Issuu

UpperMakefield OCTOBER 2026

HITTING A HIGH NOTE

SINGER-SONGWRITER SEAN HOPKINS

EXPLORE THE UNKNOWN

WITH THE LOWER BUCKS PARANORMAL SOCIETY

Cooking Up a Dream AT FRANCISCO’S ON THE RIVER

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Contents OCTOBER 2026

F EATU RES

Cooking Up a Dream Francisco Argueta’s passion for food and community makes Francisco’s on the River a popular gathering spot.

Hitting a High Note

A Washington Crossing singer-songwriter continues to embrace his musical passion with the release of his latest album. 22

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For the Lower Bucks Paranormal Society, investigating unexplained phenomena is about more than ghosts—it’s about connecting with the past.

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Exploring the Unknown

I N EVERY I S SUE

PUBLISHER’S NOTE Fall Favorites

LOCAL PULSE Bite-Sized Updates

Q&A Alex Dwornikowski

LIFE OUTDOORS Leaf Peeping

LOCAL TASTES Spooktacular Treats

LOCAL EXPERT Financial Planning

BOOK NOOK Haunting Tales

PHOTO OP Current Mood

COVER

Francisco Argueta, owner and executive chef, Francisco’s on the River Photograph by Juan Vidal Photography

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PUB LISH ER’S NOTE

WELCOME TO October and the heart of the fall season. This is such a beautiful time of year, and we’re excited to share stories ranging from cozy neighborhood meals to fabulous leaf-peeping destinations. As we settle into our post-summer schedules and routines, one local restaurant has held steady as a favorite we can count on since 2008. Francisco Argueta creates wonderful Italian- and Mediterranean-inspired dishes at Francisco’s on the River. Surrounded by a gorgeous riverscape view and delicious food, he and his team make all of us feel as though we’re guests in his own home. Rediscovering a passion from years ago is something to treasure. After leaving his love of music behind for 25 years to focus on his career and raising a family,

PHOTOGRAPH BY JUAN VIDAL PHOTOGRAPHY

w FALL FAVORITES

local singer-songwriter Sean Hopkins is back in full force. With a new album and live shows scheduled at many of our local music clubs, you’ll want to learn all about Sean’s music— and hear his newest songs. This could be your perfect soundtrack for fall. “Paranormal” might be a word that stops some of us in our tracks. But for Halloween and supernatural devotees, reading about the Lower Bucks Paranormal Society will be delightfully scary. This year, the group is bringing a new Ghost Walk to State Street in Newtown. This is the perfect time to explore your inner supernatural inquisitiveness. As we prepare for Halloween, whether trick-or-treating or hosting parties, see what’s new in candy favorites and festive party tablescapes. In our Local Pulse section, you’ll also find a listing of many favorite Halloween events happening throughout the community. Get your phones and cameras charged for leaf-peeping season, when you can capture Mother Nature at her finest. In this issue, we share some of the best leaf-peeping destinations, locally and just a short drive away, for the perfect day trip. I wish everyone a fun and festive October. I hope you enjoy the gorgeous fall scenery while indulging in your favorite Halloween candy (in moderation, of course)!

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MAGAZINE

Publisher Laura Lazar Laura.Lazar@uppermakefieldmag.com Editor Dari Kotzker editor@uppermakefieldmag.com Writers Lela Casey Kim Severino Elizabeth Young Photographers Desiree Hopkins Juan Vidal Photography Expert Contributors Greg Dwornikowski Anthony Petsis 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

Laura Lazar Publisher

uppermakefieldmag.com @uppermakefieldmag

Have a story idea?

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Upper Makefield

Email the editor: editor@uppermakefieldmag.com.

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 PULSE

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF UPPER MAKEFIELD FIRE COMPANY

FIRE PREVENTION WEEK Upper Makefield Fire Company will hold its annual Fire Prevention Open House on Oct. 9. Residents can see fire apparatus displays, take firehouse tours, enjoy children’s games, learn safety tips, and meet local volunteer firefighters. The event runs from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Upper Makefield firehouse (1221 Taylorsville Rd.).

PLUG IN. POWER UP. STAY SAFE. The National Fire Protection Association’s annual public education campaign “Charge Into Fire Safety” focuses on everyday charging habits that can help reduce the risk of lithium-ion battery fires and keep homes and communities safer. Upper Makefield Fire Company Chief Tim Brewer offers these helpful tips from the campaign: • Cheap charger? Don’t chance it. Use the cord and charger that came with your device or one approved by the manufacturer. • Soft surface? Hard pass. Charge on a hard, flat surface such as a table, desk, or bare floor. • Fully charged? Time to unplug. Unplug your device when it is fully charged. PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF BOWMAN’S HILL WILDFLOWER PRESERVE

RELAX WITH NATURE Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve offers guided nature therapy walks designed to reduce stress and connect visitors with the natural environment, led by a nature and forest therapy guide. Tours take place on Oct. 9 at 10 a.m. and Oct. 17 at 9 a.m. Visitors can also enjoy First Friday Free Admission to the preserve on Nov. 6.

• For tools and rides, charge outside. Charge large items such as e-bikes, scooters, and power tools outside when possible. Do not block exits when charging. • Feels hot? Stop using it. Stop using your device if it feels very hot, starts to swell, smells strange, leaks, smokes, or makes popping or hissing sounds.

