picking up her prescriptions from Heritage Pharmacy. However, being a wellknown local doctor can have some challenges when out in the community.

“Over the years, people know who I am and what I do, and they want to be seen by me,” she says. “I’ll say okay, but I tell them there’s a zone of privacy, so if I run into them in public, I’ll smile and say hi, but we’ll only have a professional, cordial relationship.”

DON’T BE AFRAID TO ASK FOR HELP January marks the end of the holiday season and the early days of winter.

During this time, many people can suffer from seasonal affective disorder. Dr. Wingate says if you know this about yourself, then plan a trip to a sunny location or to a place that stimulates you. She also suggests finding people you enjoy being around and setting up events with them. Finally, exercise is important because it’s considered a natural antidepressant.

Many people wonder when the right time is to seek help for depression, anxiety, or a traumatic event. In adults, signs of depression can include no longer finding joy, losing interest in things, or isolating themselves. For children and adolescents, it can be more gradual where grades start to decline, they stop reaching out to friends, sleep is erratic, and appetite changes.

According to Dr. Rosenbeg, in the last 10 years people have become more anxious due to social media, Covid, and a more rapid pace of life.

She doesn’t want there to be a

stigma around getting psychiatric help. “It breaks my heart to know that something is treatable and someone is suffering when they don’t need to,” she says. “The goal of therapy for my patients is to learn skills to be able to continue their psychological growth trajectory, for them to be able to be part of society, feel good about their friendships and family relationships, and feel they are meeting their goals.”

HOW TO ENCOURAGE GOOD MENTAL HEALTH • Sleep is paramount. Don’t allow phones in bed; only use the bed for sleep.

• Eat healthfully with a proper balance of proteins and carbohydrates.

• Practice good water intake.

• Exercise is important for both physical and psychological well-being.

• Plan events with family and friends.

Additional Advice for Parents • Have family meals together without phones.

• Use positive talk at the dinner table.

• Spend one-on-one time with your children.

• Let children take the lead when playing.

Above: Barbara Wingate, MD, volunteers for HomeFront NJ, an organization that works to end homelessness in Central Jersey.

Right: Ruth Rosenberg, MD, enjoys photography and has taken many photos in Upper Makefield Township.

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FINDING SUPPORT For children and adolescents • Contact your pediatrician.

• Contact your school district.

• Use the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry as a resource (www.aacap.org).

For adults • Contact your primary doctor.

• Contact your insurance company.

Since Covid, both doctors work with patients via telehealth as well as in-person. Dr. Rosenberg has an office in her home, and Dr. Wingate has office space in Newtown. Whenever meeting with new patients, both doctors conduct a comprehensive initial evaluation to see the big picture and get a sense of the psychiatric diagnosis and strategies needed to approach it.

As psychiatrists, they are allowed to prescribe medication to their patients, if needed. “It’s important to educate a person about what to expect from medication,” Dr. Rosenberg says. “There are certain individuals who are blocked in movement and sometimes must use meds to get them out of the spot—and sometimes they have to be on meds indefinitely. But you should not take meds without therapy.”

At some point during the therapy process, patients experience a

breakthrough or no longer need professional help, and that can be an adjustment on both ends. “It’s happiness, and you want to applaud them, but then you also miss them,” Dr. Wingate says.

“I get to know things about people that other people don’t. I feel so honored that people trust me with that.”

CONTINUING TO BE A LIGHT Both doctors say it’s important to have other passions beyond work. Dr. Wingate volunteers at HomeFront NJ, which has a mission to end homelessness in Central Jersey. Dr. Rosenberg has a love of photography and often takes pictures in and around Upper Makefield. She also started a walking group a few years ago that meets at Washington Crossing Historic Park, which she invited Dr. Wingate to join.

The two women continue their work connection through peer consultations where they might discuss new types of medication or ask for advice on certain cases of theirs. They have a strong mutual admiration for each other’s work.

“Barbara is holistic in her approach, which I like,” Dr. Rosenberg says. “She’s bright and really works hard to think of all different approaches to help her patients, and she’s very creative.”

Dr. Wingate has known Dr. Rosenberg frome the days she was a resident up to now as a successful psychiatrist. “Ruth is a superstar,” she says. “She is smart, caring, and detail-oriented. When you pull all of that together, she’s someone you can rely on.”

Drs. Wingate and Rosenberg have no plans to retire. They love their profession because they get to be the person their patients can trust with their secrets and help them unpack their issues in a safe and private setting. Both women emphasize the importance of reaching out for help at any age, because there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

Dari Kotzker resides in Bucks County with her husband and four kids. She has worked as a reporter in television news and print media since 2001.

