Issuu

UpperMakefield SEPTEMBER 2026

25 YEARS OF REMEMBERING TARA BANE’S POST-9/11 JOURNEY

CARING FOR THE CANAL

THE STEWARDS WHO HELP IT THRIVE

Built to Last HANSA AND JITU SHAH’S G2 COMPUTERS

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Contents SEPTEMBER 2026

F EATU RES

Built to Last

For over 30 years, G2 Computers has combined Apple expertise with personalized service, creating lasting relationships that span generations of families and businesses. 18

25 Years of Remembering

For Washington Crossing resident Tara Bane, every September brings memories of profound loss and gratitude for the life she has rebuilt.

The Delaware Canal offers miles of history and recreation, with passionate stewards keeping this Bucks County landmark thriving.

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Caring for the Canal

I N EVE RY I S SUE

PUBLISHER’S NOTE Back to Reality

LOCAL PULSE Bite-Sized Updates

Q&A Vincent Bedesem

LOCAL TASTES Lunch and Learn

LOCAL EXPERT Real Estate

WELLNESS WATCH Find Your Footing

BOOK NOOK Serious About Series

PHOTO OP History on the River

COVER

G2 Computers owners Hansa and Jitu Shah Credit: Photograph by Juan Vidal Photography

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PUB LISH ER’S NOTE

FOR ME, “the most wonderful time of the year” applies to the fall season. I love the transition that includes warm, sunny days alongside the arrival of those that are a little cooler and crisper. After the somewhat challenging summer of heat and rain, I’m hoping we have a beautiful fall. As autumn gets underway, many of us are busy with back-to-school preparations and/or more formal work schedules. One thing that deserves attention as we get back on track is ensuring all our digital devices are in excellent working order. With Hansa and Jitu Shah at the helm, G2 Computers is an amazing local team that has been making sure our computers, iPads, and all of the necessary accessories are ready to go. For 30 years, as technology has become such an essential part of our daily lives, the staff has helped us manage our digital needs—whether that’s finding the perfect new device or solving a problem that refuses to fix itself. We truly wouldn’t function as

PHOTOGRAPH BY JENNIFER JANIKIC PHOTOGRAPHY

BACK TO REALITY

well as we do without this business, its owners, and its fabulous staff. We appreciate all that lies ahead while also taking time to reflect on the experiences that have shaped us. For Upper Makefield resident Tara Bane, the tragic loss of her husband, Michael, on 9/11 has been a journey marked by both profound sorrow and remarkable resilience. In her memoir, “Evolution of a Heart,” Tara unfolds her deeply personal journey with honesty and hope. We are grateful to her for sharing her story with us and our readers. The dedication exhibited by those who care for the Delaware Canal, an intrinsic part of our community, is also to be admired. Whether walking, biking, or hiking, we all enjoy the beauty of the water and its incredible surroundings. That splendor doesn’t happen by accident. The canal is cared for and preserved through the work of Friends of the Delaware Canal and the exceptional leadership of Executive Director Michael Ginder. The Canal Tenders—volunteers who each oversee a specific section of the canal to help ensure our community experiences the waterway at its very best—add another special level of care. In this issue, you’ll learn more about the important role these volunteers play in preserving one of our community’s greatest treasures. If “back to school” is happening in your home, we’ve got some great ideas for lunches that your kids can learn to make themselves. And as we settle into new routines—and perhaps a slightly more hectic schedule—we’re sharing a few yoga poses to help keep you grounded and some wonderful book series that the whole family can dig into. Enjoy this beautiful time of year!

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MAGAZINE

Publisher Laura Lazar Laura.Lazar@uppermakefieldmag.com Local Editor Dari Kotzker editor@uppermakefieldmag.com Writers Elle Kaplan Anne Moyer Elizabeth Young Photographers Jenny Janikic Photography LLC 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

CELEBRATE COMMUNITY DAY Gather your friends and family for Upper Makefield Community Day on Sept. 19 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. (rain date Sept. 26) at Brownsburg Park. Activities include Taste of Upper Makefield, inflatable attractions, touch-a-truck, historical reenactors, and more. There’s is fun for all ages. PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF UPPER MAKEFIELD TOWNSHIP

LIGHT UP THE NIGHT This fall, take part in Lantern Tours at Washington Crossing Historic Park. These one-hour immersive tours are led by an expert interpreter and include stops at the solider encampment, boat barn, and battle map. Bowman’s Hill Tower will be open for an extra hour before the tours, which take place every Friday and Saturday from Sept. 25 to Nov. 7. Tickets are required. PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF FRIENDS OF WASHINGTON CROSSING PARK

2025 Poet Laureate Madeline Marriott (pictured holding flowers) PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF BUCKS COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

THE WRITTEN WORD Bucks County Community College is searching for a scribe who will be named the 50th Bucks County poet laureate. County residents over the age of 18, who have not previously earned the title, are invited to submit 10 original poems in any style by Sept. 25. The winner will receive a $500 honorarium and a plaque from the county commissioners, and will be honored with a November reading and a reception at Bucks County Community College with the 2025 poet laureate. There is no fee to enter the contest. Poems and an entry form must be submitted online at bucks.edu/poetlaureateentry.

