UpperMakefield
A HOME FOR THE ARTS
PHILLIPS’ MILL COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
FOCUSED ON TEAMWORK
PATRIOT FC YOUTH SOCCER
A Prescription for Caring
MANOJ PARIKH
Manoj
keeps the community healthy with medicines and a dose of exceptional customer service.
Mill Juried Art Show underscores commitment to local artists.
FC has been scoring in Upper Makefield Township for decades.
A SEASON OF CHANGE
HHELLO, OCTOBER! There’s something special about this time of year. It might be the beauty in the change of seasons, or maybe I feel this way because it’s my birthday month. Either way, change is in the air. It’s time to grab a sweater on the way out the door, breathe in the fall air, and wonder if the day will bring us a taste of Indian Summer or the first true chill of the season.
This issue is filled with stories that are perfect for the seasonal transition. With school back in full swing and everyone spending more time indoors, we are fortunate to have a wonderful pharmacy right in the heart of our community. For the past four years, Heritage Pharmacy owner and pharmacist Manoj Parikh has carried on the tradition of making this independent pharmacy a truly special place by adding his own thoughtful touches for both
wellness and everyday living. Along with his wife, Nirali, also a pharmacist, they bring not only expertise but a dose of warmth and care—whether you’re filling a prescription, seeking advice, or simply picking up a sweet gift like a bag of chocolates.
If you’re looking for something special to do this month, look no further than Phillips’ Mill Community Association (PMCA). How fortunate are we to have a world-class art venue right in our backyard? Each September to October, PMCA hosts its annual Juried Art Show, showcasing works from both renowned and new Bucks County artists. The joy of living in this exquisite part of Bucks County is beautifully captured by many of the artists, performers, and photographers who share their work at Phillips’ Mill.
And of course, it wouldn’t be fall in Upper Makefield without Patriot FC. This wonderful soccer club has fostered teamwork, camaraderie, good sportsmanship, and plenty of talent among kids in our township and surrounding communities.
This month, you’ll also find spooky book suggestions, tips for carving your best pumpkin, and a classic cocktail recipe to try—the Diamondback. Whether you’re out and about enjoying the crisp air or cozying up inside, October has something for everyone. Enjoy the month—and I’ll see you in November.
Laura Lazar Publisher
P.S. Please remember to share story ideas with us. You can reach me at laura.lazar@ uppermakefieldmag.com.
Upper Makefield MAGAZINE
Publisher Laura Lazar
Local Editor
Dari Kotzker
Writers
Colleen Kenny
Rafael Novoa
Anthony Rudolf
Liz Young
Photographer
Jenny Janikic Photography LLC
Juan Vidal Photography
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.
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FIRE COMPANY CELEBRATES
On August 16, Upper Makefield Fire Company held its annual awards banquet at Makefield Highlands Golf Club. Many members and special guests were recognized for their accomplishments during 2024. Some of the honorees included George Pickering, for 45 years of service; Bart Krauss, for 35 years of service; and Joe Zingaro, as the top trainer in 2024.
Top right: L to R: Upper Makefield Fire Company Chief Tim Brewer, Life Member George Pickering, and President Chris Muth
Bottom left: L to R: Upper Makefield Fire Company Chief Tim Brewer, Firefighter Joe Zingaro, and President Chris Muth
KICKING OFF THE SCHOOL YEAR RIGHT
WATCH FOOTBALL FOR A CAUSE
Ther Upper Makefield Business Association hosts Life Is Good, an event to celebrate the life of Ed McAllister on October 19. Join in the fun at the Green Parrot in Newtown to watch the Philadelphia Eagles play the Minnesota Vikings at 1 p.m. All the funds raised go to the Ed McAllister Scholarship Fund for students attending Williamson College of the Trades. For additional information and to RSVP, please contact Caitlin McAllister Martino at 267-463-3691.
TOAST TO A LEGACY
Honor the legacy of Christine M. Carroll at the Crossing Vineyards and Winery in Newtown on November 2 from 2 to 5 p.m. The fundraiser, organized by the Carroll family, will raise money for the Eastern Pennsylvania Bleeding Disorders Foundation. There will be live music, food, wine, and beer. Make sure to wear your Philly sports apparel. For additional information, call 610-883-3266 or email info@epbdf.org.
Top left: L to R: Upper Makefield Fire Company Chief Tim Brewer, Life Member Bart Krauss, and President Chris Muth
Upper Makefield Township police officers and the D.A.R.E mascot prepare to welcome students at Sol Feinstone Elementary School on their first day.
Fall in Love with the Ride!
This fall, leave the car behind and cruise through the vibrant colors of autumn on our electric e-bikes! Whether you’re enjoying pumpkin patches, apple orchards, or just soaking in the crisp air, our e-bikes let you ride further, faster, and with ease.
