In This Issue:
Real Estate Update
Featured Home and Homesite of the Quarter
Chef’s Corner with Bay Creek Executive Chef, Christian Lofland
Nature Corner with Bay Creek Naturalist, Joe Fehrer
The First Annual St. Charles Catholic Church Oktoberfest
Introducing Beach Market
Bay Creek Soundings is published regularly by Bay Creek.
Drop us a line at info@BayCreekLife.com or call toll free 844.620.2900
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What a beautiful summer we enjoyed at Bay Creek. As with all good things, the ‘official’ summer season has, indeed, ended. Now with Labor Day past us, too, we’re beginning one of the most beloved seasons here at Bay Creek: that golden shoulder season where it’s Fall but only just. The breezes are still warm, the beach is still ideal for early morning barefoot walks, and the Eastern Shore is gorgeous.
We spoke with Bobby Masters, President of Bay Creek Development, about saying goodbye to summer, welcoming fall and what’s happening in the community now.
The Official Newsletter of Bay Creek, Cape Charles, Virginia
“This summer we experienced a record number of real estate inquiries from across the country and as a result, we’ve welcomed many new families who’ve joined us as home and homesite owners. The Bay Creek Realty team has been busy introducing the new homes and neighborhoods of Bay Creek to hundreds of potential new residents. Bob Ewing, Club General Manager, and his team have made sure the amenities, Club events, and golf and dining experiences have been memorable and enjoyable.
As President of Bay Creek Development, one of Bobby’s many responsibilities is the development of new neighborhoods and new home concepts in Bay Creek. This fall represents a milestone for Bay Creek and the expert team of planners, designers, and builders who have brought phase one of Muirfield to completion.
“I’m incredibly excited about all the accomplishments that have occurred at Muirfield. In the span of 12 months, Muirfield has transformed from a vision to reality. New homesite owners are working with builders,
refining plans, and creating the primary home or second home of their dreams. We have families that are looking forward to breaking ground very soon,” says Bobby. “Muirfield is all about variety and offering the truly exceptional. The village of Muirfield has some of the most breathtaking coastal views that you’ll find anywhere in the southeast,” Bobby adds. “The golf and lake views…all of it is the best of the best.”
After months of planning and development, the team is working on some special finishing touches. Part of developing a new village like Muirfield is making the journey just as beautiful
as the destination. We take that to heart throughout Bay Creek,” says Bobby.
“We’re also nearing completion on the entry at Muirfield,” he adds. The entry helps differentiate Muirfield as its own unique village within the greater community. The Muirfield entry is understated and refined. Its unique identity lies within the choice properties there. The entrance columns were designed to be a subtle visual that lets residents know, ‘I’m home’ as they drive in. While nearly twenty properties have been spoken for, Muirfield still has an exciting variety of homesites available, offering golf, lake, pond, and Chesapeake Bay views.
to all the amenities that become a part of daily life here.” Bayside Village itself continues to be highly sought after with homesites offering a variety of different views, along with an elegant selection of homes from the Preserve Homes & Neighborhoods Coastal Collection.
On the Club front, “We’re pleased to report that the new cart barn is now complete. This is a great, tangible improvement for our members. Besides offering more space, the facilities are now more conveniently located. It’s all part of streamlining the process for our members,” says Bobby.
As for the coming Fall months, Bobby continues to look ahead. “A developer’s job is to help a community grow and flourish. But just as importantly, it is to be a good steward of the community—for the benefit of the people who call it home now, and for those who will do so in the future. Bay Creek has a unique personality, and all efforts are in service to that.”
Bay Creek has also released a select few homesites adjacent to the Nature Preserve, each just under a ½ acre, in Plantation Pointe. Best described as an estate enclave, Plantation Pointe is a lush neighborhood with a signature gazebo overlooking a tranquil pond with a lovely fountain. Inquire with the Bay Creek Realty team for more information.
“We’re very excited about the new release in Bayside Village,” says Bobby. “The Forest at Bayside Village is a place that offers a highly desired combination: a much larger homesite where you can build a family retreat, but with the coastal cottage aesthetic of Bayside Village. At present, there is a great variety of large, wooded estate homesites, beginning at just over a ½ acre now available in The Forest,” he adds. “And of course, it’s very close
“This Fall, we’ll see more of the Club events that Bay Creek residents and guests have come to love. Whether it’s the very popular wellness classes at the Life Center, unique wine pairing evenings at the Coach House, hosting golf tournaments for members and guests, or putting on bespoke events at the Tree of Life, this Fall will be full of the activity and camaraderie that define us at Bay Creek,” says Bobby. “It’s just a great place to call home.”