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FALL ARTS FESTIVAL Explore the creative arts at the New Hope Arts & Crafts Festival, which will feature over 160 juried artists and craftsmen exhibiting their works. Guests can also enjoy live music and food vendors. The event takes place Sept. 26 and 27 at New Hope-Solebury High School. Admission is $5. PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF NEW HOPE ARTS & CRAFTS FESTIVAL

JOIN IN A PLANT SWAP Share your favorite plants and take home new ones at the Bucks Beautiful Plant Swap on Oct. 7 at 6 p.m. Bring sun, shade, and native perennials, houseplants, or trees to swap with fellow plant lovers. Please label plants with their Latin names if possible. This free event will be held at the Doylestown Township Community Recreation Center.

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF FRIENDS OF THE DELAWARE CANAL

A GUIDED WALK ALONG THE CANAL

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF BUCKS BEAUTIFUL

Friends of the Delaware Canal is hosting its 15th Annual Faces and Places celebration in Yardley on Sept. 27 at 3 p.m. Take a guided walk along the canal and enjoy a tour of historic sites and learn about canal locks, aqueducts, and the origin of buildings along the way. The afternoon ends at The Yardley Inn. For more information, visit fodc.org.

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Ready to Rumble New Council Rock High School North head football coach Vincent Bedesem looks forward to a successful season. BY STAFF WRITER Why did you decide to take the head coach position at Council Rock High School North? My first reaction was “it’s home.” I’m a product of this school and community. It is an honor and a privilege to represent this school and school district. Being given this opportunity is not something I take for granted, and I will work hard every moment.

VINCENT BEDESEM A 1984 GRADUATE of Council Rock School District, Vincent Bedesem played football and wrestled for the high school from 1981 to 1984. He graduated from Delaware Valley College (DVC) in 1989, where he also played football and wrestled. Bedesem’s first coaching job was alongside his father, Dick Bedesem Sr., at DVC. He returned to town to coach both sports at Council Rock High School from 1991 to 2001, then took over as head football coach for Council Rock High School South from 2002 to 2021. This year, Bedesem takes over as head football coach at Council Rock High School North. Here’s what he has to say about his influence on the football program and what to expect this coming season.

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What’s most rewarding about coaching? Watching the team grow in a positive direction and seeing the effect that has on the school community and the surrounding community. We put a lot of emphasis on the strength and

conditioning program, spearheaded by Coach John Franco, class of ’80 and the Council Rock Hall of Fame. Besides the physicality of football, there are life lessons athletes learn from the game. Since the team is made up of student athletes, we always stress the academic piece. We also teach to work as a unit—that no one individual comes before the team. And team members learn to overcome adversity. What can the community expect from the upcoming season? A team that will give 60 minutes of hard work and determination. That each of us will represent our team, our school, our families, and our community to the best of our ability. We want to be the best version of ourselves on a daily basis. When it’s game night, there is no better feeling and excitement than Friday Night Football.

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF VINCENT BEDESEM

INTERVIEW WITH

How will your past coaching experience impact your new team? The Council Rock High School North Athletic Department has a lot of experience to put forth to our program. Hard work, commitment, and consistency will be the backbone for our program. We ask everyone, especially me, to put their best self forward and be a positive difference for this team.

Vincent Bedesem with Walter Snyder, legendary Council Rock football coach and stadium namesake

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF COUNCIL ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT

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1150 Lord Sterling Road, Washington Crossing, PA 18977 | 215-493-5666

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LOCAL TASTES

Lunch and Learn Easy and delicious recipes help kids build confidence while making their own school lunches. BY ANNE MOYER

of bread and watch how seriously they take the job. Measuring, washing, slicing, and assembling ingredients to make a sandwich all become opportunities to practice focus, responsibility, and problem-solving. Best of all, kids don’t realize they’re building these skills— they’re simply making their own lunch. Unlike many activities, cooking also offers kids an immediate reward for their effort. By preparing a meal, they create something that nourishes themselves and their family, building confidence one recipe at a time. Mistakes will be made, but that’s just part of the lesson. Nobody gets it right immediately— including adults. But learning how to fix a mistake instead of giving up builds resilience that reaches far beyond the kitchen. If you want to get your kids involved in their own lunch-making, try out these two Young Chefs Academy recipes that are easy and delicious.

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF YOUNG CHEFS ACADEMY OF YARDLEY

AS BACKPACKS sit by the door and lunchboxes lie empty five mornings a week, it’s easy to think of making school lunches as just another task to check off before 8 a.m. But it can be much more than that—it can become one of the best opportunities all week to teach confidence, independence, and real-life skills to kids. Ask a 9 year old to level a cup of flour or carefully spread cream cheese on a slice

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Fruit Sandos Makes 8 triangles (4 whole sandwiches) Strawberry, kiwi, and orange get tucked between soft white bread and a barely sweet cream filling for this lunchbox-sized spin on a Japanese bakery favorite. Tip: To avoid messy slices, give the sandwiches a full hour (or chill overnight) in the fridge before cutting.

