Seven Magazine Renata Brown

WELCOME

Dear Readers,

In this special edition of Seven Magazine, we delve into the inspiring journeys of two remarkable women who have conquered various industries with their entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to excellence.

On our first cover, we spotlight Renata Brown, the visionary owner of Seven Bistro Restaurant. Renata’s story is one of resilience and determination, as she shares her path to becoming a successful entrepreneur. From her beginnings as a group home owner to her triumphs in the culinary world, Renata’s journey serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and passion.

Turning to our second cover, we celebrate the achievements of Kisha Lee, a trailblazer in both medical transportation and luxury boat chartering. Kisha’s entrepreneurial endeavors have not only transformed industries but have also provided invaluable services to her community. Through her company, First Class Charter Rental, Keisha continues to redefine the standards of excellence in customer service and innovation.

As you read through the pages of this issue, may you find inspiration in the stories of Renata Brown and Kisha Lee. Their unwavering commitment to their dreams serves as a reminder that with dedication and drive, anything is possible.

Warm regards,

Thomas L. Corbin Jr. Editor-in-Chief, 7 Magazine

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Seven Magazine: Good afternoon, it is an honor and we’re pleased to sit with the beautiful Mrs. Cynthia Terry. Proud owner of Black Eyed Peas out here in Virginia Beach. I’d like to ask a few questions today about your wonderful restaurant and delicious dishes. Well, we’re going to start off and just get straight to the point, what got you into this restaurant business?

Cynthia Terry: Ok, well as a little girl I was always the sibling appointed to cook the food for my brothers and I enjoyed doing it. My mom was a single mom and she worked many hours all day long so for me the cooking part came easy. It was intriguing, exciting and unique and I just loved cooking all sorts of dishes for my siblings. I like seeing my brothers full and happy! With that being said, seeing people full and happy is what I aim for.

Seven Magazine: Mrs. Terry, what is the most popular dish here that gets the customers full and happy?

Cynthia Terry: Very good question! So our most popular side order is the carrot soufflé! It’s very popular and it tastes like yams. Man, it’s so delicious, and a crowd favorite is Cynthia’s potato salad! It’s an old fashioned dish that I love to make and reminds you of grandma’s cooking from down south. Another item here at Black Eyed Peas has to be our turkey wings! I tell you the meat slides right off the bone! Many families come in for our mouthwatering catfish and meatloaf! Our meatloaf is also very old-fashioned especially with the ingredients! You know, we offer our delicious old style southern liver and onions, cooked to perfection and with love! I make all of our dishes from my heart, everyday. Go online and be sure to look at our menu. I can go on and on but you’ll have to taste for yourself.

Seven Magazine: Mrs. Cynthia, what made you name your establishment Black Eyed Peas?

Mrs. Cynthia: So as a little girl again my mom cooked Black Eyed Peas every night. I know that sounds crazy but literally she did and she enjoyed them. As a little girl I did not like them, however I do like

them now, also Black Eyed Peas are A good luck pea culturally. For many years we’ve celebrated with them at the beginning of the year. Yes, so while pondering and just kicking names around trying to brand our restaurant I thought of Black Eyed Peas. I thought that sounds really good and very soulful just like my cook and I liked that. I felt like I said earlier that I cook from my heart and considering how black eyed peas were a staple in our community, the name fit.

Seven Magazine: OK since we’re going back to you was a little girl a lot how long have you been in this restaurant business?

Cynthia Terry: My first job was in a restaurant I watched a lot and did a lot of learning things like daily operations, etc. Then my second job, which was my favorite job, was in a restaurant and I learned various dishes and felt like I was able to come full circle with my entrees. I was always tied to the restaurant world and I managed a bunch of the grocery, deli, bakery stores and I just really found it very interesting working with food. You know food gives you life and nourishment. Also, it gives you energy that you don’t always find on every corner considering how we’re in the south and there is fast food places all over Hampton Roads. A lot of these places will leave you

full and not feeling good! You can come to Black Eyed Peas and you eat some good food and you start feeling better. Our food is here and it nurtures your soul and your stomach. Also, starting off young with cooking for my family I feel it was actually my purpose! I’m blessed that I found my purpose at a very young age and it it drives me.

