UpperMakefield
16 Devoted to Design Distinguished interior designer Rafael Novoa continues to leave his aesthetic mark throughout Bucks County and surrounding areas.
20 Scoring With Sourdough
Upper Makefield resident Chrissy DeForrest gets back to the basics with her homemade bread venture.
24 A Love of Learning
Newtown Friends School implements a new program to teach students to be active, lifelong learners. IN EVERY ISSUE 4 PUBLISHER’S NOTE So Much to Be Thankful for 6 LOCAL PULSE Bite-Sized Updates 8 Q&A Greg Dwornikowski
for Thanksgiving
Between the Lines
to Better Health
This November, as we embrace the spirit of Thanksgiving, we’re taking a moment to reflect on the season of gratitude, togetherness, and community. It’s a time to appreciate the warmth of family, the strength of community, and the many blessings we often take for granted. Most of all, we are deeply thankful for YOU – our wonderful customers –whose continued support means the world to us.
From our family to yours, thank you for being a valued part of our Voltage Bikes Family!
Get out there, embrace the season, and make every fall moment unforgettable! Limited Time November Discount –Don’t miss out! Call for Details. $100
We also assemble and test ride your new E-Bike to ensure that everything is just right before your first ride!
Email: 1voltagebikes@gmail.com
PUBLISHER’S
SO MUCH TO BE THANKFUL FOR
NNOVEMBER IS HERE, bringing with it all the excitement and anticipation of the months ahead. Many of us have our homes and entertaining on our minds— making sure our spaces are warm, welcoming, and ready for guests. We’re also planning the meals we’ll prepare and the gatherings we’ll share with friends and family. It’s a time when we naturally reflect on the meaning of the holidays and the importance of caring for one another and being good citizens. In this issue, we hope to inspire you on all these fronts.
If you’re looking for some design inspiration, don’t miss our feature story on Rafael Novoa Interior Design. Rafael’s educational foundation and design expertise blend creativity, architecture, color, and vision to create inviting spaces for both homes and businesses. Whether discussing design or life, Rafael and his partner, Robert Lieberman, bring warmth, joy, and true delight to every conversation and gathering.
Of course, no holiday table is complete without bread. If you are lucky, you might be able to score a sourdough loaf from The Little Wildflour at one of Chrissy DeForrest’s local pop-up events. Chrissy has channeled her experience in modeling beautiful clothing into creating amazing sourdough perfect for gorgeous tablescapes. This is inspiration for your tastebuds and your table.
Continuing the theme of inspiration, Newtown Friends School is bringing a new dimension to education by implementing the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme for learners ages 3 to 12. With its six transdisciplinary themes— ranging from sharing the planet to how the world works—this program fosters inquiry, curiosity, and a lifelong global perspective.
For our runners, this might be the time to try a local Turkey Trot. You’ll find a roundup of area holiday runs in this issue. If the arts are more your speed, spend time learning about Rebecca Kelly, whose work beautifully blends narrative and visual storytelling. And for readers, don’t miss our list of book recommendations—perfect to enjoy yourself or to consider as thoughtful holiday gifts. This issue is especially meaningful to me— it’s our first November issue and marks just one month before our one-year anniversary. I want to take this opportunity to thank the entire Upper Makefield community. Publishing this magazine and getting to know so many of you over the past 11 months has been an absolute joy. Your stories, kindness, and support have been the true inspiration behind every page. Wishing you a wonderful November and a very happy Thanksgiving.
Warmly,
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 Deborah Pomroy
Christine Razler
Ashara Shapiro
Liz Young
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 2025 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.
COMMUNITY DAY FUN
Upper Makefield Community Day took place on Sept. 21 at Brownsburg Park. The township, along with the help of many volunteers, planned a day filled with activities for all ages.
SPECIAL RECOGNITION
L to R: Upper Makefield Fire Company Chief Tim Brewer; Officer Eric Farra; Officer Harry Vitello; Officer Vitello’s daughter Holly; Seargent Grard Russi; Upper Makefield Police Department Chief Mark Schmidt; Officer Dakota Romberger; and Upper Makefield Township Supervisor Tom Cino
Upper Makefield Police Department Officer Harry Vitello received the Delaware Valley Association of Professional Police Officials Legion of Excellence Medal for his life-saving actions during the unprecedented flash flood in July 2023.
OPENING NIGHT
The Phillips’ Mill Community Association held its 96th Annual Juried Art Show reception on Sept. 19 as a preview for patrons and artists. This event highlights the works of local artists, and all pieces are available for purchase.
ANNUAL TREE LIGHTING
Kiwanis Washington Crossing-Yardley will hold its annual tree lighting and Santa visit on Nov. 28 at Washington Crossing Historic Park. This is also the kickoff for the Upper Makefield Fire Company’s annual food drive.