On the Trail Granola Bars Makes 12 bars Oats, nuts, honey, and a little chocolate come together in this bar that’s chewy enough to pass for a treat but packed with nutrients. Most of the mixing can happen with kids’ hands, not a stand mixer. Tip: Don’t skimp on pressing the mixture into the pan; loose packing is the typical reason bars fall apart. INGREDIENTS • 1 to 2 cups mixed nuts and/or seeds, whole (almonds, cashews, peanuts, pecans, pumpkin seeds, and/or sunflower seeds) • 1½ cups old-fashioned rolled oats • 1 cup crispy rice cereal • ½ teaspoon salt • ½ cup honey • 2/3 cup natural creamy peanut butter or sunflower butter • ½ cup apple butter or apple sauce • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract • 2 tablespoons coconut oil • ½ cup raisins • 1 ounce (about ¼ cup) mini chocolate chips

INGREDIENTS • 12 fresh strawberries • 2 kiwis • 1 medium naval orange • 1½ cups heavy whipping cream • 4 ounces cream cheese • 3 tablespoons sugar • ¼ cup jam (strawberry, peach, or apricot) • 8 slices soft, sturdy white sandwich bread (Japanese shokupan) or brioche

DIRECTIONS 1. R inse, dry, and hull the strawberries; peel the kiwis and cut them in half; peel the orange and remove the segment membranes (leave the outer membrane intact). Pat dry and set aside. 2. Whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks, then chill. Cream together the cream cheese and the sugar, then fold in the whipped cream. Chill. 3. S pread the jam on each bread slice, then spread the cream filling on both slices. Arrange the fruit in an X pattern on one slice, then top with the other piece of bread. 4. Wrap the sandwiches tightly and mark the cut line diagonally on the wrapper. Stack them on a sheet pan, weigh them down with another pan, and chill one hour. 5. Unwrap the sandwiches, trim the crusts with a serrated knife, and cut them in half diagonally.

Topping: • 1½ ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped • 1 tablespoon natural creamy peanut butter or sunflower butter DIRECTIONS 1. Roughly chop the nuts and/or seeds. Pulse the oats in a food processor to break them up (some pieces left whole). 2. Combine the nuts and/or seeds, oats, rice cereal, and salt in bowl. 3. In another bowl, stir together the honey, peanut butter or sunflower butter, apple butter or apple sauce, vanilla, and coconut oil. 4. Mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until well combined, then fold in the raisins and chocolate chips. Taste and adjust the saltiness and sweetness. 5. Line a 9-by-9-inch baking dish with wax paper and press the mixture firmly into the dish. Chill one hour. 6. Cut into 12 bars. Melt the chocolate with the peanut butter and drizzle over the bars. Chill briefly to set. Store in the refrigerator up to 10 days.

Anne Moyer is an enthusiastic home cook who brings her love of food and teaching to Young Chefs Academy of Yardley, a local cooking school that empowers children and teens through hands-on culinary experiences including weekly classes, summer camps, and parties. For more information, visit YardleyPA.YoungChefsAcademy.com. SEPTEMBER 2026 |

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LAST

For 30 years, G2 Computers has combined Apple expertise with personalized service, creating lasting relationships that span generations of families and businesses.

BY DARI KOTZKER

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APPLE CO-FOUNDER Steve Jobs once said, “The only way to do great work is to love what you do.” Those words capture the passion of Jitu and Hansa Shah, owners of the Washington Crossing-based company G2 Computers. For more than 30 years, the couple has combined deep Apple expertise with broader technology support and personalized service, creating lasting relationships that span generations of families and businesses. While devices and services have evolved over time, what has remained for decades is the excellent customer experience the Shahs provide. Jitu and Hansa both grew up in South India. Although Hansa’s mother and Jitu’s aunt were friends, the two never met as children. In 1982, Jitu came to the United States to visit his sister in Yardley. He

PHOTOGRAPHS BY JUAN VIDAL PHOTOGRAPHY

Built to

G2 Computers owners Hansa and Jitu Shah

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quickly fell in love with Bucks County and decided to stay, earning his MBA while working with his brother-in-law. After receiving his green card, he made the area his permanent home. During a trip back to India in 1990, Jitu met Hansa at his aunt’s home. The two discovered a shared interest in technology, business, and new ideas, and although they met only briefly, they stayed in touch. They were married the following year and soon began planning a business together. In June 1992, after pooling their resources and complementary strengths, they founded G2 Computers. “I loved Apple from day one, especially the way it operated,” Jitu says. “I knew it was going to shape the future of personal computing, and I thought Steve Jobs was phenomenal. At the time, there was a real need for someone who understood Apple technology, particularly in the printing and graphic arts industry.” Hansa knew from the start that she

and Jitu would work well together. “We struck a good note when we met,” she says. “Jitu had technical expertise that was rare at the time, and I naturally gravitated toward the business, marketing, and administrative side. It turned out to be a wonderful partnership.” A SUCCESSFUL STOREFRONT When G2 Computers started, much of Jitu’s work involved physically installing software and setting up networks. The Shahs joke that part of their work was “under desks connecting things.” When they would have 20 computers to deliver, it took two or three days to set up software because every machine had to be configured individually, with software loading one floppy disk at a time. As the business expanded and the couple welcomed a son, they moved to a home in Lower Makefield Township. By 2007, they felt it was time for G2 computers to have its own retail location. “At the time, Apple was putting

up retail stores, so people expected that type of shopping experience,” Hansa says. “That was our impetus to open a storefront.” Washington Crossing proved to be the perfect fit. “We made the move to Washington Crossing because we had many clients in the area who were already giving us so many references, and they suggested we move here,” Hansa says. “It’s also near many major roadways. Our longtime client Realtor Jay Spaziano suggested this store location, and we loved it.” As an Apple Authorized Reseller and Apple Authorized Service Provider, Apple regularly refers customers to G2 Computers, which specializes in data recovery and backups and also services Windows PCs. “We’ve become a place people, schools, and businesses rely on when technology isn’t working the way it should, from buying a device to repairing it, setting up meeting rooms or home offices, or simply figuring out how everything fits together,” Hansa