Seven Magazine: I’m gonna try out this legendary Black Eyed Peas and I’ll get right back to you guys with my review (5 minutes later) Man, the food is beautiful! Actually amazing! I’m highly and thoroughly impressed and it’s not gonna be my last time here! I also want to know what else is going on here for the spring, the summer events and things of that nature ?

Cynthia Terry: Oh yes sir, we actually do events! And we have bookings where you can book out the whole restaurant if you like. Our establishment holds 229 guests and all you’d have to do is give us a call. You can find us online and our location is outside the

food court in the mall! The address is 1005 lynnhaven mall loop Virginia Beach VA 23452. Our web page is BlackEyedPeasVB. com Instagram:Black Eyed PeasVB and our phone number is (757) 778-5219. We do private parties, we have work or office parties at the bar area and you can have a nice happy birthday party at Black Eyed Peas on the outside or inside. We recently had a party for 100 people on one side of the establishment and we had one other side for another event that we offered catering. Yes, that’s right, we also offer full catering to any party or event that you are having. Let’s say you don’t know exactly what you want or if it on our menu, we are unlimited with the things that we can and will cater for you. We offer all varieties and different styles of foods and we have a full service bar with some amazing cocktails. Be sure to check us out at Black Eyed Peas located at lynnhaven mall in Virginia Beach we look forward to seeing you guys and food is my life thank you so much and have a wonderful evening.

TOWINGFROMAUCTIONS EMERGENCYTOWING REPAIRSHOP LONGDISTANCETOWING RECOVERYTOWING FLATBED&ROLLBACKS

Gloucester Graf on Mechanicsv·

MECCA

The year is 2013, the place is Portsmouth, Virginia where this story began with a man who is about to embark on a journey parallel to Malcom X’s pilgrimage to the Holy City of Mecca. This man’s name is Ill. Maurice Wiggins 33°. At times, he would lay awake at night and envision how he could get his Masonic brothers and sisters from near and far to bond together in unity and love in one location. You see, he has a strong passion for the Order; to lead, teach and protect his brothers and sisters. This similarity is indicative of a silverback gorilla; in Hollywood movies, silverbacks have been characterized as ferocious and aggressive animals however, they are usually calm and have a peaceful social life and rarely show aggressive behavior; unless threatened. Ill. Maurice Wiggins, 33° the leader, has a shy and gentle disposition despite his power; he protects those he cherishes from predators to the extent of sacrificing his own life.

As he set out on his journey to establish his jurisdiction, Mecca Supreme Council, it required dedication, commitment and a strong support system. On January 3, 2014 his vision became reality. The body fulfilled their obligations and focused on serving the community and to further educate on the principals of freemasonry and love. Over time, we have seen him tested both physically and mentally. As a family, we’ve

loved, we’ve lost and we’ve faced many challenges all without wavering. Along the way a lot of our friendships changed; choices were made that led some to travel on a different path in life; some relationships grew and blossomed beautifully where others drifted apart and the gap may be just too big to bridge.

However, his trials and tribulations on this road to Mecca are detailed with an emotional richness rarely seen. To quote the German philosopher, Friedrich Nietzsche, “That which does not kill us, makes us stronger.” The scale of events that have unfolded will make even the most jaded onlookers gasp with astonishment. There’s no standard to determine how far a person would go to achieve their goals and dreams.

As we approach another year in Mecca, we reflect on how we began this journey hand in hand, side by side, in search of more knowledge in freemasonry not knowing where the road would lead. That road led us to 4711 George Washington Highway, Portsmouth, Virginia 23702, home of Mecca Supreme Council.

Overall, this journey has become more than we anticipated but we stood unraveled and united as brothers and sisters. The path that has been laid before us is clear and wide. Forever bonded by our obligation, we shall continue to walk these miles together. As we are taught to make good men better and to love one another, the following scripture describes the journey to Mecca. “Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things.” 1 Corinthians 13:7

You’ve probably heard a lot about “the skills gap”-the disparity between the skills an employer expects their employees to have and an employee’s actual skills-and perhaps you even feel that you lack certain skills to advance in your own career.

The skills in demand by the workforce continue to evolve rapidly.