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PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF NEW HOPE HISTORICAL SOCIETY

250 YEARS OF NEW HOPE HALLOWEEN FUN The Newtown Halloween Parade takes place at The Stocking Works (301 South State St.) on Oct. 24, starting at 10 a.m. (registration begins at 9 a.m.). Make sure to dress up and take part in the costume competition.

Celebrate New Hope’s history with a guided walking tour that brings the past to life. Learn about the town’s Revolutionary roots to modern times. The last two tours of the series take place on Oct. 3 and 17. Meet at 1 p.m. on the back porch of the Parry Mansion Museum (45 S. Main St., New Hope). Tickets are $15.

Peddler’s Village will hold Trick or Treat in the Village and invites kids to come dressed in their costume and trick or treat at the village shops (2400 Street Road, New Hope) on Oct. 26, from 2 to 4 p.m. New Hope-Solebury Library (93 W. Ferry St., New Hope) hosts its Halloween Story Time and Parade for kids on Oct. 29 at 10:30 a.m. Come in costume, read books, sing songs, and do crafts. Canal-O-Ween is an annual tradition taking place Oct. 27 to Nov. 2. The weeklong festivities kick off on Oct. 27, from noon to 3 p.m., along North Edgewater Avenue in Yardley Borough, where guests are invited to help carve over 300 pumpkins to create the Jack-O-Lantern Stroll that debuts that night.

FRIGHT NIGHTS Sleepy Hollow Haunted Acres features three terrifying attractions—Sleepy Hollow Hayride, House in the Hollow, and Field of Fright. Visitors can also enjoy live music and bonfires at the farm. For more information, visit sleepyhollowhayride.com.

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF SLEEPY HOLLOW HAUNTED ACRES

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Home and Away A local Fulbright Scholar rediscovers his roots in Kazakhstan. BY STAFF WRITER

How did you come to live in Upper Makefield Township? I was born in Zhezkazgan, Kazakhstan, in September 2001, and was adopted as a baby by my American parents. I was raised in Bucks County and grew up with little connection to my birth country beyond the knowledge of where I came from. That distance is part of what has made returning to Kazakhstan as an adult feel so significant. What is the Fulbright Program? The Fulbright Program is a group of cultural exchange programs that are sponsored by the U.S. Department of State. It was founded in 1946 by Sen. J. William Fulbright with the goal of building mutual understanding between the United States and other countries through education and exchange. I applied for the English Teaching Assistant Program grant in 2024.

INTERVIEW WITH

ALEX DWORNIKOWSKI ALEX DWORNIKOWSKI has lived in Upper Makefield Township since 2012, and he says it has shaped much of his upbringing. Dwornikowski graduated from the University of Delaware in 2024 with a major in Asian Studies and minors in Russian and history. He was accepted into the Fulbright Program as an English teaching assistant in Kazakhstan in 2025 and will return to the country this school year. In between his adventures abroad, Upper Makefield remains his home base. Here he talks about his experiences at home and away.

Left: Alex Dwornikowski works as a Fulbright English teaching assistant in Kostanay, Kazakhstan. Above: Alex Dwornikowski in Washington Crossing

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Right: Alex Dwornikowski (right) and his father, Greg, visit Shymbulak, a ski resort in the Tien Shan Mountains near Almaty, Kazakhstan. Below: Alex Dwornikowski stands atop Kok Tobe Hill, which overlooks the city of Almaty in Kazakhstan.

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF ALEX DWORNIKOWSKI

Why did you choose to go to Kazakhstan as part of the program? I wanted to return to Kazakhstan to reconnect with my roots and better understand the country I was born in. I also chose Kazakhstan because I had studied Russian throughout college and wanted the opportunity to put that language to practical, everyday use. I was placed in Kostanay, a city in the north of the country, where I spent my first year teaching and will return for a second year. My job includes teaching university-level English classes and participating in teacher conferences and professional development throughout the region. I also run events at Kostanay’s American Corner, which is a part of a public diplomacy initiative run by the U.S. State Department.

What did you love about growing up in Upper Makefield Township? My favorite spots and activities in the township include Bowman’s Hill Tower, often paired with dinner at Bowman’s Tavern afterward, as well as Washington Crossing Historic Park. I also particularly enjoy driving past the farms along Woodhill Road, which

captures much of what makes the township feel peaceful and scenic. Having grown up here, I’ve come to appreciate the way the landscape and the historical landmarks throughout the area give the township a distinct character that I don’t take for granted, especially after spending time living abroad.

How would you describe your experience living in Kazakhstan? Being back in the country of my birth, I did not know what to expect when I returned, particularly how I would be perceived by locals given my background. Since I have no memories from infancy, the experience felt entirely new upon arrival, though it was accompanied by an underlying sense of connection that is difficult to fully explain. What stands out about the culture is that Kazakh hospitality is notably warm and generous, and it left a strong impression on me throughout my time there. The cuisine has been one of the highlights of daily life, including delicious dishes like beshbarmak (horse meat over noodles), manti (dumplings filled with meat or pumpkin), and Kazakh chocolate. OCTOBER 2026 |

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LI FE OUTDOORS

Leaf

PEEPING

Explore picturesque local destinations and day trips that show off fall’s changing foliage. BY LELA CASEY AUTUMN IN THE Northeast is a season of transformation, when familiar landscapes suddenly come alive in brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold. In Pennsylvania, the show unfolds gradually, with peak colors making their way south across the state throughout October. Northern parts of the state usually see their best color in early October, followed by central Pennsylvania around the middle of the month and southeastern Pennsylvania toward the end. This gives leaf peepers the opportunity to follow the changing foliage. One of the best ways to take it all in is to plan an outing. Here are our suggestions for some of the best destinations in the region. JIM THORPE Jim Thorpe is a quaint historic town about two hours northwest of Upper Makefield Township that has become something of an autumn pilgrimage for visitors. Nestled between wooded mountains along the Lehigh River, the town feels especially picturesque in

