Bay Creek Soundings - Fall 2023

DEVELOPMENT UPDATE: Heading into an Amazing Autumn on the Bay

This time of year on the Eastern Shore is what we like to call a ‘golden opportunity’—this is when we witness the gentle blend of summer and fall. It’s when the vibrant splashes of summer transition into the golden moments of fall. The days are still warm and ideal for lounging on the Bay beaches, taking a dip in the pool, or exploring by golf cart in shorts and flipflops. But just around the corner, fall is offering refreshing cool breezes, a change in the trees and flora, and the excitement of a new season.

“When it comes to making Bay Creek the best it can be for residents and guests, every element—great and small—is important. From conceptualizing new neighborhoods, selecting native landscaping that enhances the environment, offering nature programming, and even curating the cuisine we offer at the Coach House... every decision matters,” Bobby says.

New Neighborhoods, New Neighbors

“This fall, there will be a great deal of activity around developing new homesites. In Bayside Village, Phase One is now at full sell out,” says Bobby. “Of all the neighborhoods at Bay Creek, Bayside Village is one that really captures people’s hearts. It has a memorable, almost storybook character about it. The coastal cottage aesthetic, the green space... it’s really a one-of-a-kind place.”

Because of Bayside Village’s popularity, development of the second phase of the neighborhood is underway, which will give more families the opportunity to own here. “Homesites in the new phase were designed to be a natural

Cape Charles is as charming as ever— the summer activity has mellowed into an easier, slower pace, and folks are still bicycling through the picturesque streets, window shopping while savoring a sweet bakery treat, and taking in the pleasures of the ‘Best Little Beach Town in Virginia’ as named by Southern Living.

Bobby Masters, General Manager of Bay Creek, shares what’s been happening this summer and what’s ahead as the golden days of fall approach.

continuation of the neighborhood. And the new homes will reflect Bayside Village’s distinct architectural themes,” says Bobby.

Earlier this year, the development team began preparing the land in Bayside Village Phase Two in accordance with the master plan. “When we create homesites at Bay Creek, the sites themselves are only part of the overall plan. The carefully considered natural buffer areas, the green space, and the gentle curve of streets are just as important. In fact, these elements are a crucial part of creating a desirable homesite,” Bobby adds.

There are 58 Bayside Village Phase Two homesites in all, each expressly designed to accommodate a variety of homes. Rich with neo-traditional design and refined details, the homes that will be built here are in one of the most dynamic locations in the community. “This area is incredibly unique,” Bobby explains. “It offers prime access to Bay Creek’s beach and Life Center and is convenient to the Club and dining, too. It’s a unique opportunity and we’re glad to progress on this new chapter.”

During summer, construction teams continued grading work and installed underground utilities in the Phase Two area. “We anticipate being able to close on these Phase Two homesites in December or January. It’s a meaningful milestone—especially for the families and individuals who have been awaiting a chance to build their dream home in Bayside Village.”

The new homesites are available via the Bayside Village Priority Reservation Program.

LEARN MORE »

Also happening at Bay Creek, the Muirfield neighborhood continues to come to life. New home packages now make owning and building at Muirfield as effortless as it is enjoyable. Families can select from homesites in a pastoral setting along dramatic golf course, pond, and lake views, with a variety of coastal home plans. Adjacent to Muirfield hugging the picturesque Chesapeake

Bay shoreline is the spectacular Muirfield Bluffs section, on the fourth and fifth holes of the Jack Nicklaus Signature course. Here, legacy waterfront homesites offer some of the most breathtaking views in the Southeast. Only 5 homesites remain available on the Bluffs, so time is running out to own something nearly impossible to duplicate on the Eastern Shore.

Choosing a homesite is often the first exciting step in making Bay Creek home. “We believe the Bay Creek lifestyle starts the moment you select your homesite, so we strive to keep the process of building as enjoyable and satisfying as a day on the Shore,” says Bobby.

“The Bay Creek Builder Guild Program was created to offer a collection of premier home builders whom homesite owners can partner with to bring their ideal home by the Bay to life,” says Bobby. “Guild members are intimately familiar with Bay Creek... the land, the aesthetic, all of it. They possess proven track records of offering the highest levels of quality and service, so our owners can go into the building process with excitement instead of apprehension”.

Muirfield Bluffs overlooking Nicklaus 5

Muirfield Homesite 10

Great Golf, Even Greater

Part of Bay Creek’s unique identity is that it blends ‘home’ with incredible resort recreation. To that end the development team regularly assesses current amenities and proactively improves them for optimum user enjoyment. “The Golf Shop renovation is right on schedule and we’re looking forward to serving guests in what will be a more spacious, more conveniently located hub,” says Bobby. “That along with the new Golf Simulator, which is coming soon, is going a long way to enhance the great Bay Creek golf experience even more,” he adds.

