It's the Democrats Turn on Saturday

South Carolina Republicans went to the polls last Saturday in a ground-breaking election that upset the national political scene, and this Saturday it's the Democrats turn, though no earth will be shattered as that party quietly heads to the polls.

Democrats will hold precinct organization meetings this weekend, which happens only once every two years. Since President Barack Obama is the only candidate on the ballot, Democrats will have just one choice when they vote at those meetings.

"It only happens every two years. And this year, we're facing a tough election in the fall - time to get ourselves organized, with your help," wrote Charleston County Democratic Party Chairman George Tempel in an e-mail to party members.

In addition to voting for president, Democrats will elect precinct leaders and delegates for the county convention. In March at the county convention, delegates will elect new county party leadership and select delegates to the state convention.

Here's where local Democrats will meet:

Charleston Peninsula Democrats
10 a.m. to noon; Registration is at 9:30 a.m.
Location: Burke High School Cafeteria, Fishburne Side, 244 President St, Charleston
Contact: Adam 843-530-2232 or Kaye 843-729-6135

East Cooper Democrats - Awendaw, McClellanville, Christ Church, Isle of Palms, Mt. Pleasant,  and Sullivans's Island.
10 a.m. to noon; Registration is at 9:30 a.m.
Location: Olive Branch AME Church, 1734 US 17 North, Mt. Pleasant, 29464
Contact: Carole 843-412-3910
Note:  The church is serving a $7 breakfast.  

James Island and Folly Beach Democrats
10 a.m. to noon; Registration is at 9:30 a.m.
Location: Fort. Johnson Middle School, 1825 Camp Rd, James Island, 29412
Contact: Sussan 843-754-0778

West Ashley Democrats
10 a.m. to noon; Registration is at 9:30 a.m.
Location: Orange Grove Elem. School, 1225 Orange Branch Rd., Charleston 29407
Contact: Lynn 843-576-4543 or Mimi 843-556-4792
2 pm - 4 pm / Registration 1:30pm

North Charleston Democrats - Deer Park, Ladson, Lincolnville, N. Chas.
2 p.m. to 4 p.m.; Registration is at 1:30 p.m.
Location: Felix Pinckney Community Center, 4764 Hassell Ave., N. Chas., 29405
Contact: Carrie 843-744-1976 or Oliver 843-553-5395

Sea Island Democrats- Johns, Kiawah, Seabrook, Wadmalaw Islands
2 p.m. to 4 p.m.; Registration is at 1:30 p.m.
Location: Wesley United Methodist Church 2718 River Rd, Johns Island, 29455
Contact: Abe 843-425-5617 or 843-670-5056

St. Paul's Democrats - Hollywood, Ravenel, Meggett, Edisto/Yonges Islands
2 p.m. to 4 p.m.; Registration is at 1:30 p.m.
Location: Wesley United Methodist Church, Steinberg Bldg. 5100 Baptist Hill Rd, Hollywood, 29449 Contact: Abe 843-425-5617 or 843-670-5056

For information call: 843-577-6000
Or visit:  www.charlestondemocrats.net