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A Spiritual

Journey Local energy healer Lori Hoff uses spirituality to improve people’s quality of life.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY JENNIFER JANIKIC PHOTOGRAPHY

BY DARI KOTZKER

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L

LIFE CAN BE NONSTOP for many people, with busy work schedules, kids’ activities, and high-stress events.

Sometimes, you need to just take a deep breath in, exhale slowly, and take some time for self-care for your emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being. That sense of calm can be found at Full Circle Energy Therapies in Upper Makefield Township. Owner Lori Hoff is an energy practitioner, teacher and coach who works with people to improve their quality of life and to help reinvigorate the light inside them.

“We all have a universal source of

energy,” Hoff says. “It’s moving through us at all times. I focus on creating balance, harmony, and homeostasis within through the use of energy healing and nervous-system work.”

A NATURAL PATH Hoff grew up in a small town in New Jersey, surrounded by nature and animals. Her father was a chiropractor, and her mother was a massage therapist. She was raised very holistically on Chinese medicine, homeopathy, healthy food, and the importance of expressing feelings. As a child, she learned to channel energy and was always very intuitive.

Her career started on a different path, as a wildlife conservationist biologist.

Hoff worked in Central America before taking a job with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s wildlife services.

However, while working for the government, Hoff suffered a spinal injury that changed the trajectory of

her professional life. Unable to go out in the field anymore, she decided to pursue other avenues—one of them being energy work. She saw an energy healer in her 20s who told her she would excel as one, too. This selfproclaimed “chronic learner” earned many certifications, including Reiki, Healing Touch, and Integrated Energy Therapy to start her own practice.

“One of the things that makes me different from other energy healers is that I work a lot with the nervous system, combining my scientific background and spirituality,” Hoff says.

“These are all ancient practices that existed well before anything we know now. I love quantum physics and the biology of it.”

Hoff opened Full Circle Energy Therapies in August 2022. She says the nature, river, and park that surround the area drew her to this location, as well as the small-town feel. When she opened her doors, she gained many clients.

“Bucks County is a really great place for what I do because it’s a little more health conscientious, a little

Below, L to R: Full Circle Energy Therapies client Nicole Fischer, owner Lori Hoff, and client Tammy Goldberg

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Left: Lori Hoff facilitates an energy healing session.

Right: Lori Hoff worked as a wildlife conservationist biologist in Central America.

more forward-moving in terms of alternative medicines, and there’s so many businesses I can connect and collaborate with,” she says. “Upper Makefield really gave me the avenue of community.”

FINDING BALANCE WITHIN Hoff says energy medicine is her main concentration and is the undercurrent of most of her different offerings. She says it’s difficult to verbalize what happens during an energy session, and it’s different for each person. Some clients come for general self-care or relaxation, while others are dealing with high anxiety, trauma healing, or looking to expand their spiritual side. The session starts with a discussion about what’s going on in her client’s life and what they hope to achieve from the therapy. The next step is for the client to lay down fully dressed on the bed, covered with blankets and an eye cover. To help set the calming mood, she also puts on healing frequencies. Throughout the process, Hoff may use light touch and crystals for maximum relaxation and positive results.

“My biggest thing I ask when you come here is to be willing,

curious, open, and let yourself relax,” she says. “What I’m doing during the session is taking stock of where your nervous system is at that moment. I’m looking at your chakras, your outer bodies, and I’m calling universal source energy to channel through me. I guide the energy to create a level of homeostasis again. When done, many clients say they feel lighter, calmer, and more at ease.”

Hoff explains that energy work

is cumulative. Although you can have a great experience one time, consistency can help with more chronic issues.

Tammy Goldberg has been doing energy healing sessions for two years with Hoff. “Lori is so calming,” Goldberg says. “You have a conversation with her before each session where you share with her everything that’s going on in your life, and she gives great advice back to you. Some people have mystical

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experiences, but after I do a session, I feel deep relaxation and fully rested.”

NEW YEAR, NEW ENERGY Energy sessions can be done in person or virtually. Hoff offers energy services to animals as well by combining her wildlife biologist training, her studies in animal behavior, and mixing those with the quantum physics of energy. Some of her other services include mentoring/ coaching, teaching/certification, sound bath with crystal singing bowls, human design astrology, and nature healing.

“I really love my teaching and certification program,” she says. “It’s going to be one of those legacy things for me so I can reach more people.”

