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EDITOR
THOMAS CORBIN
LISA CORBIN
ART DIRECTOR
THOMAS CORBN
LISA CORBIN
PHOTOGRAPHY
PARAGON PUBLISHING SALES
THOMAS CORBIN DISTRIBUTION CORDINATION
ERIC “ET” TUCKER
Dr. Marcus Yarbrough, a distinguished wound care specialist, has dedicated his career to transforming the field with innovative practices and a patient-centered approach. His journey from a young aspiring physician to a leader in wound care is both inspiring and insightful.
The Path to Specialization
From an early age, Dr. Yarbrough was captivated by the mechanical aspects of medicine. “I always wanted to work with my hands,” he shares, recalling his initial interest in orthopedics. However, his career path took a decisive turn during his general surgery
rotation when he encountered pediatric burn patients. “Treating those young patients, especially during my time in D.C., was a turning point. It solidified my passion for burn trauma care.”
Family influences also played a role, with several relatives in the medical field offering guidance and encouragement. This combination of personal interest and familial support laid the groundwork for his eventual specialization.
Educational Journey and Mentorship
Dr. Yarbrough’s educational path was a lengthy and challenging process. After completing a rigorous four-year undergraduate program, he entered medical school, where he spent another five years honing his skills.
His journey continued with a five-year residency and two fellowships, the latest of which focused on burn and critical care.
Reflecting on his mentors, Dr. Yarbrough speaks fondly of key figures who shaped his career. “My chairman at Howard University was instrumental in teaching me the difference between merely treating and truly caring for patients,” he explains. These mentors provided not only knowledge but also the confidence to excel in a demanding field.
Career Evolution and Challenges
Since completing his training, Dr. Yarbrough has become a sought-after speaker, sharing his expertise at conferences across the country. “Education is ongoing,” he notes. “It’s vital to stay current with advancements to offer patients the best possible care.”
His career has been marked by challenges, notably the transition from a supportive academic environment to the broader medical community. “Proving my training and capabilities was initially daunting,” he admits. Additionally, navigating the social factors influencing patient compliance required creativity and persistence.
A significant challenge has been addressing the holistic needs of patients. “Beyond medical treatment, understanding the social dynamics is crucial,” Dr. Yarbrough emphasizes. His dedication to patient education has become a cornerstone of his practice, empowering patients to actively participate in their healing processes.
A Day in the Life
Dr. Yarbrough’s daily routine is as dynamic as it is demanding. His workday begins early, with preparations often starting the day before to ensure seamless patient care. “It’s a collaborative effort,” he highlights,
crediting his team for their role in managing a diverse range of tasks, from patient prescriptions to coordinating with home health services.
Each day is filled with patient interactions, surgical procedures, and strategic planning to enhance patient outcomes. This holistic approach ensures that all aspects of care are meticulously addressed, reinforcing the practice’s reputation for excellence.
Innovation in Wound Care
At the forefront of wound care innovation, Dr. Yarbrough is enthusiastic about new technologies revolutionizing the field. “We’ve developed online algorithms for treating burn patients, allowing many to receive care as outpatients,” he explains. These advancements not only improve access to care but also optimize treatment protocols for complex wounds and pressure ulcers.
Dr. Yarbrough’s practice is actively involved in research and development, exploring groundbreaking treatments that promise to redefine patient care. Although some projects are still in development, he is optimistic about their potential to transform wound management on a larger scale.
Patient-Centric Care
Central to Dr. Yarbrough’s philosophy is a deep commitment to patient-centered care. “It’s essential to tailor treatment plans to individual needs and ensure patients feel valued,” he states. This approach involves understanding each patient’s unique circumstances, including their social environment and support systems.
The emphasis on personalized care has led to strong referrals and positive outcomes, with many patients recommending the practice based on their experiences. “When patients and their families feel heard and
understood, it significantly enhances the healing process,” Dr. Yarbrough asserts.
Future Vision
Looking to the future, Dr. Yarbrough has ambitious plans for his practice. Immediate goals include expanding to additional locations in Suffolk, Newport News, and Williamsburg, increasing access to specialized care for more patients. “We aim to be the primary provider, not just an option,” he affirms.
He envisions a future where wound care is increasingly patient-centered, leveraging advanced technologies to enhance treatment. “The integration of AI and other innovations will support physicians, but the human ele-
ment remains irreplaceable,” he believes.
Dr. Yarbrough’s commitment to education and innovation ensures that Alpha Wound Care Solutions will continue to lead the field. His dedication to improving patient outcomes and expanding access to care is a testament to his passion and expertise.