Left: Shawn Campbell, this year’s Honored Artist, with her ceramic sculpture ‘Hopeful.’
and Jane Ford-Hutchinson, Board President
L to R: Upper Makefield Township supervisors Braun Taylor, Tim Thomas, Thomas Cino, Yvette E. Thomas, and Ben Weldon. PHOTOS BY KARI RIES
Far
Near Left: Paul Klug, Juried Art Show Chairman,
PHOTOS BY JAMIE LEMBERG
A Passion for Home
Local resident and real estate agent Greg Dwornikowski shares Upper Makefield’s greatest selling points.
GREG DWORNIKOWSKI started his career as a Certified Public Accountant in Philadelphia. He received his Master of Business Administration at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania where he dual-majored in real estate and finance. At Pitcairn Properties, he managed a national portfolio of residential, commercial, and retail assets. Ten years ago, he moved to Addison Wolfe Real Estate based in New Hope.
Here, Greg shares his thoughts on what makes Upper Makefield Township special to so many people.
Why do you enjoy working in real estate in Upper Makefield and surrounding areas?
I love selling real estate in Upper Makefield. Having owned a home and lived here with my family for the past 13 years, I know what a special place this is. As such,
I find it easy to “sell” since I know it firsthand and believe in it. I enjoy using my financial and marketing skills in a personal way to help people get where they want to be. It’s very rewarding to help clients get to the finish line and see their joy.
Why is Upper Makefield a great place to buy a home?
It is such a special place on so many levels. The location, with easy access to Philadelphia, Princeton, and New York, makes it an ideal commuter destination. Oftentimes, that is what first grabs buyers’ attention and draws them to the township. Adding in the natural beauty of the rolling topography and spectacular river frontage makes the area irresistible.
I often discuss with buyers how the township has preserved a large proportion of its undeveloped land by purchasing the development rights to ensure that the vast natural beauty of the township remains for future generations to enjoy. This has big selling appeal.
What advice would you give to potential sellers and buyers in the area?
Nowadays, any time is a good time to sell. I’d say, work with an experienced, capable realtor who understands the
local market dynamic and can guide you through the selling/buying process. This is key in this competitive market. Specifically, for sellers, make sure your home is properly prepared with deferred maintenance items addressed, spaces decluttered and properly staged, and very importantly, properly priced.
When someone is selling or buying, what is usually the No. 1 selling/buying point?
Location, and by extension, school district is often the No. 1 consideration. Getting past that, the condition and up-to-datedness of the house are also important considerations. Buyers are often two-career households with little time or appetite for house projects. The more turnkey a house appears, the more desirable it becomes. The most important areas of the house for buyers are the kitchen and bathrooms. If these are updated to be on-trend, buyers often will forgive other shortcomings of the property.
What do you enjoy about living in Upper Makefield?
I love the scenic beauty of Upper Makefield and all the activities that it enables. I love walking and riding along the beautiful canal towpath, attending the concerts and markets in Washington Crossing Historic Park, and spending time with my family attending shows at the Playhouse and enjoying our wonderful local restaurants. I love the convenience of this location and how easy it is to enjoy all that Philadelphia and New York have to offer, too. Upper Makefield is good for your soul; it recharges you and helps you to be in a mindset to be at your best.
INTERVIEW WITH GREG DWORNIKOWSKI
ALL SET FOR Thanksgiving
Add warmth to your holiday table with color, texture, and love.
BY DEBORAH POMROY
THE HEART OF Thanksgiving is truly about gathering with loved ones, sharing a savory meal, and being thankful for all the wonderful blessings in your life. It is such a magical idea and a perfect time to incorporate treasured family pieces into your table setting. With the dining table as a beautiful focal point, you will find such joy in creating warmth by weaving together a selection of family treasures, linens, candles, and florals to delight your guests.
LINENS AND LAYERS
For the base, textured linens in darker colors can beautifully cradle your china, stemware, and decorative items. A gentle accent color or subtly patterned table runner can lovingly tie together the décor, bringing a cohesive look. Embroidered linens that are family heirlooms can especially add warmth and fond memories to your table.
SEASONAL ITEMS
Fall is a season of bountiful harvest and reflecting that abundance in your tablescape can be achieved effortlessly by loosely arranging a collection of gourds with locally sourced dried materials, such as bittersweet, pods, and Chinese lantern. Create memories with your children, as they carefully place each gourd or even add their own small pieces of artwork among the grouping.