Engaging with the Eastern Shore’s Unique Nature

When it comes to neighborhoods, perhaps Bay Creek’s most populous is its 350-acre Nature Preserve! Home to hundreds of native species— regal shore birds, brightly colored butterflies, owls, fish, foxes, and more—it offers an incredible way to engage with nature. “When we began plans for BaseCamp, we were seeking to activate the Preserve in a way that made it accessible and a true generational amenity,” Bobby says. “We’re very pleased with the impact it’s now having, and how people interact with the Preserve. The plan included a carefully laid network of trails that would be multi-use for every member of the family. We brought in Avid Trails to create this engaging, responsibly developed amenity,” Bobby explains. “One part of community development that’s especially gratifying is seeing a concept come to fruition and fulfill its purpose, and I’d say it has certainly exceeded all expectations.”

“We have also invested in new equipment to keep the golf course condition top notch in every season. And, of course, we have a great team of professionals who know how to utilize this equipment to make that happen,” says Bobby. “Club General Manager, Bob Ewing, has led the community through an incredible summer and has a great line up of experiences for fall. We look forward to welcoming members and guests to enjoy autumn recreation on the Bay.”

Ranger Stan Osmolenski, who works out of BaseCamp, enjoys helping guests make the most of whatever adventure they seek. He also leads the popular kayak tours and educational events. Stan shares that this summer, he has seen many people utilizing the Preserve: biking and running on the trails, families hiking as a group, and guests taking a quiet cart ride through the trees on the cartaccessible paths.

“Ranger Stan’s presence is another great benefit,” says Bobby. “He’s helping guests enjoy Bay Creek’s nature, be it fishing the ponds, launching their kayaks into Old Plantation Creek, telling them about the plants and animals they may see around them, or letting them know where to catch an incredible sunrise from a certain vantage point by BaseCamp. When the plans were first laid for BaseCamp and for recreation around the Preserve, we believed it would take on a life of its own. Now we see that in action. We want guests and owners to feel the Preserve is theirs...a world waiting for them to discover—because it is!” Bobby smiles.

“As fall approaches, we look forward to milder autumn weather and all the joys that come with that, like great fishing, mornings on the golf course, ideal conditions for exploring the creeks by kayak, engaging club events for members, and get-togethers with neighbors.

“On behalf of the entire Bay Creek family, I welcome our new owners and families, and we look forward to sharing a memorable fall with each of you!”

Club Happenings

Fall is coming and the Bay Creek Club is ready for it! This summer has been a busy one here at the Club—from the golf courses to the beaches to the Life Center pools and activities. Club General Manager, Bob Ewing, and his team have worked hard to make sure every special moment and memory came easy for our members and guests.

“It’s been a great summer,” Bob says. “One of our team’s main goals is for the experiences people have here to feel effortless. We want people to be able to reserve a chair at the beach or Life Center pools with ease; to book a tee time and be able to waltz right out to the course and think only of the game ahead. The logistics, the details... this is what we oversee in the background, so the member experience is seamless.”

Summer Successes and Autumn Excitement

This summer, the Golf Shop renovation continued to progress, and a mid-October completion is still anticipated. This new facility is larger and better located in relation to the course and cart barn, adding to the convenience. “The simulator is another exciting addition to the new Golf Shop and we’re looking forward to helping members improve and get the most out of their game,” says Bob.

When it comes to a good game of golf, course condition is key. Course Superintendent, Mike Smith, and his crew have been working diligently to provide the very best conditions throughout the summer and now into fall. “We’ve added three new pieces of course equipment which will help us have superb conditions through the rest of the season,” Bob says. “This is part of an initiative to upgrade equipment on a regular basis over the next couple of years to replace all equipment for our facility. It’s all about providing that best-inclass experience.”

The Coach House Tavern has been serving up great experiences this summer, too, with many plans for new fall dishes. “The Tavern has been a huge success story so far this year,” Bob explains.

“Chef Christian and his team have created some wonderful menu options. Our servers and Tavern staff have done an incredible job making members and their guests feel welcome. They infuse Bay Creek hospitality into every aspect of the member experience.”

Soon, when the Golf Shop relocation is complete, the former site will be transformed into a new event and dining space at the Coach House.

“This is a really nice addition to Bay Creek’s club offering,” says Bob. “We have already booked several weddings and events and are looking forward to hosting some great member events in this space, too,” Bob says.

This summer saw great things happening at the Life Center, too. As members and their guests were relaxing and splashing in the pools, or enjoying a cool, indoor workout looking out on the gorgeous Bay landscape, the Life Center was busy with a full calendar of engaging events, and the team is now hard at work planning a full calendar of events for fall.