It has been an incredible summer at Bay Creek and Fall is shaping up to be spectacular! Bob Ewing, General Manager of Bay Creek Resort & Club, along with many dedicated team members have helped create countless summer memories for members and guests. Now, with the promise of a beautiful autumn season approaching, Bob shares a few memorable moments and updates us on the many events and activities taking place in the coming months.
“If you’re anything like me, you really look forward to September and October. It is such a great time to do anything because of the cooler days and the crisp nights,” says Bob.
large maintenance and improvement efforts. “We want every round to be the best it can be, so the condition of the golf courses is essential,” Bob explains. “Course aeration has been ongoing and we are also working with Solitude Lake Management to ensure the health and beauty of the ponds and lakes throughout the course. We’re already pleased with what we’re seeing.”
“In this in-between season, we enjoy keeping favorite summer services going as long as possible, and we still have a full schedule for everyone to enjoy,” says Bob. The Life Center pool remains open into early-October allowing for a little more sunny poolside relaxation, a bit more laughter and a few last tranquil laps in the pool before the weather turns cool.
“As fall approaches, there will be many opportunities for us to gather and enjoy the best that Bay Creek has to offer,” says Bob.
“We’re headed into what will arguably be the best time for golf,” says Bob. “We’re looking forward to a lot of tournaments and activities. Many are already planned, and other events are in the works.”
Throughout the summer and now into Fall, Mike Smith, Golf Course Manager, along with Zach Pfingst, Director of Golf, and the entire maintenance team has undertaken several
Summer golf kicked off with The Nicklaus Cup, the Club’s season-long net match play tournament. The Nicklaus Cup is a singleelimination event much like the NCAA’s March Madness. Rounds 1, 2, 3 and 4 were held on single weekends in May, July, August and September. The final is October 15th and will be a great end to an incredible summer. Legends Member-Guest Tournament takes to the course at the end of September for a great weekend of fun and camaraderie.
This fall, Bay Creek will continue to host Sunday Member Mixer Scrambles and a Member Golf Clinic, along with themed fun like the Halloween Scramble. Then, in November, we’ll welcome back the Annual King and Bear Fall Tournament, our wildly popular two-person team event that’s open to all amateur and professional golfers.
“No matter your level of skill, or even if you’ve never played and are ready to learn, the golf professionals at Bay Creek can make your experience here a great one,” says Bob.
Bay Creek golf is incredible, and yet it’s only one part of the myriad elements that make this place a true coastal haven. Bob’s expertise in Club management undergirded by his highly acclaimed tenure with Troon allow him to focus on both the big picture of club operations and the little moments and day-to-day events that make people feel a real sense of community and fun.
“This fall, we’ll have a lot of popular events coming back,” says Bob. “Anyone who knows me knows I love dogs, so I’m glad to continue ‘Yappy Hour’ into the fall. This is a fun way to enjoy appetizers and drinks on the Coach House Tavern patio with your dog. There are treats for the dogs and it’s just a great time.”
Other upcoming events include Sunset Jams and Plein Air Painting on the beach, Friday Live at the Tree of Life with music, food and drink, and the Bicycle Beer Flight through the Nature Preserve, just to name a few.
Yappy Hour (top left images), Tree of Life Events (top right), Plein Air Painting on the beach (bottom)
Ranger Stan Osmolenski and Bay Creek naturalist, Joe Fehrer, will lead engaging autumn walks and events throughout the Preserve and beyond. “Ranger Stan will be leading kayak tours soon,” says Bob. “This will offer people an opportunity to get out on the water in a kayak and see some of the beautiful areas in and around the waterways of Bay Creek.”
“The Full Moon walk, netting on the beach, the Owl Prowl…kids’ fishing activities at Base Camp… this is one of the reasons Bay Creek is so unique. We have these opportunities to enjoy the beach and the Preserve…that’s not what typical clubs have to offer,” says Bob.
With plenty of get-togethers and special events for the fall, Bob also encourages members, guests and visitors to make the most of the Life Center. The instructors offer a wealth of knowledge and there is a robust schedule of classes and events. It’s a beautiful environment and an ideal place to retreat for fitness and some self-focused time.
The Coach House has a lot of exciting things on the menu this fall. We’ll see some wine-pairing dinners in the works, and some very tempting new items on the menu.