The 2023 LinkedIn Workplace Learning report indicates the skillsets for jobs are likely only going to continue increasing. Specifically, the report claimed skill sets for jobs have already changed by around 25% since 2015. By 2027, this number is expected to double.

The question is, how can working adults continue to acquire the skills they need to support their career goals?

Returning to the classroom can be an intimidating proposition. Between work, family and other obligations, going back to school may present many challenges to working adults. Fortunately, there are several ways you can make today’s technology, your life experience, your job and flexible educational opportunities work for you.

If you are thinking about furthering your education and skills to help advance in your career, here are some questions to consider: What is your goal? Decide what type of education will help you achieve your goal: Do you need a specific program? Would a certificate

suffice? Would a certain credential further your career? What type of program is most achievable, and where will you get the most support?

What type of program is best for working adults? If you plan to work full time while earning a degree or credential, look for an online or hybrid program with flexibility that offers support for working adults. Ask your employer for the time and flexibility you need to complete an education program.

Are you eligible for credit for prior learning (CPL)? If you have prior work or learning experience, research whether you are eligible for credit for prior learning. This could help give you a head start and make it quicker to get to the finish line.

Will your employer support you? Many employers offer tuition assistance programs. Consider talking to your employer about what may be available to you and how furthering your education may help you advance in the organization.

Amid a rising expectation of skill levels for employees, it can be important to seek out continuing education opportunities-both inside and outside of a traditional classroom. Take advantage of flexible and affordable options to achieve your education goals. Utilizing some of the unique approaches listed above, such as online or hybrid learning,

Seven Magazine: First off congratulations on your new business venture! When speaking about you with other business owners and friends, I often say how your work ethic is wild! When I say wild I’m speaking from never knowing what she has in her pocket!

Kisha Lee: (laughs) Well, thank you.

Seven Magazine: I mean it! I have the opportunity of watching many hard workers in my line of work! And, I must say you and my wife, I take my hat off to you guys!

Kisha Lee: Well, Corbin I appreciate that! I don’t believe in ceilings, if you know what I mean.

Seven Magazine: Can you tell us about the inspiration behind starting 1st Class Charter Boat Renals?

Kisha Lee: The inspiration behind 1st Class Charter Boat Rental was that my Cousin birthday was coming up and we were going to Cancun for her birthday. However, I wanted to do something for Her birthday here. And since we both love water and boats, I said I would rent a boat for her birthday. Not knowing that we had a boat rental company right in Virginia Beach. Someone gave Me the companies contact information. I made contact with them and booked. The booking was either $2100.00 or $2700.00 I cant remember the exact price. However, I remember saying I need to buy a boat and add this on to My many business ventures. In less than 3 weeks later Me and My Man flew to Florida and I brought a brand new 2023 Tritoon boat. And as they say and the rest is history.

What motivated you to venture into this business?

Kisha Lee: It’s simple MONEY.

Seven Magazine: What sets 1st Class Charter Boat Rental apart from other similar businesses in the industry?

Kisha Lee: We are professional at all times with almost 30 years of business experience and we’re water fun ready. Our job is to make memories with family members. You know how when you grow up and those water rides on the lakes often times stand out from the others.

Seven Magazine: Yes, I know right! How do you ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience for your clients on their boat rentals?

Kisha Lee: We offer top notch service to all customers and we are very attentive, very friendly, and ready to make your experience with 1st Class Charter Boat Rental a very memorable experience. We do everything from beginning to end top notch and first class!

Seven Magazine: What types of boats and charter services does your company offer? Are there any unique or specialized offerings that customers particularly enjoy?

Kisha Lee: 1st Class Charter Boat Rental  now offers the option to rent up to 2 Tritoon boats, 2  jet-ski’s and 2 tubes. The customers are able to rent for as little as 2 hours for $475.00 on up to $1600.00 for the whole day. With this being a new company I think that couples will enjoy the option we have for an Intimate Culinary Experience on the boat brought to you by Chef Maurice Simmons with Intimate Culinary Experience LLC. Also, I’m Praying that the Seniors Cruise (for Customers over 65 years of age) will be a success.

Seven Magazine: In your opinion, what are the key factors that contribute to a successful charter experience?

