The Official Newsletter of Bay Creek, Cape Charles, Virginia
In This Issue: Development Update: Life Center, Pickleball, Golf, Beach Club, Landscaping, Coach House, and more Membership Update
June 2020 | Issue 4
Recognizing the Moment
Member Spotlight Real Estate Update: Palmer Lake Villas Bay Creek Employee Spotlight: Meghan Neville Community Spotlight: Supporting Local Hunger Relief Efforts
Bay Creek Soundings is published regularly by Bay Creek. Drop us a line at info@BayCreekLife.com or call toll free 844.620.2900 Or you can always see us at BayCreekLife.com
Recognizing the Moment: Right now is unlike any other ‘now’ we have ever experienced. Each of us has met unique challenges in the past weeks. Inspired by the resilient spirit of the people who have made their homes and livelihoods on the Eastern Shore for generations, the Bay Creek community has chosen to make the very most of our ‘now’. Read more inside on next page
Soundings Recognizing the Moment continued from cover We have spent the past several months hard at work making Bay Creek even better: upgraded equipment and new wellness classes at the Life Center, significant enhancements to the golf course, a newly completed cart path connecting the community to Cape Charles and much more. Preserve Communities is pleased to share the latest news about completed and in-progress initiatives, as well as the exciting developments we have planned for 2020 and beyond. In this issue, we’ll also unveil the exciting new Palmer Lake Villas and share updates about the new Bay Creek beach experiences you can enjoy this season. Also, Director of Golf, Joe Burbee, and Sabrina Brady, Director of Sales Membership and Vacation Rentals, share insights on the member experience at Bay Creek.
In this moment, we are thankful for being part of Cape Charles and the greater Northampton County community. There is no better place to be than on the Eastern Shore. With its vast natural areas, the Chesapeake Bay and Cape Charles, all easily accessed from Norfolk and Virginia Beach, Bay Creek is an ideal perch from which to enjoy today and a great place to make plans for tomorrow. Right now is exciting—we are in awe, seeing thoughtfully planned visions turn into authentic, Bayfront experiences at Bay Creek. With the summer season upon us, the beauty of the Bay and the Eastern Shore are unparalleled, and our optimism for tomorrow is unlimited. ~ The Bay Creek Team
June 2020 | Issue 4
Development
A vision is only as good as the willing hands and sturdy spirits that will see it through to completion. The last few months at Bay Creek haven proven this out in many ways. Alongside the easy-going, relaxed bayfront vibe of our community, a dedicated team of designers, developers, and local craftsmen, have been
diligently pressing toward an impressive goal: the realization of a newly re-imagined Bay Creek. As of this month, many improvements and additions have been completed, more are approaching completion, and still others are slated to begin later this year. The progress is visible and inspiring.
The Life Center, Inside and Out The hub for health and wellness at Bay Creek, the 10,000 square-foot Life Center now features over $100,000 in new state-of-the-art fitness and wellness equipment. The equipment pairs ergonomic design with the latest technology to provide an ideal personal workout experience with Matrix Touch Consoles. You’ll be able to access virtual fitness programming, trail simulation, playlists and more while you work out. Designs are complete and plans are in the works for creating group fitness rooms inside the Life Center. These areas will feature a spin cycle studio and spaces for stretching, Pilates and yoga. Life Center fitness instructors are also offering outdoor exercise classes on the yoga lawn, the perfect place to feel great while enjoying the bay breezes from the Chesapeake. Additional class offerings and Life Center programming are in the works. The Life Center will continue its re-imagining in 2021, with plans to significantly expand and enhance the outdoor areas. New developments will include covered gathering areas, additional deck and seating options, and a fantastic kid’s zone with sprayground and new play equipment.
UPDATE
Soundings
Development
UPDATE continued
Bay Creek Welcomes the “Fastest Growing Sport in America!” Bay Creek is pickled pink to be officially getting on the Pickleball bandwagon. Plans are moving forward to add four Pickleball courts to the Club’s amenity offering. Our tennis courts have been gracious hosts to several well-attended Pickleball events for residents and guests in the last few years. Now, Pickleball will have a dedicated fourcourt presence. We can’t wait to see you out there serving up the fun!
