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Ohio County Democratic Party Opens Downtown Wheeling Headquarters

By JOSELYN KING 3 min read

Ohio County Democrats have a new home, and the party is inviting the public to come there to learn more about the candidates, pick up signs and even find out in what district they live.

Maps detailing delegate and magisterial district lines are available at the headquarters, which is now open at 1127 Main St. within the former Schneider Photography studio.

"We encourage people to stop in, pick up signs and get information about the candidates," said Mark Garrett, chairman of the Ohio County Democratic Party. "We're also looking for volunteers to help candidates and go door to door."

Those wanting to assist the party should stop by the headquarters to indicate their interest, and volunteers will be matched up with candidates.

The headquarters has no set hours, but party officials will be there on a daily basis. Hours of operation will be announced through a posting on the door.

As for the most important issue in this election, Garrett said he believes abortion is the one in which voters have the most interest.

"I know I would want to know how a candidate stands on abortion," he continued. "I want to know what they believe in - whether it's on the national or local level.

"We encourage people to do research."

Teddie Grogan, president of the Ohio County Democratic Women's group, said many who come in will want to look at the maps.

"Many will say, 'I don't know where to vote,'" she said. "Many of these people didn't vote in the primary election."

The West Virginia Legislature has referred to the Nov. 8 ballot four measures for voters’ consideration.

The first, if approved, would give the legislature authority over the rules and policies of the State Board of Education.

The other three are proposed constitutional amendments: an amendment saying that no state court has any authority over impeachment proceedings or judgments; an amendment that would permit the incorporation of religious denominations and churches; and an amendment that would authorize the state legislature to exempt personal property (machinery, equipment, and inventory) used for business activity from ad valorem property taxes.

Grogan said people at the headquarters will be working to fully understand the amendments, and to be able to explain them in simple language to voters needing more explanation.

"You have to be able to understand the amendments to vote how you feel," she explained.

Among the candidates turning out for the opening were House of Delegates District 4 candidate Teresa Toriseva; Barry Wendell, nominee for the West Virginia District 2 U.S. House seat; Delegate Shawn Fluharty, D-Ohio, District 5; current State Sen. Owens Brown, D-Ohio; and Randy Swartzmiller, nominee for the District 1 West Virginia Senate seat.

Starting at /week.