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• Apple Orchard Outings
• Leaf Peeping Tours
Get out there, embrace the season, and make every fall moment unforgettable! Limited Time Fall Discount –Don’t miss out! Call for Details.
We Also Have E-Bike Rentals featuring brand new Bikes!
• Fun outings with family or friends
• Birthday celebrations
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Bravery in Action
Fire Chief Tim Brewer fights to keep Upper Makefield residents safe.
INTERVIEW WITH TIM BREWER
IN 1968, TIM BREWER’S family moved to Upper Makefield Township when he was just 5 years old, and he has lived here ever since. He joined the Upper Makefield Fire Company (UMFC) in 1980, served as chief from 1990 to 1996, returned to the UMFC from 1999 to 2011, then resumed the position again in 2013. He is currently an industrial fire chief and fire and rescue instructor for the Pennsylvania State Fire Academy and Bucks County Community College. Here, Brewer discusses his time with the UMFC.
Why did you get involved with the UMFC?
I was raised in the firehouse. My father was a member, so I followed in his footsteps and joined in 1980. Something my father said to me when I was young was to find something you love doing, do it well, and you’ll never work a day in your life.
What are your primary goals as fire chief and for the entire company?
I am part of a team of people that run the business of the fire company. My primary job is operations, which is to ensure the community is adequately protected, members are trained to standards, and equipment is in response condition. We are all professionally trained but do this job for free. We have fun together, but we’re incredibly serious when we need to be. We’re taught to think on our feet in critical and lifethreatening situations.
When we get a call, there are many things that go through our mind, like the lives of the people involved, time of day, weather, water supply, driveway access, how many firefighters are available, and what type of building or vehicle is involved. We’re thinking ahead of what we might be up against. The most rewarding part of my job is helping people in their time of need.
How do members of the UMFC impact the community?
Our fire company keeps you and your family safe, and we protect your property value. We respond to 220 to 290 calls a year. Some of the calls are thankfully not serious, like the occasional burned dinner or false alarm, but many are. We fight structural fires, extricate people from vehicular accidents, respond to medical emergencies, rescue residents from flooded areas, and assist with downed wires caused by storms. It can get dangerous very quickly, so when you have a group of people who are willing to do this job voluntarily, that makes it unique.
Why is fundraising important for the UMFC?
We can’t do what we do without the financial generosity of our residents. Donations enable us to do our jobs well and keep you, your family, and your property safe. Upper Makefield Township resident donations fund a significant portion of our operating budget, paying for fuel, utilities, equipment, maintenance, insurance, and other operating expenses.
What is something people would be interested to know about you?
I like to cook and bake and raise a vegetable garden, not just fish and hunt. My favorite activity in the area is mountain biking on the canal path.
FIRE PREVENTION WEEK 2025
October 5 to 11
This year’s theme is “Charge Into Fire Safety: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.” It focuses on the safe use of lithium-ion batteries to prevent home fires. Here are three key actions people should practice:
Purchase Safely: Buy only products that are listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory to ensure they meet safety standards.
Charge Responsibly: Use the appropriate charging equipment, avoid overcharging, and charge devices on hard surfaces.
Recycle Properly: Dispose of batteries at designated recycling locations to minimize environmental impact and safety risk.
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.
“River Between the Trees” by Shirley Mersky
Autumn Accents
Take cues from nature as the temperature drops, and warm up your home with seasonal décor.
BY RAFAEL NOVOA
THE FORECAST PREDICTS not only a change in the weather, but a change in design. It’s that time of year to transition from summer to autumn. The falling temperature and vibrant foliage are instrumental in directing how to approach sprucing up your curb appeal and interiors.
A PALETTE OF POSSIBILITY
The colors of fall are so integral to the beauty and strength of this vibrant and powerful season. Our gardens change from abundant vegetables and juicy tomatoes to large pumpkins, gourds, and feathery grasses. Summer’s bright pinks, purples, reds, yellows, and oranges are in transition. These colors are still present, but now they are in company with deeper tones of rust, bordeaux, and burgundy. The repeated shades of spring and summer get a twist of richness and warmth.
FLOWER POWER
Mums are by far the easiest design element to redefine curb appeal for
the new season. Don’t forget the fall grasses that enhance these colorful bouquets with rich tones of deep purple, dark green, light brown, and straw. Clusters of mum blooms define the entry of what to expect inside. The use of gourds, pumpkins, and grasses can further enhance the beauty of the mums.
DÉCOR THAT DAZZLES
As the warm weather wanes and endof-summer renovations, such as patios, terraces, pools, additions, and outdoor kitchens, finish up, it’s time to jump inside and redecorate. I recommend starting with the rooms that you’ll be
entertaining in now because before you know it, it will be a new year. Focus on the rooms where you will entertain family and friends throughout the next several months.
