[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 126 (Wednesday, July 23, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E715]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         HONORING MS. THELMA NEWSOME AND MAMMA'S HOT DOG STAND

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON

                             of missisippi

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 23, 2025

  Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a 
remarkable entrepreneur, Ms. Thelma Newsome, who has proudly owned and 
operated Mamma's Hot Dog Stand in Vicksburg, Mississippi, for the past 
sixteen years.
  In 2009, Ms. Newsome turned her vision into reality by transforming 
an old service station on Openwood Street into what is now a beloved 
local establishment. Fueled by determination and a dream, she invested 
her savings to bring Mamma's to life. Since then, the restaurant has 
become a staple of the Vicksburg community.
  Although the name highlights her signature hot dogs, Mamma's is best 
known for its generous, homemade burgers--proudly advertised on a sign 
created by local artist Keith Matthews that reads, ``You bite the meat 
before the bun.'' Her menu also features chili cheese hot dogs, chili 
cheese nachos, and her famous homemade Kool-Aid.
  Ms. Newsome's path to success was paved with perseverance and hard 
work. While launching the restaurant, she simultaneously held a full-
time position with the Veterans' Administration in Jackson, serving for 
21 years as a nurse and telephone operator. Today, she continues to 
operate Mamma's entirely on her own, serving customers with heart, 
hospitality, and a commitment to quality.
  Located at 1209 Openwood Street and open Monday through Friday for 
lunch, Mamma's Hot Dog Stand is more than just a restaurant--it is a 
testament to the power of vision, dedication, and community spirit.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating Ms. Thelma 
Newsome for her entrepreneurial spirit and for enriching the city of 
Vicksburg with her passion and perseverance.

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