Whether it’s enjoying the Life Center, playing golf, exploring the beach or the Preserve, dinner at the Coach House or just getting together with neighbors, being at Bay Creek is exceptional from sunrise to sunset in every season.
“It’s my privilege and responsibility to ensure the best possible experience for members and guests. The entire team has worked so hard, and the team at Troon have been very supportive and appreciative of these enormous efforts. I appreciate everyone at the Coach House Tavern, the golf course team, the Life Center, the beach, the membership team…it’s been a great success.”
As for the months ahead, Bob says this: “We enter into this new season with great energy and are excited to continue bringing the very best of Club living to Bay Creek members and guests.”
In this issue of Soundings, we present this quarter’s Featured Home and Featured Homesite. Bay Creek offers an incredible variety of ownership options, with homes starting in the $400s and homesites starting in the low $100s. Nearly one hundred families have chosen Bay Creek this year as their new beachside homeplace, come visit us this Fall to see if Ideal-Living’s “Best Coastal Community in Virginia” is the place you’ve been looking for.
Condominiums starting in the $400s
Brand-new townhomes starting in the $500s
Brand-new homes, either under construction or close to completion, starting in the $700s
Luxury resale homes up to 2.6 million
Close proximity beach access properties starting in the low $100s
Properties adjacent to Bay Creek’s 350-acre Nature Preserve starting in the mid $100s
Gorgeous golf course and lake properties starting the $200s
Chesapeake Bay view properties up to the $800s
Design and build your dream home on this phenomenally beautiful property in Bay Creek’s newest enclave. Overlooking the 7th and 8th holes of the Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course and the large lake that nestles between them, this is a spot that will be impossible to duplicate on the Eastern Shore.
Offering coveted western exposure for legendary sunsets over the Chesapeake Bay, you’ll actually be able to view the Bay in the distance from the upper floors of your home.
This property is just a short walk to the Bay Creek Life Center, where you’ll enjoy a Member’s Lounge, fitness and cardio studio, personal training classes, and two sparkling pools as part of your Bay Creek club membership. You can also easily walk or bike to the Coach House tavern for a memorable meal or to hit a few golf balls on the adjacent practice park.
There are only six sites on the lake and 8th fairway, and two have already been purchased, so if this sounds like the perfect spot you’ve been dreaming of, contact us today at info@baycreeklife.com for more details.
Artist’s conceptual illustration. Subject to change.
Showcase Builder J.M. Froehler Construction is proud to offer the Oak Island Retreat in the highly desirable Bayside Village enclave at Bay Creek. Just steps from Bay Creek’s renowned private beaches on the Chesapeake Bay as well as the 10,000 sq. ft. swim and wellness center, this home is the epitome of a well-lived coastal lifestyle!
Before you come inside, linger for a moment on the large covered front porch measuring nearly 350 square feet, perfect for rocking chairs and even a cozy porch swing, the perfect place to take in breezes from the nearby Bay. As you enter the home through the foyer, there’s a large den to the left that could also serve as a home office or second main level bedroom. You’ll also get your first look at the 8’ doors and custom trim package with wainscotting and generous use of crown molding. With 10’ ceilings, the living/kitchen/ dining area is wonderfully open and provides a host of luxurious features including engineered hardwood flooring, quartz countertops, double stacked cabinets, a huge 8 x 52 kitchen island and GE Profile appliances.
The Owner’s Suite is truly special, with a large bathroom featuring both a pedestal tub and shower and a walk-in closet large enough to include a center island with drawers and custom sweater and shoe racks. Just off the Owner’s Suite bedroom, as well as the living and dining areas, is a phenomenal 420 square foot screened porch that runs nearly the entire length of the home. The possibilities for life on this porch are endless—relaxing, dining, sleeping—this is a place that will instantly become a highlight of the home!
The home’s upper level offers generous accommodation for family and guests, with three bedrooms and two full baths. Add to that an intimate sitting area and it’s the ideal retreat after an exciting day on the Shore.
Fantastic Outdoor Living Areas, Featuring a 34’ x 12’ Screened Porch
Main Level Owner’s Suite with Soaking Tub, Shower and Large Walk-In Closet
Custom Trim Packet with Wainscoting and Crown in All Common Areas
Spacious and Open Family/Kitchen/ Dining Room with Fireplace
Engineered Hardwood Flooring and Quartz Countertops Throughout
Double-Stacked Kitchen Cabinetry with Soft-Close Doors and Drawers
GE Profile Appliance Package and Huge Kitchen Island for Entertaining
10’ Ceilings and 8’ Solid-Core Doors
Detached One-Car Garage
In the last newsletter, we introduced Christian Lofland as the new Executive Chef for Bay Creek. Those who have now experienced his work can attest, the four months that have elapsed have been an incredible showcase of his talent, innovation and ability to inspire a team. This month, Christian shares with us some of his latest inspiration and an update on what delights Fall holds for members, residents, and guests of Bay Creek.