Accessorizing is the easiest way to introduce the change of seasons simply and tastefully. Pillows, throws, candles, wreaths, and centerpieces filled with dried gourds, pumpkins, and seasonal fruits are all good options.
Just like the outside of your home, enrich your interiors with the new colors of fall that call to mind the changing leaves. Be brave and try something new. Paint is the easiest way to transform a space, whether it’s an accent wall or the entire room. Another idea is to introduce a new piece of furniture in your entry foyer, den, living room, dining room, or kitchen. Whatever changes you decide, it always feels great to treat yourself to something that lasts.
Rafael Novoa is an interior designer whose firm has locations in Newtown and Philadelphia. His signature aesthetic fuses function, comfort, and expression, juxtaposing the ornate beauty of old-world craftsmanship against the clean lines and spare spaces of modern design.
A Prescription for Caring
Heritage Pharmacy’s Manoj Parikh keeps the community healthy with medicines and a dose of exceptional customer service.
BY DARI KOTZKER
WWHEN WALKING INTO Heritage Pharmacy in Upper Makefield Township, there’s an immediate smalltown feel with owner and pharmacist Manoj Parikh knowing customers by name. Parikh’s conversations go beyond a generic, “Can I help you find something?” He takes time to get to know his patients’ health histories, anticipates their medical needs, and even remembers important dates like birthdays or anniversaries.
“My favorite aspect of being an owner and pharmacist is interacting with the customers and making sure I’m helping patients out,” Parikh says. “It’s an honor to serve the local community that I have here. They are very loyal.”
Upper Makefield Township resident Rose Miller is a dedicated customer. “I love it here because it’s close by and the staff is so nice,” she says. “In fact, I’m here almost every single day. Manoj is so friendly and helpful. It’s very personal here, and he knows all of the needs for my husband and me.”
CARRYING ON A LEGACY
Parikh has always loved chemistry, biology, and math and knew he wanted to pursue a career in the medical field. He eventually decided to go the pharmaceutical route and received
his doctor of pharmacy from Temple University.
After working at Walgreens for 20 years, he was looking for a change. He found out that Heritage Pharmacy was for sale when the previous owner was retiring. In 2021, Parikh became the owner of the independent business. For more than 70 years, the property has been home to a pharmacy. In fact, there are antique medicine bottles and old prescriptions on display throughout the store.
“As the owner, it’s demanding, but rewarding,” Parikh says. “I look at things I never looked at in my previous job—I’m pretty keen on prices and ordering and forecasting what I’ll need. I believe all the patients stayed on when I took over. I know a lot of medicines they could get cheaper somewhere else, but they say we want to give you the business and keep you in town, and I really appreciate that.”
Heritage Pharmacy has two full-time staff members, both of whom worked for the previous owner. Parikh’s wife, Nirali, is also a pharmacist and started training in-house a few months ago.
The front of the store stocks a variety of typical pharmacy products, with greeting cards being the most popular items. On the medical end, the business continues to provide all health care
needs pertaining to prescriptions and other services like pill pack medicines for seniors.
Since taking over, Parikh has made a significant change by offering vaccinations to patients. “At Walgreens, I was in charge of COVID vaccinations for Bucks County, so I wanted to do vaccinations at Heritage,” Parikh says. “I knew I wouldn’t get clientele just by filling prescriptions, so I wanted to give even better service options. It was the best decision, because patients would come in, I’d get to talk to them, and they got to know me. The first flu season we did a
Top Left: Manoj Parikh and his wife, Nirali, stand in front of Parikh’s favorite Washington Crossing site.
Top Right: Upper Makefield Township resident Bart Krauss with Manoj Parikh
TIPS FOR COLD AND FLU SEASON
Manoj Parikh, owner and pharmacist of Heritage Pharmacy, offers this advice on how to protect yourself as autumn ushers in the beginning of cold and flu season.
• Get the flu vaccine in October.
• Keep social distance when somebody is sick.
• Maintain proper hygiene, including washing your hands regularly and always carrying hand sanitizer.
• Boost your immune system with vitamin C and zinc.
good amount, and the second season we tripled what we were doing.”
CARING FOR CLIENTS
Parikh’s connection to his clients has been expanded to the next level by taking his work out of the store and into the community. He partnered with a delivery company that transports prescriptions for a nominal fee to those who can’t come into the pharmacy and need their medication during the day. However, if it’s not an emergency, Parikh has been known to drop off medications at or administer vaccinations in patients’ homes after work, free of charge.
