President Barack Obama apologized to supporters in North Carolina today and told them the state “is exhibit A of the unbelievable work that is being done at the grassroots level.”

“You guys are just blowing it up when it comes to registering voters,” he said in a seven-minute conference call with supporters Thursday.

The kind words are a consolation prize for thousands of N.C. supporters who planned to attend his acceptance speech in Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte until it was moved indoors.

The Democratic National Committee announced the move to the smaller Time Warner Arena after becoming concerned about the possibility of severe thunderstorms.

That meant that the tens of thousands who had waited in line for community credentials and others who have volunteered for the campaign to get credentials would not be able to attend.

Obama apologized and said, “We know it’s disappointing.” He later added, “we can’t let a little thunder and lightning get us down; we’re going to have to roll with it.”

Campaign manager Jim Messina echoed the president’s words, saying North Carolina volunteers “are truly the most amazing grassroots operation that I’ve seen.”

The president and the campaign said they hope to hold a rally in North Carolina soon for those who couldn’t attend. “Hopefully you’ll have an even closer front row seat to the campaign,” he said.

Obama also urged his supporters to work hard. “I need you to prove the cynics wrong one more time,” he said.

Supporters were also urged to attend watch parties. Volunteers have organized more than 6,000 across the country. They’ll start at 9 p.m. In Raleigh, one is planned at The Oxford at 310 Fayetteville St., on the NC State campus in room 2722 of Bostian Hall. To find others go to nc.barackobama.com.