Three candidates for Governor spoke at the event. Jim Rex was tied up in the Pee Dee, helping land an important financing package to replace the aging middle school which has been a huge embarrassment for South Carolina and figures so prominently in the national media. McLeod, Shaheen and Drake all spoke to the crowd. Robert Ford apparently skipped the home town event, the second in this series of events he had not been present at.
Many present believe Ford’s connection with Republican political activist Howard Rich and the Republican School Voucher campaign have rendered his candidacy as a Democrat politically impotent.
 All the candidates present spoke about education and economic development. The atmosphere was cordial. Most prominent, active local Democrats were present. Also present was Robert Burton, (Left side, photo at left with Carol Fowler, center) recently announced Candidate for the 1st. Congressional District.
Anne Petersen Hutto, David Mack III and County Council Member Vic Rawl were also present.
With donated space and food, the event was clearly a money maker for the state party, which is helping fund and support the County/regional office recently opened. State Chairwoman Carol Fowler emphasized the importance of Democratic success in Charleston in statewide races in her introductory remarks.
The Candidates hung out in the crowded hallways, leaving the lovely food and drink serving rooms virtual Siberias for those on the hunt for gossip, connections and a good look at the upcoming political season.
 This event had many of the new markers of our evolving politics. Online registration for the event was apparently successful, with over half those attending having donated before the event over the internet. Facebook was used to help promote the event, as was the state party website and cooperating Email lists. Several photographers captured images for later use. Online phototagging following the event brought it to the attention of others.
I was shocked to discover people actually read my blog. Its clear internet activity is now helping sustain an effective political operation. There was a big expansion of “Friending” and “following” on Facebook and Twitter the following morning.
I had to leave early, but this series of events across the state helped bring focus to this important race and helped fund the central party organization that is working to retain and transmit political capital from election to election.
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The Charleston County and South Carolina State Democratic Parties held a meet the Candidates reception in Charleston on Thursday, Nov. 12 which was attended by about 75 paying guests. A minimum contribution of Fifty Dollars was asked to help cover overhead for a State party organization now operating a full time, staffed office with increasingly important IT and training operations.