Kisha Lee: The key factors that contribute to a successful charter is that our operators are very knowledgeable of the water and safety is Our top priority. I wanted to make sure that children as well as adults were able to take advantage of enjoying every aspect of the water and boating.

Seven Magazine: Can you share any memorable or exciting stories from past charter trips that highlight the essence of First Class Charter and Boat Rentals?

Kisha Lee: Every Charter is memorable! Every charter is exciting! When you charter with us you can see almost everything water related from seeing the dolphins to cruising experiencing the multimillion dollar homes! You can bring your friends and also bring your own dishes aboard. Call us and bring all of your friends so that we can show you how it feels to ride off into the sunset. If you have that special someone bring a bottle of your favorite wine and enjoy a beautiful evening!

Come make lifetime memories with 1st Class Charter Boat Rental.

Seven Magazine: How do you address safety concerns and ensure that customers feel secure during their time on the water?

Kisha Lee: To ensure safety during each cruise the customers are giving a briefing of what to do and what not to do to keep everyone safe. All of our staff is trained to make sure that you have a safe experience.

Seven Magazine: What strategies do you employ to maintain and sustain your boats to ensure they remain in top-notch condition for customers?

Kisha Lee: 1st Class Charter Boat Rental ensures that our Tritoons and personal watercraft remain in top notch condition by scheduling regular maintenance on all of them.

Seven Magazine: Lastly, what are your future plans and visions for First Class Charter Boat Rental?

Kisha Lee: 1st Class Charter Boat Rental’s next game plan that I’m looking forward to is to become a Yacht Owner. And My future vision is to have just as many yachts as I do medical transportation vehicles. Cavalier Manor raised Me and I.C. Norcom made Me. SEE YOU ON THE WATER!

Seven Magazine: Kisha I swear I’m never amazed! I take my hat off to you and appreciate you so much! Oh can I get that hook up for Lisa and I?

Kisha Lee: Absolutely!

ELEVATE R PARTY WITH 1ST C---..... S CHARTER BOATREN L

MoneJ. Matters: Key Insightsinto Tax Refundsand FinancialPriorities

Tax season can be a stressful and challenging time for many Americans. In fact, according to the second-annual “Straight Talk Wireless™ Tax Stress Index,” 1 in 5 people want to throw their phone due to frustration over taxes.

That’s not all Straight Talk uncovered. Below are three key findings from Straight Talk’s annual survey that shed light on American attitudes about taxes and their refunds.

1. Shrinking Refunds

A common fear among tax filers in 2024 is the possibility of smaller returns. 49 percent are worried their tax refund this year won’t be as high as last year.

While no one likes receiving less money than expected, a smaller refund could make life harder for some. The survey found that 60 percent of Americans are in more debt than last year and many of them are counting on their refunds to secure financial stability - 34 percent plan to use their refund to pay off debt.

2. Financial Management

Aside from debt, many Americans have earmarked their refunds for other financial goals. According to the survey, 37 percent plan to save their refund and 34 percent will use it for household expenses.

“Finances remain top of mind for tax filers,” said Lynnette Khalfani-Cox, personal finance expert and bestselling author of the new book Bounce Back: The Ultimate Guide to Financial Resilience. “Inflation anxiety and rising debt continue to plague Americans. It’s not surprising that instead of paying for

a vacation or buying luxury items, people are using their refunds as part of their financial management strategy.”

3. Upgrades

While extravagant spending may not be in the cards, many tax filers do plan to spend their refunds on practical expenses. Nearly half, about 44 percent of Americans, say they plan to upgrade their phone using their tax refund.

If you’ve been thinking about upgrading your phone, tax season may be your best bet. Not only will you have extra cash, but you’re also likely to find deals. For example, with Straight Talk, you’ll find great deals on service plans with a wide selection of smartphones at affordable prices. Right now, Straight Talk is offering a Samsung Galaxy A14 5G for free with the purchase of the Extended Silver Unlimited plan.* To learn more, visit StraightTalk. com or a Walmart store near you.

With prepaid, no-contract plans, you can embrace benefits like flexibility and savings all year long - but especially during tax season.