Nicole Fischer met Hoff at Reiki training and has continued taking additional courses with her, such as “medicine woman” to help develop her healing and spirituality. “I’m enjoying her courses,” Fischer says. “She’s good at breaking down complex spiritual concepts into very practical things, which is great. She blends spirituality with the science, which I love.

Everything I’m learning I’ll bring into my businesses and personal life.”

With the arrival of the new year, Hoff

is expanding her business to include global spiritual wellness retreats, with the first one scheduled to take place in Egypt in October. January is one of her busiest times, but she tells her clients to always be gentle with themselves and to remember every moment is an opportunity to start anew.

“Health is wealth,” she says. “Don’t wait to do that thing you’ve always wanted to do. It’s important to choose yourself, but have grace with that and be realistic of your goals. We all just want a life that has as much ease and joy and goodness as possible. The other things are aways going to come.”

Hoff plans to continue to support

people in achieving balance and harmony in their lives, whether they want to see it from a scientific viewpoint, a spiritual aspect, or a combination of both. “The work is so fulfilling; it absolutely lights me up,” Hoff says. “Whenever people say things like, ‘You changed me,’ I always remind them that they did it, but I say thank you for letting me be a part of it.”

Dari Kotzker resides in Bucks County with her husband and four kids. She has worked as a reporter in television news and print media since 2001.

JANUARY 2026 |

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Step Into the

Spotlight

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i

UnScripted Productions offers creative thinking, laughs, and life lessons through improv.

BY DARI KOTZKER

Opposite page: Will Dennis, founder and lead facilitator of UnScripted Productions Below: Will Dennis teaches his class the improv technique of “Yes, and…”

IMAGINE STANDING with a group of strangers on a stage together, ready to perform a scene, with no script in hand, and only using improvisational skills. To some, this scenario may be intimidating, while to others, it’s a chance to express themselves creatively. At UnScripted Productions, students of all ages can take improv classes resulting in lasting friendships, nonstop laughter, and increased confidence.

“What improv does is teach things like self-confidence, social awareness, listening, effective communication, and acceptance,” says Will Dennis, founder and lead facilitator of UnScripted Productions. “People who take classes are able to reconnect with a piece of themselves they hadn’t touched for a while.”

Dennis had a passion for theater from a young age, and he was introduced to improv in high school. After graduating college, he pursued acting locally and started teaching some improv classes for a theater in Montgomery County.

Seeing his students learn improv skills and gain a renewed sense of confidence from his teachings pushed him to open a studio solely dedicated to improv.

“I want to pass this on to as many people as possible,” Dennis says.

“Our approach is to help people show up better in the world, for themselves and others. Where other improv companies may be performance-centric, comedycentric, we treat those as amazing byproducts of being humancentric, which allows our students to be better improvisers and better humans.”

PHOTOGRAPHS BY JENNIFER JANIKIC PHOTOGRAPHY

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OPENING DOORS TO CREATIVITY UnScripted Productions initially opened in Newtown in 2018, but once Covid hit, they went online. In 2021, Dennis decided to re-open a brickand-mortar studio in Washington Crossing. He says this location is accessible to so many towns in Bucks County and across the river.

“Throughout Bucks County, there are all these pockets of creativity,”

he says. “We looked at Washington Crossing because it’s got beauty, it’s got charm, it’s got history, and it also puts us in the center of a community that can draw from other communities.”

Upper Makefield resident Kevin Parham has been taking classes for the past three years. “I saw an ad for UnScripted Productions and signed up wondering what Buck County can do for improv,” he says. “When I took

my first class, I was like, ‘Wow,’ and I’ve taken every class they’ve offered.

I love the spontaneity, the challenge, the skills you develop. It’s so much fun.

It’s incredible to have something like this so close.”

When introducing the art of improv to people, Dennis says he uses reference points such as the shows “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” or “Curb Your Enthusiasm.” This art form is learning to work without a script, usually through gameplay. The studio offers classes ranging from beginners to higher levels where people perform in front of audiences. There is a short form, which is mostly game play, and long form, where people are creating something out of nothing over the course of 10 to 15 minutes. No matter what class or skill set you choose, improv provides a safe and hilarious environment for all.

“The nature of the unknown allows for laughter to come,” Dennis says.

“Part of the magic of improv is that it makes you feel safe, and then you experience the joy of laughter. The nature of the games we put people in, especially giving adults permission to play again, results in organic belly

Left: UnScripted Productions student Nicole Zamerovsky participates in an improv game.