“Monaj and the staff are like having a concierge pharmacy,” Upper Makefield resident Bart Krauss says. “They really understand all the complexities around the drugs you are taking. Last September, I got hit
by a tree and it was pretty critical. My wife, who is a nurse, was taking care of me. She called Manoj and said I needed medication, and Manoj drove it over. He’s just great, a real pleasure.”
Heritage Pharmacy has a constant flow of people coming in daily to get prescriptions filled or purchase everyday needs. Parikh says there will be an uptick of customers in October with the start of flu season. He highly recommends patients get the flu shot each year, the RSV vaccine every two years, and the shingles shot as needed for those over 50. The earlier you get the vaccinations, the sooner they’ll take effect to fight potential illnesses.
As for the future, Parikh is hoping to move next door so the pharmacy can have a second floor for more storage. He says if they have better storage on the back end, then he can work on the logistics of cost control for
Above: Heritage Pharmacy staff
medications. The long-term plan is to continue to build up the business and keep adding personal touches for their customers.
He and his wife are delighted about how they’ve been welcomed into the community with open arms. In return, they like to pay it forward by sponsoring local organizations and causes and partaking in volunteer opportunities.
“It’s a small town, and we love the people here,” Nirali Parikh says.
“We socialize so much when the clients come in. The reason we do pharmacy work is because of the patient interactions, and I just love helping people.”
Parikh likewise believes in the importance of serving others. “I do this for the fulfillment of the profession,” he says. “I believe in karma. We want to make people’s lives better. Even if it’s something small that we do, that’s fine. We try to take care of them the best way we can.”
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.
Top right: Manoj Parikh helps Upper Makefield Township resident Rose Miller pick out a 50th anniversary card.
Bottom right: Manoj Parikh proudly stands in front of Heritage Pharmacy.
Bottom left: Upper Makefield Township residents and customers Rose Miller and Bart Krauss with Manoj Parikh
A Home for The
Arts
Annual Phillips’ Mill Juried Art Show underscores commitment to local artists.
BY DARI KOTZKER
WWHEN WALKING AROUND the gorgeous grounds of Phillips’ Mill in New Hope, one can envision its extensive history and how this location has impacted the community since it was built in 1755. What was once a working grist mill has evolved into the heart of Pennsylvania impressionists.
In the late 1800s, a physician named George Marshall purchased a number of acres that included the mill. He lived up the road in another building on the property called Lentenboden. Around the same time, a group of artists were forming the New Hope art colony, with
many living along the nearby canal. Marshall got to know the artists and used the mill as a place for them to meet and display their works.
Prior to his passing, Marshall wanted to ensure his property stayed on as a community resource, and he sold the land to the newly formed Phillips’ Mill Community Association (PMCA) in 1929.
“It’s a bit serendipitous,” says Paul Klug, the chair of the Juried Art Show at Phillips’ Mill. “It took someone like George Marshall, who had a sense of history as well as the future, to build
relationships with what he saw as a growing and exciting colony of artists who had a lot to contribute to the art movement. It was a community of people there that existed with the same shared goals.”
A SANCTUARY FOR ART
With the purchase of the mill came the establishment of an annual art exhibition—the Juried Art Show—at Phillips’ Mill featuring local artists’ works. Ninety-six years later, the tradition continues in the same space and has become a renowned event due to its longevity and quality of artwork. The local artist aspect remains a priority since all submitters must live within a 25-mile radius of the mill.
Almost a 100 years ago, the show featured mostly impressionists with oil paints and watercolors, but now includes pastels, sculptures, and a variety of mediums, both traditional and contemporary. Last year, 358 pieces of artwork were a part of the
Opposite page: Juried Art Show at Phillips’ Mill Chair Paul Klug, Phillips’ Mill Community Association (PCMA) Board President Jane Ford-Hutchinson, Upper Makefield Township resident and longtime PCMA member Joseph Demchur, and fine artist Jean Childs Buzgo
Top right: Signature image 2020 by Jean Childs Buzgo
Bottom left: Signature image 2025 by Jay McPhillips
show, and half of them sold.
“To be accepted is quite an honor,” PMCA Board President Jane FordHutchinson says. “We have three jurors from elite intuitions—this year the Brandywine Museum, the Woodmere Museum, and Barnes Foundation—who come together to decide which piece of artwork should be hung for the show. It’s very exciting to go and see what these specialists in the area recognize as a really good piece of artwork.”
Klug adds that the quality of the
work is topnotch. “It’s high-caliber art, high-caliber artists, and the show has a tremendous reputation around Bucks County as being the art event of the fall,” he says.
CREATIVE SURROUNDINGS
Bucks County continues to be a hot spot for painters, sculptors, and artistic minds. Ford-Hutchinson attributes this to the beautiful countryside, the Delaware River, and an overall idyllic setting for creativity to flourish.
