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Thanks to all those who attended the Wisconsin College Republicans convention in Madison last weekend for once again voting GOP3.com the official blog of the State Convention. Connectivity issues kept us from live blogging, though Justin did get up a few thoughts. Allow me to add my own.

Friday night was great. Michelle Malkin delivered a very interesting lecture on US immigration policy and homeland security (MP3). Unfortunately, some of the locals were less than respectful.

Saturday morning we transacted convention business in the State Assembly chambers at the State Capitol, a very fitting venue. After a fine nomination speech by outgoing treasurer Brandon Goetzman, candidate for chairman Nick Carow of UW-River Falls delivered his address. In it, he discussed his past service in the Marine Corps and his desire to continuing serving in this new capacity. Next up was Luke Fuller of Marquette, who talked up the importance of his experience with the Walker campaign as an organizer of grassroots activists. When the ballots were totaled, Carow won the race 58-20.

For the office of vice chairman, Ripon College nominated Chris Schaefer, a very nice guy and GOP history buff. We’re glad to have Ripon as part of the Federation this year. I had the honor to nominate the one and only Sol Grosskopf, a dapper gentleman and the victor in the contest. Sol’s closing line from his speech was memorable: Ben Franklin once said that the only things that were certain in life are death and taxes. That’s why I’m glad to enjoy the endorsement of former State Treasurer Jack Voight and the Shawno County Coroner!

We also elected by acclamation a new treasurer from UW-Madison and a new secretary from UW-Whitewater, which were also the schools of both incumbents for each position. There was a presentation by the League of Conservation Voters, then remarks by CRNC’s Charlie Smith and Ethan Eilon, the latter of whom talked up STORM and the CRNC field rep program. The Leadership Institute also gave a pitch for its various programs, including field reps.

Finally, we passed several resolutions. I would like to particularly highlight the resolution honoring the fine work and dedication of outgoing WI CR chairman Ryan Wrasse. In December 2006, the then-chair of the Wisconsin Federation of College Republicans, Mary Ellen Burke, asked me to recruit the best CR in the state to take the helm when she graduated. As I considered all of the state and chapter officers as possible successors, Ryan stood out as a leader with the vision and work ethic to excel in the post. As our state chair, Ryan has significantly increased direct mail and in-person fundraising, message communication and earned media, and cross-chapter networking. As he graduates, Ryan leaves a much strong federation in good hands.

I used the afternoon break to catch up with a good buddy of mine who works in the Madison area. Sat on a park bench on the State Capitol grounds for two hours chatting, it was such a nice day out.

Saturday evening was the annual banquet, held at Monona Terrace. In honor of the standard of fashion Sol sets for us all, the outgoing and incoming state E-Board all wore bow-ties. Scott Walker gave an excellent speech, calling CRs to dedicate themselves to making Wisconsin a red state, winning legislative races, and busing up to the 8th to help John Gard. Graduating UW senior Mike Hahn spoke briefly about his campaign for the Wisconsin Assembly. As another year, and my tenure as a member, of the Wisconsin College Republicans draws to a close, we can be proud of the work we’ve done and excited for the prospects of victory in fall.

• WisEye in Wis Lawyer - November 16th, 2008
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• Textbook Case - November 3rd, 2008
• Kagen's Legislative Accomplishments - November 3rd, 2008
• That's not a good thing - November 3rd, 2008