On May 15, in Milwaukee, the Socialist Party of Wisconsin held its biennial convention. Items on the agenda included examining the Platform and the Constitution, presenting resolutions and electing the State Executive Committee (SEC) to serve the Party for the next 2 years. The Conventions was opened by the Chair, Paul Ciglar and was attended by members from throughout the state.

It was agreed that the Convention Platform Committee will continue its work beyond the close of the Convention and will present the new Platform to a mail vote of the Membership.

A number of Resolutions were passed that dealt with both internal structure and external political desires. One Resolution States: “We resolve to meet and work with leftist, labor and progressive organizations and those promoting programs and ideals compatible with our platform and principles. We further resolve to promote an open dialog and political debate with all organizations.” It is believed that the conditions of today present an opportunity to promote the ideas of socialism and discuss the need for the socialist society to the benefit of all.

Elections for the new SEC were held and the following were elected: Paul Ciglar (Appleton) Chair, Matty O’Dea (Madison) Vice Chair, Jerry Stastny (Menasha) Secretary, Sean Hatley (Madison) Treasurer, along with At Large Members that included Myrtle Kastner (Milwaukee), Nan Pfefferle (Milwaukee), Judy Luerquin (Madison) and Jerry Schade (Milwaukee). The Convention recognized the service of the outgoing Secretary Nan Pfefferle and Treasurer Jerry Schade (who will continue to serve on the SEC as At Large Members) and Anita Zeidler who chose not to seek office.

The Convention took a moment to recognize the passing of three Members, Clarence Kailin, Lee Schaal and Agnes Zeidler, who had contributed significantly to the SPWI and the community as a whole.