Yardley fine artist Jean Childs Buzgo has entered the highly competitive Juried Art Show numerous times. Throughout the years, her artwork has faced rejection and acceptance into the show. Her perseverance paid off because in 2020 she was named the signature image artist, which means her painting of Phillips’ Mill was featured in the publicity for the show.
Childs Buzgo gained notoriety again last year when she won the award for a Landscape in the Style of the Pennsylvania Impressionists. Among artist circles, she says this is one of the top exhibitions to get into, and when one of the artists does get accepted, they all celebrate. Award winners get noticed professionally, which can open up additional opportunities for them.
“For me to get into this show is so prestigious and historical,” she says. “It speaks to the fact of how hard I’ve worked to develop my skill. It was a
dream of mine to become the signature image artist and to win an award, so I’m happy to say I’ve fulfilled those dreams.”
Upper Makefield Township resident Joseph Demchur has been a PMCA member for 30 years. He is an art appreciator and has purchased 10 to 12 pieces of different sizes over the years.
“The art show continues to be a generation point for Bucks County impressionists and new artists, and it spawns creativity and encourages artists to keep creating art,” he says.
“When you buy a piece, you feel like you’re supporting local artists.”
ALWAYS EXPANDING
Although the Juried Art Show is Phillips’ Mill’s biggest exhibition, new exhibits and programs for its members and the public have been added throughout the years to include a photography show, a members art show, a youth art exhibit, and an active drama program.
“There is such a variety of activities,” Ford-Hutchinson says. “It’s not just paintings we have but also photos, drama, and social events. People are so friendly, and it’s been rewarding to be a part of it. Everybody is so devoted to the cause of running the mill. It’s a group of very interesting people and a good way to connect with art.”
Back in the day, you had to be nominated to join the PMCA. However, starting in the 1990s, membership
Boardmembers Jane Ford-Hutchinson and Paul Klug
became open to anyone who wanted to join.
“They offer so many things as a member,” Demchur says. “Even after 30 years, you still get to know people who have a common interest in art, and you meet people you wouldn’t otherwise have met.”
As for the future of PMCA, there are annual fundraisers to keep the building maintained and updated, since it dates back to the 1700s. With the 100-year anniversary approaching in 2029, PCMA is already
starting to discuss ways to celebrate the milestone. Klug says to honor the 50th and 75th anniversaries, PMCA created a catalog and highquality coffee book highlighting artwork from the previous 25 years. Preliminary plans are underway to create a retrospective for the 100th celebration. “The centennial is pretty important for us,” Klug says. “Strategically, we are broadening our footprint to people who can appreciate the mill and become part of the community we built.”
Ford-Hutchinson is thankful for the dedicated volunteers who keep all the programs going. “They are very invested,” she says. “There’s a level of camaraderie and enjoyment.”
One of her goals is to make Phillips’ Mill more visible to the community.
“That’s something we’re going to be working on for the 100th anniversary,” she says. “We want people to know that this place is very special. It’s awe-inspiring that it’s been an artistic community for so long.”
The 96th Juried Art Show at Phillips’ Mill is on display until October 26.
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.
Jean Childs Buzgo’s painting that received the 2024 Award for a Landscape in the Style of the Pennsylvania Impressionists
Game On!
Local youth soccer club Patriot FC has been scoring in Upper Makefield Township for decades.
BY DARI KOTZKER
OON A TYPICAL FALL weekend morning, Brownsburg Park in Upper Makefield Township is filled with hundreds of boys and girls playing soccer and parents cheering from the sidelines. This is a familiar site for community members who’ve had children play this sport from a young age and progress in the game through
their teen years. Patriot FC is the intramural and competitive soccer club for Upper Makefield Township and its surrounding towns with 1,200 participants. Originally called the Upper Makefield Newtown Soccer Club, this small local youth soccer club was formed in 1980. Back then, games would be organized in public parks and
played mostly during the fall season. The organization evolved somewhat over the years, but underwent major changes after Gary Roberts moved to the area and joined the club with his young sons in the mid-2000s.
EXPERT LEADERSHIP
Roberts had played college-level soccer and used his knowledge of the game to help with coaching, training, and eventually running the travel program. He brought in Gavin Flannigan as the director of coaching and player development in 2010 to help recruit professional trainers and take the club to the next level. With the support of the members, the organization was rebranded to Patriot FC with the name reflecting the historic nature of Washington Crossing. Roberts’ vision and creation of certain teams created buzz in the soccer community and quickly attracted more members.
“The organization has become the best at technical development,” says Roberts, former Patriot FC president and current head of player pathways. “We do nothing with regard to winning until kids are age 15. I don’t coach a game with winning in mind. I don’t drive myself on results. What I drive myself on is making kids better and keeping them playing till they graduate high school.”
