“State Days” are a Hot Item for Winter Texans

Rockport-Fulton, TX (January 25, 2010) – State Days is an event set aside as a time for Winter Texans to meet friends from  their home state, talk about their experiences and enjoy local foods.  February is the designated month for Winter Texans who come to Rockport-Fulton from northern states like Minnesota, Wisconsin, Nebraska, Michigan, Missouri, Kansas and Iowa to gather and celebrate their State Day.

One can only speculate about the exact origin of State Days began,  Old-timers say Nebraska is the longest running State Day with rumors of it starting in the 1970’s at a  RV park.  The next oldest State Days belong to Minnesota and Wisconsin meeting at Paws and Taws in 1997 with 389 attendees, a crowd larger than the Convention Center could accommodate.  So, in 1998, they separated and now celebrate on different days.

“Minnesota celebrates on February 10, at Paws and Taws and is expected to attract between 190 to 200 natives,” says coordinator Joyce Humphreys.  A brown bag lunch and dessert will be served.  We also provide entertainment, a speaker and door prize. Vicki Cross, gospel singer, will perform for both Minnesota and Wisconsin Days.

Wisconsin Day is February 2, and their coordinator, Becky Cardinal says she is getting ready to greet over 150 attendees at Paws and Taws.  It’s pot luck; each guest will bring a dish to be shared with the group.   Becky and her husband, Roger, have been coming to Rockport-Fulton for eight years.  Becky says, “We love the weather and the friendly people.  Rockport is  a quiet, little fishing village and we hope it never changes.”  Becky’s plans for the day include a 50/50 raffle and  silent auction.

Michigan residents gather at Paws and Taws on February 9. The Michigan Jammers, a Winter Texan group of fun-loving musicians will provide the entertainment.

Some of the states have moved their lunch from Paws and Taws to local restaurants. For a full calendar of State Days events visit www.rockport-fulton.org.