Above: Will Dennis leads improv workshops for businesses and nonprofit organizations.

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laughs. It’s a celebration of laughter that you don’t get in most outlets.”

Dennis is a high-school teacher, and he started an improv club at his school.

He also offers studio classes geared to children and teenagers because he has found improv helps adolescents with their social and emotional skills.

“It’s amazing how this affects young people, especially in a screen-centric world,” he says. “This opportunity to come together with their peers—a lot of times they have never met before— to put the phone down and to have screen-free interactions is one of the most beneficial things you can do right now.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF SONY PICTURES TELEVISION

LEADING WITH ‘YES, AND…’ Within the first year of opening UnScripted Productions in Upper Makefield Township, Dennis was asked by a friend to bring his improv skills and teachings to his friend’s workplace. This first venture was wildly successful, and Dennis has now facilitated workshops for thousands of employees at pharmaceutical companies, corporations, nonprofit organizations, and schools. Improv skills can be utilized by incorporating them into people’s work on a daily basis, to help resist burnout and build

Above: Upper Makefield resident Kevin Parham (far right) has been taking improv classes for three years.

Below: Will Dennis appeared on “Wheel of Fortune” in September 2025.

trust among co-workers and clients.

“There’s a phrase in improv, ‘Yes, and…’ and it’s sort of the core building block for collaboration,” Dennis says.

“The desired outcome for these various organizations is how to show up as a better team and improve leadership and communication. They tend to be the big three things we work on.”

Dennis encourages both introverts and extroverts to experience an improv session. He says the start of a new year is the perfect time to try something different. Besides learning new skills, he says that many of his students who have met at the studio are now close friends.

“We often talk about how our improv class is the best class you never knew you needed,” he says. “It’s perfect for people who want to cross something off their bucket list or fulfill a New Year’s resolution because it stays with you forever.”

UnScripted Productions student Nicole Zamerovsky comes up with an adventure goal at the beginning of each year, and trying an improv class was one of them. “I went to one class, loved it, and then kept signing up. It’s just fun, creative, a great outlet socially, a great stress relief, and I’ve made a lot of new friends,” she says. “Will is amazing— he creates a supportive, inclusive

environment and really fosters a sense of a community.”

CONFIDENCE IN ACTION Dennis’ experience being onstage came in handy recently when he had the opportunity to be a contestant on “Wheel of Fortune.” He has always been a fan of the TV show, and his wife encouraged him to apply. After a threeyear process, he was asked to go out to Los Angeles last May. His episode aired in September 2025, and he took home $10,000.

As for the future of his improv business, Dennis plans to continue to grow his studio offerings and his team dynamic work with companies and organizations. He has experienced teachers working with students, and some have gone on to perform at improv theaters in New York City.

“The idea of coming together around something like laughter and play has been transformational for so many people,” Dennis says. “The opportunity to do something that is creative, freeing, and builds connection is such a gift.”

Dari Kotzker resides in Bucks County with her husband and four kids. She has worked as a reporter in television news and print media since 2001.

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LI FE OUTDOORS

Travel Time

Prepare to take off on a ski, beach, or adventure trip.

BY ADRIENNE SASSON

THE FESTIVE SEASON is over, and winter is in full swing. It’s the perfect time to plan a trip for when the snow starts to melt and springtime emerges.

Will your skis want one last turn in the crisp mountain air, or do you crave sunshine and sea or adventure?

BANK SOME SNOW DAYS Heading West to the mountains of Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming is a great location for ski season. Choose premier ski resorts in Breckenridge, Jackson Hole, Park City, and more, where elevations touch the sky, overlooking scenic, deep valleys and thrilling runs to match your expertise. While there,

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Opposite page: Top: Ski Beaver Mountain in Utah.

CREDIT: JAY DASH PHOTOGRAPHY

Bottom: Sink into Costa Rica’s hot springs.

CREDIT: COURTESY OF ADRIENNE SASSON

This page: Top: Take a helicopter ride over St. Lucia.

CREDIT: COURTESY OF ISLAND ROUTES

Bottom: Enjoy boating in Baja California.

switch up the view with snowmobiles for an exhilarating adventure where skis won’t go. After a day in the snow, enjoy a cup of hot chocolate in the lodge, and then return to your room for some rest. In the evening, stroll through the village and choose from an array of pubs and restaurants for dinner.

SENDING WARM WISHES Looking to thaw the chill in your bones? The Caribbean Islands and Central America offer plentiful options.

