The Hermiston Chamber of Commerce Leadership class spent Tuesday, April 9 at the state capitol in Salem.
The class was greeted on the capitol steps by Phillip Scheuers, a member of State Rep. Greg Smith’s staff. That began a rigorous day that included meeting with Chief Clerk of the House of Representatives Ramona Line in the House Chambers. Line explained to the class how the Legislature operates and some history related to the House.
“We also had the opportunity to meet the Speaker of the House Tina Kotek and participate in the signing of resolution along with Mayor Bob’s daughter and son-in law,” said Hermiston Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Debbie Pedro. “We were also able to sit in on a Joint Ways & Means Subcommittee on General Government to gain knowledge on how committees operate.”
Pedro said Smith scheduled several speakers for the group, including representatives Bob Jenson of Pendleton, Vicki Berger of Salem, Greg Matthews of Gresham, Sal Esquivel of Medford, Jeff Barker of Aloha and House Republican Leader Mike McLane and Sen. Bill Hansell and Katie Coba, who is the director of the Department of Agriculture.
“We also had a chance to meet with and learn about the role of lobbyists that work on issues that may affect Eastern Oregon business such as Cindy Finlayson, Craig Campbell, Jana Jarvis and Tammy Dennee,” said Pedro. “The day was enjoyed by all with even more appreciation for the job well done by those who represent us in Eastern Oregon.”
Visit the Oregon Legislature’s website to learn more about the Legislature and to contact your local representatives.
