Published: July 03, 2009 10:23 am      

Taxed enough rally planned

Another Taxed Enough Already gathering is set for McAlester — this time at the Rotary Park Amphitheater.

Organizers of the event are hosting a Fourth of July gathering from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Saturday at the park, which is adjacent to the J.I. Stipe Center at Ninth Street and Monroe Avenue.

Those hosting the tea party say they’ve had enough of reckless spending and the threat of higher taxes, and the federal government taking control of private business.

They said the TEA party — named in honor of the famed Boston Tea Party — is for those who want to join others to express themselves.

Lonnie Anderson, who organized the first TEA party outside the Carl Albert Federal Building earlier this year, is also involved in planning the Saturday event.

Retha Schubert, who is assisting with the Fourth of July TEA party, said food and refreshments will be available at the Rotary Park event.

“We’re having a cookout with hot dogs and hamburgers,” she said. Schubert noted that the 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. gathering is “Just in time for lunch.”

More than 100 people had attended the first TEA party held in McAlester in April. Those present said they were protesting high taxes, federal bailouts and stimulus programs.

While some of the protesters yelled slogans or marched, other simply stood or even sat in support. Dozens of drivers passing by on the Carl Albert Parkway honked their horns in support.

The group is hoping for another strong turnout for the Saturday event. Those who attend, of course, are welcome to come and go without staying for the entire four hours.

“We’re gathering and sharing information against higher taxes and reckless spending,” Schubert said.