Representative Greg Smith Honored with 2018 Nobel Laureate Award at Hermiston Distinguished Citizens

HERMISTON, Ore. – Yesterday evening Representative Greg Smith (GOP-Heppner) was presented the 2018 Nobel Laureate Award at the Hermiston Distinguished Citizens Award Banquet. This is the first year the Greater Hermiston Chamber of Commerce, which represents hundreds of local businesses, has bestowed the distinguished award.

Congressman Greg Walden presented the award to Representative Smith. In his remarks, Walden stated:

“Chances are that if there is a project or community effort underway in Hermiston or anywhere in the Columbia Basin for that matter, you will find this person’s (Smith) fingerprints all over it, and his leadership behind it.”

“Tonight’s recipient works hard to carry the needs of our community and region to the rest of the state, and the state listens, and he gets results. As a fellow Eagle Scout, he looks for ways to leave his camp better than he found it. Just like Hermiston, he’s always looking for creative solutions to problems. The results of his efforts are seen on everything from education, to water, to transportation, and even internet connectivity in this area.”

“This gentleman is an incredible leader for our state, our region, and this community.”

The Hermiston Chamber shared the Nobel Laureate Award is a special honor given to an individual who exhibits professional accomplishments, has overcome obstacles, and displays significant, innovative attributes which are beneficial to the region.

In his acceptance speech, Representative Smith said:

“Thank you to those who nominated our family for this award and thank you for the jury that agreed to that nomination. This is the most humbling of awards. I want you to know it’s by all of us working together, by being focused, and by being of one mind that we are going to continue to make Hermiston the great community that it is. Thank you so much.”