Above: The view from Bowman’s Hill Tower

PHOTOGRAPH BY JACKI STEEL PHOTOS

Right: Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

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Left: Jim Thorpe. Right: New Hope-Lambertville Bridge. PHOTOGRAPH BY KEVIN CRAWFORD IMAGERY Bottom: Lake Nockamixon. PHOTOGRAPH BY KEVIN CRAWFORD IMAGERY

fall, when the surrounding hillsides come ablaze with color. One of the best-known ways to see the foliage is aboard the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway, which departs from Jim Thorpe and follows the Lehigh River into Lehigh Gorge State Park. During fall, special excursions carry passengers through the gorge as the colorful mountains rise up on all sides. Rail isn’t the only way to experience the season in Jim Thorpe. Visitors can also wander the steep, narrow streets of downtown, stopping at shops, restaurants, and historic sites. DELAWARE WATER GAP For a more rustic view, head farther north to Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, where the Delaware River cuts through the Kittatinny Ridge along the Pennsylvania-New Jersey border. In autumn, the wooded slopes surrounding the river become a patchwork of warm fall colors. Casual leaf peepers can stop at overlooks along Route 611 to take in the gorge from above, while more ambitious hikers can climb Mount Minsi on the Pennsylvania side or Mount Tammany across the river in New Jersey.

beautiful displays is right outside our door. Priceline recently named Bucks County as a top fall foliage destination for 2026. Familiar winding roads, riverside scenes, and historic covered bridges take on a storybook quality in fall. Along the Delaware River, New Hope’s riverfront becomes especially striking, framed by autumn foliage on both the Pennsylvania and New Jersey shores. A drive through Solebury Township reveals the historic Cuttalossa Valley and the 1875 Van Sant Covered Bridge, one of just 12 covered bridges that remain in Bucks County. Farther north, Lake Nockamixon is surrounded by a wooded shoreline that turns brilliant

in fall, with colors reflecting across the 1,450-acre lake. But the most sweeping bird’s-eye vantage is closest to home at Bowman’s Hill Tower in Washington Crossing Historic Park. Visit Bucks County highlights the 125-foot tower for its panoramic views, which stretch as far as 14 miles across the Delaware River Valley. Whether you drive a few hours or a few minutes to take in the changing season, autumn offers plenty of reasons to get out and explore. Lela Casey has been writing professionally for over 15 years. She and her family live in Doylestown.

AROUND BUCKS COUNTY Fortunately for Upper Makefield residents, one of autumn’s most OCTOBER 2026 |

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Cooking Up a

Dream Francisco Argueta’s passion for food and community makes Francisco’s on the River a popular gathering spot. BY DARI KOTZKER

PHOTOGRAPHS BY JUAN VIDAL PHOTOGRAPHY

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THE SMELL OF FRESH garlic bread fills the air, mixed with the hum of conversations at tables and the warmth of a place that feels like home. This is the experience that welcomes diners when they walk through the doors of Francisco’s on the River. With picturesque views of the Delaware River, this Italian/ Mediterranean restaurant is a local treasure for residents of Upper Makefield Township and surrounding communities. Owner and executive chef Francisco Argueta has been creating memorable dining experiences at this location since 2008. “I love all the people who come here and seeing smiles on their faces,” he says. “It’s wonderful. I also love to sit and look out at the river because it’s so beautiful.”

EXPLORING NEW BEGINNINGS Argueta’s path to becoming a chef and business owner was an interesting journey. He grew up in a small village in El Salvador as the only boy among nine siblings. In his family, cooking was traditionally women’s work. Although he watched his mother prepare meals for the family, he never participated in the kitchen. With limited job opportunities in his hometown, Argueta moved to the city of San Francisco Gotera before deciding to come to the United States in 1986 at the age of 21. Arriving in America with no family or friends from El Salvador, he reached out to a friend from Spain, Candido Rodriguez, who lived in Newtown and encouraged him to move to the area. Not only did Rodriguez tell Argueta

about the area; he also introduced him to pizza. “I never ate Italian food before, and when Rodriguez ordered a pizza, I only tasted a little bit and hated it because I wasn’t used to the taste,” he says. “When I was told it was cheese and dough, that’s when I realized I wasn’t in my country anymore because we only eat beans, rice, and chicken there. But I ended up falling in love with Italian food because every flavor is delicious.” With no prior experience in the restaurant industry, Argueta took a job as a dishwasher at Tre Fratelli in Langhorne. When a position in line preparation became available, he approached the owner and said he could do the job. He had been observing the process and learning how everything worked. The owner

Opposite page: Francisco Argueta outside his restaurant, Francisco’s on the River Below: Longtime customers and Washington Crossing residents Dennis Tognan and Laurie Hosie sit at their favorite table while chatting with executive chef and owner Francisco Argueta.

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hired him. This was only the beginning of his journey to becoming a skilled chef and restaurant owner. “I learned from the chefs I worked with and spent all my time off researching at libraries, looking at books, reading, and watching cooking shows,” Argueta says. “When it comes to Italian food, I love how they cook it. I also watched many people come through the restaurant from different regions of Italy, so I learned from them, too.”