CANDLE CHOICES
Candles can add an elegant touch to any table. Wax or battery-powered tapers work nicely with dining tablescapes. Dark-colored candles are quite in vogue, so do not be afraid to use deep brown, burgundy, or black. Glass hurricanes over your taper candles add an extra touch of safety and charm. To prevent wax dripping on your linens, a small glass coaster or mirror can be placed under the candlestick, both reflecting the room’s lighting and adding a bit of sparkle. Heirloom candleholders carry with them the sweetest memories.
FLORAL ACCENTS
Lush, elegant florals are perfectly suited for a Thanksgiving table. Whether it is one perfectly placed center floral or a grouping of smaller florals and
bud vases, flowers can be a defining factor. The textures abundant in the fall offer so many choices. Dahlias, roses, ranunculus, and hydrangea in jewel tones can perfectly set the mood. Whether designing your own tablescape or seeking a professional, consider using an heirloom bowl or compote as your vessel.
However you choose to decorate your holiday table, the main idea is to gather items that will bring you warm memories of your blessings and a deep sense of gratitude.
Deborah Pomroy is the director and educational, event, and floral coordinator at Seasons Garden Center in Washington Crossing. She holds a bachelor’s degree in ornamental horticulture from Delaware Valley University.
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.
“Dog Crossing” by Rick Wortzel
Trotting Together
Grab your family and friends for a festive Thanksgiving morning tradition.
BY DARI KOTZKER
ON THANKSGIVING morning, more than a million Americans will lace up their sneakers and participate in a turkey trot race. Participants of all ages and levels will be a part of the biggest running day of the year. This tradition started in 1896 in Buffalo, New York, when the local YMCA hosted an 8K crosscountry race on Thanksgiving Day with just six runners. The concept grew more popular over the years, and more turkey trots started to pop up all over the country.
Nowadays, it is common for there to be a charitable element to each race, and many people dress up in themed Thanksgiving
costumes. Whether you’ve participated in a turkey trot in the past or are interested in trying it out for the first time, make sure to sign up for one of this year’s local races or just come out to cheer on the runners. Either way, it’s a time for togetherness on this festive day.
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.
LOCAL TURKEY TROTS
Newtown Newtown Turkey Trot 5K Honoring Officer Brian Gregg Downtown Newtown www.runsignup.com/Race/PA/ Newtown/NewtownTurkeyTrot5k
Langhorne
35th Annual BCRR/Peruzzi Auto Group Thanksgiving Day 5 Miler/5K & One Mile Fun Run
Summit Square Shopping Center through Middletown Township to Core Creek Park loop www.runsignup.com/Race/PA/ Langhorne/BCRRThanksgivingDay
Lambertville, New Jersey/ New Hope
10th Annual Lambertville and New Hope Two Town Turkey Trot Streets of Lambertville, New Jersey, and New Hope www.lambertvillechamber.com/ turkey-trot
Hopewell, New Jersey
Hopewell Valley Turkey Trot 2025 Mercer Meadows, Rosedale Park - Federal City Road, Pennington, New Jersey
www.raceroster.com/ events/2025/108973/hopewellvalley-turkey-trot-2025
Philadelphia
Face to Face Turkey Trot 2025 Fairmount Park www.runsignup.com/ Race/PA/Philadelphia/ FacetoFaceTurkeyTrot
Princeton, New Jersey
Trinity Turkey Trot
Trinity Church, 33 Mercer St. www.trinityturkeytrot.org
Read Between the Lines
Rebecca Kelly’s pieces lie at the intersection of narrative and visual art.
BY ASHARA SHAPIRO
REBECCA KELLY’S work exists at the intersection of narrative and visual art, with a strong foundation in the book arts. Her practice emphasizes the sculptural and conceptual possibilities of the artist book, extending its traditions into 3D form. Contrasts of color—or their deliberate absence—reinforce the physical and conceptual presence of her sculptures and books.
Language is central to Kelly’s approach. Words, phrases, and coded text are embedded into her pieces, functioning as both visual elements and narrative tools. This use of text invites viewers to read and interpret, shifting them from passive observers to active participants.
LAYERED THEMES
Kelly’s work engages with ancient narratives of fertility, mortality, and renewal while connecting them to contemporary questions of identity, sexuality, and the natural world. The bustier sculptures, for instance, foreground female sexuality while referencing the seasonal death of trees. They carry both celebratory and elegiac qualities, reflecting cycles of growth, loss, and return.
Kelly’s work is marked by its deliberate concealment of meaning. Rather than offering direct interpretation, she layers her objects to allow multiple readings. This strategy places interpretation in the hands of the viewer and aligns her practice with artists who use symbolism to explore the space between personal experience and broader cultural narratives.
Her art demonstrates how narrative and performance can be translated into material form, producing works that are both conceptually disciplined and visually engaging.
