Tea Party demonstration planned April 15
Polk County Enterprise - April 2009

LIVINGSTON — Citizen outrage over runaway government spending has prompted groups across the country to dust off a colonial protest symbol — the Tea Party. Polk County residents will have a chance to vent their frustrations April 15 at a Tea Party to be held from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Polk County courthouse. The event is being organized by businessman Wesley Smith. “We want to send the message to stop spending our money. We’ve got to try to slow them down,” Smith said. “We’re going to march around the courthouse with signs. We’ll have one area set up with washtubs for everyone to dump their tea.” Participants will initial the tea bag tags which will be attached to a petition of grievances, according to Smith. The sign will be sent to Washington D.C. He says one goal of the event is to unite local residents. Participants are asked to bring their own signs and teabags. “This is strictly nonpartisan. It has nothing to do with Democrats or Republicans,” Smith added. “I think people don’t care which party they’re in, they just want fi scal responsibility.” Smith believes the peaceful protest is a good lesson for children. “I think it would be good for kids to see what our First Amendment is about. You can speak out. It’s still legal. For more information, visit polkcountyteaparty.com.