Hundreds of area residents were encouraged Saturday to voice their frustrations about excessive government spending to lawmakers and to get involved in the political process by educating themselves on the candidates running for office.

The event, called the Roanoke Tea Party, took place at Elmwood Park and included music and guest speakers. Many spoke of their concerns about taxes, spending and the need for residents to get informed about the issues and to speak out to their elected representatives.

Organizers estimated at least 500 people in the crowd, with many waving small flags or holding handmade posters, such as one that read "Declaring Independence from tax and spend politicians." Participants also could sign up to learn more about upcoming efforts for the Roanoke Tea Party, such as plans for an organizational meeting and steps organizers want to take to make the group an official organization, said Chip Tarbutton, one of the organizers of Saturday's event.

This was the second tea party rally, with the first gathering taking place on April 15 in River's Edge Park on Tax Day.

-- Sharla Bardin