During the warm summer-to-fall season, the pool will be kept open as long as weather permits, as will the heated lap pool. There have also been great Life Center enhancements that will be enjoyed year-round, like a convenient new laundry room and a new retail and Food and Beverage area.

“The Life Center’s new retail space has been extremely well received. The Life Center is an incredible facility—but our job is to continue to look for meaningful ways to make it even better,” says Bob, “and these additions are certainly part of that.”

“An important aspect of the Life Center, golf, and the Club in general isn’t just the facilities or the amenities themselves. It’s the people who help bring them to life,” says Bob. “Our team has worked diligently to offer great Club events and activities this summer and we’ll have an equally incredible line-up for fall.”

“In the fall, the tournament season picks up and we’re looking forward to the many Member golf events through October and November. If you’ve never taken part or witnessed The King & The Bear tournament, it’s worth checking out. It’s a true highlight of the Bay Creek golf season,” says Bob.

Looking Ahead

There isn’t a season when the Eastern Shore isn’t lovely in its own unique way. But autumn has to be one of the times when its true natural beauty shines extra brightly. “September brings us to a whole new dimension at Bay Creek. After a remarkable summer, vacations come to an end, school is back in and the days get a little milder. I’ve always thought that this is truly one of the most perfect times of the year”.

“I love seeing the seasons change here and seizing new opportunities to make the moment we’re in the very best it can be for our members and guests. From getting out and enjoying activities on the Preserve to playing world-class golf, to spending the afternoon in the pool or walking an autumn Bay beach, there are so many ways to enjoy this incredible community.”

“Each Bay Creek team member and I are energized about the coming months and the many ways we’ll bring unique experiences to our members and guests,” says Bob. “From the golf pros, the golf course team, the fitness and activity instructors at the Life Center, our talented Chef and the gracious team at Coach House Tavern, everyone on the Bay Creek team helps make this place a Club like no other.”

“To our members and guests, in this incredible season, we wish you many a fiery fall sunset, smooth sailing on the Shore, brag-worthy rounds of golf, plenty of easy days floating in the pool beneath a vivid autumn sky, and many new memories made with family and friends.”

Here’s to a fantastic new season at Bay Creek!

REAL ESTATE AT BAY CREEK

2023 HAS BEEN ANOTHER FANTASTIC YEAR FOR REAL ESTATE AT BAY CREEK!

The Commons at The Fairways

The Commons is an enclave of forty new homes located in the highly desirable Fairways neighborhood at Bay Creek. This wonderful collection of attached single-family homes, designed and crafted by the team at Preserve Homes & Neighborhoods, offers two distinct models along with a Comprehensive Lifestyle Plan, which includes the care and maintenance of your landscaping and all exterior surfaces.

All 11 homes offered in the Grand Opening last year were purchased, and Preserve Homes & Neighborhoods is excited to announce the release of 4 new townhomes this month, now available for purchase and starting at only $599,900!

Two distinct models are offered in The Commons. The Vinings is a 1,925 square foot plan with 3 BR/2.5 BA on two levels, featuring the Owner’s Suite on the main level. As you enter this home

Artist’s conceptual illustration. Subject to change.

These are exciting times at Bay Creek Realty. As the undisputed leader in home and homesite transactions at Bay Creek, we are preparing for the release of close to a dozen new homes available for purchase, as well as the upcoming release of a collection of very special homesites in Bayside Village. We invite you to learn more about some of our most compelling opportunities, opening the door to begin your family’s next chapter in Virginia’s most desirable coastal community.

3-4 BR | 2.5-3.5 BA | 1,925-2,698+/- SQ FT

New Townhomes Priced from $599,900

through the covered front porch, you pass through a foyer which opens into the main living area, where the kitchen with large center island, dining area, and living room all blend together to create a wonderful sense of openness. On the upper level you’ll find a loft along with two additional bedrooms and a full bathroom, as well as an optional 382 square foot bonus area that can be converted into a second Owner’s Suite or a media/ game room for the kids and grandkids.

The Vickery is a larger floor plan, coming in at 2,228 square feet. The main level floorplan is similar to the Vinings, and features a larger main living area with the added benefit of a separate home office or study. On the upper level you’ll find two bedrooms and a full bathroom, as well as an optional 470 square foot bonus area that can be finished into a second Owner’s Suite with enough additional space for a true bonus room.

The features go on and on with these homes, including an attached two-car garage, screened rear porch, living room fireplace, and a lifestyle maintenance plan which includes the care and maintenance of your lawn and all exterior surfaces.

Through September of this year, we’ve welcomed over 100 more new families to a coveted Eastern Shore lifestyle that is sure to provide incredible family memories for years to come.