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BACK-TO-SCHOOL ESSENTIALS As students get older, their technology needs increase. To help them tackle the school year with confidence, the Shahs recommend that high school and college students invest in a complete Apple ecosystem that will allow their work to flow seamlessly across devices. Key items they suggest include:

Above: Jitu and Hansa Shah with technician Daniel Santiago (second from left) and lead service technician Paden Hynes (right) Bottom right: Longtime customer Mark Gardner with lead service technician Paden Hynes

says. “We think of ourselves less as a store and more as a partner helping people manage their technology over time.” What the Shahs find so endearing is how generations of families have come to them for their technology needs. “We have clients who have been with us for 30 years or longer,” Jitsu says. “Just a couple of weeks ago, we had a client’s son call us from Minnesota to order something for his son. He said his father used to buy stuff here for him and he wanted to keep the tradition going. It was very gratifying.” TOP TECHNOLOGY AND SERVICE With the new school year kicking off, the Shahs are ready to meet increased student demand. In addition to providing kids of all ages with the technology they need to succeed (see sidebar), G2 Computers serves small private schools and some nearby school districts by supporting their information technology departments. The Shahs know that it’s important to stay current in this industry. Apple requires ongoing training and certification to keep pace with new technology, and the team continually builds on that knowledge through

vendor training and industry conferences. The owners say they have been fortunate over the years to work with a talented staff. Lead service technician Paden Hynes was hired as a 15-year-old high school student, working after school and on weekends. Nearly 10 years later, he now leads the service team. “I always loved computers and Apple and came here with my parents when I was younger,” he says. “Then one day, I walked in and asked if they would hire me. They are the best bosses. The main reason people come here is for the personal experience. We can help

• a reliable laptop with a protective case • software • integrated Apple services • cloud storage or a backup solution for files • quality headphones • a smart watch

you with whatever you need. I love problem solving, so when a customer comes in with a problem and leaves without that problem, it’s a great feeling.” Yardley resident Mark Gardner has been a loyal G2 Computers customer for 15 years. “Jitu and Hansa have always been trustworthy, accommodating, and knowledgeable, and I like that they are always there when we need them,” he says. “The entire staff maintains a very high standard of professionalism and customer service that is sometimes hard to find.”

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Top left: Jitu Shah with a collection of classic Apple devices Top right: Technician Daniel Santiago with longtime client Julie Spaziano Bottom left: Jitu and Hansa Shah along the Delaware Canal Bottom right: Jitu and Hansa Shah in Peru. PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF HANSA AND JITU SHAH

MORE THAN A BUSINESS The Shahs credit their successful partnership to their complementary strengths. At work, Hansa oversees marketing and accounting, while Jitu manages sales, operations, and the technical side of the business. At home, the Shahs share many interests, including a passion for travel. Some of their recent adventures include Spain, Sri Lanka, and Peru, with Vietnam next on their list. They also make annual visits to India. Selfproclaimed foodies, they enjoy trying the local cuisine on their trips. They also like to cycle and hike, abroad and close to home. In addition, Hansa is

an avid tennis player at Bucks County Raquet Club. “We love this area and often do a seven-mile walk or bike ride along the canal from Washington Crossing to Lambertville, New Jersey—it’s so peaceful,” Hansa says. “We also enjoy Dominick’s for lunch and hold holiday parties at the Washington Crossing Inn. We have such a sense of belonging to this community, it means a lot.” For the Shahs, operating a small business in Washington Crossing has brought a deep sense of fulfillment, thanks to the connections they’ve formed with their clients. “One of the most rewarding parts of our job

is seeing someone’s stress disappear because we’ve solved a problem that was keeping them from working, communicating, or simply enjoying their day,” Hansa says. “We have been so lucky to be a part of this community. There’s no place else you would see this level of loyalty and the strong relationships we have built over the years. Technology will always change, but trust doesn’t.” Dari Kotzker resides in Bucks County with her husband and four kids. She has worked as a reporter in television news and print media since 2001.

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25 Years Of

Remembering

Tara Bane at Gardens of Reflection in Lower Makefield Township

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For Washington Crossing resident Tara Bane, every September brings memories of profound loss and gratitude for the life she has rebuilt.

BY DARI KOTZKER THERE ARE LIFE-CHANGING moments in history when people remember exactly where they were. For millions, Sept. 11, 2001, was one of those days. In the span of just over an hour, the unimaginable happened; American Airlines Flight 11 struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center at 8:46 a.m., followed by United Airlines Flight 175 hitting the South Tower, American Airlines Flight 77 crashing into the Pentagon, and United Airlines Flight 93 going down in a field near Shanksville. The devastating attacks claimed thousands of lives and changed the trajectory of so many people’s futures. Among those whose lives were irrevocably changed was Washington Crossing resident Tara Bane, who lost her husband, Michael, while he was working in the North Tower that morning. Tara and Michael were originally from New York and met as students at Stony Brook University in Fall 1990. Tara studied psychology and art and went on to get a master’s degree in art therapy. Michael earned a degree in business. From the moment they met,

they were inseparable. Through college graduation; an engagement in 1995; and their wedding in Lambertville, New Jersey, in July 1997, they built a happy life together. After living in Hoboken, New Jersey, while Michael worked in Manhattan’s insurance industry, the couple moved to Yardley in 1999. “Michael was a warm soul, so compassionate and easy going,” Tara says. “He was a very calming force for me; we really balanced each other. From the moment we met, we were really connected. We spent so much time together, and looking back, I’m grateful because we had such little time together.” Twenty-five years after the events

of 9/11, Tara has written the memoir “Evolution of a Heart: From the Darkness of 9/11 to Rebuilding a Life and Finding Joy,” which will be released in this month on Amazon and in local bookstores. In the book, she shares her personal story of grief, resilience, and hope. “One of the driving forces to write my memoir is that you don’t let go of grief, it’s there, you just figure out a way to incorporate it into your life so it doesn’t take over you,” Tara says. A LOVE LOST To help her write the book, Tara went back and read her journals she wrote after Michael’s death. Even though

