Tea Partiers Expect Anti-Scott Protests in Eustis, Say They Will Have Plenty of Security

E-mail advisories from tea party and 9/12 groups say protesters are expected at Gov. Rick Scott's budget unveiling in Eustis on Monday.

"Protest groups have already contacted the city asking where they will be allowed," one e-mail stated. "It would be good to remind folks that we should not engage them, and let's have plenty of our own signs."

Describing the security measures in place at the First Baptist Church, where Scott is scheduled to speak at 1:30 p.m., a 9/12 organizer explained:

"There will be a police command center set up and we are paying for plenty of protection.(Someone is going to ask why Governor Scott is not paying for this so I will answer this. Governor Scott is coming to our event. It is a private, not city-sponsored event. The state will not have to pay for this and that is fine. We can support our event and provide comfort and protection for our guests. With joy!)"

Another e-mail succinctly outlined how tea partiers should deal with any protesters:

"Be pleasant and do not confront them if they do show up. Ignore them."

Though sponsorship of Monday's event is "private," it open to the public. Festivities begin with music by Lloyd Marcus at 12:30 p.m.

Speakers preceding and following Scott's appearance at the Alice McClelland Band Shell will include state Rep. Mike Weinstein (Lets Talk Caucus), former FBI agent Gary Aldrich ("D.C. and Tea: United as One") and local tea party notable Dr. Jack Cassell ("Defeat of Obamacare").

Earlier plans to stage the event at a downtown park were scotched by the theat of rain.

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