THE TASTE OF SUCCESS After 12 years at Tre Fratelli, Argueta decided it was time to take the next step and open his own restaurant. He was inspired by Rodriguez, who told him that one way to be successful in America is to start your own business. An accountant also encouraged him after seeing how hard and how many hours Argueta was working. That support inspired him to open Florentino’s, an Italian restaurant in

Newtown Borough that operated from 2004 to 2016. In 2008, he opened Francisco’s on the River in Washington Crossing, which remains a popular destination. Laurie Hosie and her husband, Dennis Tognan, are longtime customers from Washington Crossing. “We are so fortunate to have Francisco’s nearby, and we generally get the same table for the lovely view of the river,” Hosie says. “We appreciate the charming, welcoming atmosphere, and the food is consistently excellent.” In addition to customer satisfaction, Argueta seeks a positive experience for his staff. Several members of his team have been with him for many years because he believes in supporting his employees and being there for them whenever they need help. Kelly Sliker has worked at the restaurant for 14 years. “Francisco is a great boss and owner,” she says. “His passion for the business is truly inspiring. He treats both his staff and customers like his own family.”

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Argueta’s menu features a variety of Italian- and Mediterraneaninspired dishes with an assortment of pasta and seafood entrées. One of the most popular orders is “Bob’s Plate,” which combines salmon, scallops, shrimp, and crabmeat over fettucine in a pink vodka sauce. “Our favorite dishes include sautéed calamari, fennel, and mushroom salad; chicken porcini; and coconut cake,” Hosie says. “The pastas are wonderful, too. It’s clear Francisco puts a lot of love and care into his restaurant.” On any given evening, the dining room may hold couples enjoying an intimate meal, families gathered, or a group celebrating a larger occasion. Francisco’s on the River is also a favored venue for holiday parties. “Depending on the size of the party, we have a small room for 15 people, two more for 24 people, and a heated tent outside that can seat 50,” Argueta says. “I enjoy holding events for the holidays or any type

of celebration. The most important thing is that my customers are happy.” A LOVE OF COMMUNITY Upper Makefield is not only home to Francisco’s on the River; it is where Argueta has made his home for 35 years. He has raised two children here (now ages 23 and 33) and loves living in Bucks County. “The people who live here are so friendly, and the beauty of driving up and down River Road is so special,” he says. “As a business owner, I have such good relationships with other local restaurants, such as Washington Crossing Inn and Dominick’s. If I need

something, they give it to me, and I do the same for them.” After more than 40 years in the culinary industry, Argueta has no plans to slow down. He continues to make new creations, refine his skills, and maintain the personal connection that has become an important part of his business. “When a customer comes through the door, I open it,” he says. “I welcome them to Francisco’s, lead them to their table, and make sure everything is right for them. At the end of their meal, I go over and say, ‘Thank you for visiting us, and please come back.’ There are not enough words to express the feeling I get seeing the smile on their faces.” Dari Kotzker is the editor of Upper Makefield magazine. She has worked as a reporter in television news and print media since 2001 and resides in Bucks County with her husband and four kids. OCTOBER 2026 |

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g Above: Singer-songwriter Sean Hopkins Below: Sean Hopkins’ guitar collection

Hitting a High Note A Washington Crossing singer-songwriter continues to embrace his musical passion with the release of his latest album.

BY DARI KOTZKER

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PHOTOGRAPHS BY DESIREE HOPKINS

GRABBING HIS acoustic guitar, Sean Hopkins walks onto the stage, sits on a stool, rests his instrument in his hands, and strums the first few notes. What follows is a performance filled with vulnerability and creativity. For Hopkins, a Washington Crossing resident and singer-songwriter, whether it’s playing in front of a crowd or sharing his music on his albums, the goal is the same: to create connections with the people listening. At age 66, Hopkins released his third album, “Shadows & Light,” an indie-rock collection of songs on Sept. 22. However, his musical journey started long before he hit this latest high note in his career. Hopkins earned a degree in business and data from Saint Joseph’s University, but after graduation, his path took a different turn. “Growing up, my parents always encouraged me to take music and guitar lessons,” he says. “In the early ’80s, I fell in love with punk and new wave bands like The Cure. At 21 years old, I tried to dovetail my love of that new form of music with the fact that I could play instruments, and I started to play with several bands.” One of those bands was signed to an independent record label after representatives heard the group’s songs play live on the radio. The opportunity led to touring up and down the East Coast and recording in a professional studio. With that success, a major label expressed interest in taking the band to the next level, but the deal never materialized. Disappointed, Hopkins decided to drop music entirely and use his college degree to pursue a business profession. It would be 25 years before he would pick up a guitar again. LIVING THE BUCKS COUNTY LIFE Born in Delaware County, Hopkins has called Bucks County his home for more than 30 years. He initially moved to Yardley in his late 20s before spending 15 years in Solebury

Township where he raised his children. During that time, he served on the New-Hope Solebury school board, coached youth baseball, and remained active in the community. After his children “flew the coop” about a decade ago, he relocated to Washington Crossing. “I don’t think you can beat Bucks County,” Hopkins says. “It’s the beauty of the area; the river and river towns have such unique personalities. I love heading out to the Washington Crossing Bridge, gazing out on the river, thinking of the history that happened here. There’s a lot of nature here, and it’s been preserved in a good way.”