KICKOFF TIME
Patriot FC is a nonprofit organization, and its programs are geared toward different levels of interest for players. There are intramural teams that are most popular among younger kids but are available for all ages.
There are also full-year competitive travel teams that involve tryouts, training twice a week, and travel for tournaments.
“We have a myriad of programs that allow kids to play at the level that is most appropriate for their interest and ability,” says current Patriot FC Board President Rich Thomson, who became involved with the club 20 years ago when his daughters started to play. “Since we are a smaller club relative to others in the area, we can
be more personal. Each of the teams has more freedom to play in the right league, division, or tournament versus taking a one-size-fits-all approach. It allows them to target the development of those kids and do events that make sense for where they are in their soccer journey.”
The club has grown in many ways over the years. Initially, there were no fields with lights, but the organization purchased portable lights to play at Washington Crossing Park and
Opposit page, top: L to R: Aaron Falcone, Patriot FC board director of operations and parent coach; Gary Roberts, Patriot FC former president and current head of player pathways; and Jaime Marks Corvino, team manager and parent coach
eventually partnered with Council Rock North High School and George School to hold most of its training on those fields.
Roberts also invested in hiring professional or experienced head coaches for teams at the competitive level. Parents can still volunteer as board members, assistant coaches, or managers on the competitive teams and lead the intramural ones.
PARENTS WHO PITCH IN Patriot FC Board Director of Operations
Aaron Falcone helps with the strategic growth of the club and is involved as a parent coach. “Being a part of kids’ lives and influencing them in a positive way is a privilege and is special,” he says. “It’s really cool being able to teach them something and watch them execute it in a game from a soccer perspective. When they get off the field and are smiling ear to ear that they know they did the thing, it’s very cool.”
Jaime Marks Corvino is the manager for her son’s team and team manager/parent coach for her daughter’s team. She says she and another mom are only a few of the female coaches in the organization,
so it’s important for them to set an example of how women can be in leadership positions in soccer. Corvino finds the entire experience of parent coaching to be very rewarding.
“For us, it was a building a culture early on that the girls all support
each other, and that if we’re going to be competitive, it will be with other teams, not each other,” she says. “We’re going to always raise each other up. The reward is seeing that culture come to fruition.”
A WIN FOR THE COMMUNITY
Leaders of Patriot FC say the organization is a great asset to the community because it’s important to have the ability to play a sport near where you live. The club also provides an outlet for kids who don’t participate on their school district’s teams.
For many, the social aspect of the group has become important to both players and parents. Corvino says when she moved to Upper Makefield Township she wanted to join a club that was local to her hometown. In her experience, being part of a team sport brings families together.
“Kids come and go at a lot of other area clubs, but at Patriot FC, my kids have been blessed with teams that have grown together and gotten better together, which is awesome,” she says. One of Falcone’s goals is for kids to build friendships and make memories in the community. “That’s the
Left: Gary Roberts with son Sam Roberts winning a tournament in 2013
Right: Gary and Sam in 2025 as coaches for Patriot FC
foundation of success that’s going to keep them in the sport long term,” he says.
PAYING IT FORWARD
Patriot FC continues to see momentum and growth by attracting new talent—from both the player and trainer side. Some former players are now paid coaches, including Roberts’ 25-year-old son, Sam Roberts. Sam says one of the best memories of his soccer experience was his teammates becoming his best friends. He became a coach for the club after graduating from Penn State and hopes to instill the lessons he learned as a player to his teams.
“The No. 1 lesson I learned from playing in this club was teamwork and that it’s not about
‘me,’ it’s about ‘we,’” he says. “My dad helped instill that message in our family, and it translated to his coaching style on the field as well. Everything I do in my life now, I view as teamwork, whether it be at work, in my personal relationships, or as a coach.”
For more than two decades, Gary Roberts has been helping the club grow and flourish. Although he loves every aspect of the game, he says his bond with the players is the highlight. “The greatest thing ever is seeing the players progress,” he says. “I have coached over 500 kids over the years, and I still communicate with them. I get calls from my high schoolers when they make varsity, and my college athletes call me all the time. I love being with the kids. They keep me going.”
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.
Patriot FC Board President Rich Thomson and his daughter Kate
Happy Trails
With the seasons changing, it’s the perfect time to hike around some of Bucks County’s parks.
BY COLLEEN KENNY
FALL IS A GREAT TIME to head outdoors and get hiking. With cooler temperatures, we no longer need to hide inside in the air conditioning. We can stay outside and move around all day long. A hike is a great way to enjoy the leaves starting to change color, and you may even catch some fall wildflowers in bloom, such as aster, boneset, white snakeroot, and goldenrod.
Hiking is a great activity for the entire family. Be sure to pick a trail that is a suitable length, grade, and terrain for everyone. For example, steep hills and large rocks can be difficult for young children to navigate.