The end of summer and the beginning of autumn is a real shift in mood in many ways. Christian enjoys sharing flavors and combinations that reflect the moment. “In the fall, I enjoy heartier flavors. I gravitate toward root vegetables like rutabagas, turnips, parsnips, things like that,” Christian explains. “We will be changing up the Coach House menu in October to showcase these types of flavors.”
The menu has been incredibly well received. Similarly, the ever-popular wine events are becoming a mainstay, as Christian’s unique pairings and memorable presentation attract wine lovers and foodies, alike. “We have a wine dinner in the works for October,” says Christian, “which will offer new flavors suited to the season.”
Bay Creek’s limitless amenities and events mean an Executive Chef’s work very often travels beyond the kitchen, and past the cozy Coach House table. As such, Christian and his team specialize in presenting culinary experiences ‘further afield.’
From casual outdoor gatherings at the Tree of Life to large golf tournaments, his team and he have brought great flavor and service to each event this year. As the busy summer makes way for Fall, Christian is excited about the opportunities to surprise and delight.
“We have golf tournaments coming up this Fall, many of which are major events,” says Christian. In early October, Bay Creek will once again be hosting the Junior Achievement Charity Golf Tournament, a renowned charitable event whose past attendees have included former governors of Virginia. What does a tournament’s food and beverage look like
at Bay Creek? “We’re hosting about 150 players,” Christian explains. “We will prepare an expansive lunch spread with three types of sandwiches. Then, after the tournament, we’ll be doing a big raw bar, with oysters on the half shell, stone crab claws, shrimp… we’ll serve a tenderloin of beef, and there will be a carving station with prime rib and all sorts of appetizers.”
Matching the food to the mood is key for celebratory events and charity gatherings. But it’s just as important for The Coach House Tavern, a home base for members and guests year-round.
“Tournaments and events are obviously only part of what we do here,” Christian says. For those who already call Bay Creek home, he enjoys keeping the Coach House menu fresh and offering the truly unexpected from time to time.
“We added a new dessert recently, ‘xango,’ (pronounced zhan-go), which consists of bananas and cheesecake, wrapped in a tortilla, then rolled and fried. We toss it in cinnamon sugar and serve it with caramel and whipped cream. People are really enjoying it!”
Christian also shares his unique dishes at the Discovery House, a home built by Preserve Homes & Neighborhoods near the Life Center where Discovery guests can enjoy a Friday night gathering during their stay at Bay Creek. Christian creates such dishes as marinated tomato salad, crab cakes, and other fresh fare. “I like to feature local
products from Virginia whenever possible—different lettuces and produce, for example,” he says. “I recently went into town and bought bread from the bakery so guests can get a feel for this place.”
Christian is also talking with the Bakery on Mason about utilizing their hand-crafted products. “I want to support the farms, as well as local vendors in town,” says Christian. “I’m working with local farms on getting root vegetables for fall. And for spring and summer, lettuces, tomatoes, zucchini, and squash…so we can showcase more local products on the menu.”
What is Christian’s favorite dish for fall? “Butternut squash soup,” he says. “Usually with a bit of sherry crème and toasted pumpkin seeds. It’s one of my favorite things to make in the fall and winter.”
Thank you to Christian and his team of professionals for making life at Bay Creek simply delicious.
Autumn is an excellent time to reflect…on the memories of the waning summer and new season that’s arriving. The cooler breezes that ribbon along the trails, the goldening of meadows…everyone can see and feel it. Bay Creek’s on staff naturalist, Joe Fehrer, observes the changing seasons in a different way. He shares with us some interesting signs of the season that often go unnoticed.
“We’re headed into fall and a lot of animals are on the move,” says Joe. “We’ll soon be in the thick of the fall migration, so we’re seeing more hawks. The beach is filling up with shorebirds, too, many more than in July and August. We’re seeing them around the ponds, also.”
“I’m starting to see large groups of laughing gulls,” says Joe. “There is more bird life everywhere. With the lack of rain in late summer, the ponds in the community are lower, and quite a few shorebirds are utilizing that moist area. Animals are opportunists, so there’s obviously some food source that has drawn them there. On some days, I’ve seen more shorebirds in the pond area than on the beach!”