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.
ART EVENTS
Check out these engaging exhibitions, performances, and gatherings throughout November:
‘Through the Artist Lens’ Third Annual Exhibition ArtWRKD
This juried exhibition celebrates diverse visions, perspectives, and interpretations through the unique eyes of artists. Nov. 7 to Dec. 28
‘Peter Paone: Not So Still Life’ Michener Art Museum
This exhibition features approximately 40 recent paintings by artist Peter Paone, along with examples of his drawings that inspired his finished still lifes. Oct. 11 to March 15
‘Works in Wood’ New Hope Arts
This annual show honors the rich cultural heritage of Bucks County woodworking while celebrating the new visions of the contemporary artists who reside in our region and beyond. Nov. 1 to 30
Rafael Novoa (right) and his partner, Robert Lieberman
Devoted to Design
Distinguished interior designer Rafael Novoa continues to leave his aesthetic mark throughout Bucks County and surrounding areas.
BY DARI KOTZKER
WWITH HIS ELEGANT decor skills, Rafael Novoa, owner of Rafael Novoa Interior Design, is a top talent in the interior design world. His signature aesthetics have been highly sought after and used in residential and commercial properties for decades. When walking into an empty room or one in need of renovation, this local designer has always had the innate ability to envision how to elevate the space to the next level.
Novoa’s father and mother were both from Madrid. Although he was raised in Virginia, Novoa was enriched by the
European influence from his parents, which inspired his future career path at a young age. “As a child, we went back and forth to Europe, but mainly Spain,” he says. “We constantly went to museums, castles, old villages, and saw architecture. It always fascinated me and always interested me.”
Many of Novoa’s family members pursued professions such as doctors, bankers, and lawyers, but there were also talented painters, sculptors, and landscape designers. In fact, his uncle
won the coveted award of Madrid’s architect of the year. This creative exposure was part of his upbringing.
Novoa was an excellent student, especially in chemistry. He attended Virginia Tech and a school in Switzerland (associated with Virginia Tech) for architecture. He started to acquire high-end architectural experience by working for a German firm from 1990 to 1992, where he managed and coordinated the construction and architectural drawings mainly for famous architect Frank Gehry. His career continued with top firms in Paris and Zurich before moving back to New York City.
PASSION PROJECTS
Novoa’s professional life continued to take interesting turns by working for three years in the restaurant industry, then opening his own architectural interior business in Manhattan in 1997. He eventually bought a country
One of Novoa’s favorite projects, a contemporary barn on Meetinghouse Road in Solebury Township PHOTOGRAPH BY JEFFREY APOIAN PHOTOGRAPHY NY
THANKSGIVING DESIGN TIP
From Rafael Novoa:
“Traditionally, the warm, yummy colors of autumn are one direction to take this time of year, but you also can get into the white palettes, which is unusual. Decorate white pumpkins and white gourds. Then, you can use the same setup for Christmas or Hanukkah. Since it’s all white, you just need to add some gold and silver. Now you’ve done two things—you took care of your Thanksgiving look and, without moving any of it, you can transition into your December look.”
house in Lahaska and found himself leaning more toward interior design.
“I went from being an architect at a large firm, mostly working on high rises, to having more of an attraction to interior designs,” he says. “I was able to work with artwork, sculpture, furniture with colors and textures, all kinds of media which I liked more than working as an architect.”
From 2000 to 2007, Novoa and a business partner opened Alba Home Furnishings and Interior Design in Frenchtown and Lambertville, New Jersey. He eventually started his own
business, Rafael Novoa Interior Design, originally based in New Hope and eventually expanded into Philadelphia and Palm Beach. Novoa says his design aesthetics range from European interiors with antiquities all the way to very modern and minimalistic.
“A lot of times, people don’t know how to put everything together, so I help them bring it down to a very few options to decide on,” he says. “When meeting with them, I keep them steered in a direction to make decisions. Color is always the first thing on my mind and whether we’re going to do a neural palette or something bold. Then I try to find unique pieces I find attractive and implement them in my design and offer them to my clients.”
Novoa says he likes to make projects a fun process for everyone. He works with budgets that best suit the needs of his customers and helps them figure out where and how to spend the money. He says one of the keys to his success is his constant research on what’s in style by going to cities like New York and the High Point Market in North Carolina, the largest furniture show in the world. Art, fashion, and film also influence his designs.
“If you look at a design magazine, I know where all the stuff comes from,” he says. “I make it a point to know that because I
PHOTOGRAPH BY GLENN RACE
research them, I go see them, and I find out who’s making the furniture for a company. I try to be on top of what’s going on in the design scene.”