A SURPRISE REPRISE Around the time he moved to Washington Crossing was when Hopkins’ love of playing music came back into his life. His passion was renewed when he was talking with a friend who recently purchased a guitar. Hopkins mentioned he owned two Martin guitars, and the conversation prompted him to open the cases for the first time in 25 years. His heart fell instantly when he realized years of humidity had warped the guitars, and the bindings were coming loose. He immediately got in his car and drove to the Martin Factory in Nazareth to have the instruments restored. Once they

The “Shadows & Light” album cover

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were repaired, Hopkins had the incentive to play them again. “When I opened my acoustic guitar case, I said to myself, ‘I remember you,’ pulled it out, and realized I lost the dexterity in my fingers and understanding of music theory,” he says. “I dove right back into it. I was 56 at the time and going full steam ahead with playing again.”

UPCOMING SHOWS

REDISCOVERING THE GUITAR Hopkins enlisted local instructor Woody Jiang of Yardley to help him relearn chord changes, playing techniques, drills, and music theory. After two years of instruction, he decided to try his hand at writing a song. Within another year, he had 12 songs under his belt. With Jiang’s help, he produced his first album, “Chasing Ghosts in the Dark,” as well as all of his future releases. For Hopkins, the writing process can be scary, but when he listens to the finished products, it’s simply magical. “As a song writer, you can be a voyeur,” he says. “It’s really a

vignette of experiences, either personal or observed, that I feel compelled to encapsulate in a song. It can also be cathartic for me to get something out of my system. I’m trying to tell someone I love them and I want to do it in words, that turns into a song.” Much of the creative process happens in the sunroom of Hopkins’ Washington Crossing home where a window looks out onto his garden. His wife, Desiree, often serves as his sounding board when writing lyrics for his songs. He recalls one time, while working on the song “Wandering in the Rain,” when he had three options for one particular lyric and presented them to Desiree. When he said the line, “Now there’s wind in my sail, that only dreamers share,” she knew immediately that was the one. Desiree has a musical side of her own, playing the piano and contributing to her husband’s latest album. Her talent can be heard on the recording of “Eden’s Garden” from “Shadows & Light.”

• Oct. 3, 3 to 6 p.m. John & Peter’s, New Hope • Oct. 7, 6 to 7 p.m. WDVR FM in-studio performance and interview

Sean Hopkins performs at John & Peter’s in New Hope.

• Oct. 9, 6 to 8 p.m. Tod the Mod’s Starving Artist Café, Stockton, New Jersey • Oct. 15, 7 to 10 p.m. Dharma Bums, Point Pleasant • Oct. 23, 10 to 11 a.m. JB Kline Show Facebook live stream • Nov. 1, 4 to 6 p.m. Union Coffee, Lambertville, New Jersey • Nov. 13, 5 to 7 p.m. Bellefonte Café, Wilmington, Delaware

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Above: Desiree and Sean Hopkins in Washington Crossing Historic Park Below: Sean Hopkins playing live at a radio station

“‘Shadows & Light’ is the title of the album and the name of a love song I wrote for my wife,” Hopkins says. “It was a way for me to say thank you, I love you, and there are more chapters to be written.” MUSIC SUCCESS The music business has changed considerably since Hopkins was pursuing a record deal in his early 20s. Today, social media provides artists with new ways to reach audiences, while technology makes it easier to create, record, and produce songs from home. However, with greater accessibility comes great competition. There are many more musicians vying for opportunities to play at clubs, bars, and other venues. Hopkins says the music scene in Bucks County is all friendly competition. “What I love about the singer-songwriter community is that everyone seems to be cheering on each other, and I feel it’s collaborative,” he says. “That sense of community on the artistic side is fulfilling for me.”

Hopkins’ three records are available on all streaming services. Following the release of “Shadows & Light” he has lined up performances locally and as far away as Delaware, along with radio appearances and live streams. He continues to write and hopes to expand his performing opportunities. For someone who walked away from music for a quarter century, Hopkins has now made his guitar a daily companion. “Ever since I retired from my regular job less than a year ago, I consider myself a full-time musician,” he says. “Whether I’m writing a song, putting out a record, playing in a club, or busking on the streets of New Hope, not a day goes by where I don’t pick up my guitar and play.” Dari Kotzker is the editor of Upper Makefield magazine. She has worked as a reporter in television news and print media since 2001 and resides in Bucks County with her husband and four kids. OCTOBER 2026 |

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Exploring the UNKNOWN

w BY DARI KOTZKER

WHEN NIGHT FALLS, paranormal investigators enter a historic building or home, with equipment in hand and cameras rolling. Then they wait. They might be waiting for a surge of energy, a conversation with an unknown entity, or just silence. For many, this could be a frightening situation, but for members of the Lower Bucks Paranormal Society (LBPS), it’s an opportunity to explore the unknown with curious and inquisitive minds. Chris Connolly is a seasoned investigator of 34 years and founder of LBPS. After moving to Yardley in 2022, he started the group with his wife, Sheri Robertson-Connolly, and a few other investigators. Connolly’s interest in the paranormal began when he was 16 years old and saw a floating figure while working in a Kmart stockroom. “After my experience, I watched a lot of paranormal T.V. shows, did a lot of research and reading about the paranormal, and went to abandoned buildings to see if I could feel anything,” he says. “I learned to hone my skills when I joined an investigative team in New Jersey in 2007. I’m what they call a ‘sensitive,’ I can feel energies and spirits are drawn to me.” When Connolly and RobertsonConnolly met, they discovered they shared an interest in the supernatural. She had an encounter at a restaurant in Bristol Borough where she saw something move

PHOTOGRAPHS BY JUAN VIDAL PHOTOGRAPHY

Lower Bucks Paranormal Society investigators Emma Girandola, Mike Dombroski, Chris Connolly, and Sheri Robertson-Connolly

For the Lower Bucks Paranormal Society, investigating unexplained phenomena is about more than ghosts—it’s about connecting with the past.