The great increase in birds on the peninsula is ‘a rite of passage’ for fall as bird species make their way south. But it isn’t just birds who are on the move. “Up on the Preserve side, the upland side of Bay Creek, we’re doing walks in the early morning, when there are a lot of critters out and about,” says Joe. “Things are really changing. We’re starting to see a lot more monarch butterflies in the area. That’s a good thing because they were listed as a threatened species,” he adds. “They’re headed south now. In general, we have a lot of butterflies this time of year.”
Joe’s ‘Field Work with a Naturalist’ walks focus on the Preserve uplands, the beach and dunes, along with meadow and woods areas that are less frequently visited. Fellow nature walkers join Joe as he continues his baseline inventory of species in and around the property. “Late summer and early fall is a great time to get out and explore,” says Joe, and there’s always something new to observe.
Change, it seems, is a constant, from meadow to woodland to shore. “You can see the seasonal changes on the beach edge and the tidal interface. Every season tends to bring something new. Whether it’s a different type of clam or more whelk shells, or razor clams, it changes every season, and even year to year.
Joe’s purposeful nature walks highlight the simple pleasure of stopping and looking. “People who spend time on the beach see the changes in the animals, and the shells. We all notice, and it makes for interesting conversation,” he says.
“It’s interesting… in the last three years at Bay Creek, I’ve observed the beach—how the shells and even the seaweeds change…the seasonal difference in the things that wash ashore. Every season, we tend to see different shells and small animals. Last week, we saw some small shrimp, which is a bit unusual,” says Joe.
“There is an abundance of both small and medium fish in the shallow waters now…small minnows, six or eight different species,” he adds. “…and where there are small fish, there are big fish! We saw folks off the beach casting lures recently, likely trying to catch red drum. The fishermen can get their rods and reels and lures ready because this is the primo time for catching speckled trout and red drum. As we get into colder months, November and even December, the rock fish will start moving down the bay. And here in Bay Creek, the Plantation Creek area is prime fishing!”
People often notice seasonal changes—which fish are biting, the color of the leaves, but there are weekly changes, too, Joe explains. “I never cease to be amazed by plants that I see on the Preserve from week to week… plants you wouldn’t expect to stumble across,” says Joe. “…grasses, rushes, things of that nature. We’re even seeing a native orchid species move in—‘spiranthes vernalis’. Spring Ladies’ Tresses is its common name.
The preserved areas are coming up on their third year of transitioning into beneficial natural meadow, and there is a huge amount of diversity within them. The weedier native plants are transitioning to the native small shrubby plants. Trees are filling in which Joe and the Bay Creek team manage with purposeful maintenance to optimize the meadow habitat.
“On my nature walks, we go through those meadows. We check the bluebird boxes, observe the plants…if you walk with me, you’ll never walk in a straight line,” Joe says laughing. “We’re zigging and zagging…and that’s a great way for us to observe the native plants that are popping up.”
Joe often talks with Bay Creek residents who want to know more about using hardy, native plants in their own yards. “Native plants tolerate
any weather extremes very well. Asters, verbenas, they’re all doing really well, even in dry weather. There is an energy in a native seed that you may not get with a non-native variety.”
When it comes to helping the natural environment and wildlife, adding native plants in your yard may feel like a ‘small’ thing to do. Joe sees it differently. “I look at the Preserve and the neighborhoods as a common area. We live in one region down here on the southern end of the Delmarva peninsula, so even though you may only do a little in your yard, it all works together…and it helps. The plants you add are going to pull in native insects like butterflies, moths at night, native birds… and you’ll be creating a place for some of our native species like frogs and turtles, too. Anything homeowners can do is valuable. It’s part of the mix, and it makes it more attractive to the animal life here,” Joe says.
As for resident involvement, the Bay Creek Stewardship Club has been busy and thriving. This is a group of residents and friends who enjoy caring for and being a part of the special natural environment at Bay Creek and beyond.
The Stewardship Club began quite organically. “The club focuses on a lot of things—assisting with trail maintenance, maintaining bluebird boxes, caring for the beach and marsh areas, and enhancing those environments for the wildlife who live there,” says Joe.
Fall offers many opportunities for the Stewardship Club, Joe, and nature walk guests to witness the changes of season—from the minute to most majestic.
The club is a great example of what nature and community at Bay Creek are all about. Joe puts it this way: “As we explore and work, we learn about the habitat and how it changes, and what it needs to thrive. All of this contributes to habitat enhancement. And that’s a good thing for everyone.”
