Not your grandma's tea party

POLSON - Local members of the Taxed Enough Already party lined the curb Thursday evening off Hwy 93 in Ducharme Park and peacefully protested government overspending and what they see as disregard for the U.S. Constitution.

Flags and signs were enthusiastically waved to passing vehicles, and patriotic songs were heard among the crowd of about 60 protesters. Passing drivers showed their support by honking, but a few showed their disapproval by giving the crowd a thumbs down.

Local Tea Party organizer Annette Schiele said that many of the demonstrators don't know what to do about their qualms with the government but find protesting empowering.

"We want responsibility and accountability from our government," Schiele said, "because it's our money and now it's our debt."

Over a dozen protesters held numbered signs spelling out the country's estimated $14.2 trillion deficit.

"The worst thing about it is the situation we are putting our children into," representative Janna Taylor from House District 11 said. "My generation isn't going to have to pay, it's our children and grandchildren that are going to have to pay."

Schiele said that last year's April 15 protest drew about 300 people. Various speakers and more publicity added to last year's huge crowd.

Despite the smaller crowd, Schiele said she was happy with the turnout and that the demonstrators seemed to get their message across.

"In relation to the deficit and government spending, we keep our home budget under control and we expect the same from the government," Schiele said.

Pam Perry of Polson said she's never participated in a demonstration before, but she was drawn to participate because of the country's volatile political climate, which is motivating other first-time protesters.

"I think this year people are more tuned in to what's going on instead of just letting elected officials do what they want," said Perry.