For more information, visit Alpha Wound Care Solutions and Wellness in Virginia Beach or online at www.alpha1care.com. Contact the office at 757-227-4308 or 757937-1800.
In the heart of Chesapeake, Virginia, Qeunna Smith stands as a beacon of dedication and excellence in healthcare education. With over 17 years of experience, she is not only a seasoned nurse but also an inspiring educator shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Background and Journey:
Qeunna’s journey in healthcare began humbly as a medical assistant. “I’ve been a nurse for over 17 years,” she shares. “I started out as a medical assistant, then advanced my education to become an RN, earned my bachelor’s, and now I’m pursuing my master’s.”
Qeunna’s dedication to lifelong learning extends to her teaching career, where she has been instructing students for six to seven years. “I teach CPR for both the American Heart Association and the Red Cross, and I’m accredited in body of water nursing to teach in the Department of Social Studies.”
Educational Philosophy:
Quinn emphasizes a hybrid learning model to accommodate diverse needs. “We offer both online and classroom learning,” she explains. “This approach helps those with children or full-time jobs pursue their education. Students can study online and then attend in-person sessions for handson training.”
The importance of practical skills is central to Qeunna’s teaching philosophy. “In healthcare, you must know what you’re doing because you’re taking care of lives,” she insists. Her courses include hands-on training with state-of-the-art mannequins and clinical site visits to prepare students for real-world situations.
Challenges and Solutions:
When asked about the challenges she faces, Qeunna reflects, “I don’t see challenges in training, but rather in building students’
confidence. It’s crucial for them to believe in themselves to succeed in healthcare.”
Qeunna actively encourages her students to continue advancing in the field. “I motivate them to progress, whether becoming LPNs or more, because we need dedicated healthcare providers.”
Innovations and Technology:
Qeunna incorporates cutting-edge technology into her teaching. “Our mannequins are advanced enough for students to practice Foley catheters, G-tubes, and more. This hands-on experience is vital.” Her dedcation to providing the best training possible shines through. “I strive to give students the best version of myself and instill in them the confidence needed to excel.”
Final Thoughts:
Qeunna Smith, owner of Sonora Angels Training Center, is a driving force for change and empowerment in healthcare education. Her commitment to excellence ensures that her students are well-equipped to serve the community with skill and compassion. For those interested in pursuing a career in healthcare, or need more info please call.
Qeunna welcomes you to join her at Sonora Angels Training Center, located at 43518 River Road, Chesapeake, Virginia. More information is available at www.sonoraangelstrainingcenter.com.
Contact Information:
Address: 43518 River Road, Chesapeake, VA 23325
Phone: 757-214-6681
Website: www.sonoraangelstrainingcenter. com
Zontini’s Flower Shop, nestled in the heart of the beach, is a botanical haven where floral dreams come to life. With a legacy spanning over many years, Zontini’s has earned a reputation for exquisite arrangements, impeccable service, and a passion for the artistry of flowers. From intimate bouquets to lavish displays, each creation is meticulously crafted to evoke emotion and captivate the senses, making Zontini’s the premier destination for floral elegance in the city.
Seven Magazine: Can you tell us about your journey from experiencing regular life and found in salvation through openings on Zontini’s?
Mr. Zontini: Well, I would say, before I started this business, you know, I just went through some different things in life. As anybody else would, however my outlet was my flower Shop. Having this place as an outlet gave me was a place that I could use to, um, connect with people. I’m able to showcase my talent, my craft, there’s a lot of reward when you’re able to demonstrate what your skills are, To take a raw product and turn it in something beautiful and be about to
see how people get joy when they get flowers. My first experience with delivery was one balloon. My very first delivery was one balloon, and I’ve never forgotten this. The woman open the door and just started crying. And I and I’m just standing there like, wow, I didn’t know this had that type of response on people. People were affected by this, like that. And it just produced the adrenaline in me. I wanted to do more. And so I began to develop my skill and, 40 years later, here we are.
SM: What inspired you to start a flower business?