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Bayberry Park

Beacon Custom Homes and Bay Creek Realty are proud to present The Bayberry Park, a stunning new 4-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom residence spanning approximately 2,933 square feet of pure elegance, located in Bay Creek’s Muirfield enclave, where luxury coastal living meets breathtaking natural beauty. Discover a new home that embodies elegance, craftsmanship and the finest amenities, all within steps of the Chesapeake Bay. Located on a prime homesite with panoramic views of holes 7 and 8 of the prestigious Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course as well as a large, tranquil lake that graces the fairways, this residence offers a truly exceptional setting. Muirfield is a coveted community that provides unparalleled access to the Bay Creek Life Center, The Coach House and Bay Creek’s private beaches, ensuring a lifestyle that’s as vibrant as it is serene.

Step into your sanctuary through the lovely covered front porch, designed for those cherished moments of relaxation. Picture yourself in rocking chairs, sipping a morning coffee or enjoying a book as you overlook the tranquil surroundings. As you enter, you’re welcomed into the foyer by a separate dining room, setting the stage for elegant gatherings. The journey continues into the heart of the home—a vast 16 x 36 family room that seamlessly connects to the kitchen. The kitchen boasts a large center island equipped with GE Cafe series appliances, perfect for culinary adventures, along with a generously-sized walk-in pantry.

Step from the family room onto an inviting outdoor porch that offers the perfect vantage point to soak in the breathtaking lake views and the lush green expanse of the golf course. Let the

Artist’s conceptual illustration. Subject to change.

4 BR | 3.5 BA | 2,933+/- SQ FT

235 MUIRFIELD DRIVE | HOMESITE 18 | MUIRFIELD $1,449,000

tranquility of the scenery become a part of your everyday living. These views are also enjoyed from the main-level Owner’s Suite, where relaxation is elevated to an art form. Enjoy the best of both worlds with a sumptuous tub and a refreshing shower, accompanied by a walk-in closet that effortlessly accommodates your personal treasures. The upper level of The Bayberry Park welcomes you with three thoughtfully designed bedrooms and two full bathrooms, providing comfort and privacy for family and guests.

Bayberry Park

interior doors. Every detail has been considered, including sleek quartz countertops that grace your kitchen and bathrooms.

Indulge in a lifestyle that’s second to none at the Bayberry Park. This home transcends mere living— it’s a haven of luxury, an oasis of tranquility, and a canvas for your cherished memories. Don’t miss your chance to experience the pinnacle of modern living with a touch of natural beauty.

The fortunate owners of the Bayberry Park will enjoy, on a daily basis, the special touches that Beacon Custom Homes is renowned for—a Craftsman interior trim package, the efficiency of two Rinnai tankless water heaters, the elegance of Marvin Elevate windows, and the feel of solid core

King Street Cottage

3 BR |

2 BA | 1,531+/- SQ FT

141 BRASS RING AVENUE | HOMESITE 141 | BAYSIDE VILLAGE $849,000

Artist’s conceptual illustration. Subject to change.

Nestled within the highly desirable Bayside Village enclave along the tranquil shores of the Chesapeake Bay, Showcase Builder Terry Industries and Bay Creek Realty are proud to present the King Street Cottage, now available for purchase.

This home is a testament to the collaborative efforts of Terry Industries’ principal Laura Zito and the renowned architects at Allison Ramsey. Their expertise in designing homes that blend perfectly into their surroundings, coupled with Terry Industries’ commitment to quality craftsmanship, has resulted in a design that captures the essence of coastal living.

The new King Street Cottage offers more than just a living space; it provides a complete lifestyle. Positioned across the street from the majestic Chesapeake Bay, you’re just a short stroll to Bay Creek’s private beaches as well as the Bay Creek Life Center, a hub for fitness and recreation. The home’s single-level layout caters to convenience and comfort. The open floor plan is the true heart of the home, where the living, dining, and kitchen areas seamlessly merge, offering a harmonious flow that invites conversations to flourish and memories to be made.

The Owner’s Suite is a haven of tranquility, generously sized and thoughtfully designed. A walk-in closet provides ample space for wardrobes, and the ensuite bathroom will become your personal spa retreat, with a separate tub and shower and elegant finishes and fixtures to elevate the experience.

Two additional bedrooms on the main level ensure ample space for family and guests. The covered front porch, a hallmark of Southern hospitality, will beckon neighbors and friends to stop by for a chat or simply enjoy the breeze. And let’s not forget the rear screened porch, a private oasis where one can unwind, read a book, or savor a cup of coffee.

Outlook Cottage

Welcome to The Outlook Cottage in Bayside Village, a spacious new home offering situated beautifully across the street from Cassatt Green Park and just steps from the Life Center and private beach coves along the Chesapeake Bay.

This coastal design, crafted by Showcase Builder Terry Industries, offers a beautiful open floor plan on the main level and is ideal for families who require just a bit of extra space, with both a main level and upperlevel Owner’s Suite, a home office, and a 2-car garage.