LOCAL TRAILS TO EXPLORE
One appealing hiking spot run by Bucks County is Tohickon Valley Park, which is about a half hour from Upper Makefield Township. To really feel immersed in nature, head out on the route between Tohickon Valley Park and High Rocks Vista. You can make the hike into a loop to keep it interesting. Hikers can start at the Tohickon Valley parking lot on Cafferty Road, which has ample parking, bathrooms, and a playground.
People with limited mobility should look for paved or ADA-compliant trails, which may provide a smoother surface and more moderate grades.
Another Bucks County-run hiking area near Upper Makefield Township is Core Creek Park which offers a one-mile asphalt trail along Lake Luxembourg. Hikers also can enjoy boating, a playground, and picnic areas here.
BENEFITS OF HIKING
Hiking has many benefits. It’s a great form of exercise that doesn’t feel like a chore. Studies show spending time in the woods improves mental health. It also can be an opportunity to spend social time with family and friends. There are even local hiking, birding, and outdoor clubs where you can meet new people.
As the new season approaches, now is a great time to check out some of Bucks County’s best hiking trails and the beauty of the area.
Colleen Kenny is the deputy director of Bucks County Parks and Recreation. She is an avid trail runner and hiker and enjoys hiking with her family (fourlegged and two-legged).
Cheers to Autumn
Stockton Inn Celebrates Season With Classic Cocktail—the Diamondback.
BY ANTHONY RUDOLF
AS SUMMER winds down in the area, there’s a moment when the air turns crisp but the sun still lingers long into the afternoon. It’s the perfect time of year to find yourself on the Terrace at Stockton Inn with a cocktail in hand. Few drinks capture that transition better than the Diamondback, a spirit-forward classic that has found a new home on the fall menu at Stockton Inn.
Crafted by head bartender Brian Miller— whose career includes shaping cocktail culture at some of New York City’s most iconic bars—our version layers Rittenhouse rye, Laird’s Apple Brandy Bottled In Bond, and yellow Chartreuse. The result is a drink that feels perfectly autumnal. The rye brings spice, the apple brandy nods to the season’s harvest, and the Chartreuse adds a honeyed herbal sweetness that lingers long after your sip. It’s luxury in a glass—timeless, unexpected, and wholly satisfying.
The Diamondback recipe was first published in Ted Saucier’s 1952 cocktail book, “Bottoms Up.” The drink is named not after the well-known snake but for Maryland’s diamondback terrapins. Created at the Lord Baltimore Hotel,
this cocktail has a reputation for being strong—though no more so than its classic contemporaries. What makes it memorable is its balance: boozy and nocturnal, yet smooth, with just the right edge of heat. It’s the perfect drink to warm you up on a chilly autumn day or evening.
Anthony Rudolf is managing director of Stockton Inn. As the former director of operations for the Thomas Keller Restaurant Group, he has a high standard of excellence and values high-touch hospitality.
TIME TO TOAST
This fall, the Diamondback is more than a drink—it’s an invitation. To pause, to celebrate, and to savor one of the most beautiful times of year in the area.
Diamondback
(Recipe From Ted Saucier’s “Bottom’s Up,” 1952)
• 0.5 oz. yellow Chartreuse
• 0.5 oz. Laird’s Apple Brandy Bottled In Bond
• 2 oz. Rittenhouse rye
Stir and strain into a martini glass. Serve without garnish.
Top: Brian Miller’s cocktails have become a hallmark of the Stockton Inn experience, whether you’re enjoying dinner, relaxing on the Terrace, or hosting a private event. His creations are an ideal centerpiece for gatherings that call for something special.
PHOTOGRAPH BY ARMANDO RAFAEL
Bottom: Stockton Inn
PHOTOGRAPH BY JUAN VIDAL PHOTOGRAPHY
Smart Money
Make sure your financial plan makes the grade this fall.
BY ANTHONY PETSIS & ASSOCIATES ADVISORY TEAM
AS THE KIDS head back to school this fall, many families shift into planning mode—reviewing schedules, signing up for activities, and setting goals for the year ahead. But while the students in your household hit the books, it’s worth asking: Is your financial plan still showing up and doing the work?
Even the most carefully crafted financial strategies need regular review and fine-tuning. Market conditions are evolving. Tax laws change. Family priorities shift. If your financial plan hasn’t had a “semester check-in,” now is the time.
Here are a few areas worth revisiting this fall:
ASSET ALLOCATION REVIEW
Have your investment holdings slowly drifted away from their
intended targets over time? Periodic rebalancing is key to managing risk— especially in a year with both market volatility and concentrated asset growth.