Garden of Reflection on Sept. 11, 2011, the 10th anniversary of the attacks

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF TARA BANE

PHOTOGRAPHS BY JENNIFER JANIKIC PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTOGRAPH BY CHRIS YASINSAC

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that one or not. While on the phone with her cousin, the second tower fell. The only words she said to her cousin were, “Is it gone?” “It was a week and a half before I actually came to terms that he died,” Tara says. “I went into Manhattan on Sept. 15 to submit DNA and hang up photos of him, and I was still hoping. The week after that, we went back to NYC where Michael’s company had a meeting and gave us an option to go to the site, and we did. It was just a mountain of rubble, and that’s when I realized he wasn’t going to make it home.” Michael was 33 years old.

Above: Tara Bane in her Blue Sky Therapy Center office in Washington Crossing Bottom: Tara Bane looks back at journals she wrote to her husband, Michael, after the Sept. 11 attacks.

it’s been so many years, Bane remembers many of the details of that day that changed her life. The early morning of Sept. 11 started off as a typical Tuesday with Michael leaving early to catch the train and then PATH into Manhattan for his job at Marsh & McLennan, located in the World Trade Center. Tara recollects that before walking out the door, he asked her if she had seen his computer charger. Then they exchanged “I love yous.” An hour later, Tara felt an overwhelming need to call him, even though she didn’t have anything specific to say. “I just remember I was rushing to get to work, but first, I sat down to call him at his office, and it was a fast busy which was odd,” she says. “I tried his cell which we only used for emergencies, and it was also a fast busy.” Driving to work, she heard on NPR that a plane had struck one of the World Trade Center towers. After arriving at her office, the news broke that a second plane had hit. That’s when panic set in. She made it home in time to watch the first tower collapse on TV but didn’t know if Michael was in

A COMMUNITY COMES TOGETHER At 29, Tara was suddenly a widow. She and Michael were still relatively new to the area when the attacks occurred. Lower Makefield Township held a Day of Healing that September, and memorials followed in Yardley and Michael’s hometown. Although she had unwavering support from her family and Michael’s, she was stunned by the amount of support and comfort she received from community members. By November, Tara had met other Bucks County families who had lost loved ones in the attacks. “The local families became my family,” she says. “The connection was so needed, and we knew what each other was going through. We didn’t have to explain anything, we could just be.” Those relationships became the foundation for another healing project. Lower Makefield Township wanted to create a memorial for the 18 Bucks County victims. Tara worked alongside other families to raise funds and design the Garden of Reflection 9/11 Memorial.

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“We wanted the memorial to look solemn but uplifting, and we wanted life to be going on around it,” she says. “There was so much destruction on 9/11, and we wanted something more bright, positive, and peaceful. We created a fabulous memorial.” CREATING A NEW LIFE When Tara attempted to go back to work as an art therapist in 2002, she had a difficult time. Trying a new career path, she enrolled in culinary school. Around that time, she met her future second husband through a mutual friend. They lived in St. Thomas for a few years before moving back to Bucks County, marrying, and welcoming a son in 2009. After the marriage ended in divorce, she decided to start over in a new town. In 2016, Tara moved to Washington Crossing for a fresh start and opened her own art therapy practice called Blue Sky Therapy Center. “I love it here in Washington Crossing,” she says. “It’s such a quaint, beautiful area. I love having my practice here because it’s in my nature to help people. I talk a lot in the book about how it helped heal me by giving back to others, and to know I can assist in someone’s journey is heartwarming.” Three years ago, Tara started writing her memoir with the goal of sharing with readers what she went through in the aftermath of losing Michael and how she processed her trauma. For her, she writes that creating art and having a strong yoga practice became essential emotional outlets. “One of the book’s messages is to keep your heart open, seek out joy, and find what helps you,” she says. “I talk about being creative in any way, whether it’s art, gardening, music, or exercise— whatever it is, put your mind to it. You don’t have to be consumed by grief. You feel like it will never go away or ease, but it does.” LOOKING FORWARD Since the Garden of Reflection opened, Tara has spoken at nearly every Sept. 11 remembrance ceremony. She has brought her son there many times and wants to educate younger generations about what happened that day. “It’s

important for families who have children who were not yet born by Sept. 11, 2001, to talk about it,” she says. “They can bring them to the Garden of Reflection, go to the museum in New York City, or watch documentaries. Whoever was alive had an experience that day, had fears or worries. Even if they didn’t lose anyone, it was heartbreaking, so share your experience

with the young ones.” As the nation approaches the 25th anniversary of the attacks, Tara is amazed by how much time has passed. “It’s been a lifetime since that day,” she says. “I was 29 when Michael died. I’m getting older, and when I look at pictures of Michael, he’s forever young. I will always grieve Michael’s death and the loss of the life that we had, but I’ve been able to move on in the sense that I can open my heart to love and joyful experiences.” Today, Tara finds happiness in the life she has built in Washington Crossing where she is raising her 17-year-old son, Cole, and sharing her life with her partner, Kevin Sullivan. Through her resilience, she continues to show others that even after unimaginable loss, healing is possible. SEPTEMBER 2026 |

