MCCC President Andrinetta Howard Represents Small Business Interests in Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. – November 20, 2025 – Andrinetta Howard, President of the Marshall County Chamber of Commerce (MCCC), recently traveled to Washington, D.C., to represent the interests of small businesses in the region. During her visit, Howard engaged with key stakeholders, policymakers, and business leaders to discuss the challenges and opportunities faced by local businesses and to advocate for initiatives that will support economic growth in Marshall County.

US Capitol Building

Howard's trip to the nation’s capital was aimed at bringing attention to the unique needs of small businesses in the area and exploring potential avenues for federal support. By engaging with lawmakers and federal agencies, she worked to ensure that the voices of Marshall County’s business owners are heard and that their concerns are addressed at the highest levels of government.

"The purpose of my trip was to make sure our local businesses are not only represented but prioritized in Washington,” said Howard. “Small businesses are the backbone of our community, and it is vital that we secure the support they need to grow and thrive. I am committed to bringing back resources and opportunities that will help our businesses succeed.”

Looking ahead, Howard and the MCCC team are planning a follow-up trip to Washington, D.C., with the goal of solidifying funding for the Chamber of Commerce and securing additional resources for local businesses. The upcoming visit will focus on finalizing the details of funding opportunities that will drive economic development and create new growth opportunities for businesses throughout Marshall County.

“We are excited about the future and the opportunities that lie ahead,” Howard added. “We are working hard to secure the funding that will help our local businesses expand, create jobs, and contribute to the overall economic success of Marshall County. This next trip will be crucial in solidifying the resources we need to make these goals a reality.”

The MCCC remains committed to supporting local businesses, and Howard’s visit to Washington, D.C. is just one of many efforts aimed at strengthening the community’s economic future.

Marshall County Chamber of Commerce Supports Breast Cancer Awareness Event

On October 30, members of the Marshall County Chamber of Commerce were proud to attend the Breast Cancer Awareness Event organized by the Alliance Charitable Foundation of Marshall County. This important event highlighted the ongoing efforts to raise awareness for breast cancer research and support services in the community.

The Chamber was not only present in support of this meaningful cause but also played an integral role in the event's success. We are proud to announce that the Marshall County Chamber of Commerce was recognized for selling the most raffle tickets at the event, a testament to the collective effort and commitment of our members to contribute to such a vital cause.

In addition to our recognition, we are thrilled to share that Ms. Katrina Washington, owner of Southern Eatery and valued member of the Chamber, was the lucky winner of the raffle, taking home a set of prizes amounting to $1,300. Ms. Washington’s win is a wonderful reminder of the generosity and spirit of our community members who actively engage in supporting charitable causes.

MCCC Member Katrina Washington wins raffle on the event

The Breast Cancer Awareness Event was a heartwarming occasion, with community members, healthcare professionals, and local businesses coming together to support those affected by breast cancer. It was an opportunity to celebrate survivors, raise awareness, and make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals in Marshall County.

The Marshall County Chamber of Commerce extends its sincere gratitude to the Alliance Charitable Foundation for organizing such an impactful event and to everyone who contributed to its success. We remain committed to supporting initiatives that promote health, wellness, and unity within our community.

Celebrating History and Legacy: Hiram Revels Birthday Bash at the Ida B. Wells-Barnett Museum

On Saturday, September 27, 2025, the Ida B. Wells-Barnett Museum in Holly Springs, Mississippi, hosted a special celebration for the birthday of U.S. Senator Hiram Revels. Known for being the first African American to serve in the U.S. Senate, Revels' historical impact continues to resonate, and this event honored his legacy.

The event, organized by the Children, Youth, and Young Adults of the Ida B. Wells-Barnett Museum, included a cake-cutting ceremony at 12:00 p.m., followed by lunch at 12:30 p.m. The birthday bash also recognized Dr. David L. Stratmon, a key figure in the continued education and preservation of African American history in the region.

The museum, named after the renowned civil rights advocate Ida B. Wells-Barnett, continues its mission to educate the public on the struggles and triumphs of African Americans throughout history. The birthday bash for Senator Hiram Revels offered a chance for attendees to reflect on the strides made in racial justice and honor the significant milestones in history that led to the present day.

In addition to celebrating Senator Revels' legacy, the event also recognized several other important milestones in the history of Marshall County.

Some of the first African Americans to make significant contributions in the county include:

• First Black Road Supervisor: Bernice Echols Totten, District 4

• First Black Mayor of Holly Springs and Executive of Head Start: Mr. Eddie Lee Smith

• First Black Chancery Clerk: Nicole Phelps

• First Black Sheriff of Marshall County: Mr. Osborne Bell

• First Black Circuit Clerk: Monet Bell Autry

• First Black Superintendent: Mr. Lawrence H. Autry

• First Black Home Extension: 4 H Club

• First Black Female Mayor: Sharon D. Gipson

• First Black Educator: Ida Wiseman

• First Black United League Civil Rights Leader: Alfred "Skip" Robinson

• First Black Paralegal (North Mississippi Rural Legal Services): Henry Boyd

• First Black Attorney: James T. Wilson

• First Black President of Mississippi Industrial College: Bishop Elias Cottrell

• First Black Pharmacist: John Freeman

These individuals, through their remarkable achievements, have left a lasting impact on Marshall County and its legacy of African-American leadership and activism.