MZ: Well, I was in the catering business. First, I graduated from ITT technical institute as a computer programmer and after i graduated there the market crashed. Many business in the market were not hiring programmers and of course the language was changing so what I had learned became obsolete really quick. So I had a family and I had to figure out how I was gonna, you know, make a living and take care of my wife and my children. So I started baking and making cakes. My wife birthday was my very first cake. We didn’t have the money for me to buy a cake. So I learned how to bake a cake scratch, learned how to decorate it and that was my wife’s birthday cake! You know everybody loved that cake and before you know it, that kicked off! I shortly after came into the cake and catering game. The interested part was, one day a catering lady asked me to make her wedding cake and also cater her wedding. I had never catered before. I’d never made a wedding cake before but she said, “you could do it!” And I did it. After while we saw the need to expand ourselves to make it a one stop shop, where you can get your flowers, your catering, your wedding cake, and your decorations. Thomas, that’s how we got into the flower business.
SM: How has your faith played a role in your business life?
MZ: I’m gonna tell you what. You wanna learn how to pray, you wanna learn how to have faith in God, start a business! You will learn how to pray, and you will develop faith,
because it takes faith. When you look at your bank account and it says zero, and you got bills, and you don’t know how you’re going to pay upcoming bills, that’s where your faith and prayer comes in. You develop a strong prayer life because you gotta prey to keep your sanity. I mean, you know, running a business isn’t easy now, it’s not an easy thing to do, and it takes a lot wear and tear on you mentally, physically but I’m telling you, you gotta have a grounding force. And my grounding force has always been prayer. Prayer will keep you in perfect peace, no matter what your bank account looks like, no matter what’s going on around you, perfect peace.
SM: How do you stay innovative and relevant in an ever changing floral industry?
MZ: Well, the flower industry changes because the seasons change and the interior designs change. So what I learned a long time ago, back in the day when JC Penny’s
and Sears produced their catalogues, pay attention. These companies produce that catalogue, that was the going colors for the new year. So everything was based off for what they did as far as colors. But now that they don’t do that, and we have to see what’s the trend is online. It’s tough sometimes though with the Internet, because really it has been a curse and a blessing for the flower business. It’s a blessing because it gives us access to things out there that we would probably never, ever be able to see if we didn’t have the Internet. And then, at the same time, it’s a curse, because we no longer get to exercise our skill. I say this because people send us pictures, instead of calling us saying, I want you to create something and my wife’s favorite color is pink and purple, create this fantastic bouquet. Well, instead, they send us a picture of pink and purple flowers, and they just want that picture. Then we look at the price, the price from the Internet has really caused the flower shops a lot of loss. A lot of flower shops are going out of business as a result of the Internet because all the people, everybody go online to buy flowers, instead of coming into the flower shop. Sad to say be we lose money on those orders. Some shops can’t make it.
SM: Where are your goals aspiration for your flower shop in the future?
MZ: Get to the top. We’re on our way to the top. We’re not settling for the middle. We’re on our way to the top. We’re shooting for the top here. Our future is good. Our future is bright. We’ve been here. I’ve learned this market. I know the market. I’ve been here long enough. I’ve I’ve seen the ups and downs, I know where the downs are and I know where the ups are. So right now, we’re able to stay in the ups.
SM: What sets your flower shop apart from other flower shops throughout Hampton Roads?
MZ: Customer service and quality customer
service. People can call us and get a ear from us. I try not to GET people what they need and another thing is we give people what they ask for, not what we want them to have. If somebody asks me for roses, I don’t give them carnations, they ask me for purple. I don’t give them blue. We give people what they ask for. I came here ten years ago with no name, no reputation, nobody knew Zontini’s and in ten years, we went from a warehouse, a storage unit to a 5000 square foot store because of customer service and quality. People have come to know they can count on me. We always on time.and we’re never late. We’re open book in transparency. People want transparency. They wanna know they can trust you. They wanna drop their money off and know that you’re gonna show up. And we have developed that because we are a five star. business. If you go to our Google Reviews, five star, go to our Blue Nation, 4.9. We are the highest star rated business in the 757. We are number ten in the state of Virginia for wedding planners. So we, in ten years, we’ve accomplished a lot here because of customer service and quality.
SM: Is there anything else you’d like to leave Seven Magazinewith?
MZ: We are Zontini’s event decorator, flowers in balloons. We are your five star event decorating specialists. And my model has always been when you know the best, you don’t need the rest. We are located at 5600 Virginia Beach Blvd, right here in the great city of Virginia Beach, Virginia. And listen, if you’re ever in our area, stop by and see us. We have an open door open 9am to 4pm, Monday through Friday, Saturday’s 9am-2pm, unless we’re workin on one of our fantastic events for one of our great clients. Listen. We have enjoyed being a part of this. Come in and see us. Come in and see our sore! I am Zontini, and I approve this message. Thank you.