The Caribbean, home to over 700 islands, cays, and reefs—inhabited and uninhabited—is famous for its warm beaches and translucent waters filled with marine life. A variety of options, from active to serene, also await throughout this region. Greet your driver as you step from your plane or yacht, and let them whisk you away to your retreat.

St. Lucia, the “Hawaii of the Caribbean” is famous for its lush gardens, coastal mountains, and evening fun. The majestic Pitons offer sweeping views of the island while testing your endurance on mountain trails. Ride an ATV through the lush

forest, then cool off under a waterfall with a picnic lunch. In the evenings, the rhythm of the Caribbean comes alive at resorts, local restaurants, and Friday night’s Fish Fry, where guests and islanders dance together. The next morning, sink into the sand to relax on one of the island’s incredible beaches.

For quieter atmospheres, arrive in St. Kitts or St. Barts by chartered plane and head to your private villa or boutique resort. By day, stretch out on the beach or near the pool where the concierge will tend to your every wish. Alternatively, yachts are ready to sail for daily fishing or diving activities.

In the evening, dine at sumptuous restaurants where you may see stars— not just in the sky but maybe a glimpse of your favorite celebrity.

ADVENTURE-SEEKERS UNITE Switching gears for adventure, head to Costa Rica, or Baja California Sur or Los Cabos in Mexico, where you’ll find active vacations with gorgeous scenery, rugged coastlines, and experiences of a lifetime.

Costa Rica is rich with rainforests, waterfalls, nature, and the famous Arenal Volcano. Experience a lush forest trek and cross a hanging bridge above small waterways created by waterfalls while listening to songs of nature. After your hike, cool off in the welcoming waters or float the rapids. Nature discoveries are endless with diverse bird species, sloths hanging upside-down, and monkeys racing through vines. Red-eyed tree frogs watch the world by night. On the ground, iguanas, tapirs, armadillos, ocelots, and other creatures share territory.

In Baja California Sur, hike rugged coastal terrain, experience desert and ocean views, visit Bohemian villages, and taste local cuisine.

Los Cabos has its own kind of fun: Imagine snorkeling with whale sharks, the ocean’s gentle giants in the winter.

Where will you be off to this year?

Adrienne Sasson is a travel specialist with Rubinsohn Travel. She has been crafting extraordinary travel experiences since 1996 and specializes in creating unforgettable journeys tailored to clients’ dreams.

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LO CAL EX PERT | HOM E DESIGN

Stay Current With

COURTESY OF CAMBRIA

COUNTERTOPS Incorporate these style details to give your kitchen surfaces new life.

BY DOMINIQUE WILLIAMS ONE OF THE MOST impactful yet often overlooked home improvement moves you can make is updating your countertops. They’re both utilitarian workhorses and major aesthetic statements in any kitchen.

In 2026, countertop trends reveal a fascinating blend of elegance, material innovation, and practical living. Here’s a breakdown of what’s popular and how you can make smart, stylish choices for your own space.

COLORS, TONES, AND FINISHES • The era of ultra-cool greys and stark whites is giving way to warm, earthy neutrals such as taupe, sand, cream, and soft camel.

These tones pair beautifully with wood, brass, or black accents.

• Pops of color are also increasingly popular. Deep greens and burgundy-toned stones are being used as focal points.

• Finishes matter, with an eye toward less polish, more tactility, and less glare. Matte, honed, and leathered surfaces are on the rise.

EDGES, FORM, AND DETAILS • Edge profiles are no longer afterthoughts. Designers are specifying more expressive details, turning edges into design

COURTESY OF VETRAZZO

MATERIALS THAT MATTER • Retro-inspired surfaces are having a moment right now—think playful chips and texture.

• Quartzite (natural) and engineered stone made from recycled content are growing in popularity for their mix of beauty and durability.

• Materials that offer improved performance are expected to lead in the new year. Stain resistance, low

maintenance, and sustainability are increasingly key.

statements with curves and beveled or framed profiles.

• Less-bulky looks and sleeker visual lines are trending, especially when paired with modern cabinetry. The popularity of 2-centimeter slabs is rising.

• Mixed materials are everywhere. Different counter surfaces are being used within the same kitchen (island versus perimeter).

Combining stone with wood/metal is also popping up for functional zoning.

SUSTAINABILITY AND INTEGRATION • Sustainability is no longer optional. Recycledcontent slabs, low volatile organic-compound finishes, and less intrusive fabrication practices are becoming design mandates.