When Joe Fehrer began as staff naturalist at Bay Creek in the Fall of 2020, he said this: “To get people excited and to begin to truly care about nature, they have to know it. You can’t make that connection by looking at a brochure or magazine. You have to really get out there to understand it.”
Now, two years on, Joe is in very good company. The Bay Creek Stewardship Club joins him in enjoying, exploring, and preserving this natural Eastern Shore wonderland. Like so many things across the Preserve, beaches and woodlands at Bay Creek, the club began as a seed of an idea and took root.
We spoke with Bay Creek resident and club member Jed Lafferty about how the Stewardship Club came to be, its mission, and what it’s like to be a nature lover at Bay Creek.
“The stewardship club really did come into being organically,” laughs Jed. “It started before my wife, Pam, and I even moved to Bay Creek. We had just moved into an apartment in Cape Charles in August of 2020 while our home in Bayside Village was still under construction. I reached out to Meghan Neville, who, at the time, was Director of Concierge Services for some help.
We had a 14-foot kayak on top of the car and two bicycles on the back. Meghan helped me find places for them on the property.”
“I wasn’t a golfer at the time, and I didn’t fish. I had a kayak. I liked to bike but didn’t know where…and I was really interested in learning more about what they had in mind for the Base Camp area and the Nature Preserve. At our previous home in Pennsylvania, I converted a
half-acre of grass into a wildflower meadow and put up a few bluebird houses. Meghan mentioned in passing that they had talked about getting a nature club off the ground. A little later, we were unloading my kayak (and putting in at an area where now we’re launching kayak excursions). I happened to look over and see a bluebird house.”
bluebird houses along the trail. Instead of just buying or building one for your yard, put your name on it. Honor your kids or grandkids, so 20 years from now, they might walk by and say that’s our bluebird house!”
“We’ve also gotten the official go-ahead to do kayak excursions. We just had our first group outing led by Ranger Stan and Meghan down Plantation Creek. And that place where I initially kept my kayak…now there are about 30 more,” Jed says.
The Stewardship Club is for anyone who appreciates nature and would like to know more about this area, including its rich history. “By no means is this just a work club,” says Jed. A lot of the things the club has accomplished have been simply because the moment called for it. “Joe and Ranger Stan called us up and said, ‘we just got a donation of 1,000 native saplings, and if we can’t get them in the ground now, we’re going to lose them,’” Jed recalls. “So, we got 20 people out in a couple of days and planted them along one of the ponds that used to be the fairway of a golf course. It really has grown organically. It’s not because somebody said ‘we’re going to have a stewardship club.’ We just got together and did a few things. And people keep coming back.”
Jed was intrigued. “I said, ‘I’m into bluebirds. We should set up a bluebird trail around the nature preserve.’”
One of the very first things the fledgling Stewardship Club did was get a dozen or so bluebird houses. “The next thing you know, we had a group of people taking turns with the post hole digger, and other people nailing the boxes onto the posts,” recalls Jed.
Like the club itself, the initial birdhouse project is now expanding. At this Fall’s kickoff planning event, they discussed an interesting next step. “We’d like to encourage people to have their own
The Stewardship Club also helps maintain nature trails and does beach and creek cleanups to keep
the environment beautiful and healthy for the animals and people who call it home. But there is a social aspect to the club that Jed points out. “At that first meeting in the fall of 2020, I met people who I soon discovered would be my future neighbors and friends.”
“To live here and see the full dynamic of the changing seasons, the changing days—you can go from very cloudy to the most magnificent sunset you’ve ever seen. Then to have all of this dedicated to native plants and flyways for birds making their migration through the Bay…and this is their stopping point...it’s amazing.”
You don’t have to be a member of the Bay Creek Club to participate in the Stewardship Club, and you don’t have to be an expert. Anyone can take advantage of this incredible natural resource. The club has about 85 people on its mailing list, and at any given event, 10 to 20 people usually join in.
“We all have to be conscious that this is an environment that is ours to protect or destroy,” says Jed. “There are people here in Bay Creek who have incredible credentials as birders and naturalists... I just like bluebirds and wildflowers,” Jed smiles. “I’m by no means an environmentalist or ‘tree-hugger.’
I’m just somebody that looks at this asset we have here as a phenomenal resource. When you look at these sunsets and the fish in the pond, the herons, the owls, and everything else that’s here, you see this is an incredible place to be.”
