PILOT MOUNTAIN — For months, the grass roots Tea Party movement has been gaining momentum and drawing attention through events held across the country. On Monday, local organizers are hoping that momentum will be on display in Pilot Mountain as supporters gather for a march and rally.

Local residents wishing to participate in The Pilot Mountain Tea Party March and Rally are invited to gather in the East Surry High School parking lot beginning at 9:30 a.m. Monday. At 10, walkers will make their way along Main Street to the Depot Street stage in the downtown area.

“We’re encouraging anyone who wants to take part to bring along their own posters and flags,” noted Paula Stanley, one of several organizers for the local event. “We’ll have golf carts on hand for anyone who needs them. And if anyone wants to take part but doesn’t want to do the walk, they’re welcome to join us at the stage area.”

Organizers are hoping for a large turnout for the day. Groups from surrounding counties have been invited to take part and a line-up including recognized conservative leaders and activists will be speaking.

Among those scheduled to take part are Pam Furr, co-host of the FM 94.5 “Rush Radio” morning show. Other speakers include Becky Gray, vice-president of the John Locke Foundation and Dr. Ron Baity, president of the group, Return America.

Also speaking on cap and trade legislation will be Donnette Leonard of Cana, Va. According to Stanley, Leonard led an effort against a major power company in her state that eventually led to the resending of a rate hike. Others scheduled to take part include NC District 34 Senator Andrew Brock of Mocksville and Nigel Coleman, a leader and originator of the Virginia Tea Party movement.

Inspirational music will also be featured in the program. Lawn chairs or mats and umbrellas are encouraged.

“We have people who will be addressing critical issues like health care, immigration and cap and trade,” Stanley said. “We want to help awareness of who we are and why we’re here at this crucial time. And we want to extend a special invitation to all veterans, active military, law enforcement, firefighters and EMS.”

“And we want to address issues that are of local concern,” added organizer Lanelle Alsip, “things like eminent domain, forced annexation and water issues such as taxation.”

“This is an important day,” organizer Kevin Shinault noted. “We want people to be educated about the issues in order to make informed decisions in November. This is a part of a nationwide movement to restore America, with a focus on limited government, preserving our freedoms, less taxes and upholding the constitution.”

After the rally, participants and others will be invited to an Independence Day celebration at Mayberry Shazzam Family Entertainment Center on Key Street. Shuttles will run from Depot Street to the location where free hot dogs and drinks will be provided. Games and activities will also be on hand along with the center’s regular features. The celebration is scheduled to take place from 12-5.

“I’d love to see all the business folks and educators I’ve talked to over the years, who say they are conservative but have been afraid to speak up,” Shinault said of the rally. “I’d love to see them get involved. It’s time to stand up.”

“This is so appropriate for Independence Day,” Stanley added. “It’s a time to remember our founding fathers and to do something about preserving the freedoms they helped to establish.”