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t The Delaware Canal offers miles of history and recreation, with passionate stewards keeping this Bucks County landmark thriving. BY DARI KOTZKER

PHOTOGRAPHS BY JUAN VIDAL PHOTOGRAPHY

Caring for the Canal

Former canal tender Gordon Heisler, Friends of the Delaware Canal Executive Director Michael Ginder and canal tender Pete Klabe along the Delaware Canal

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THE 60-MILE-LONG Delaware Canal is a treasured landmark that winds its way through Bucks County connecting the region’s past with countless recreational opportunities. Stretching from Easton to Bristol, the canal passes through Upper Makefield Township, which is home to a picturesque four-mile section of this historic waterway. Lined with an abundance of trees shading the towpath, tranquil waters, and wildlife, the canal offers a peaceful haven where every season brings its own unique beauty. On any given day, walkers, runners, cyclists, and families can be found along the towpath enjoying the scenic landscape. Preserving this beloved destination— and the history and natural beauty that define it—is the mission of the nonprofit Friends of the Delaware Canal (FODC). AN HISTORIC LANDMARK Originally built between 1827 and 1832, the Delaware Canal was used primarily to haul anthracite coal from the Poconos region to Philadelphia until 1931. That same year, 40 miles

Above: Pete Klabe with a group of volunteers at the 2026 Canal Clean-Up Day PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF PETE KLABE

Bottom left: Michael Ginder has been executive director of the Friends of the Delaware Canal for five years. PHOTOGRAPH BY JENNIFER JANIKIC PHOTOGRAPHY

of the canal were deeded to Pennsylvania as Roosevelt State Park, and by 1940, the entire canal became part of the park system. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1976 and then renamed Delaware Canal State Park in 1989. Today, the park is managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR). To help with preservation efforts of the canal, residents formed FODC in 1982. The organization raises funds for projects, coordinates volunteer efforts, and advocates for the park. FODC Executive Director Michael Ginder has led the organization for five years. “The people we work with are phenomenal,” he says. “Everyone has a deep passion for the canal. They really care about keeping it preserved, making sure the history is known, and that it’s a great place for people to come. The support we get from the community and legislators is very heartening.” COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTIONS One of FODC’s most important volunteer initiatives is the Canal Tender Program, which was

established in 1993 to help keep the canal clean, safe, and well maintained. The program divides the canal into 34 sections, each cared for by a volunteer known as a canal tender. They are responsible for walking their section regularly, removing litter, and reporting any maintenance issues like downed trees, graffiti, erosion, or damaged infrastructure. Depending on the project, FODC will organize a group to undertake repairs, working in conjunction with DCNR. Gordon Heisler has lived within a half mile of the canal for more than 50 years, 19 of them in Upper Makefield Township. For 13 years, he held the canal tender position for the Upper Makefield Township section that runs from Mt. Eyre Road to Stoney Run Aqueduct. “I’m an avid bike rider so I’ve always been an active canal user and have been involved with the Friends group for a while,” he says. “As a canal tender, your responsibility is to keep an eye on the canal, reporting anything that is not 100% in good shape or the way it should be. Especially after storms, I’d report a tree down at a mile marker, washouts, exposed roots, or SEPTEMBER 2026 |

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Left: Gordon Heisler and Pete Klabe discuss the jobs of a canal tender while walking along the towpath.

Washington Crossing where you have water on both ends with ponds on the east side and the canal on the west side. You can see so much wildlife. The canal also gives you access to many historical features like Buckstone Farm and one of the aqueducts. It’s a place that brings people together.” Ginder says DCNR is appreciative of the Canal Tender Program. He also emphasizes that the township is lucky to have two great tenders who have helped to sustain the beauty and usability of this section of the park. “Gordon is wonderful and a great supporter of the canal as a past tender and board member who was always willing to help out and pitch in because he cares so much about the canal,” he says. “Pete is the same. He’s consistently out there walking along the canal, reporting back any problems, and always volunteers to help with any project.” a mountain of trash. We’re just trying to minimize anything that could be a problem for walkers and bikers.” Last year, Heisler retired from the volunteer position and passed on the responsibility for his section to Yardley Borough resident Pete Klabe. Living just a block and a half away from the canal, Klabe uses the towpath nearly every day. Klabe’s involvement with FODC began in 2021 after he encountered graffiti while walking on the towpath. He cleaned and repainted the area on his own. He had been following the FODC Facebook page where he saw a post that community members could submit trail reports, so he took before and after photos and sent them to the organization. They were very thankful for his work. When Heisler reached out for Klabe to take over as a canal tender, he readily accepted. Already familiar with the Upper Makefield Township section, he was excited to take on

this role since he frequently bikes the towpath to New Hope and Stockton and enjoys running in Washington Crossing Historic Park. “I love the canal and am happy to give back,” he says. “What I like about the Upper Makefield Township portion is on the southern part of

ONGOING MAINTENANCE Another major undertaking that FODC coordinates with the help of the canal tenders is its annual Canal Clean-Up Day. Held the second weekend of April, volunteers from throughout the region sign up for a three-hour work session to clean up the canal together. Participants are provided with gloves and trash bags