*Offer valid through 6/9/24 while supplies last. At participating stores. Must purchase a Straight Talk Extended Silver Unlimited Plan to qualify (90-Day, 180Day or Annual Plan). In-Store activation required at Walmart. Limit of two phones per customer. Taxes and fees apply. ©2024 TRACFONE.

Seven Magazine: Renata, congratulations on your restaurant and your business, can you tell us about the inspiration behind your new restaurant and what sets it apart from others in the area?

Renata Brown: Well, the inspiration behind Seven Bistro was really my daughter. I have a daughter that loves to cook and she has loved to cook since she was a little girl. Cooking is a passion for her so I tried to force her into one of my other businesses and she just kept saying, “mom this is not for me” and how she wanted to cook. She added she wanted a restaurant or a food truck and I’m the type of parent that I like to sow into my children. I saw a vision for my daughter and that was the inspiration behind Seven Bistro. Actually the name Seven Bistro came about because of my 7 children.

Seven Magazine: Wow, that’s beautiful! And, how did you first get started as a serial entrepreneur and what advice do you have for others looking to start their own businesses?

Renata Brown: I became a serial entrepreneur when I started out with my first business which was Rosezanne’s

Ark LLC which are the residential homes. Seven Magazine interviewed us years ago for that business. As we grew over the years I decided to do a name change and collaborated the name The ARKK Group LLC. I learned more about being an entrepreneur, you know the ups and downs, all of the goods and the bad. Once I got the business of the group homes stable, I wanted to grow and invest in other things to build residual income and more generational wealth for my children. I waited for a little while and once I built up enough capital and credit, I learned the investing into (houses) business. I hopped right into real estate and began to invest in homes, flipping and buying wholesaling properties to rehab, etc.

Seven Magazine: Yes, I do a bit of those things myself.

Renata Brown: Well that’s how I like to enter into a new industry, I seek God to carry out the vision and open all available resources. I will sometimes use capital that I’ve built to make sure all expenses and everything have been paid and tie those funds up until I’m able to close on the property then begin to reap my harvest…

Seven Magazine: Wow, get it!

Renata Brown: Yes, I always want to invest into a fertile harvest, my spiritual believers will understand that saying. I secondly want something that can number one, help my children and help out in the community, etc. I plan on doing big things and as long as you keep God in the mix it’s all gonna work out fine.

Seven Magazine: You are absolutely correct!

Renata Brown: Yes, so that’s how I ended up becoming a serial entrepreneur just seeking God to carry out the vision, purpose and plan. Everything I’ve tried my hand at God has

blessed it to turn into something unimaginable. Oh how I love bless and adore his mighty name…..As far as, what I would say to other people who are interested in becoming business owners?

Seven Magazine: Yes.

Renata Brown: I would say seek God first because I tell people that God has our own individual name and our own blessings and we all have a purpose in life. You definitely have to go and see God to find out what is your purpose and what is his plan for your life. My purpose and plan might not be for you, you know I can tell you how to become a business owner, like you know you gotta have capital, you gotta create an LLC, you gotta get a EIN but if it’s not what God has for you it is not going to work. God is above all things in my life and I seek him in everything that I do and I tell people that I don’t mind helping you but did you go seek God about this? Did God tell you that this is the purpose and plan that he has for your life or are you seeing what it is that others are doing? You have a season and you have to find your purpose because when you’re walking in your purpose and your passion, it’ll never seem like a day of working! It will not even feel like a job! So, that’s my advice to you or anybody that wants to become a business owner.

Seven Magazine: I enjoyed our photo shoot for the cover! It was great to see you again after so many years since your last article. Now you’re featured on the front cover of Seven Magazine, how do you feel about this recognition and what do you hope readers will take away from your story?

Renata Brown: Mr. Thomas Corbin, I hope they will take away inspiration, I hope that it

it will make the non believer reconsider God first and for the reader to understand everything else shall follow. Thomas, you know I was the person on the other side and I had to seek and find myself. I had to be patient and wait for what God has for me and once he tapped me into me, I had to take action!

Seven Magazine: Wow, well what challenges have you faced in the process of opening your restaurant and how have you overcame them?