The Stewardship Club is open to all residents and welcomes all who enjoy and appreciate nature.
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In a town as charming and historic as Cape Charles, it seems there’s an interesting story or historic building on nearly every corner. St. Charles Catholic Church can be counted as both. The historic church was established in 1886, the first Catholic church on the Eastern Shore of Virginia, and was built by its founder and first pastor, Father Edward Mickle.
Today, the humbly beautiful church with its bright red doors still faithfully anchors the corner of Randolph Avenue and Nectarine Street in Cape Charles.
On October 8th, St. Charles Catholic Church will hold an Oktoberfest to raise money to preserve and beautify the church building as well as to continue its many ministries on the Eastern Shore.
“This is our inaugural Oktoberfest, but we hope it’s something that will become an annual event,” says Patsy Harris, Oktoberfest committee co-chair and Bay Creek resident. Mrs. Harris with co-chair Tara Ashworth anticipates this fun-filled event will be a great day for people in the Cape Charles community and beyond, and a meaningful way to preserve the rich history of the church.
Everyone is encouraged to bring the family and enjoy a beautiful fall day. Best of all, kids under 12 are FREE! Admission and proceeds go directly to preserve the historic St. Charles Catholic Church.
What a great way to begin a gorgeous Eastern Shore autumn!
They invite one and all to the First Annual St. Charles Catholic Church Oktoberfest on Saturday, October 8th. The one-day festival will take place on Nectarine Street between Randolph and Tazewell Avenue.
The First Annual St. Charles Catholic Church Oktoberfest
Saturday, October 8, 2022 | 3PM to 7PM
St. Charles Catholic Church 550 Randolph Avenue, Cape Charles, VA
Admission: INCLUDES DINNER & 2 BEVERAGES
Festival goers can enjoy the delights of a traditional Oktoberfest: craft beer and wine, bratwurst, and festival favorite foods like popcorn and hot dogs for kids of all ages. Along with great eats, there will be music, local artisans showcasing their work, games, a 50/50 raffle and all manner of fall fun.
Adults - $30 ($40 at the gate) Non-drinkers and Youth 12-20 - $15 ($20 at the gate)
Children under 12 – Free
Purchase Your Tickets: www.OktoberfestStCharles.Eventbrite.com
There’s something incredible going on just a few blocks beyond Cape Charles’ historic district and sandy beaches. The sign on the gracious building at 2130 Stone Road, with its bright, tin roof and welcoming front porch, reads: “Beach Market: Seafood, Produce, Deli, Wine, Beer and More.
Saunter up to the wide front porch, walk into the new Beach Market, and you’ll see that the sign doesn’t tell the whole story. The words, “…and More” are doing a lot of work here! Yes, Beach Market offers fresh seafood, deli delights and great beverages, but that’s only the beginning.
We spoke with proprietor Gina Butler about great food, personal service and how Beach Market is quickly becoming a destination for great dining, grabbing prepared meals to go, and so much more.
“We opened in June and it’s been great,” says Gina, who lives at Bay Creek with her husband, Greg. The idea for Beach Market began a few years prior, with Gina recognizing a need for a fresh seafood market in Cape Charles. “At that time, I was running across the Bay at least twice a week to get the kind of food we wanted…the really nice beef and seafood. There was no fresh seafood market in Cape Charles then.”
The town is now home to several seafood suppliers, but Beach Market is unique. It’s a onestop powerhouse offering fresh seafood, steaks hand-cut daily, a full deli, fresh soups, salads, sandwiches and decadent desserts that thrill.
This summer, they became a favorite stop for visitors and locals alike who couldn’t get enough of their Key Lime Pie, Strawberry Pie, and
Sweet Potato Biscuits. Their Crab Pretzel and traditional Eastern Shore Crab Cake approached celebrity status, too.
“We have seven tables on our porch out front. It’s a great place to enjoy wine or a craft brew, or appetizers, and just relax. Now that summer is winding down, many more locals have discovered us,” Gina smiles.
It’s easy to see why Beach Market is gaining new fans every day. Gina and her team love to prepare good food and they make it easy to enjoy.
The food here is pure magic, and dining on the porch is divine but it’s the unique flexibility that really makes Beach Market a bit of a unicorn. They do prepared meals—ideal for visitors enjoying a nocook vacation week or residents who want an easy meal or a fantastic spread for a special occasion.
“Don’t feel like cooking? We have prepared meals of all kinds ready to take home,” says Gina.