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to remove litter. The canal passes through urban, suburban, and rural areas, and last year’s volunteers collected enough trash and debris to fill up two dump trucks. Klabe ran his first clean-up event as a canal tender this past spring. “It was a great experience where I met a lot of people who Gordon used to work with and some new people who came from New Jersey,” he says. “We all got to know each other and shared our experiences with the canal. We walked the entire section, inspected it, and made sure it was clean.” Besides keeping the park preserved and clean for everyday use, FODC is planning for its future. The organization’s 2032 Plan lists projects it wants to work on in the coming years, including the installation of a pump near Washington Crossing Historic Park to help maintain water

levels during drier months. “The pumps have become increasingly important to have the canal filled with water,” Heisler says. “The Friends are trying to develop new projects like the pumps to help solve the water level issues. As members, we act as the eyes and ears to let DCNR know when there’s something that needs attention and what can be done to improve the canal.” PRESERVING A LEGACY The Delaware Canal is a living reminder of the county’s industrial heritage and remains one of the most beloved outdoor destinations. With the help of volunteers, the canal remains an important asset in Bucks County. For Klabe and Heisler, preserving the canal is about ensuring that future generations

develop an appreciation for nature and local history. “Since my kids are growing up going to the canal, I see that they are valuing the outdoors, valuing the trail systems and parks,” Klabe says. “It’s a gorgeous place that I want generations to enjoy.” Ginder agrees that the canal needs to continue to be a haven for recreation, jogging, biking, walking, and water activities. “I would love to make sure the canal is preserved and its history is preserved for everybody in perpetuity, to make sure we keep as much of the original structure intact as possible for people in the future, and to ensure it is accessible for visitors to enjoy because it is a beautiful asset we have in this area,” he says. Dari Kotzker resides in Bucks County with her husband and four kids. She has worked as a reporter in television news and print media since 2001. SEPTEMBER 2026 |

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LO CAL EX PERT | REAL ESTATE

Reading the Signs Here’s what to expect from the Upper Makefield Township real estate market heading into fall and beyond. BY GREG DWORNIKOWSKI whose participants are selective by nature. With typically 40 to 50 available listings on the market, the township consistently offers opportunities for buyers looking for larger lots, privacy, and luxury.

THE UPPER MAKEFIELD Township real estate market remains one of the most exclusive in Bucks County, with a median residential list price typically between $1.5 million and $2 million, depending upon available inventory at any particular time. Since the pandemic, the market has been very supply constrained, with buyers outnumbering homes available for sale. This, combined with ultra-low COVID-era mortgage rates, has resulted in skyrocketing home prices that persist to this day. Year over year, prices in Upper Makefield have risen about 13%, outpacing Bucks County at large, which posted a year-over-year increase of 8%. While this is great news for current homeowners, there has been a 40% increase in the average days on market for homes listed for sale. So prices are up, but it is taking longer to sell—a dynamic not surprising for a market segment

A ‘GREAT RESET’ IS LIKELY With statistics indicating a lengthening of time needed to sell, does this indicate a market softening or a coming crash in values? Economists and real estate market participants generally do not expect a nationwide housing crash or sudden bubble burst in 2026. Instead, the thinking is that the market is undergoing a gradual normalization, or “great reset,” characterized by a flatlining or modest price growth, sluggish sales volume, and elevated mortgage rates hovering in the mid-6% range. Unlike the 2008 financial crisis, which triggered a national downward adjustment in residential values, homeowners today hold high levels of home equity, and mortgage lending standards remain strict. This improvement in credit quality of mortgage borrowers supports the stability of the secondary investment market. Overall housing inventory remains relatively tight compared to periods of historical oversupply, an important element that acts to prevent a cascading panic or forced liquidations. National appreciation rates have slowed significantly to near 0% to 1% growth, meaning inflation-adjusted

values are cooling down rather than crashing. However, all real estate is local, and while Upper Makefield is experiencing a tighter, more buoyant market than the national averages, understanding the national dynamic can provide emotional assurance that we are not headed for a cliff. WHAT LIES AHEAD? Looking ahead, we can expect a continuation of the current dynamic in our local real estate market. Elevated prices will be supported by a continued supply constraint matched with solid demand driven by favorable underlying economic conditions. Strong economic indicators matched with ongoing uncertainty associated with the Middle East oil supply will provide inflationary pressure, dampening the prospects for interest rate cuts. This will keep mortgage rates in the vicinity of where they currently are. For those looking for falling interest rates, there will be disappointment. For those watching value and equity increases, there will be continued exuberance. It’s all a matter of perspective. A resident of Washington Crossing, Greg Dwornikowski is a luxury real estate agent at Addison Wolfe Real Estate and has an MBA in finance and real estate from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

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W ELLNESS WATC H

Find Your Footing Yoga can help you attain balance as you get back to the grind of life this fall. BY ELLE KAPLAN

3. For stress after a full day

Work on your breathing. Sit comfortably with both feet on the floor. Inhale through your nose for a count of four, then exhale for a count of six. Continue for one to two minutes. Lengthening the exhale encourages the body and mind to settle.

4. For more restful sleep

Hold the legs up the wall pose. Sit beside a wall and gently swing your legs up to rest against it. Relax your arms and breathe naturally for two to five minutes. This restorative shape can soothe tired legs and quiet a busy mind before bed.