Enter from the covered front porch into the foyer, which beautifully transitions into a large family room with fireplace, featuring luxury vinyl-plank flooring.

411 WALBRIDGE BEND

61 BAYSIDE VILLAGE

$1,056,998

Once in the family room, you’ll see the kitchen and dining areas open before you, with a large center island and under counter barstool seating. The kitchen impresses with soft-close drawers and cabinets, upper cabinets to the ceiling, and quartz countertops. Just off the family room is a private home office with a nicelysized walk-in closet for storage. The first Owner’s Suite bedroom is privately situated in the rear of the home next to the screened porch.

On the upper level, you’ll discover three additional bedrooms, including a second, and much larger, Owner’s Suite, with a beautiful tray ceiling and two walk-in closets. Each secondary bedroom has a walk-in closet and easy access to the upper-level laundry room.

Artist’s conceptual illustration. Subject to change.

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4 BR | 3.5 BA | 2,940+/- SQ FT

Abercrombie

This beautiful coastal-inspired home from Showcase Builder Bay Legacy Homes maximizes space with a large and open living area on the main level, offering high ceilings that give the home an overall grand feeling. As you enter the home through the covered front porch into the foyer, the flow opens effortlessly before you, transitioning from the dining room, to the great room, to a beautifully crafted kitchen featuring a center island with eating bar and a spacious walk-in pantry. The 16’ x 15’ great room offers large nine-foothigh sliding glass doors leading out to the rear porch, affording great views of the spacious backyard.

$1,295,000

The main level Owner’s Suite features dual vanities, a large ‘wet room’ with tub and shower and a walk-in closet. The 3 bedrooms located on the upper level are well-sized with both ensuite and hallway bathrooms and spacious closets. Also upstairs is a large bonus room over the garage, which could be a second Owner’s Suite, media room or home office.

Located in Muirfield just across from the Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course and close to the Life Center and Chesapeake Bay, this is a multi-generational home that is well worth your consideration.

Artist’s conceptual illustration. Subject to change.

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4 BR | 4.5 BA | 3,457+/- SQ FT

Introducing Bayside Village Phase II at Bay Creek

With all 158 homesites in Phase I of Bayside Village now spoken for and nearly 90 homes completed or under construction, the time has come to release the highly-anticipated next phase of this one-of-akind enclave, with 58 newly developed properties soon to be available for purchase.

Bayside Village has been land-planned in the style of Traditional Neighborhood Development, or TND. The architecture is coastal-inspired and the village hugs the shoreline of the Chesapeake Bay, offering every homeowner easy access to Bay Creek’s two miles of private sandy beaches. The Life Center is also located here, so fitness and wellness are just a short stroll down the street.

Bay Creek Realty has been accepting homesitespecific reservations for properties in Phase II of Bayside Village since late August, and the response has been overwhelming, with 25 of the 58 homesites currently under reservation.

The beauty of Bayside Village Phase II, though, is that every homesite is desirable and special, simply by virtue of its location. This means there are still great opportunities to choose from. You can select a homesite overlooking Golden Bear Lake and the 9th fairway of the Jack Nicklaus Signature Course, a cozy interior site, or a spot in the center of the action across from the Bay Creek Life Center. No matter where you are in Bayside Village, you’re sure to enjoy the spectacular sunsets our incredible waterfront region serves up daily. You’ll feel a special sense of connection here—the beaches, the bay, pedestrian-friendly streets and lush, open parks – all right outside your front door!

Special purchase incentives are available to those who purchase in the Phase II Grand Opening release, making the decision to acquire one of these new properties all the more compelling

Bayside Village: Phase I (green-purchased), Phase II (beige-available)

Life in Bayside Village

CHEF’S CORNER

BAY CREEK EXECUTIVE CHEF Christian Lofland

The last few months at Bay Creek have been a celebration of summer on the Shore—warm beaches, swimming, bicycling, bathing suits and easy living.

The Coach House, led by Bay Creek Executive Chef, Christian Lofland, has been a ‘summer place,’ too, reflecting the season in its own way with fresh summer produce, seasonal delights and unforgettable seafood creations.

Chef Christian and his team showcased the bounty of the sea and its unique combinations to great acclaim! Now, as fall nears, he is creating new dishes and bringing harvest flavors to the menu alongside tried-and-true member favorites. This month, Christian tells us about what’s happening at the Coach House Tavern and shares an update on what delights the fall season holds for members and their guests.

“We’re very excited about our new Chef de Cuisine, Linda Wessels. Linda comes to us from The Oyster Farm at Kings Creek, where she was a longtime team member. She’s very talented and we believe she will further elevate our kitchen,” says Christian. Linda will be taking lead in the kitchen and Christian will focus on special events, like the always popular wine dinner, slated for this fall.