The Bay Creek Beach, Made Even Better
It’s hard to imagine improving on our two miles of private beach. But the visionaries at Preserve Communities are in the business of taking the already exceptional to the next level. This season, they have done just that. Bay Creek’s beach will come alive with new luxurious experiences, and classic beach fun, including: • Complimentary beach chair and umbrella service for Club Members • Sea kayaks, youth kayaks and stand-up paddleboards And on the lawn of the Life Center, Members and guests can enjoy giant chess, checkers and more by day, and “golf-cart” drive-in and dive-in movies under the starry night sky. Preserve Communities has slated additional programming for Phase Two which will take place next season, with a focus on relaxation and enjoyment for every member of the family.
June 2020 | Issue 4
The Beach Club Bay Creek Beach Club
Preserve Communities is continuing the design and permitting of the Bay Creek Beach Club. Set on an ideal site overlooking the dunes and the Chesapeake Bay, the Bay Creek Beach Club will be an engaging beachfront gathering place for family and friends. Planned amenities include a fabulous beachside restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating, a spacious deck with comfortable seating and a private boardwalk leading directly to the beach. April 23, 2020
sinclairhille.com
Exterior Perspective
Making the Golf Experience Exceptional Bay Creek’s golf is widely known and highly acclaimed. Preserve Communities has taken a proactive approach, though, in identifying ways to improve the golf experience even more. Bobby Masters, Vice President of Lifestyle Communities, shared details about some of the extensive renovations that have recently been completed. “We’ve made substantial improvements on the course itself, including drainage, greens and tee boxes and cart path repair. We’re focusing on agronomy to maximize the health, beauty, and ultimately, the playability of the course,” says Mr. Masters. “Maintenance is key. We have spent about $500,000 restoring the shoreline of the golf course, to prevent erosion going forward. And we’re allocating funds to maintain and preserve what we have,” he says. “It’s dramatically improving the functionality and appearance of the course. The best part is, the Members out there playing it are noticing.”
Soundings
Development
UPDATE continued
The Coach House
Landscaping
The Coach House Tavern has undergone significant interior and furnishing upgrades to create a newly refreshed, inviting ambiance. Guests will enjoy a rustically elegant dining environment, and, of course, exceptional golf course views. Just as exciting as the interior upgrades, though, is the restaurant’s all new menu, which focuses on authentic farm-to-table dining. The Eastern Shore is well-known for its phenomenal variety of fresh produce and bountiful seafood, and the Coach House will offer this fresh, local cuisine daily to Bay Creek Members and their guests.
In conjunction with the Bay Creek Property Owners Association, Preserve Communities has committed significant resources to improve landscaping throughout the community. Community-wide grooming and maintenance is ongoing and will ensure that Bay Creek looks lush, well-maintained and welcoming in every season.
June 2020 | Issue 4
Nature Preserve Trails The acreage set aside for the Nature Preserve on the southern portion of the Bay Creek peninsula is now home to two fantastic trails. Both the 3-mile and 1.6-mile loops are ideal for biking and walking, and wind through exceptionally scenic vistas. The trails and Nature Preserve area are slated for further enhancement via our ongoing partnership with AvidTrailsŽ, one of America’s most innovative trail and outdoor lifestyle companies. Our residents will enjoy a dynamic trail system for every member of the family, tailored to all ages and abilities. The new vision for Bay Creek centers on connectivity— of our neighborhoods, our residents with the nature surrounding them, our hometown of Cape Charles, and the entire Eastern Shore peninsula.
Soundings
Development
UPDATE continued
New Homes, Builders & Variety Bay Creek has always been known for its wide variety of neighborhoods and homes. And now, the options are even greater! Bay Creek is pleased to introduce the exciting new Palmer Lake Villas, “right-sized” homes overlooking the 12th and 13th holes of the beautiful Arnold Palmer Signature course. These custom designed homes in the Fairways Village will offer an inviting open living area, three bedrooms on the mail level including the master suite, a spacious screened porch and an option for an upper level bonus room. Nearly every Villa will have both golf and water views from the porch and master bedroom. Ranging in size from approximately 1,823 interior square feet up to over 2,300 square feet, the initial phase of these gorgeous homes will be offered this summer exclusively through a special Reservation Program. Grand Opening pricing is expected to start in the mid $400’s. “The Palmer Lake Villas are an exciting addition to Bay Creek,” explains James Sinnott, President and Chief Operating Officer. “We wanted to offer different options for a diverse set of home buyers. Palmer Lake Villas was the missing piece of the puzzle.” See more on page 14.