Renata Brown: Well now that goes back to God, I make sure to go see God for everything, Thomas, you know another magazine came in and interviewed me and they asked me about the same thing. And like I explained to them I didn’t have any challenges as far as opening the restaurant or dealing with licenses and things of that nature. My challenges were more about the contractors. It’s hard finding good help and we will leave it at that (laugh). However, I will say that when contractors didn’t show up my significant other (Cedric) hopped right in blood, sweat tears, painting, putting furniture together, Lowe’s, Home Depot runs, Meeting ups, fedex, Amazon for materials, cleaning and the list goes on. He played a very vital role in helping to bring my vision to life as well and I am truly thankful for him. I also worried my two brothers( Daryl and Marlon), not biological but blood couldn’t make us any closer day in and day out. They have truly been by my side since I

hopped in the real estate world back in 2015. I truly bless God for them both truly my go to when it comes to anything dealing with building, fixing or construction.

Seven Magazine: What are your top sellers here? I’m sure all of the dishes are great, they look and sound delicious but, what do you sell a lot of?

Renata Brown: Well our features here at the restaurant that customers are looking forward to experiencing are our appetizers! Man we have many folks order our spinach and crab dip, or our colossal shrimp, even our wings or our special Buffalo chicken dip! Thomas, those are our top sellers for the appetizers and for our entree’s, for starters, the top sellers are our Creole pasta which is topped with your choice of protein or you can add additional proteins, our steak bites and our number one seller is our stuffed salmon, which is stuff with a crab dip filling! Oh we can’t forget our crab cakes because our crab cakes are all lump meat with no fillers. You know the customer that walked in right before you came in asked for me to come over to their table to talk about our crab cakes! She was raving about those crab cakes and the collard greens and just you know the overall experience. You know we are all family here, the experience, the music, the food, we are one at the Bistro! Many of the staff have become my nieces, nephews, sons and daughters! We’ve become a big family!

Seven Magazine: How do you plan to continue growing and expanding your business in the future and do you have any other entrepreneurial ventures in the work?

Renata Brown: I’ve always got somethingworking up my sleeves. I’ve learned to do things quietly and spiritually. I won’t say

anything until everything is signed, sealed and delivered! Also, sometimes you could put stuff out there and people will prey against your blessings! They will do this and try to get in the way of you going to the next level because they feel like you have too much! But, whatever God has for you, it’s yours! And, because I put God first and as I keep him first everything else will follow. All of his promises to me , the desires of my heart, whatever it is, including that vision or business, I pray, I tell him that I need Him to open the doors and I need you to make this available and it’s done.

Seven Magazine: How important do you think it is for small businesses to support and collaborate with each other in the community and how have you been involved in this effort?

Renata Brown: It is very important for small businesses to collaborate and support one another unfortunately, I don’t see it happening all the time. It’s a sad sight to see because our culture really has a crab in a barrel mentality. It’s really sad to see when everybody doesn’t want to see the next person go to the next level. We have to do better, we are very talented people. I support a whole lot however I don’t publish, nor broadcast a lot of people on Facebook. I keep it between me and God because you know I like my rewards, my accolades and when God blesses it’s everlasting.

Seven Magazine: Ok Renata, I have two more questions for you. What message do you have for aspiring entrepreneurs who may be hesitant to take the leap and start their own businesses?

Renata Brown: What is Nike’s quote? Just do it and make sure you go and see God about

it first! Because if it’s for you he will open up doors for you and I promise he will give you more than than you have room enough to receive as long as you trust him and delight yourself in him.

Seven Magazine: And lastly, what can readers and local community expect from Seven Bistro and how can they support your business?

Renata Brown: Well this May the 10th 2024 will be our one year anniversary so right now we’re putting together a big anniversary party trying to get a hold of some of the local radio stations and I’m working with the city to try to get permits and things because I wanted to rope off the parking lot and open it up to the public. We want families to come out with the kids to enjoy the different festivities! You can also come out and visit my restaurant, check out the different dishes and see why flavor tells our story!

Seven Magazine: I thank you for sitting down with me today

Renata Brown: Thomas, you’re more than welcome

Seven Magazine: you gave me more than enough meat and now I want to try that crab dip with all that meat in it. Thank you and God Bless!