“We’re also in the process of strengthening the knowledge of the Tavern staff on wines and wine pairings,” he says.

As for the summer and fall seasons, Christian notes the quality and availability of local and regional seafood has been very good. “We’ve had a lot of great oysters and fish. Wahoo has been plentiful and the local oyster harvest was equal parts bountiful and delicious! We believe in offering high quality and variety with our menu and selections. We know when members and their guests come here, most of them want to experience true Eastern Shore cuisine, and that means seafood.” What seafood does Christian favor? “I’m a big scallop guy. We serve a pan seared scallop entree at the Coach House and it’s been very popular. We also offer shrimp dishes, different kinds of fish, crab cakes... it’s a diverse mix of seafood and there’s always something delicious to experience.”

Christian says local produce has been very good this summer, too—even in his own yard! “I have a

fig tree in my front yard. This season I harvested about 40 pounds of figs from it. I made a great fig jam and I’m also dehydrating some of the figs, which I’m planning to incorporate into a pork dish soon at the Coach House.”

During the summer months, Christian and his team created many festive club events, like a Luau with a Hawaiian inspired dinner. Guests enjoyed Luau cuisine and tropical drinks to the sound of a live steel drum player.

member’s favorites, though - Thursday Prime Rib nights are consistently very popular, so we’ll be continuing that. Autumn menu items will get a bit heartier into fall and winter. We’ll incorporate a lot of butternut and acorn squash, spaghetti squash… flavors like that.”

“We’re doing a butternut squash risotto for fall. It’s flavored with allspice and you can choose to add a protein to it… it’s definitely a favorite. And, we’ll be adding back chili as part of our Soup of the Day options. Chili in the fall and wintertime is always very popular.”

On Labor Day weekend, the team hosted a fabulous end-of-summer bash with live music and all kinds of activities for children and families.

“We did classic ribs, barbecue chicken, pork, potato and pasta salads, corn, cobbler…all the classic cookout fare,” says Christian.

In the coming months, the Coach House Tavern will continue its renovations, which will bring more kitchen space for the talented Tavern team and greater capacity for special event preparations. Also in the works, the former site of the Pro Shop will continue its in-progress transformation to become a larger dining room. “We’re excited about the possibilities these larger facilities will open for the team to really do some incredible things for our members,” says Christian.

Should you find yourself at Bay Creek this fall, don’t miss an opportunity to stop in the Coach House Tavern to enjoy some of the delightful fare offered up by Chef Christian and his team.

And, if you’re in the mood for an at-home feast, take advantage of food and beverage delivery from the Coach House. Once a summer special, delivery is now year-round. Order and enjoy Coach House cuisine delivered anywhere in Bay Creek. It couldn’t be easier. Deciding which delicious Chef Christian creation to order, on the other hand, may prove more difficult!

“As we head into fall and going forward into next year, I plan to offer a lot more seafood on the menu. Not to take away from some of our

Bay Creek would like to thank Chef Christian and his team of professionals for exceptional dining and summer event memories. Here’s to fall and the many fabulous flavors it will bring to Bay Creek.

NATURE CORNER Ranger Stan WITH

BAY CREEK’S PRESERVE RANGER

Every season brings something different—and wonderful—to Bay Creek! As fall approaches, many summertime pleasures still remain—sunny end-of-summer beaches, warm, starry evenings with a hint of milder autumn breezes here and there. Before fall officially arrives, we talked with Bay Creek’s Preserve Ranger, Stan Osmolenski, to catch up on the summer’s activities and what’s coming for fall.

Summer has been a great time,” says Ranger Stan. “We had three full sessions of kids’ summer camp this year and everyone who took part loved it!” If you’re out exploring trails near Base Camp, you’ll see some of the ‘fun’ that was had. “During this week long day camp, we led the kids through the Preserve and harvested materials that we used to build our forts. They were pretty incredible—and the kids had plenty of time to design, build, and decorate them to make these forts great! The forts will stay on the Preserve until December, so if you’re out and about, you can come check them out,” Stan says. The Bay Creek camps were a huge success by every measure—children enjoyed exploring and learning about nature, building forts, and, of course, gathering around the campfire!

One of Bay Creek’s many attractors is that it offers nature and recreation across a spectrum of ages and abilities. Ranger Stan’s unique kayak outings for families have been very popular this summer and will certainly continue into the fall.

“We’ve been doing a lot of paddling events,” says Stan. “These outings have been a big success. We’ve explored a lot of the Old Plantation Creek and set out in many different directions. I typically take five people on a paddle, which we do weekly. Many folks are beginners, and some have never paddled before. We also have seasoned veterans who want to explore more of the creek with a guided tour. It’s beautiful out there and it’s just a lot of fun,” he adds.