THE MOVE TO UPPER MAKEFIED
About 15 years ago, Novoa worked on one of his favorite projects—a contemporary barn on Meetinghouse Road in Solebury Township.
“Rafael is a visionary,” says the local homeowner, Mark Waldman. “He took our drab, empty barn and transformed it into a magnificently radiant home bursting with light. He’s a genius. He’s creative and knows all the right suppliers. He and my wife shared a common vision for the project, and when everything was executed, it was great.”
While working on the property, Novoa’s realtor told him about a unique home with a barn on top of a mountain in Upper Makefield Township. When he saw it, he had to have it. He says he not only fell in love with the house but the entire area.
“I love Upper Makefield,” Novoa says. “I joined the Jericho National Golf Club for 10 years. I love Colonial Farms and being near the river and towpath. There’s just something secret about it; it’s tucked away. I think what I mainly love about it is the geography of it. There are so many beautiful homes in the area. Moving here was private and peaceful.”
ALWAYS ON POINT
Novoa lives with his partner of 25 years, Robert Lieberman, who was also in the
design world. They recently bought a second home in Newtown.
Although Lieberman is retired, Novoa consults him when making decisions on some of his design plans. Novoa says they have always valued each other’s opinions and like the same pieces and decor for his clients.
Since living in Bucks County, Novoa’s business has grown mostly through word of mouth and jobs are consistent. He’s had many clients in Upper Makefield. One of his newest commercial ventures is designing a restaurant in New Hope. In the world of interior design,
there are always new popular trends that work in both homes and commercial spaces.
“Wallpaper is a hot thing right now,” Novoa says. “People get scared because it’s permanent, but I’m seeing people be more out of the box and go in this direction. Another trend is color blocking, which is the use of contrasting blocks or panels of solid color used in fashion and design. At the restaurant I’m working on now, we’re taking five different colors and putting them all together.”
As for Rafael Novoa Interior Design, he says he has expanded to doing renovations and architectural designs. He also plans to broaden his work to Florida where there are more opportunities to create outdoor living spaces. No matter what the project is, his company is a full-service operation where he provides total oversight from the initial concept to the final product.
“I think my favorite part is when all of the elements come together,” Novoa says.
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.
Scoring With Sourdough
Upper Makefield resident Chrissy DeForrest gets back to the basics with her homemade bread venture.
BY DARI KOTZKER
AAS FAMILIES AND friends come together for their Thanksgiving dinners, many will break bread as they sit around a beautiful fall-inspired tablescape. This holiday is filled with many delicious foods, but many enjoy kicking off their meal with a fresh loaf of bread.
Chrissy DeForrest, Upper Makefield resident and founder/owner of The Little Wildflour, has been making homemade sourdough for the past two years and quickly learned how much people love it. “Once I got into the sourdough world, it brought an awareness of how much people really enjoy bread service,” she says. “I make my bread by hand, and since it’s the first thing they see when they sit down at a table, I try to make it attractive, delicious, fresh, and beautiful. If I bring
my loaves to my family and friends, it’s a special treat, and everyone gets very excited, which is amazing.”
CREATIVE AT HEART
DeForrest graduated from Council Rock High School and went on to have a successful modeling career in Europe and New York City. She was the face of a Bobbi Brown cosmetics campaign and modeled for Oscar de la Renta, J.Crew, and L.L.Bean.
“The exposure to the fashion world was such a gift in a sense because I was able to work so closely with some of the top designers in the world,” she says. “It felt like a master class in design because I spent so many hours with different fashion houses, learning the process from the sketch of a dress to its completion.”
DeForrest eventually married her high school sweetheart and settled in New York City with their children. Nine years ago, when pregnant with their third child, she and her husband decided to move to Upper Makefield Township to have more space and to be closer to their families and friends.
“It’s so interesting coming back as an adult and connecting with your community verses when we were in high school,” she says. “We love having the kids exposed to nature and all the beauty that brings. They really seem to thrive here.”
THE RISE OF A SMALL BUSINESS
DeForrest’s No. 1 priority has always been being a mother and a wife. However, two summers ago, she found a side project. Her mother-in-law gifted
her a sourdough starter that she made from scratch. DeForrest knew nothing about this type of baking. She still laughs that her first loaf was not as beautiful as she would have liked, but it tasted delicious. Her bread-making was a learning process, but once she understood the steps and science behind it, it intrigued her. She decided to share her journey and launch The Little Wildflour Instagram page where followers could have an inside look at the
sourdough process and see her final creations.