Becoming a homeowner is a significant milestone that many aspire to achieve. The journey from being a renter to owning your own home involves several steps and crucial decisions. As a Reatlor, I have witnessed countless clients make this transition, and I’m here to guide you through the process. Moreover, I will highlight why owning a home can be more financially advantageous than renting.
Step 1:
Assess Your Financial Situation
The first step in becoming a homeowner is to assess your financial situation. This involves evaluating your income, savings, and credit score. Lenders will look at these factors to determine your mortgage eligibility. It is essential to have a clear understanding of your financial health to know how much you
can afford.
Step 2: Save for a Down Payment
A down payment is a critical component of buying a home. Generally, a down payment ranges from 3% to 20% of the home’s purchase price. The more you can put down, the better your mortgage terms might be. Start saving early and explore options like first-time homebuyer programs that may offer down payment assistance.
Step 3: Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
Before you start house hunting, getting pre-approved for a mortgage is crucial. A pre-approval letter from a lender shows sellers that you are a serious buyer and have the financial backing to purchase their property. It also gives you a clear picture of how much you can borrow, helping you set realistic expectations.
Step 4: Call Thomas Corbin, Hampton
Roads Best!
Working with Thomas Corbin can make a significant difference in your home buying experience. Thomas will help you navigate the market, provide insights into neighborhoods, and assist in negotiating the best deal. I will be your advocate throughout the entire process.
Step 5: Start House
Hunting
With your pre-approval letter in hand and Thomas Corbin by your side, you can start looking for homes that meet your criteria. Consider factors like location, size, amenities, and future resale value. Attend open houses and schedule viewings to get a feel for different properties.
Step 6: Make an Offer
Once you find a home that you love, it’s time to make an offer. Thomas Corbin will help you determine a fair offer price based on market conditions and comparable sales in the area. Be prepared for negotiations, as the seller may counter your initial offer.
Step 7: Get a Home Inspection
A home inspection is a crucial step to ensure the property is in good condition. Hire a professional inspector to evaluate the home’s structure, systems, and overall condition. The inspection report will help you identify any potential issues and decide whether to proceed with the purchase or renegotiate the terms.
Step 8: Finalize Your Mortgage
After your offer is accepted and the inspection is complete, you’ll need to finalize your mortgage. This involves completing the loan application, providing necessary documentation, and locking in your interest rate. Your lender will guide you through this process to ensure everything is in order.
Step 9: Close the Deal
The final step in becoming a homeowner is closing the deal. This is when you’ll sign the necessary paperwork, pay closing costs, and officially take ownership of the property.
Thomas Corbin and lender will assist you in preparing for the closing to ensure a smooth transaction.
The Financial Benefits of Paying a Mortgage vs. Renting
One of the most compelling reasons to become a homeowner is the financial benefits of paying a mortgage instead of renting. While renting might seem more affordable in the short term, owning a home offers long-term financial advantages.
Building Equity
When you pay a mortgage, a portion of each payment goes toward the principal balance, helping you build equity in your home. Equity is the difference between your home’s market value and the amount you owe on your mortgage. Over time, as you pay down your mortgage and your home’s value appreciates, your equity increases. This equity can be a valuable financial resource for future needs, such as home improvements, education, or retirement.
Stable Monthly Payments
Unlike rent, which can increase annually, a fixed-rate mortgage provides predictable monthly payments. This stability allows you to budget more effectively and protects you from rising housing costs. Even if your mortgage payment is higher than your current rent, the stability and equity-building potential make it a worthwhile investment.
Tax Benefits
Homeowners can take advantage of various tax benefits, including deductions for mortgage interest and property taxes. These deductions can significantly reduce your taxable income, providing substantial savings over time. Consult with a tax professional to understand how these ben-
efits apply to your specific situation.
Appreciation in Property Value
Historically, real estate tends to appreciate over time. While there are market fluctuations, owning a home can be a good long-term investment. As property values increase, so does your net worth. This appreciation can contribute to your overall financial security.
Personal Freedom and Stability
Owning a home provides a sense of stability and personal freedom that renting cannot match. You have the autonomy to make improvements, decorate, and create a living space that reflects your personality and lifestyle.
Additionally, homeownership offers the stability of knowing you have a permanent place to call home.
Conclusion
Becoming a homeowner is a rewarding journey that offers both financial and personal benefits. By following these steps and working with a knowledgeable real estate agent, like myself, you can navigate the process with confidence. Remember, while renting might seem easier in the short term, owning a home provides longterm financial stability and the opportunity to build wealth through equity. Take the first step today and embark on the path to homeownership.
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 family - everything 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.
