MISSISSIPPI LEGISLATURE

2023 Regular Session

To: Rules

By: Senator(s) McMahan, Kirby, Michel, Blount, Butler (38th), England, Hopson, McCaughn, Thomas

Senate Resolution 86

(As Adopted by Senate)

A RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING THE MAYFLOWER CAFE AS A DOWNTOWN JACKSON TRADITION AND COMMENDING IT FOR ITS MANY YEARS OF SERVICE TO THE JACKSON COMMUNITY.

     WHEREAS, the Mayflower Cafe has been serving satisfied customers in downtown Jackson since the 1930s, when it was built at its current location on the corner of West Capitol and Roach Streets; and

     WHEREAS, the Mayflower was opened by John Dorizas, George Gouras, John Gouras, and George Kountouris, Greek immigrants from the island of Patmos, to specialize in fine steaks and fresh seafood dishes, while also including an oyster bar; and

     WHEREAS, soon after the establishment's opening, the group was joined by Mike Kountouris, nephew of George Kountouris; and

     WHEREAS, the Mayflower prospered over the years and became a landmark in downtown Jackson; and

     WHEREAS, the Mayflower has remained in the same family since its beginnings.  Current owner Jerry Kountouris, after having left the pharmacy profession, stepped into the shoes of his father, "Mr. Mike," in 1990 and shortly thereafter bought out his other partners; and

     WHEREAS, over 32 years later, Jerry is still proud to be serving his loyal customers every day; and

     WHEREAS, Jerry has expressed his appreciation for the wonderful people who have worked at the Mayflower over the years, saying, "I owe the longtime success to the best group of men and women whom I work with day and night"; and

     WHEREAS, this team consists of Frank Morgan, an institution with the Mayflower Cafe for over 30 years; Crystal Watson, Tammy Allen and Saundra Romine, who have been serving customers for over 18 years; Tricia Sanders, who has been serving lunch and dinner for 15 years; and Amber Lofton, who has been working with Tricia for four years; Anthony Monroe and Josie Phillips, who have been cooking delicious seafood lunches and dinners for over 15 years; Terra Thomas, Qunika Reuben, Stella Mayfield, Lee Goldman, Terry Burkes and Eddie Tornes, who have been serving customers for over six years; and Larry Green, who has provided security to the Mayflower for over 10 years:

     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby recognize the Mayflower Cafe as a downtown Jackson tradition and commend it for its many years of service to the Jackson community.

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That this resolution be presented to Jerry Kountouris and made available to the Capitol Press Corps.