In a pristine, natural setting like the Preserve, there’s something for everyone to enjoy and there are always new things to discover. Paddling excursions will continue through October.

“As fall approaches, we’re going to start doing more stewardship events, too,” explains Stan. “We’ll be doing planting events like we have in the past, where everyone is welcome to help plant an area with provided trees or shrubs. The Stewardship Club helped plant over 1,000 native trees and shrubs over the past three years and it has been a great success,” he adds. “Besides plantings, we’ll gather as a group and help with trail upkeep and care.”

October will also see the return of the popular ‘Lunch and Learn’ sessions. “These are educational events where we bring in a professional speaker to share their knowledge. We’ve hosted the Eastern Shore Virginia Master Gardeners’ president who

talked about adding native plants into your home garden, and an ornithologist and research biologist who studies the birds of the barrier islands. There’s a lot of variety”.

One of the most exciting sights of autumn is the amazing bird migration that we get to witness here. The unique location of Bay Creek puts it in perfect position to see this incredible natural spectacle. “It’s a very busy time for birds starting in October. As soon as the weather starts getting a touch cooler at night, that’s when everything starts happening—the birds begin flying south. We’re a major stopping point on the eastern flyway. You’ll see many, many birds right here on the property. Bay Creek is positioned at the bottom of the peninsula, which acts like a funnel. It draws a lot of birds into this one specific location before they all have to cross the Chesapeake Bay. It’s a spectacular place to see birds.”

What are residents likely to see? “American kestrel, red tailed and red shouldered hawks, sharpshinned and Coopers hawks, peregrine falcons... these are raptors, predatory birds that we don’t normally see,” Stan says. “You may also observe unusual songbirds, waterfowl and shorebirds as they fly over Bay Creek.”

DID YOU KNOW?

Peregrine falcons are the fastest animal on the planet? The peregrine falcons that stop and rest here at Bay Creek during migration can reach speeds of 240+ miles per hour when diving for prey.

“Bay Creek also has many year-round winged residents who will start migrating, too, like osprey and brown pelicans that typically live here in summer. It’s also an active time for other birds like the kingfisher, which is a shorebird that you’ll see frequently this time of year. And, you may even see some snowy owls. They usually stay up north but if it’s been a boom year for hatchlings, and there are too many owls in one region, they’ll migrate south—even all the way to Virginia!” says Stan.

Ranger Stan is no stranger to owls as host to the twice-monthly Owl Prowl here at Bay Creek. “It’s a one-mile guided evening hike through the Preserve where we look for signs of owls,” explains Stan. From spotting feathers, nesting activity, and listening for their distinct, haunting hoots, residents can enjoy an unusual nighttime ‘prowl’ through prime owl habitat. “The Owl Prowl is always a lot of fun”.

Besides the adventure side of Bay Creek’s nature programming, Ranger Stan also focuses on issues like using native species in landscaping and maintaining wildlife-friendly habitats. This summer, the new wildflower garden at Base Camp thrived, and offered a great way to show just how lovely native plantings can be. “This winter,” says Stan, “we’ll be getting started on a ‘demonstration garden.’ Next spring, it will allow us to showcase native plants in an even bigger way. Eventually, we will work to have a garden demo area and a meadow demo area. We really want to encourage people to plant their homes with native landscaping,” says Stan. Planting native is a great idea—to benefit the ecosystem and for the sheer beauty of it.

American Kestrel

Bay Creek’s Base Camp is the launching place for many an adventure and fall offers great opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. With its kayak rack, picnic areas, and multi-use trails, it’s no wonder it’s enjoyed by so many. Says Ranger Stan, who can almost always be found at Base Camp, “I enjoy helping people learn more about nature and the many trails and waterways and wildlife that we have here at Bay Creek. I encourage residents to take advantage of this great natural resource in every season.”

Ranger Stan can help make your next Bay Creek adventure a memorable one. See you at Base Camp!

Nature Watch

RANGER STAN SAYS YOU MIGHT SPOT THESE SPECIES AT BAY CREEK NOW:

Goldenrods are going to flower soon, and they’ll fill the meadows with bright yellow. At Bay Creek, we see the Seaside Goldenrod and Canadian Goldenrod varieties.

Muscadine grapes are also coming off soon and American persimmon has been very productive this year. Be sure not to eat them before they ripen!

Purple Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) which bloomed in summer are now producing fruit. Their fruit, called ‘maypop’ is edible and makes a distinct popping sound when stepped on. (Do check with an expert before consuming anything you find in nature!)

And, for Bay Creek homeowners, now is the time to watch out for Johnson grass—it’s invasive and can take over quickly. Johnson grass is distinguished by its reddish pink seed heads. Stan’s tip: Instead of spraying, dig out the grass, making sure to remove the root, too!