“The sourdough world can be completely overwhelming with rules to follow, temperature, and rest times, so my thought behind it was to cut corners to help women who are interested in bringing these basics back into the household and make it fun,”
DeForrest says. “I like to take it to another level where everything is done by hand. It’s amazing how just three ingredients (flour, water,
and salt) can make something so fresh and good for your body. And then the final step, which is the most attractive and appealing to me, is the scoring design.”
As soon as she launched her Instagram page, DeForrest was surprised by how fast and well it was received by the community. The initial goal was not to sell the bread but be more of a passion project. However, the positive feedback about her loaves and the creativity behind them had her taking many orders and looking for retail space.
In light of her business’ popularity, DeForrest is currently taking some
Chrissy DeForrest teaches her friend Diana Aarons how to make sourdough bread.
PHOTO BY CHRISSY DEFORREST
time to evaluate her next steps. She wants to keep the balance of raising her family and pursuing her business endeavors in a way where everyone wins. She plans to continue connecting with the community by holding sourdough classes, selling products in pop-up shops, and posting content as she evolves with her sourdough loaves.
A LABOR OF LOVE
With Thanksgiving and the holidays around the corner, now is the perfect time to try baking sourdough at home to serve at festive meals. DeForrest points out it’s a long process with different stages. To begin, she feeds her starter late at night. The next morning, it is active, bubbly, and ready to use. She then combines the flours, water, salt, and starter. Next, she shapes the loaves, puts them in bannetons, and refrigerates them overnight for a cold ferment. In the morning, she preheats the oven for an hour before baking the
bread for 45 minutes. DeForrest says the process is a great family bonding activity because her kids love to participate at various steps.
“There’s a lot that goes into it,” she says. “What I do is small batches, hand curated and cared for in each dough I’m making. Whether it be four loaves at a time or up to 18 loaves, it’s all done with the energy I’m giving at the moment.”
Among DeForrest’s many talents, she enjoys setting a tablescape in a creative way for every occasion, especially the holidays. She loves incorporating outside elements on the table, whether it’s an assortment of pumpkins from her garden or using beautiful branches from trees in her yard. To add to the ambiance, she uses lots of candles. DeForrest’s latest idea is to incorporate her
loaves of sourdough bread. She cuts them up with dips and homemade butter, making them not only more appealing to the eye but interactive.
Sharing her talents with her family and community is what DeForrest has found most rewarding since she discovered her baking talent.
“For me, my love language is baking and feeding people, whether it be my family or for an event,” she says. “One of my highlights is seeing people enjoy something I made that I put so much love and time into. That’s the most beautiful return I could ask for.”
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.
Right: Chrissy DeForrest loves the natural setting of Upper Makefield Township. In addition to her extensive garden, she raises chickens and bees.
A Love of Learning
Newtown Friends School implements a new program that teaches students to be active, lifelong learners.
BY DARI KOTZKER
W
WHEN PARENTS ARE deciding on their children’s education, there are many excellent schools in Bucks County. For those looking for an independent institution, a longstanding choice has been a Quaker education—it has existed for 336 years in the United States. The fundamental values and practices at the core of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) are called SPICES: simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality, and stewardship.
A COMMUNITY INSTITUTION
Newtown Friends School (NFS), serving pre-K to eighth grade, was started in 1948 under the care of the Newtown Monthly Meeting, which still exists today. Located down the hill from the Quaker high school George School, the two are separate institutions but share a campus. NFS Head of School Dana Harrison says this type of education and school culture welcomes people of all faiths and backgrounds.
L to R: Katherine Murphy, Newtown Friends School (NFS) Primary Years Programme Coordinator and Director of Strategic Initiatives; Dana Harrison, NFS Head of School; and Rebecca Niszczak, NFS Admissions Director
“Newtown Friends School has strong academics, but it also has a strong mission and culture of kindness, compassion, and caring, and will teach the kids how to advocate for themselves,” he says. “Additionally, they learn how to interact with adults, and develop strong habits of mind and academic and social skills that will serve them as they go to high school, college, and beyond.”
ACADEMIC ADAPTATION
To evolve in the education world, NFS makes strategic plans every few years. This year-long process provides opportunities for students, parents, faculty, and alumni to share their thoughts on what the school should focus on and what they want to change. One of the ideas that emerged from the last plan in 2022 to 2023 was creating NFS signature academic programs.
Throughout his tenure, Harrison observed that many NFS families had been educated around the world. A globally recognized International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma was already available at George School. The NFS community also recognized the strength of the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP), and Harrison felt it was a good fit since the values align closely with the Quakers.
“The IB PYP is a curriculum framework designed for learners aged 3 to 12 that focuses on developing the whole child into an inquirer both in the classroom and beyond,” says Katherine Murphy, NFS PYP Coordinator and Director of Strategic Initiatives. “It is structured around six transdisciplinary themes—how we organize ourselves, who we are, sharing the planet, where we are in place and time, how to express ourselves, and how the world works.”