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As a young Marine 42 years ago, John was stationed at Camp Elmore in Norfolk.

He met Sharon through a fellow Marine. That began a beautiful journey of raising 6 kids and serving the Lord together.

It was while attending a Gospel service at a base chapel in Okinawa, Japan, that they began truly growing in Christ and learning how to serve Him. Through John’s military career, the Lord brought them to churches where they worked in many diverse ministries. They served from building projects to youth ministries and youth choir to food lines. John felt the Lord’s calling while in Jacksonville, FL. At that time, Sharon envisioned that their future ministry would be feeding people through perhaps a food truck while sharing the Gospel. After John’s retirement, God led them back to Virginia where Sharon was raised. Due to some traumatic experiences in her childhood, however, this was not where she wanted to be. But they started a Bible study in their home of about 5-10 people that kept growing to where they began renting space within a local church. Up to 40 folks were attending. John said that the members of the other church would peek their heads into their room because they could hear them praising the Lord! John and Sharon were sure that they were called to ministry.

13 years ago, they moved their church into a Newport News building beside

a men’s rescue mission. They began meeting the physical needs of those in their area, providing nonperishable food, blankets, etc. God also led them through a process of meeting the needs of young Marines and others in the neighborhood who just kept coming their way. They now also work with the USDA program at six different sites every month to serve people who pick up food. Their names are on the Food Bank website from which they get calls - John, his brother-in-law Jeff, and other church members help with those needs.

John and Sharon feel so blessed. Serving the homeless was difficult at first because they had a hard time not seeing why the people couldn’t just get a job and make their lives right. But through Faith Bible College courses, their perspective began to change. Classes such as Evangelism and Anthropology helped them see humanity differently. They began seeing the homeless as created in God’s image, having the DNA of the Father in them. This changed their whole church approach and how they thought. Through the Romans class, they were reminded not to judge because it is only God who can judge.

Sharon admits that she used to want a glamorous church where everybody came in smiling and smelling wonderful and looking good. But that is not who God is giving them! Regardless of who they are (or how they smell), their church provides breakfast for folks every Sunday during Sunday School while they teach

them the Gospel of Jesus Christ. They had seen that people often get the ‘middle of the story’, but they needed to start at the beginning with Jesus. They needed to see who He really is, the God who loves them and has saved them, not the church or who the pastors are. John knew that some folks come to get what they want and become professional churchgoers, but they really need God’s Word. So they changed their Sunday School from teaching a curriculum to studying straight from God’s Word so everyone leaves with ‘food for thought.’ Folks are responding. Some have given their lives to Christ and are continuing to grow in Him. The Baxtons share that they are learning in the process. John started understanding what a NC pastor had shared - that you can’t treat church people like you would treat Marines who did what they were told! And you can’t get out of character; you have to remain in the character of the Lord. Sharon realized her original vision of feeding people and sharing Jesus was only a partial picture - she hadn’t envisioned the details as the Lord had planned! They praise God for all the godly men and women who spoke into their lives, counseled them, and weren’t afraid to tell them the truth. Accountability is important. Sharon has been working on a book about dysfunctional families and how you can take dysfunctional ways into God’s house without really knowing what that means. While researching, she identified the dysfunction in her

family growing up, but then realized she was bringing that into her own familyeverything had to be perfect and in its place, including the house, the kids, etc. She didn’t know that those behaviors carried their own dysfunction. She feels that through FBC, God is helping her rightly divide His Word of truth. She knows that each course has been part of God’s plan for her and, as He answers her questions about her own life, she can now share with confidence. They feel that they used to only skim the surface, but truly knowing and understanding the Bible is the greatest gift that they can give others. Christ never stops amazing them. From free bags of brand new men’s sweaters to a man in Walgreens who said, “This is on me,” John was reminded “...with love and kindness I have drawn thee” (Jeremiah 31:3). God was showing him, “This is what brings people to Me, not your preaching, but it’s the love.” They have cut out activities that were all about the passion of ministry to focus on sharing the Gospel message of Jesus Christ. Sharon’s brother Jeff and his wife Janice have been in ministry here with the Baxtons from the start. Sharon talked with Janice about FBC and they decided to take classes together. They are both on schedule to get their degrees in May 2024.