Bayside Village
June 2020 | Issue 4
Palmer Lake Villas
Artist’s conceptual rendering. Subject to change.
Bayside Village area is also alive with activity. Development is continuing on spacious, new cottages that evoke the historic charm Bayside Village is known for. There are several new model homes to explore including the Cobb House Cottage. Breaking ground this summer, this beautiful 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath home near the beach is sure to attract a lot of attention.
The demand for all types of homes from our Bay Creek clients has never been stronger. We are in conversation with our current builder guild members as well as with several new builders, who are interested in Bay Creek, so we can provide our clients with the best options for home construction.
Soundings
Membership UPDATE
Seeing the Vision Come to Life: The recent activity and enhancements happening at Bay Creek have us excited and inspired—and new neighbors and members alike are enjoying our active, thriving community. This month, we explored the transformation taking place at Bay Creek and what it means for members and guests.
“Bay Creek is redefining the membership experience,” says Joe Burbee, Bay Creek Director of Golf. “We’ve made a major shift from a semiprivate resort to a true private club.” And that, says Joe, has made the experience even better. “Now, the members and guests who play the courses are enjoying improved course conditions and more availability,” he says. “It’s not crowded. It’s easy to get a tee time.” In fact, Joe says, “they can often just come and play whichever course they want.”
The noticeable improvements to the golf holes and the easy-access, member-only experience is the result of a significant commitment of funds from developer, Preserve Communities. “Preserve Communities has invested about $2 million in Bay Creek’s 27 holes of golf,” says Joe. “And it shows.” “The courses are better than they’ve ever been,” explains Sabrina Brady, Director of Sales, Membership and Vacation rentals at Bay Creek. “The rotational 9-hole option is very popular,” she says.
“There’s also been about a half million dollars invested in the ongoing renovation of The Coach House Tavern and Clubhouse,” adds Joe. “It’s exciting.” “That, along with the major renovation of the Life Center and the new cart path to Cape Charles, is making a major difference in the member experience, too,” says Sabrina. Sabrina has seen these tangible improvements transform the Bay Creek experience. “I think one of the unique advantages is having a developer like Preserve Communities. They’re keeping what is true to Bay Creek’s nature—the natural beauty, the water,” she says. “And the work they’re doing is enhancing that Bay Creek sense of community, too.” “There’s the multi-generational focus,” she explains. “Our gorgeous beaches are being activated for the first time with complimentary beach chair and umbrella service. There will be kayaks, paddleboards, all kinds of things for all ages to enjoy.”
June 2020 | Issue 4
“The Nature Preserve is going to be great for active families, too. We’re already see a lot of families out enjoying the trails,” says Sabrina. Bay Creek’s ‘Base Camp’ will add even more to enjoy: “When the outfitter and the kayaking access is added, it’s going to be even more dynamic,” she says. Another service provided for members and guests: Bay Creek Concierge Service. Meghan Neville, an Eastern Shore native and all-around local area connoisseur, now serves in the concierge role and helps curate activities and experiences for members and guests. And though her official title is Concierge; you could just as easily call her ‘Executive Director of Great Memories’. Her specialty is understanding individuals’ interests and aspirations, and helping them plan Eastern Shore experiences that will make memories they’ll cherish. Read more about Meghan in the “Employee Spotlight” in this issue. The future—and present—are very bright here at Bay Creek, and new developments are continuing daily. Joe and Sabrina look ahead as we continue to enrich the member experience. Joe is most excited about working with residents to enjoy the new benefits of membership—and more are taking advantage of it every day. Sabrina says she is energized by what’s coming next. “We have seen it happen now, and we have a clear sense of the Preserve Communities vision. It’s exciting to see that vision come to life in a way that captures the real beauty of Bay Creek and the Eastern Shore.”