According to NFS Admissions Director Rebecca Niszczak, the
benefits of the PYP program are plenty. “They include fostering a love of learning, encouraging global awareness and intercultural understanding, promoting student agency and independence, and building strong foundations in both academic skills and personal growth,” she says. “It prepares students to become active, compassionate, lifelong learners who can adapt to a changing world.”
A PLAN IN ACTION
Last year, the PYP was planned and implemented in NFS’s classrooms. Every grade works on the same unit for six to eight weeks, and it’s integrated
into all school subjects. The school is currently finishing up its candidacy phase in December/January and will be authorized next spring.
NFS kindergarten teacher Karolyn Crawn is thrilled to be a part of this teaching venture. One of her favorite projects since PYP started has been working on the unit of inquiry called “Where We Are in Place and Time.” She says this unit fit perfectly into a timeline project she works on with the kindergarteners, who were proud to present the finished project to their families.
“One of the greatest strengths as a teacher with this program is that you
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get to be creative and collaborate with your colleagues on the units,” Crawn says. “We want kids to be globally minded and think of the larger picture of what’s out there.”
A PARENT PERSPECTIVE
The vast majority of students live within 10 miles of the school. Upper Makefield Township residents James Demetriades and Laura Prosser, PhD, have two daughters who attend NFS. Demetriades was newly appointed to the School Committee, which helps to advance the mission of the
institution. The parents are happy with how teachers educate students to think critically, work collaboratively, and lead with compassion.
“What is most important for us in these formative years is to develop our daughters into strong, confident women, and we think Quaker education really provides that foundation,” Demetriades says. “I also think the size of the school and the community that exists within Newtown Friends School really help to foster confidence.”
Prosser appreciates NFS’s unique academic structure.
Right: Newtown Friends School kindergarten teacher Karolyn Crawn works with her students on the unit of inquiry.
An eighth-grade student and kindergartner read a book as part of the buddy program.
“The cross-curricular content of the primary years program enhances the depth of learning in each content area,” she says.
“For example, there are aspects of each unit being taught not only in reading, writing, and social studies but also threaded into math word problems, art projects, and music class selections. This depth of inquiry helps the students to make transdisciplinary connections and is very engaging.”
BEYOND THE CLASSROOM
In addition to the PYP program, NFS is known for its educational trips to Iceland and Costa Rica where students build teamwork, gain a global perspective, and learn about different cultures.
Another signature initiative that came from the latest strategic planning is the Capstone project where eighth graders are provided with an interdisciplinary learning experience that ties in everything they’ve learned in the Upper
School. There is also a favorite tradition that involves the entire school called the buddy program.
“The connections these children form are incredible,” Crawn says. “When we do eighth-grade
graduation, it never fails that one of the eighth graders talks about their amazing experience as an eighthgrade buddy and how they always strived to be a good buddy when they were in kindergarten.”
Harrison says he chose education as a career because it’s rewarding to watch a child grow from a shy little 4 year old to an eighth grader speaking at graduation. Every year, the school also continues to grow, learn, and adapt.
“As the world continues to change at a rapid pace, we are constantly working on what we need to do best to prepare our students to move on with confidence and success,” he says.
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.
Upper Makefield residents James Demetriades and Laura Prosser have two daughters who attend Newtown Friends School. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE DEMETRIADES FAMILY
Students and teachers from Newtown Friends School explore Iceland. PHOTO COURTESY OF NEWTOWN FRIENDS SCHOOL
EASY STEPS TO Better Health
Small commitments to a healthier lifestyle now can increase the payoff you’ll see in the future.
YOUR HEALTH and your money have a lot in common. You probably learned about the compounding effect of money when it comes to your financial future: making small, routine investments over time to derive the benefits of compounding growth. These small, consistent contributions are more than merely additive over time. You’re willing to bypass the immediate gratification of spending to reap the rewards of future growth. Why? Well, there’s enough historical evidence in the economy that supports further investment. This same compounding effect can be applied to your health. Small deposits in your health and well-being will create exponentially healthier outcomes over time.
When it comes to money, you probably have a financial goal in mind. There’s a vision that is well defined. But do you have a similar vision and defined goals for your health? With a vision, it’s easier to design a stepwise path forward. As with money, good health requires consistently investing in your future. Yet consistency poses challenges—we get stuck because small steps seem too small to make meaningful change and reaching our goal may take longer than expected; or sometimes our steps are too big, so we quit because the action is too much too soon.
The key to success is creating steps so tiny that they feel easy to follow. After mastering the first step, go a little bigger. Then master that before moving on. This is how to create compounding benefits over time and build your confidence toward bigger investments—in you.