• Seamless integration is key. Countertops flowing up into backsplashes, waterfall edges at islands, and minimal visible seams all lend a high-end, sculptural look.

WHAT’S FALLING OUT OF STYLE • Overly busy granites (especially browntoned) are considered a dated look for 2026.

• Uniform, builder-grade white quartz may feel plain in upcoming designs as the trends prefer material with character.

• Simple subway-tile backsplashes with heavy contrast counters are giving way to large slabs and full-height treatments.

Updating your countertops in 2026 is less about chasing flash and more about making a statement that stands the test of time.

Dominique Williams is the vice president of sales and marketing for Suburban Marble, Granite & Tile. She is responsible for inside and outside sales, marketing programs, and the Warminster showroom.

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LO CAL EXPERT | REAL ESTATE

Market Forecast

Navigate the Upper Makefield market with these tips from a local expert.

BY GREG DWORNIKOWSKI

WITH THE TURNING of the page on another year, homeowners and aspiring homebuyers alike are wondering what 2026 will bring with respect to buying, selling, and financing. There are lots of questions swirling around the topics of ongoing economic strength, inflation, and interest rates—all which impact decisions people make about their real estate moves.

MAKING SENSE OF MORTGAGE RATES Mortgage rates are currently hovering around 6.1%, the lowest in the postCovid era. While that may seem like news to applaud, it’s noteworthy that many homeowners bought or refinanced during the pandemic, when the Federal Reserve significantly lowered interest rates to stimulate the collapsed economy. As a result, a

vast proportion of homeowners have mortgages in the 3% range. To them, the idea of making a move to a new home and obtaining a new mortgage in the 6% range seems unpalatable. This has been a major factor in our real estate market, as many discretionary sellers have chosen to stay put in their current home with their current low-rate mortgage.

As a result, the supply of homes for sale has remained suppressed, and when matched with steady demand, price levels have risen notably. This can seem counterintuitive, since historically, higher mortgage rates translate into lower housing prices. Not the case now.

DON’T WAIT TO LIST The listed volume of for-sale real estate in Upper Makefield Township was $15 million in November 2023, $13 million in November 2024, and only $9 million in November 2025. The total listed volume during March, April, May, and June 2025 averaged around $30 million each month. With listed volume now being only one-third of what it was a few months ago, every home on the market gets more visibility due to the reduced competition. If you are ready to sell now, list now—there’s no need to wait until your mulch gets delivered in the spring.

WAIVING HOME INSPECTIONS We continue to see the greatest demand for well-priced, well-maintained, and updated homes. In multiple offer situations, we often find the key to bidding success being a cash offer with the inspection contingency waived.

While realtors advise that getting a home inspection is always in a buyer’s best interest, the waived inspection contingency is often the key to landing a winning bid. However, this decision depends on the nature and condition of the property and the risk tolerance of the buyer.

MANAGING MARKET UNCERTAINTY Lots of questions remain as to what 2026 will bring for our residential market. Interest rates aren’t expected to move downward significantly, and the constrained market conditions are expected to continue. The best advice is to consult with a capable, experienced realtor to help you formulate a winning strategy for achieving your objectives.

A resident of Washington Crossing, Greg Dwornikowski is a luxury real estate agent at Addison Wolfe Real Estate and has an MBA in finance and real estate from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

UPPER MAKEFIELD REAL ESTATE MARKET TRENDS Number Sold & Price Sold

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Cheers TO OUR FIRST YEAR! A heartfelt thank you to our readers, story subjects, and advertisers for an outstanding year.

We can’t wait to continue sharing our community’s wonderful stories with you.

To become an advertising partner, please contact publisher Laura Lazar at laura.lazar@uppermakefieldmag.com.

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PHOTO OP

WINTER SERENITY IN THE MIDST OF a heavy snowstorm, photographer Josh Friedman took this photograph of the historic Thompson-Neely Grist Mill, in front of Bowman’s Hill Tower. “This is another Bucks County scene that I have photographed many times over the years, but the fresh snow gave a new look and feeling to the setting,” he says. “Manipulating the camera is always a bit tricky on these bitter cold, snowy days, as it always helps to briefly take off my gloves when I adjust my settings.

That said, I love taking photos in the winter, as a fresh coat of snow always adds a peaceful, serene feeling to our familiar landscapes.”

Friedman recently published a 2026 Bucks County, Pennsylvania, wall calendar that highlights each of the county’s beautiful, distinct seasons. For more information, check out his online Etsy shop—JoshFriedmanPhoto.

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Have a fabulous Upper Makefield photo?

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