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in a way she believed wasn’t possible. “I have always been interested in things that are spiritual,” Robertson-Connolly says. “After meeting Chris, I developed my own passion for what I call spirituality and energy work that has to do with spirits not crossing over. I believe everything we encounter in the paranormal is energy related.” A GROWING TEAM In 2022, Connolly connected online with Bucks County resident Mike Dombroski who was looking to join an investigative team. He became one of the first LBPS members. The group initially explored a property in New Jersey and then Naked Brewing in Bristol Borough. Dombroski has encountered his own share of phenomena, including a shadow figure three feet from his face. During other cases, he has felt emotional charges that brought him to tears. “For me, during an investigation, it’s a lot of sitting back, observing, taking mental notes, and a lot of trial and error,” Dombroski says. “Everyone has tools they prefer—some are high tech and some have no tech at all. It’s such a cool experience for people who have inquisitive minds.” LBPS has grown from five members to 21, all of whom have full-time day jobs and investigate as a passion project on the side. The team uses a variety of equipment, including dowsing rods

The Tubby Olive owner Rishona Myers (left) explains the Newtown building’s history.

to ask entities yes or no questions; REM-Pods, which create an invisible force field and beep when something crosses it; and dead bells, which detect environmental energy shifts or physical touches. It also has SLS and XLS cameras that use infrared lasers and depth mapping sensors that project a grid, to detect human-like skeletal figures in real time. Since the group’s inception, it has investigated approximately 30 properties. “We always ask the business or

Chris Connolly and Sheri Robertson-Connolly on the Spirits on State Ghost Walk route in Newtown Borough

homeowners if they’ve had activity, so we know the hot spots,” Robertson-Connolly says. “We set up cameras and equipment, break up into small teams, and then it’s a lot of sitting in the dark and talking to the air asking if there are any spirits with us. Sometimes absolutely nothing happens, and then there are times where spirits are incredibly communicative and a lot of equipment is going off and there are intelligent responses. It’s very much space, night, energy, and investigator dependent.” After an on-site investigation, the team reviews hours of video and audio. Members use a case management program to conduct historical research and examine government records, newspaper articles, and other documentation. The program creates a baseline profile that includes names, records, disasters in the area, geological anomalies, and personal accounts. The final product is a client debrief detailing the location’s history, the team’s findings, and a breakdown of all the significant video and audio evidence. “When we get intelligent responses, we verify them OCTOBER 2026 |

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Spirits on Mill Ghost Walk in Bristol Borough PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF LOWER BUCKS PARANORMAL SOCIETY

historically,” Robertson-Connolly says. “In Yardley, we had a soldier tell us his name. We were able to trace back and find someone who was part of the Bucks County militia from the Revolutionary War who had the same first name that we got, and it was an ‘Oh, wow’ moment.” SPOOKY HISTORY While LPBS was conducting fieldwork in Bristol Borough in 2024, resident and Valerius Productions owner Emma Girandola came up with an idea that would become a successful partnership. She approached Connolly about joining forces to create ghost tours in Bristol Borough. A month and a half later, Spirits on Mill Ghost Walk sold out. The brand expanded to include Spirits on Main Ghost Walk in Yardley Borough the following year and Spirits on State Ghost Walk in Newtown Borough this year. Girandola has long been a paranormal enthusiast and grew up in a haunted house in Yardley.

FRIGHTFULLY FUN Halloween holds a special place for paranormal investigators Chris Connolly and his wife, Sheri Robertson-Connolly—their wedding anniversary is on Oct. 31. Each year, they are delighted to share their love of the holiday with the community and are known throughout Bucks County for their amazing Halloween decorations at home.

She also serves as LBPS’s communications contact, attends investigations, and is a tour guide. “I’ve always been a storyteller, and I love to tell ghost stories all day, every day,” she says. “It’s so fun to see people’s reactions. I think people love the tours because it’s the idea of the unknown. It’s thrill seeking. Whether you’re into history or the paranormal or you want to support small businesses, it’s the best of all worlds.” The tours—which run Tuesday through Saturday, depending on the location, through November—each have their own personality: Bristol explores the area’s industrialization past; Yardley includes the Underground Railroad and Prohibition era; and Newtown delves into tales of rebel gangs, secret societies, underground tunnels, and haunted hotels. Rishona Myers owns The Tubby Olive, a store that is part of the fall ghost walk in Newtown. “Since we

Chris Connolly and Sheri Robertson-Connolly’s Halloween-decorated home in Yardley PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF SHERI ROBERTSON-CONNOLLY

“I love community and Halloween,” Robertson-Connolly says. “We started with a 12-foot skeleton, and we kept buying more decorations and lights. We have Friday night-themed events like full-size candy bar night, meet a ghost hunter night, and goody bag night, where hundreds of people come by to see and walk through our display.” For more information, follow Light Up 394 on Facebook.