BY CHRISTINE RAZLER
3 EASY WAYS TO INVEST IN YOUR HEALTH
Track your sugar intake for a week or two. Most Americans’ intake is far beyond what the human body can handle, resulting in a cascade of negative health outcomes. Being more aware of daily totals will help you make changes to reduce added sugar intake to 25 to 36 grams a day.
2. Eat more foods with a shorter ingredient list. Regularly consuming ultraprocessed foods (which typically have longer ingredient lists and a lot of added salt and sugar) increases a person’s risk of cardiovascular disease, certain cancers, obesity, type 2 diabetes, other medical conditions.
3. Improve your sleep habits. Getting at least 20 minutes of natural light exposure early in the day and limiting exposure to screens at night is a first step toward resetting your body’s natural sleep rhythm.
Gradually implementing these simple yet powerful steps can drastically change your health trajectory. You are worth this investment!
nationally board-certified health and wellness coach.
Christine Razler is the owner of Homegrown Pilates and Wellness Studio in Washington Crossing. She is a Pilates and corrective exercise specialist and
Fall Into Reading BOOKNOOK
It’s that time of year to give thanks for great books.
BY LIZ YOUNG
YOUNG READERS
POCKET BEAR
By Katherine Applegate
A perfect early reader chapter book, this story is heartwarming and gentle, as the smile, expression, and attitude of the main character, Pocket Bear, can attest. It has short chapters, simple sentences, and directness of plot and characterization. Start your bedtime chapter book reading with this new release from a timehonored author.
DETECTIVE BEANS
By Li Chen
Cats rule, as usual, with wit, cleverness, a sense of comedy, and hilarious adventure. This is a great introductory graphic short chapter book for your literary explorer who does not want a great story to end.
THE MILLICENT QUIBB SCHOOL OF ETIQUETTE FOR YOUNG LADIES OF MAD SCIENCE
By Kate McKinnon
Attending etiquette school is a recurring trial for three sisters, until they discover a mad scientist who can teach them
the power of scientific discovery. The comic relief in this story is much appreciated.
YOUNG ADULTS
NOT QUITE DEAD YET
By Holly Jackson
This book is a page-turner of mystery and horror by one of the best writers for young adult readers. The tension in this thriller is high, and the rewards are worth the read.
ADULT FICTION
THE CATCH
By Yrsa Daley-Ward
This debut novel takes risks in storyline and character development and succeeds with great panache and a singular ending. It’s not to be missed.
THE STOLEN LIFE OF COLETTE MARCEAU
By Kristin Harmel
This World War II historical fiction novel is written by one of the most successful authors this decade. Enjoy
this well-researched and finely written story that is a treasure of family lore with tragedy, joy, and triumph for the fall season.
THE LONELINESS OF SONIA AND SUNNY
By Kiran Desai
This cozy read should be your choice for a sweeping, multigenerational saga. One of the most anticipated books of the season, the reviews have been highlighted with superlatives, and having listened to the first few chapters, I concur.
ADULT NONFICTION
ALL THE WAY TO THE RIVER
By Elizabeth Gilbert
This personal memoir is about the author’s profound love for her friend who faces a terminal illness and their shared struggles of addiction. The book achieves a new level of disclosure and honesty that can be inspiring, and is deeply personal and wise.
BALDWIN: A LOVE STORY
By Nicholas Boggs
This sweeping biography is hailed as the definitive James Baldwin biography. It encompasses excellent research, perfect diction, refinement, and insight into a great mind. It is recommended for the casually interested and those who want to understand deeply the underpinnings of an extraordinary life.
Liz Young is the owner of the local bookshop Commonplace Reader (www.commonplace-reader.com), which just celebrated its five-year anniversary. Located on Main Street in Yardley, the shop hosts several adult book clubs each month along with kids’ activities on Saturdays.
PHOTOOP
A FALL MORNING
AS THE AUTUMN sun rose through the early morning fog, shining over the Delaware Canal and Towpath and the Thompson-Neely Camelback Bridge in the upper section of Washington Crossing Historic Park, photographer Josh Friedman was there to capture the moment. This is one of Friedman’s favorite sunrise locations in Bucks County, and it looked particularly beautiful on the morning that he took this photograph. It is a high dynamic range image from four exposures that he merged.
This will be the November image featured in Friedman’s 2026 Bucks County calendar, which will be available for purchase this month on his website. For more information and to view additional photos by Friedman, visit www.joshfriedmanphotography.net.
Have a fabulous Upper Makefield photo? Email it to editor@ uppermakefieldmag.com and it could be featured in an upcoming issue!