For more information on becoming a member, Bay Creek residents/owners please contact Sabrina Brady at 757.331.8702
Escape to Virginia’s Cape
Soundings
Member SPOTLIGHT
BAY CREEK RESIDENTS & MEMBERS, DENNIS & JOYCE GRABULIS – When Dennis and Joyce Grabulis of Fairfax County, Virginia, began searching for a place to retire, they knew living on the water was a must. They looked up and down the East Coast between Delaware and Florida before they discovered Bay Creek.
Their son, Kyle, a third-year law student at Regent University, enjoys water activities on his visits, too. “Kyle taught me how to stand-up paddleboard the other day. It was exciting,” says Joyce. “It was a little windy out there, but I survived it—and I’ll do it again!” she smiles. Their home in The Colony is ideal for time on the water. It’s also perfect for enjoying the charm and atmosphere of nearby Cape Charles. The historic downtown is an easy trip by bike, golf cart or on foot. “We stumbled upon Bay Creek by accident and just fell in love with it,” laughs Dennis, recalling their search. “We knew we wanted to be somewhere on the water,” he says. In 2014, they built their dream home here. The Grabulises’ custom home was crafted by Builder’s Guild member Schneider Custom Builders in The Colony—a vibrant, coastal neighborhood adjacent to Kings Creek Marina that certainly makes it easy to enjoy the waters of the
beautiful Chesapeake Bay. Their home is wonderfully close to the sandy Bay beach just across the neighborhood street. Living here, their love of water is richly rewarded. “We do a lot of kayaking,” says Joyce. “We like to walk on the beach, we go crabbing…”
As Bay Creek members, Joyce and Dennis take full advantage of the natural beauty and amenities of the community.
“We work out six days a week at the Life Center and enjoy going to the pool there,” says Joyce. They say that, usually, their routine is a mix of cardio and weights. And they also “We crab the old-fashioned way enjoy taking part in the outdoor with a string and some chicken, classes and video classes offered as well as putting a crab pot in the by the Life Center fitness water,” adds Dennis, laughing. instructors.
June 2020 | Issue 4
They’re also ‘hitting the trails.’ The Nature Preserve with its network of scenic trails offers an ideal environment for fresh air, sunshine and exercise. “We love it,” says Dennis. “It’s great. We’ve been walking in the Preserve quite often.” This natural area offers up lovely views, too. “The views of Plantation Creek and out on the Bay there are very nice,” explains Dennis. It’s no surprise that Joyce and Dennis find it easy to stay active at Bay Creek with full access to beaches, trails and the Life Center amenities. One thing that was a pleasant surprise, though, says Dennis,
was the fast friendships they made. “We didn’t know anyone when we arrived, and all the people here were so friendly and nice,” he recalls. “Even though many of them are retired, they’re active,” he says.
Whether they’re working out, walking in the Nature Preserve, getting out on the water or simply enjoying a good laugh with friends, Dennis and Joyce are making the most of each moment at Bay Creek.
The gorgeous Bay landscape, great member amenities and a cast of active, social neighbors are the ideal recipe for beautiful Eastern Shore living.
Dennis puts it simply, and perhaps, best: “We’ve made a lot of new friends here and it’s been a lot of fun.”
“We have a happy hour on the beach here for the entire Marina Village every first and third Friday,” says Joyce. Of their last get together, she tells us, “People were so excited to get out of the house and get caught up with old neighbors… and meet new neighbors, too.”
Thank you, Joyce and Dennis for sharing your Bay Creek experience with us!
Soundings
Real Estate UPDATE
INTRODUCING PALMER LAKE VILLAS 3 - 4 Bedrooms | 2.5 - 3.5 Bathrooms | 1,823 - 2,300+/-- Square Feet Exclusively offered by Bay Creek Realty. Introductory Pricing from $459,000 to $499,000
Introducing the Palmer Lake Villas, one of the most anticipated new home enclaves ever offered at Bay Creek. Designed and crafted by highly respected Beacon Custom Homes, this limited edition of thirty Villas will be nestled along the 12th and 13th holes of the Arnold Palmer Signature Course, offering absolutely gorgeous views of both golf and water.
feet of interior living space. An optional 4th bedroom with full bathroom on the upper level is available as well as an option to enclose the outdoor covered porch into a sunroom, the perfect spot to sit and take in the fantastic views of the Palmer Signature golf course.