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operate out of an historic building from the 1700s, we thought it would be fun to find out who and what has inhabited our space besides us,” she says. “There’s so much history in Newtown.” The tours have been so successful that they won Bucks Happenings’ Best Outdoor Event and the Tourism Innovation Award from Visit Bucks County earlier this year. “It was such an amazing moment because it confirms people are enjoying our tours,” Connolly says. “We’re educating people and supporting the small businesses that have supported us. Our tours are different because we get into the history of the area, and then participants get to learn about the actual evidence we captured from investigations. It’s a cool tour for history and paranormal buffs.” LOOKING TO THE FUTURE Each year, LBPS adds more sites to its existing tours. The group also hopes to expand into additional

communities throughout the region and to eventually offer tours year-round. “Washington Crossing has a ton of history; I would love to figure out a way for us to do some investigations and possibly a tour there,” Connolly says. Connolly and his team are continually learning new methods for investigations. Looking ahead, he hopes to launch a podcast and create more events for people to learn about the paranormal. He says he’s grateful for the continued support from those who attend the tours and share his curiosity about the unknown. “There are so many people who are afraid to talk about the paranormal because others view them as crazy; now, I’ve given them an outlet,” he says. “They’ll come to me and ask questions, ask me to do an investigation at their home or business, and I thank them for allowing me to share my passion and wanting to be educated.”

Dari Kotzker is the editor of Upper Makefield magazine. She has worked as a reporter in television news and print media since 2001 and resides in Bucks County with her husband and four kids. OCTOBER 2026 |

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LOCAL TASTES • When stocking your candy bowl, consider a mixture of one or two classics, something sour, and a trending TikTokstyle treat such as freeze-dried candy. • You can never go wrong passing out full-sized candy bars. Kids will spread the word quickly, so be prepared. Some of the most popular choices are Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, Snickers, M&M’s, Kit Kat, and Twix.

Up your candy game this Halloween to impress trick-or-treaters and party guests. BY KIM SEVERINO THERE’S SOMETHING MAGICAL about Halloween night. It’s the one night of the year when the neighborhood comes together, with kids running from house to house chasing the ultimate treat—candy. Halloween has roots dating back centuries to the European custom of “souling,” a tradition that served as a time to remember the dead. Groups of people went door to door singing songs and offering prayers in exchange for a small treat. The Halloween we know and love today began to take shape after World War II when sugar rationing ended, the baby boom began, and new suburban neighborhoods started to pop up. Today, Halloween is a $13 billion industry that includes costumes, home décor, and of course, candy. STOCK UP ON TREATS When a trick-or-treater knocks on a door, they are always delighted to receive candy. Whether your

household hands out full-size candy bars or brings out a bowl filled with an assortment of sweets for kids to choose from, there’s excitement. This year, we’re anticipating some new trends, which trick-or-treaters are sure to love: • Many traditional favorite candies are now available in festive new shapes and packaging, including skull-shaped Twix, pumpkin-shaped Snickers, and Count & Witch Kit Kats.

Kim Severino, a Bucks County resident, is the owner of Candy Nation. Her website, candynation.com, offers over 3,000 different candies, including hard-to-find retro candy, for consumers and businesses across the United States and Canada.

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF CANDY NATION

Spooktacular Treats

SWEET CELEBRATIONS Halloween falls on a Saturday night this year, making it the perfect opportunity to host a party or attend one. Here are some creative ways to incorporate candy into your holiday celebration. • Build a sweet but spooky-themed charcuterie board. Arrange four to five different types of candy on a board and add fun accessories such as miniature skeleton hands, grave signs, or skulls for a haunting touch. • Use candy as your table décor. Fill mini black cauldrons, beakers, test tubes, or pumpkin buckets with Halloweenthemed candies in shades of orange, yellow, purple, black, or brown. Think candy corn, jelly beans, or individually wrapped candies. What happens when you have leftover candy on Nov. 1? There are plenty of local organizations that collect and donate to deployed troops, veterans, and families. Check out Soldiers’ Angels, Operation Shoebox, and Ronald McDonald House.

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LOCAL EX PERT | FINANCIAL PLANNING

Smart Money When it comes to planning for college, get a clear picture of your finances before setting any expectations. BY MARC R. BUTLER determine your affordability number, including likely scholarships and annual contributions. Second, allow your student to visit and apply only to schools within that range—yes, some come off the list, but there are excellent schools everywhere. Third, explore financial aid, but don’t assume it bridges a massive gap.

EVERY FALL, financial planners at Anthony Petsis & Associates meet with families who are in the midst of college planning. While this is an exciting time that often brings out the best in parents, it can also reveal their costliest mistakes. Here’s what we’ve learned from working with families over the years: Determine affordability first, before campus visits and applications. Prior to visiting a single campus, sit down and do the math. How much have you saved? What can you truly contribute annually from income and savings— not what you wish you could, but what’s genuinely sustainable? This is

your ceiling. Excellent schools exist at every price point. WHY IT MATTERS A student graduating with $100,000 in loans faces monthly payments of roughly $1,000 for 10 years. That’s a young person delaying a home, postponing a family, or struggling to build wealth when it could have been avoided. We’ve also seen parents raid retirement accounts or take Parent PLUS loans. Don’t do it. Your retirement comes before your child’s college choice. The framework is simple: First,

LESSONS LEARNED I know what some parents are thinking: “Won’t this disappoint my kid?” Perhaps initially. But you’re teaching them something crucial— that financial limits are real, dreams align with resources, and six figures in debt isn’t sound. That’s preparing them for adulthood. Your student will thrive at an affordable school. They won’t spend their 20s drowning in debt, unable to move forward. That’s worth far more than a diploma’s name. The best time to have this conversation is now, before anyone’s heart is set on an unaffordable choice. Do the math. Set the boundary. Then let your student excel within it. Marc R. Butler is a financial planner with Anthony Petsis & Associates. With a legacy spanning two generations, the firm delivers personalized, fiduciary-driven financial advice tailored to clients’ unique needs. To learn more, visit apetsis.com.