5. For stiffness from cooler weather

EXERCISE YOUR BODY AND MIND Yoga is not simply about touching your toes. It teaches us how to remain steady when life speeds up. A regular practice can help keep your body mobile, breath full, and mind grounded. You do not need hours of free time, prior experience, or a certain level of flexibility to begin. Even a few minutes of intentional movement can change the way you meet your day. Yoga should support real life, so fit it into your routine in whatever way works best for you. A small daily

pause for breath and movement can help us meet the new season with greater balance, clarity, and ease. Here are five simple practices we recommend:

1. For a calm morning

Try cat and cow movements. Begin on your hands and knees. Inhale as you lift your chest and soften your belly. Exhale as you round your back and tuck in your chin. Continue slowly for one minute to warm your spine and create focus before the day begins.

2. For a midday reset

Practice the standing forward fold with soft knees posture. Stand with your feet hip-width apart, bend your knees, and fold forward. Allow your head and arms to hang. Gently sway from side to side for 30 to 60 seconds to release stiffness from sitting, driving, and looking at screens.

Elle Kaplan is the owner of TrueYoga Studio & School located in Newtown. She has been teaching yoga throughout Bucks County since the late 1990s. She has owned studios, consulted studio owners, and certified over 100 yoga teachers in the area.

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF TRUEYOGA STUDIO & SCHOOL

FALL IS A SEASON of transition. The school year is new, work schedules tighten, mornings darken, and the air turns cooler and drier. During this shift, it’s common to feel tension, busyness, and increased anxiety. Turning to yoga can be a great way to find the physical and mental support you may need.

Perform simple stretching. Sit tall in a chair or on the floor. Place one hand on your opposite knee and gently turn your chest. Inhale to lengthen your spine, and exhale to deepen the twist. Take three slow breaths, then switch sides.

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

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BOOK NOOK

Serious About Series As the seasons change, it’s time to fall in love with some popular book collections. BY ELIZABETH YOUNG

The House in the Cerulean Sea

By TJ Klune This two-book series follows a lovely story of discovering unlikely family in an unexpected place with unforeseen challenges and rewards.

Ninth House

By Leigh Bardugo These novels mix Gothic fiction with forbidden magic and paranormal mysteries. They touch upon power and privilege, set against the backdrop of an ivy league college.

Dream Harbor

YOUNG READERS Elephant & Piggie

By Mo Willems These picture books follow the adventures of two best friends who are opposites. It’s a great starting series for beginner readers. Even better, Mo Willems’ humor is appreciated by parents, too.

Pete the Cat

Created by James Dean, written by Eric Litwin and Kimberly Dean There is no groovier cat than Pete, who goes about life doing his own thing with feline attitude in this popular series.

MIDDLE-GRADE READERS The Misfits

By James Howe This series focuses on a collection of kids who just do not quite fit in. Pick up one of the books to enjoy a chaotic school day in a style only they can carry off.

ADULTS The Thursday Murder Club

By Richard Osman In this series, a club meets in their retirement home dining room and gets more than they bargained for when murder comes close to home and requires all members to pitch in and save the day.

By Laurie Gilmore Pick up this series to enter the world of Dream Harbor, a cozy, small town with lots of budding romances. Start with “The Pumpkin Spice Café” for a steamy cup of love and comfort. Commonplace Reader supports Raising Readers, a campaign to raise awareness about the alarming decline in children reading for fun, sponsored by Hachette Book Group. For more information, visit joinraisingreaders.com.

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

JULY 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

The Highlands (UM)

7.2

$3,500,000

$2,900,000

83%

Mount Eyre Manor(UM)

2.3

$1,995,999

$1,945,000

97%

8 Moon Cir.

Wynnewood(LM)

4.2

$1,300,000

$1,312,500

101%

1347 Heller Dr.

Makefield Chase(LM)

3.2

$1,299,950

$1,400,000

108%

213 S.State St.

Newtown Boro(NT)

3.2

$1,650,000

$1,525,000

92%

86 Rittenhouse Cir

Delancey Ct.(NT)

2.1

$1,364,700

$1,375,000

101%

218 GreenSt.

Doylestown Boro(DO)

2.1

$1,400,000

$1,345,000

96%

10 Fairfield Ln.

Foxcroft (DO)

2.1

$1,240,000

$1,257,622

101%

111 Pinewood Cir.

The Est. Riverwood (SO) New Hope Boro (SO)

3.1

$1,699,700

$1,960,000

115%

$4,300,000

$3,900,000

91%

1710 Scott Dr. 1087 Mount Eyre Rd

76 N.Main St.

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 7/1/2026 – 7/31/2026

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PHOTO OP

HISTORY ON THE RIVER BY STAFF WRITER ABOUT A YEAR AGO, inspired by David Hackett Fischer’s fascinating book “Washington’s Crossing” about the Revolutionary War, photographer Josh Friedman set out to capture several of the important locations featured in the book. He says the island (pictured on the left) is believed to be where Gen. George Washington hid many of the boats used in his famous crossing, keeping them out of sight from the British and Hessian troops stationed on the New Jersey side of the Delaware River. “It’s hard to imagine the courage and determination of those who fought to free ourselves from rule by a king,” Friedman says. This is a high dynamic range photograph, created from two exposures that the photographer merged together. To view more of Friedman’s work, visit etsy.com/shop/JoshFriedmanPhoto.

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Have a fabulous Upper Makefield photo? Email it to editor@ uppermakefieldmag.com and it could be featured in an upcoming issue!

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