It’s easy. Stop in, grab prepared items like their twice-baked potatoes, rotisserie chicken, or rack of ribs, and warm them up at home. “The offerings change every day based on what we have fresh,” Gina explains. “We have dips soups, bread, sauces, charcuterie boards, usually made that morning, ready to go.”
As for flexibility, “We can send you home with all the fresh ingredients you need to make your meal… or we can prepare it for you,” Gina adds. It isn’t just what’s pre-prepared that’s at your fingertips, though. Gina and her team have a full menu of meals that they can create fresh. “You can always call and order whenever you like,” she says. “I have loyal customers who will call on Tuesday, for example, and need a pan of lasagna on Friday. We only need about 24 hours and we can have anything you need.”
One quick look at the menu and it’s evident that Beach Market is all about variety, incredible flavors and extreme quality.
Cajun Pasta, Shrimp and Penne Pasta in Herbed Cream Sauce, Shrimp Tacos, Pit Beef Sandwich, Red Crab Soup, Chicken and Andouille Gumbo are just a few of the fresh, unique items on the menu which changes to reflect what’s fresh and in season.
For a distinctly coastal pleasure, Beach Market’s Steamer Pots are a ton of fun. “All our steamer pots come with andouille or kielbasa sausage, corn on the cob, red bliss potatoes and hush puppies. We make these so you can steam them at home,” Gina explains.
“This fall we’re looking forward to our wine tastings,” says Gina. “You can come in, grab a bottle of wine, sit on the porch, and we’ll bring out appetizers or whatever you like.”
Anything new cooking for fall? With a place like Beach Market that believes in being as local and fresh as possible, you can be sure of that. “We’ll be doing a lot with local pumpkins soon,” says Gina. For those who are pumpkin lovers, fair warning: Gina hints that a Pumpkin Cheesecake will soon be on the menu. Prepare yourself for a little (or big!) slice of perfection.
As you begin to plan for the holidays that make the upcoming season so special, consider letting Beach Market take care of everything. “This year, we will be doing entire holiday meals,” says Gina. “Turkey ham, rib roast, whatever you like.”
You can be sure that the holiday offerings at Beach Market will be delightful. Talk with Gina about what you have in mind, plan early and enjoy a stress-free holiday season this year!
From the upcoming fall wine tastings to their always-fresh menu, Beach Market is a great place to put on your must-visit list. Once you’ve enjoyed their food, and the convenience, it will likely become a part of your regular routine. Stop in and say hello to Gina and the team. They love meeting new people, and they love what they do.
Visit Beach market on Facebook to see the latest delicious delights, and learn more about the Fall Wine Tastings, and special Holiday Meals. facebook.com/beachmarketva
ShopBeachMarket.com (757) 210-8234
Open Tuesday through Sunday 8am – 6pm Closed Monday
2130 Stone Road Cape Charles, VA 23310
Recently, members of the Bay Creek community came together to help the teachers and students of Northampton County as they headed back to school. The Bay Creek School Supply Drive saw an enormous response from residents and owners of the community. The Drive resulted in so many supplies that it took several members of the Bay Creek team to sort and box the many items.
The hardworking faculty of Northampton Schools were excited to be back at school and were appreciative of the donated supplies. We appreciate the dedication that the county’s teachers and administrators display every day to ensure that every child’s school experience is the best it can be.
We appreciate the generosity of Bay Creek residents, friends and neighbors who came together to make ‘back to school’ that much better. Thank you to everyone who took part.
Here’s to a great school year!
Bay Creek team member, Stan Osmolenski, aka ‘Ranger Stan,’ usually leads nature walks, excursions, and workshops to educate kids and adults about the wonders of nature here among the Nature Preserve, beaches and waterways. But last week, he and Meghan Neville, Bay Creek Assistant Director of Operations, took an excursion of a different sort that saw them packing up the many boxes of donated supplies and delivering them to nearby schools. Ranger Stan and Meghan were only two of many team members, residents, owners, and friends who donated time, talent, and supplies to this worthy cause.
Set upon 1,720 lush acres along the Chesapeake Bay, Bay Creek is a masterplanned community that brings families together to live their best life through a connection with its coastal landscape, nature, phenomenal club amenities and active lifestyle programming. From exploring sparkling bay waters to hosting friends for dinner on the porch of your welcoming new coastal home, Bay Creek is the easy-going, elegant lifestyle you’ve always dreamed of.
We invite you to explore this natural wonderland in a place where residents connect, forge friendships and pursue their interests and passions. There is truly nothing like it on the coast of Virginia.
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