These homes were masterfully created to appeal to both full-time residents as well as those desiring a carefree and low maintenance second home.
Inside are all the features you’d expect to find in a Bay Creek home – hardwood floors, granite countertops, stainless kitchen appliances, craftsman trim package, 9’ to 12’ ceilings on the main level, screened rear porch and much more.
The main level is beautifully designed to offer one-level living at its finest, with three bedrooms and an wonderfully open living area all blending harmoniously into approximately 1,823 square
Priced starting in the mid $400’s, the first release of Villas is anticipated to be available for purchase in late July via a special priority reservation program.
Beautifully designed Palmer Lake Villas
View of 13th hole from Palmer Lake Villas.
optional outdoor kitchen
patio master bedroom
screened porch
great room
dining
master bath w.i.c.
bedroom
kitchen
bath
laundry
attic
bedroom
bath
bedroom
garage
porch FIRST FLOOR FLOOR PLAN FIRST PLAN
OPTIONAL SECOND SECOND FLOORFLOOR PLANPLAN
All renderings are artist’s concept for illustration purposes only. Subject to modification. Square footage subject to change.
Soundings
“Best Coastal Community in Virginia 2020” ~ ideal-LIVING Magazine “Voted Top 100 Amenity Community 2020” ~ ideal-LIVING Magazine
““One of Coastal Living’s ‘Happiest Seaside Towns’” ~ Coastal Living “Prettiest Beach Town in Virginia” ~ Coastal Living (Aug. 2019) “The Perfect Beach Town” ~ Southern Living
June 2020 | Issue 4
Bay Creek Employee SPOTLIGHT MEGHAN NEVILLE, Director of Concierge Services
An early morning stroll along the enticing Chesapeake Bay waters is how Meghan Neville, Director of Concierge Services at Bay Creek, would start her perfect day in Cape Charles. Her next move is an easy choice: breakfast at the Coach House Tavern to fuel a day of activities on the boat. After a little water skiing, she would pull up to a sandbar to laze about and enjoy a sandwich from The Bakery on Mason. To round out the day, Meghan would be faced with the ultimate choice of dinner at The Shanty or Hook at Harvey with friends.
Meghan joined the Bay Creek family in December 2019, but is an Eastern Shore native—born and raised in Cheriton, VA. “I love talking to different people and learning about what they enjoy and I really love being able to share what is special about the Eastern Shore with people who are clearly choosing to be here,” said Meghan. “It’s fun to help people have fun.” After graduating from Randolph-Macon College with a B.A. in English and Studio Art, Meghan took over her late grandfather’s hardware store. This role allowed her to get to know an older generation of locals and become further connected to the community. She worked for the Virginia Farm Bureau in Member Service and directed outreach services at the Eastern Shore Rural Health Systems. Meghan’s strong background in customer service and outreach coupled with her passion for the Eastern Shore’s rich culture makes her the perfect
addition to the Bay Creek community. One of her favorite things about her job are the people and getting immersed in nature. “Every time I take a walk, I see something new. Whether it’s a turtle crossing the road, or a shore bird flying, or a little lizard trying to find a hiding spot,” said Meghan with a laugh. “It’s just wonderful to work somewhere that I can walk outside and in three minutes be in nature.” Cozying up with a book, boating and walking the trails are all close seconds to spending time with her family when it comes to Meghan’s hobbies. “I love the Eastern Shore and my family has been here for generations; it’s important to me that other people see what’s special,” said Meghan. “I think that when other people understand what’s special about the Eastern Shore, they become more committed to protecting what makes it unique and beautiful, while also enhancing life around here.”