“This is the best time to get on the water—it’s not too hot out there, and there are all kinds of natural wonders to observe.”

The Coolest Corner in Town

CHASE’S SOFT SERVE ICE CREAM SERVES UP SWEET TREATS WITH AN EXTRA HELPING OF CAPE CHARLES CHARM.

In a beautiful little beach town like Cape Charles, it’s not surprising to see families bicycling along the quaint, colorful streets, and people out for a stroll enjoying the fresh Bay breezes. If you find your way down Mason Avenue, perched right beside Bailey’s Bait and Tackle (a landmark in its own right), you’ll find what might just be one of the sweetest stops in town.

This is where you’ll find Chase’s Soft Serve Ice Cream. It’s one of those must-visit places that you’ll find yourself returning to again and again whether you’re a local or a visitor. Prepare yourself for delicious frozen goodies and a laid back, everyoneis-welcome attitude. The Chase’s ice cream trailer is a permanent fixture at 331 Mason Avenue— sitting on a prime corner in Cape Charles. It has a welcoming courtyard with outside seating, games (like a giant Connect Four board—yes, really!) and other diversions for kids and adults alike.

Saunter up to the truck, order one of Chase’s many incredible ice cream treats and then take a shady seat under a big umbrella at one of their many picnic tables. If you think this sounds like the ideal place to stop for an ice cream and some fun, you’d be right—and it’s all by design.

Created by lifetime Cape Charles residents, Marie and Donnie Brady, the idea for Chase’s Soft Serve began a few years ago. “We didn’t really know anything about ice cream,” laughs Marie. “There were some friends of ours that had an ice cream shop on Jefferson Avenue. My husband and I went every day—because we love soft serve ice cream. When they closed their business, we really missed it,” recalls Marie. “Donnie and I talked about the idea of us having an ice cream trailer for a year or two. Our son, Jeb, found one in Florida so we brought it back up to Cape Charles! My husband wanted to name the business after our grandson, Chase, hoping he’ll maybe want to help with the business as he gets older.”

The Brady’s may not have ever run an ice cream trailer before they started Chase’s, but they’ve

had plenty of business experience as owners of Bailey’s Bait and Tackle, a long-time fixture in Cape Charles. The tackle shop has had a 50+ year history in Cape Charles and was originally run by Marie’s parents until their retirement. They opened Chase’s right next to their bait and tackle store and it was an immediate hit.

The Chase’s Soft Serve trailer reads, “Soft Serve Ice Cream with all the Fixins” and they really mean it!

An interesting array of flavors—like ‘Mocha Cappuccino,’ ‘Caramel’ and ‘Blue Goo’ to name a few—are joined by all kinds of toppings. Add to that slushies, milkshakes, cake cones, waffle cones, rainbow waffle cones, plus sundaes like S’more, Caramel Crunch and Oreo Blast... and you have a menu that’s as adventurous as it is delicious.

So, what do people seem to go for the most?

“People have all kinds of different favorites,” says Marie. “Our signature drink is the ‘Mason Avenue,” she says. Guests can also find other incredible treats found nowhere else like the ‘Under The Sea,’ a cotton candy milkshake with marshmallow drizzle, whipped cream, sprinkles, a candy shell, and candy mermaid tail in a souvenir glass. Or their ‘Shorely Pumpkin Pie’ signature fall shake. It’s pumpkin pie ice cream infused with pumpkin puree topped with a waffle, cinnamon,

caramel, and whipped cream, finished off with a graham cracker rim. It’s no wonder people love coming back to Chase’s again and again. It’s a one-of-a kind place in a one-of-a-kind town.

Marie and Donnie love living and running a family business in Cape Charles. “We take pride in our business, and we appreciate what we have here,” Marie says. “We’ve met many people through our store... friends who come back every year that we’ve gotten to know,” she smiles. “We’ve always been involved and done a lot with the community. Because we love our little town.”

“This is just the quaint village we’ve always lived in,” adds Donnie, whose only time living away from Cape Charles was during his military service. “We love it.”

The community spirit and love of Cape Charles continues with their grandson and the business’s namesake, Chase, age 11, who is already helping out at the ice cream trailer. He appreciates his Cape Charles home, too. “I like that it’s a small town. We know everyone here,” says Chase, whose favorite ice cream flavor is black raspberry. This summer, Chase helped serve the many locals and visitors who couldn’t get enough of the cold, delicious treats Chase’s Soft Serve is famous for.

Chase’s Soft Serve Ice Cream will be open for a few more weeks as fall approaches, then opens again for the season in April. That gives you plenty of time to swing by for some genuine Cape Charles hospitality and some of the best soft serve ice cream on the Eastern Shore!

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.