Oregon Conservative Caucus first annual event a success

Kerry McQuisten
May 17
2 min read

Updated: May 26

SALEM, OR—May 21, 2025—The Oregon Conservative Caucus (OCC) held its first annual dinner and awards ceremony at the Columbia River Hotel and Conference Center in The Dalles last weekend.

With triple-digit turnout and a five-digit fundraising haul, Chair and co-founder Kerry McQuisten says the family-friendly event was a success. “We had members and nonmembers come from all over the state. We say OCC is an anti-grifting, no infighting zone – and it shows. Our guests were motivated and happy.”

The annual report focused on milestones met over the past year. OCC now has five organized chapters in Clackamas, Baker, Marion, Multnomah and Deschutes Counties with two more poised to organize. The group has members in 29 of Oregon’s 36 counties.

Steve Yates, who served in two presidential administrations and is frequently seen on national media, served as keynote speaker. Ray Hacke from Pacific Justice Institute also spoke, as did Taiwan Director General (Consul General) Daniel Chen from Seattle, who will soon return to Taipei as that nation’s equivalent to the chief of staff for the Secretary of State.

“Recognizing our volunteers is so important,” agree co-chair Solomon Yue, Secretary Jean Sampson, and Director Russ Walker. Certificates of appreciation went to Lynette Wyrick of Clackamas County, Bob Spicher of Multnomah County and Laurie Kimmell of Deschutes County. The Rising Flame Award went to two couples: Kerry and Tami Rayborn from Baker County and Michael and Yvonne Stoffey from Marion County. The Blaze Awards went to Linda Neace of Clackamas County, Sue Leslie of Clackamas County, and Mike and Carol Williams of Marion County. Marion County’s Joel Pawloski earned the Chair’s Award, OCC’s equivalent of an MVP recognition.

OCC, an all-volunteer 501(c)(4) nonprofit, was founded in 2024 with a focus on registering Republicans, getting out the vote, and grassroots education. More information can be found at www.OregonConservativeCaucus.com.

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