Soundings
Community SPOTLIGHT BAY CREEK UNITES TO SUPPORT LOCAL HUNGER RELIEF EFFORTS
The Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore is set to receive a $22,770 donation through a matching campaign started by the James Fisher Memorial Foundation and fueled by the generosity of the Bay Creek community. The James Fisher Memorial Foundation is a nonprofit organization within Preserve Communities that works to enhance the well-being of those within the communities it operates through funding and the donation of land use. When the Covid-19 pandemic began, Jack Fisher, Chief Executive Officer at Preserve Communities, and the Bay Creek team came up with a plan to help the surrounding community. Due to food-sourcing issues and the growing number of people out of work, the result was the matching campaign to aid the local foodbank. The Foundation originally agreed to match a donation of up to $5,000, but the overwhelming positive response from Bay Creek residents allowed them to increase the match to $10,000.
June 2020 | Issue 4
“It’s a special place. The homeowners have a heart for service,” said Jennifer Buntin, Director of Marketing and Communications at Preserve Communities. “It proves that not only do we care as developers, but the properties we’re developing are truly special and are bringing in like-minded people with the same values and ideals as us.”
Since mid-March, the Eastern Shore branch of the Foodbank has handed out more than 269,000 pounds of food to over 22,000 community residents in need. “With most businesses and local employment places closing, and we knew that the need for food would be greater. Additionally, there were also school closings, and we knew we would need to step in because those children were relying on two meals a day at school,” said Charmin Horton, Branch Manager of the Foodbank. “We were able to increase our efforts in the community to ensure that those in need would be able to have food access.” However, filling the need of the vulnerable populations — seniors, children and low-income families — grew more difficult as the pandemic heightened. Food donations from grocery stores and food availability decreased, while the cost of food climbed upward. “We were super excited that everyone was able and willing to participate. I did not doubt that they would reach the max of $5,000, however I never anticipated that it would go over the way it has and it’s phenomenal,” said Horton.
Horton emphasized that the COVID-19 recovery efforts are going to be just as important as the response efforts were but believes this crisis has brought people together. “It really does show how much the community means to each of us; people are coming together in ways that they never have before and recognizing that it doesn’t take someone specific to affect—that it really does affect the entire community and the only way to get through it is to come together,” said Horton. Before the matching campaign was set in motion, residents of Bay Creek were already hard at work aiding the local community. In North Hampton County alone, 58 percent of students are eligible for breakfasts and lunches at school. When schools closed, some families weren’t able to pick up meals at allotted times and access to food grew harder. A group of women from Bay Creek recognized this and began making 100 lunches to hand out every Sunday beginning March 31. They also distributed hygiene bags and activity books. Their outreach morphed into the matching campaign which will help countless people through these unprecedented times. “What our owners love so much about Bay Creek, is it’s so close-knit. People want to be involved; they want to give back,” said Linda Buskey, Sales Executive at Bay Creek. “It is heartwarming to see a community come together in a time of need.” “The matching campaign was just the beginning of Bay Creek’s support of the local community as reaching out is just who Bay Creek is as a development. We knew we had an idea that Bay Creek was special when Jack bought it, but this just proves what we already knew about the community,” said Buntin. “We knew the people were special and it makes us even more excited to be there as a developer and see what is going to come next.”
Premier coastal living on Virginia’ s Cape
2 miles of private beach. 27 holes of golf. And 1,720 acres to isolate in nature. Searching for a sanctuary that embraces every member of your family? That place is Bay Creek, and that time, like never before, is now. To introduce you to our premier lifestyle community—newly invigorated with upgrades and amenity enhancements —we invite you to visit us this summer. The exclusive Bay Creek real estate Discovery Package has been designed to open the door to a palette of specially curated experiences that show you what it’s like to experience life well lived on the Eastern Shore.
A Preserve Community
Click here to inquire about our special Discovery Package rates Toll Free
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Obtain the Property Report required by Federal Law and read it before signing anything. No Federal agency has judged the merits or values, if any, of the property. This is not intended to be and does not constitute an offer in any state or jurisdiction where prohibited by law. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Prices and square footages are provided for reference only but are subject to change and not guaranteed. Sales by Bay Creek Realty/Broker. ©2020 Bay Creek. All rights reserved.