With filing for the primary officially over, the campaign season kicks off in earnest.

For those interested in the candidates and what they have to say, there will be plenty of opportunity over the next few weeks for some face-to-face time.

We urge to have a look and a listen.

For example, this afternoon, the Scotland County Democratic Women will give the public a chance to hear some of the candidates for county commissioners.

The group will host its weekly meeting at Mac's Breakfast at noon.

On hand today are Carol McCall and Daniel Dockery, running for the Stewartsville Township seat and John Cooley for Spring Hill.

The Democratic Women plan to invite candidates in primary election races every Friday until the May 5 election.

You will get another chance to hear more candidates on Monday when the Scotland County Republican Party holds its convention at 7 p.m. at the Scotland County Courthouse in Laurinburg.

Each and every Republican candidates that have filed for office this year is expected to speak.

Suzanne Allen, who heads the county Republican Party said you don't have to be a Republican to attend the convention and meet the candidate. But you do need to be a member of the GOP to vote on convention business.

The Democrats are expected to meet at the courthouse a day later for precinct meeting.

Party Chairman Joy Ellison said all precinct officials need to attend. The meeting will begin at 6 p.m. at the Scotland County Courthouse.

Rounding out the week, is a town hall Meeting hosted by Jason Phibbs, candidate who wants to represent Scotland county in the state Senate. He is challenging Sen. Bill Purcell of Laurinburg.

The meeting will be held Thursday from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Scotland Place.