Ben Millard

Owner, Veg Out

When and why did you move to Hermiston?

I’d lived here my whole life. I went to college and had jobs elsewhere. I moved back last year to figure out the next step, and ended up getting involved in this business with my sister.

What is your favorite place to eat in Hermiston?

Veg Out!

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I like pretty much all sports, playing or watching. I like relaxing and watching movies because I work a lot.

What surprises you about Hermiston?

It always seems to be growing, which is good. Before I opened the business I didn’t pay too much attention, but now I’m noticing other small businesses and restaurants. Right around the time we opened up, four other new restaurants opened up — it’s pretty cool.

What was the last book you read?

I think it was the new Harry Potter book — Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.

What app or website do you use most?

Spotify or Netflix.

If you could travel anywhere, where would you go?

Brazil — where I served my mission for my church for two years. I definitely want to go back.

What is the funniest thing that’s happened to you?

In college, me and my roommates watched all nine seasons of the office in one semester — four semesters in a row. That’s funny — or embarrassing. Or a proudest accomplishment.

What is one of your goals for the next 12 months?

My goal is to keep expanding the business, and hopefully move into a bigger spot soon. Maybe even within a year look at opening up new locations.

What is your proudest accomplishment?

Probably serving my mission for church. It was probably one of the hardest, most important and best things I’ve done.