Oregon Federation of College Republicans, Convention Recap

Recap of the 2006 Oregon Federation of College Republicans Convention.
April 7th to April 9th, in Newport, Oregon

Friday Night:

In a black tie dinner setting, the College Republicans witnessed one of the most fun gubernatorial debates this year. Moderated by John Wickre, President of the Willamette University CR's, the debate took some interesting, unique twists.

On the 4th question, one of the most pertinent questions to Oregonians was asked by Mr. Wickre. After outlining Oregon's need for agriculture-friendly legislation, and highlighting key details of our state's farm economy, the all-important question was asked, "If you were a fruit, what fruit would you be and why?" Now we know once and for all that Jason Atkinson would be a pear, Kevin Mannix would be a pinot noir grape, and Ron Saxton would be an orange!

Also in the debate, candidates' characters came into light as some questions were less issue-based. The College Republicans were able to hear what each candidate's favorite GOP leader was, as well as what Democrats they admire.

Perhaps the most memorable part of the night was Jason Atkinson's closing speech, when he spoke about the importance of taking risks. While the candidates and the College Republicans watched perplexed, Atkinson pulled off his suit coat and draped it over the podium. Then, he began to un-button his dress shirt - to which the audience's confusion grew. Then, Sen. Atkinson pulled open his dress shirt and exposed his "Viva La Ronald Reagan Revolucion!" shirt - which he purchased from the College Republicans during the Dorchester Conference.

The night was a lot of fun for the candidates and the College Republicans. The event was the largest youth gathering the governor-hopefuls had spoken to on the campaign trail. Ron Saxton, Kevin Mannix, and Jason Atkinson each enjoyed meeting all the young activists, and one of them will be helped tremendously by this new presence of support during the general election campaign races!

Saturday morning:

On Saturday morning, College Republicans heard from House Majority Leader Wayne Scott, Rep. Alan Brown, and Senate Republican Leader Ted Ferrioli. Each were inspired to see so many College Republicans as the CR's were equally fascinated by the speakers.

Afterward, the College Republicans broke into 4 different groups and entered into training sessions. In one session, Rep. Linda Flores and Rep. Andy Olson (pictured above) articulated the main dynamics of door-to-door campaigning. In another, Oregon's GOP National Committeeman, Solomon Yue, spoke of RNC and ORP strategy in a powerpoint display. Bob Avery, the legendary GOP Chairman of Lane County, taught a "Leadership 101" seminar that detailed the qualities of certain leaders in America's history. In the 4th station, the College Republicans were fascinated by Jeff Grossman's presentation on the constitution, which gave them a deeper understanding of America's greatest document.

After a lunch break, the College Republicans massed together to support Rep. Alan Brown - a Republican with the largest demographic disadvantage out of any other district in the state. The storm of Republicans then broke loose: They walked up and down the streets of Newport, knocked on doors, and distributed literature in support of Rep. Alan Brown and candidate for Lincoln County Commissioner Kevin Pfannes. It was a sight that Newport had never seen! And it was awesome!!!

After the door-to-door campaigning, the College Republicans relaxed at their barbecue for several hours. Afterward, the night was concluded with a grand finale of great speakers: Oregon Republican Party Chairman Vance Day, District 4 Congressional Candidate Jim Feldkamp, and Talk Radio Host Lars Larson. Saturday was truly a remarkable day for the College Republicans - whose members saw more potential in themselves than ever before.

Lars Larson does a live show:

Talk radio host Lars Larson aired his Friday show live from the College Republican State Convention - a fun kickoff to the event. As members arrived and checked in, they enjoyed hearing AND seeing one of their favorite voices on the radio. Several College Republicans came onto the show and informed the listeners about the convention.

On Saturday, Lars remained in Newport and took part in the College Republicans' "barbecue on the beach." Later in the evening, he addressed the members and was very well-received. Many issues were addressed and everyone left the room more proud to be Republican!

New OFCR Board sworn in:

On Saturday, a new OFCR State Board was established. Though John Swanson remains Chairman, being 1 year into his 2-year term, 5 new faces joined the ranks of the Oregon Federation of College Republicans. Mario Campbell, the proactive Portland State University CR President, and Navy veteran, was unanimously elected Co-Chairman. Chase Dannen, President of the Oregon State University CRs, was elected Vice-Chairman. The 2nd Vice Chair position went to Stephanie Williams from Western Oregon University, Secretary went to Jenna Randall from the University of Oregon, and Holly Jones, also from the University of Oregon, won the position of Treasurer in the only contested race. Congratulations to this new board, and please welcome them as they help spread the Republican message.