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.

Credit Repair Workshop: Insights on Boosting Your Financial Health

Participants gather at Southern Eatery last September 17 for the free Credit Repair Workshop hosted by the Marshall County Chamber of Commerce

On Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at 6:30 p.m., 15 participants gathered at Southern Eatery in Holly Springs, MS, for a one-hour credit repair class led by expert presenter Mr. DeWayne Mitchell.

Author and credit expert DeWayne Mitchell facilitates the discussion for the Credit Repair Workshop

This session provided valuable information on understanding and improving credit scores, offering attendees the tools needed to take control of their financial futures.

Key Takeaways from the Class:

1. Credit Scores Explained:

   • Introduced in the US in 1998, credit scores range from 300 to 850.

   • Participants learned how to pull their Beacon/FICO scores without affecting their credit report through trusted platforms like myfico.com and Experian.com.

     
     

2. Credit Reporting System:

   • The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) regulates all credit reporting agencies, ensuring they report accurate information to the three major credit bureaus: Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion.

     
     

3. Know Your Accurate Credit Scores:

   • True credit scores are provided by trusted lenders, such as banks, vehicle dealerships, and mortgage lenders.

   • Accessing scores from platforms like myfico.com and Experian.com ensures no impact on credit reports.

     
     

4. Credit Requirements for Bank Loans:

   • A credit score of 740 or higher is preferred for a favorable loan application.

   • Lenders typically look for a debt-to-income ratio of 40% or lower when considering a loan.

     
     

5. Effective Credit Strategies:

   • Utilize credit cards to generate income. Participants were encouraged to search for credit cards that offer cash back or reward points.

   • Regular use of credit cards, even when you can pay with cash, can help build credit and accumulate rewards.

   • To boost credit scores, it's essential to pay down credit balances to 6-10% by the cycle date.

     
     

6. Understanding Credit Score Ranges:

   • 740+: Excellent (A+ or A1) credit

   • 690-739: Good (B) credit

   • 640-689: Fair (C) credit

   • 639-: Poor (D) credit

     
     

7. Removing Erroneous Items from Your Credit Report:

   • Participants were encouraged to email DeWayne Mitchell directly (askmemysecrets@gmail.com to with "I don't want to be stuck!" in the subject line) to schedule a session for help in disputing inaccurate information on their credit reports.

Action Items:

• Review and monitor your credit reports and scores regularly.

• Strategically use credit cards to boost credit and accumulate rewards.

• Keep an eye on your debt-to-income ratio, aiming to keep it at or below 40%.

• Consider seeking professional help to remove any inaccurate items on your credit report, but be cautious of agencies that charge a percentage of your debt along with a representative fee.

Next Steps:

• Follow up with Mr. DeWayne Mitchell for further information on his credit repair services and pricing.

• Begin implementing the credit strategies discussed and track your progress weekly to improve your credit health.

This class proved to be a valuable learning experience for all those in attendance, offering practical advice for improving credit scores and financial well-being.

Celebrating Southern Eatery's 1st Year Anniversary Under New Management: A Year of Flavor, Community, and Growth

Southern Eatery is celebrating a major milestone—its first anniversary under its new management! For the past years, this local gem has become a beloved spot for the people of the area. With a variety of mouthwatering dishes to offer, Southern Eatery has delivered authentic comfort food with a side of warmth and hospitality.

Today marks a successful year of serving the community with delicious, home-style meals. The event, which took place at their location on 130 E College Ave, was a festive occasion with great food and a sense of gratitude for the support they’ve received over the past year.

During the celebration, the restaurant hosted three special drawings for prizes, adding an extra layer of excitement to the event. Guests were treated to a delightful lunch buffet, which highlighted some of their signature dishes that have become favorites among locals. The warm and welcoming atmosphere made it clear why Southern Eatery has quickly become a go-to spot for great food and friendly service.

The Marshall County Chamber of Commerce officers were also present, showing their support for the restaurant’s achievements and the positive impact it has had on the community. It was a heartwarming day that marked not just the growth of Southern Eatery, but also its commitment to bringing people together over great food.

Southern Eatery owner Katrina Washington with MCCC project manager Ronald Jones Jr.

Here’s to many more years of success, tasty meals, and community spirit for Southern Eatery!