Anthony Petsis & Associates offers fiduciary guidance, local roots, and planning. Securities and investment advisory services offered through Osaic Wealth, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Osaic 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.

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Juan Vidal architecture & interior design photgraphy

610-721-9201 juanvidalphotography.com

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Have a photo or story you think should be featured? Want to learn more about advertising in our pages?

Ask about our partnership program.

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BOOK NOOK

Haunting Tales Get into the spooky season with stories that will keep you on the edge of your seat. BY ELIZABETH YOUNG

Bad Words

By Ríoghnach Robinson This literary romance uses words to match the emotional tautness between characters. It is a rewarding journey into word play that resembles a sword fight as the tension jumps from the page.

Kiss Slay Replay

By Rachel Harrison Featuring an effective blend of emotions, screams, sighs, and confusion, this story’s frightening situations combine romance and horror. Enjoy the book before the movie is out.

Silent Nightmares

KIDS AND MIDDLE-GRADE READERS The Bats on the Bus

By Alison Jackson Sing along to the familiar tune that turns spooky with bats on the seat next to you. Make your own rhymes, and enjoy the thrilling and spooktacular ride.

The Pumpkin Thief

By Alice Hemming The Pumpkin Thief has arrived to share his skills and talents with our old friend The Leaf Thief. This is a wonderful book for reading aloud, with imaginative role playing and beautiful artwork.

Premeditated Myrtle

By Elizabeth C. Bunce This new mystery series is perfect for the preteens in your life. Adventure, thoughtful clues and mystery kick off this series with a resounding cheer. Myrtle cracks the case with her quick thinking and smarts.

ADULTS Fall Shook Up

By Piper Sheldon After filling the summer reading queue, romance moves right into fall with a little spice and purpose. Enjoy the crisp air with some back-to-school rules of engagement and fun will follow.

Edited by Chuck Palahniuk and Michael Bailey Share in an exclusive Victorian world of fright with the spooky delights, spirits, and fair amount of plain evil that await you inside this book.

Mysteries of the National Parks

By Mike Bezemek This sensational nonfiction collection of stories revels in the time-honored lore and history of America’s national parks. It will engage the solo reader but is also a wonderful book to read aloud with friends—especially on a trip through the parks. Elizabeth Young is the owner of Commonplace Reader, located on Main Street in Yardley. The bookshop hosts monthly adult book clubs along with weekly kids’ activities. For more information, visit commonplace-reader.com.

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REAL ESTATE REPORT

AUGUST HOME SALES Upper Makefield (UM), Lower Makefield (LM), Newtown (NT), Doylestown (DO), Solebury (SO) Address

Area

Bed

Bath

List Price

Sale Price

Sale Price % of List Price

DOM

4 Woodland Rd.

Woodland Acres (UM)

6.1

$3,095,000

$3,000,000

97%

24 Hayhurst Dr.

Dutchess Farm Est (UM)

7.1

$3,100,000

$2,870,000

93%

1420 Pheasant Run

TimberLakes (LM)

$1,649,000

100%

1682 Clydesdale Cir

The Ridings (LM)

5.1

$1,963,000

$1,750,000

89%

49 David Dr.

Walden Square (NT)

4.1

$1,049,900

$1,040,000

99%

23 Delaney Dr.

Linton Hill Chase (NT)

3.1

$1,450,000

100%

104 Pickwick Dr.

West Hunt (DO)

4.1

$1,397,500

$1,420,000

102%

113 Watercrest Dr.

Pebble Hill (DO)

4.1

$1,199,000

$1,225,000

102%

6230 Saw Mill Rd.

New Hope (SO)

5.1

$2,875,000

$2,775,000

97%

3052 River Rd.

New Hope (SO)

6.2

$6,950,000

$6,250,000

90%

Brought to you by The Colleen Evanchik Team, Royale Homes of Washington Crossing, PA The accuracy of the statistical data in this table is not guaranteed by Upper Makefield magazine. All information is deemed accurate, but is subject to errors and omissions. The listings broadly represent the local real estate market rather than the listings of any single agent or agency. MLSP in condo and single-family sales in Bucks County from 8/1/2026 – 8/31/2026

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Call the Colleen Evanchik Team - where everyone is treated like royalty! We offer FREE and FRIENDLY real estate advice, so call us anytime!

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PHOTOGRAPH BY TIM MARCHOK

PHOTO OP

CURRENT MOOD BY STAFF WRITER TIM MARCHOK enjoys capturing photos of local waterways. The Bucks County resident took this photograph at Stoney Run Aqueduct in Upper Makefield where Jericho Creek runs under the Delaware Canal. He says he was struck by the beauty of the water flowing through with a bit of soft sunlight illuminating the surrounding vegetation. An amateur nature and landscape photographer for 30 years, Marchok used a Nikon DSLR to shoot this photo.

Have a fabulous Upper Makefield photo?

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Email it to editor@ uppermakefieldmag.com and it could be featured in an upcoming issue!

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