Q4 TAX STRATEGY
Back-to-school season is a smart time to engage in tax forecasting. High earners might benefit from tax-loss harvesting, Roth conversions, charitable giving strategies, or evaluating net investment income tax exposures.
EDUCATION AND GIFTING PLANS
Are you fully funding 529 plans or contributing to custodial accounts? Fall is a great time to consider tax-efficient gifting strategies for children and grandchildren.
ESTATE AND TRUST REVIEW
Use this seasonal reset to evaluate whether your estate plan still reflects your current wishes and family dynamics. Are your trusts structured efficiently? Are your beneficiary designations up to date?
INSURANCE AND RISK MANAGEMENT
Just like kids need back-to-school checkups, your financial plan needs an annual insurance review— especially if your net worth has grown. Evaluate life, liability, and long-term care coverage considering your evolving needs.
At Anthony Petsis & Associates, we view financial planning as an ongoing curriculum—not a one-time course. Our fiduciary approach helps clients anticipate challenges, capitalize on opportunities, and adapt their plan to reflect both market realities and personal goals.
So, while the students in your life are getting back to class, let’s make sure your financial plan isn’t falling behind. It’s a great time to ensure your wealth strategy is on track for the next season of life.
As Bucks County’s top-rated financial advisory firm, Anthony Petsis & Associates empowers you to take control of your financial future with confidence. With a legacy spanning two generations, we are a trusted partner, delivering personalized, fiduciarydriven financial advice tailored to your unique needs.
Wealth, Inc. is separately owned, and other entities and/or marketing names, products or services referenced here are independent of Osaic Wealth. Thirdparty awards, rankings and recognitions are no guarantee of future investment success and do not ensure that a client or prospective client will experience a higher level of performance or results. These ratings should not be construed as an endorsement of the adviser by any client nor are they representative of any one client’s evaluation. We are unable to accept buy or sell orders via email as we cannot assure execution in a timely manner. Osaic Wealth, Inc. and Anthony Petsis & Associates are not affiliated.
Haunting Reads
During the spooky October season, give yourself a trick and a treat with some scary book selections.
BY LIZ YOUNG
YOUNG AND MIDDLE READERS
LET’S GET SPOOKY
By Stepanka Sekaninova
This book is a draw for those curious about all things scary and spooky. Explore the busy pages and find treasures, horrors, stories, and fun things hidden on each page.
THE SECRET DEAD CLUB
By Karen Strong
This story is about fitting in at a new school and finding others with special talents to investigate the spirit realm. It engages the reader with ghosts and the living who interact with their own evil agendas.
YOUNG ADULTS
IMMORTAL DARK
By Tigest Girma
This tale is for the resident romantic and cruel vampire in your reading circle. It is a book of horrors with appropriate wickedness not to be missed.
HEKATE
By Nikita Gill
This is the first in a series of Greek myths with an edition that is beautifully written and published. It carries the underworld to readers with a finely told story of a young and powerful woman.
ADULTS
ZOMROMCOM
By Olivia Dade
Readers will enjoy this vampire romance anywhere they can laugh out loud, as they appreciate the very dire choices awaiting these two fairly loveable vampires. It’s a good choice for an entertaining night while giving out candy at your door.
THE SEPTEMBER HOUSE
By Carissa Orlando
Hauntings, missing people, and scary locations make this creepy story a page turner.
YOU ARE THE DETECTIVE
By Maureen Johnson and Jay Cooper
This is a mystery with energy, beginning with a great entry point for the reader to jump in engaged with a set of characters who define a super twisty murder mystery. ’Tis the season.
RED RABBIT GHOST
By Jen Julian
This literary horror story will appropriately terrify you during the darkest season. It is written in the Southern tradition of flawed characters, spooky towns, and hauntings at every turn.
Liz Young is the owner of 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.
Assoc. Broker FLA
PHOTOOP
HISTORY MEETS HALLOWEEN
IT’S TIME TO GET into the Halloween spirit in Upper Makefield Township. Betsy Coe, owner of the carving company “The Pumpkin Genie,” carved the famous scene of George Washington and his troops crossing the Delaware River for Upper Makefield magazine. She has been carving pumpkins for 25 years.
Here are some tips from Coe on how to carve your best pumpkin this Halloween:
• Use a Speedball tool for the best carving.
• Cut the pumpkin rind with a jewelry saw.
• Scrape the pumpkin thin inside leaving less to cut.
• Use gentle carving motions; let the tool do the work.
• Use transfer paper for complicated patterns.
• Carve from the right if you’re right handed and from the left if you’re a lefty.
• Remove any transfer lines with antibacterial wipes.
• Krazy Glue can help fix mistakes.
Have a fabulous Upper Makefield photo? Email it to editor@ uppermakefieldmag.com and it could be featured in an upcoming issue!
PHOTOGRAPH
