Sheridan Chamber of Commerce

08/17/2026

The shift in winds that brought wildfire smoke across Western Oregon and blanketed the area in a persistent haze in the days leading up to Friday’s Sheridan Chamber of Commerce meeting proved an ominous lead-in to the presentation by meeting host Rich "Hoffy" Hoffmann, owner and CEO of HFT Fire and Rescue Tech. and Equip., LLC. With wildfires around Spokane destroying hundreds of homes and other structures, and Oregon and Washington surpassing 3 million acres burned this year, the potential consequences of a fast-moving wildfire were particularly difficult to ignore.
A retired fire captain and inventor, Hoffmann used his presentation to outline several products and systems he has partnered on or created himself, aimed at protecting homes and property from both structure fires and wildfires.
Hoffmann began with FireBot Suppression, a heat-activated system designed to detect and suppress stovetop fires. He said the system can activate automatically, suppress the fire before a smoke detector sounds, and text up to 10 designated contacts, including emergency services, providing an immediate alert when no one is home or unable to call for help during a serious medical event.
Hoffmann also discussed a “$100 donates $100” volunteer fire department training fund program he is working to establish with the company. Under the program, a FireBot Suppression unit with a $495 retail price would be available with $100 off, while another $100 would be donated to the volunteer fire department serving the district where the purchase is made.
For wildfire-prone properties, Hoffmann discussed HALT Fire’s ProDefense and Flamecheck products as additional layers of protection. He offers ProDefense as an annual fire suppressant application for home exteriors, passing around material treated with the product during the presentation and telling members to take it home and try to set it on fire to see how well the product works. He also distributes Flamecheck’s fireretardant clear coat and paint additive, which he said can add fire resistance to exterior surfaces comparable to a Class A metal roof. Both products can be ordered for do-it-yourself or professional application.
The most extensive portion of the presentation focused on a power-grid-independent fire sprinkler system Hoffmann is developing. The patent-pending system can be operated manually, through a phone app, or automatically using heat sensors. An intermittent mode can periodically dampen the area around a home, helping keep surrounding fuels resistant to ignition while conserving water. Hoffmann said the system’s off-time allows the water storage tank to refill to full capacity, allowing it to continue operating indefinitely, and the system can use a foam additive with the water for added protection.
Hoffmann said the sprinklers can distribute water around and above a structure to help protect against wind-driven embers, shutting off once the area is adequately wet rather than continuously using water. Its primary water storage tank can also supply fire apparatus, allowing firefighters to pump and pressurize the system without taking equipment or water out of service on the fire engine, keeping the apparatus “Fire Ready” at all times.
The system is designed to give firefighters another option when a wildfire reaches a neighborhood. Hoffmann described many situations from his firefighting career in which firefighters faced limited equipment and multiple homes to protect, including one in which he had only five engines available for 50 homes. “Which ones am I going to protect?” he asked. For Hoffmann, giving firefighters another option is central to the system’s purpose. “I am here to protect the firefighters to protect you!” he told Chamber members.
Milan Miller, a former firefighter and paramedic attending the meeting, said he has faced similar decisions. “I have a large log cabin in the middle of the woods, and being a firefighter, I have so many times we had to drive by a place and let the place burn,” Miller said. He has one of Hoffmann’s systems installed at his log cabin and said it has changed how he views the property’s vulnerability to wildfire. “Now my house is protected. The fire will go around me through the forest, and wet can’t burn.” A video showing the system in operation can be seen at SaferFromWildfires.net.
That same commitment to those who serve extends beyond fire protection through EveryoneGetsHome.org, a nonprofit founded by Hoffmann whose primary mission is to assist FallenFiance.org in supporting loved ones of first responders, military personnel, and medical staff who may face financial hardship when a loved one makes the ultimate sacrifice but the survivor does not qualify for Line of Duty Death benefits. The Fallen Fiancé program specifically helps those who would otherwise be excluded from benefits available to a spouse because the marriage had not yet taken place.
When he’s not working on protecting homes and landscapes, Hoffmann is also an artist who puts those same landscapes on canvas. He brought examples of his artwork and cards to the meeting, showing how favorite prints and digital photographs, particularly portraits and family photos, can be turned into wall art. His photography and artwork can be viewed at RHphotographics.com and his artwork and cards are available at Coyote Joe’s restaurant.
For more information about Hoffmann’s protection services and equipment, visit HFTFire.com.

08/16/2026

The Sheridan Chamber of Commerce held its regular meeting last Friday, hosted by the Sheridan School District, where Superintendent Dorie Vickery outlined the district's priorities for the coming school year, focusing on student success initiatives, career technical education, facility improvements, and long-term planning.
As district administrators reflected on the past school year, Vickery said they identified a common theme that will guide decisions in the year ahead: be intentional. She said the philosophy extends beyond classroom instruction to student support, fiscal management, and the district's overall operations.
Vickery also shared a message that resonated with her during graduation ceremonies after commencement speaker Tim Hart, a teacher at Faulconer-Chapman, encouraged graduates to "be good humans" and reminded them not to believe everything they read on social media. The district has adopted "Be good humans" as another guiding principle for the coming school year.
One of the district's most successful student support initiatives this past year was a partnership with Pacific University to bring a mobile vision clinic to Sheridan. Vickery said the effort grew out of concerns that students who had repeatedly failed vision screenings were unable to receive eye care because of transportation barriers and limited appointment availability.
Vickery credited district nurse Rebecca Boris with "turning over every rock" to find a vision provider willing to bring their mobile vision clinic to Sheridan, ultimately securing the service for the district. The university conducted 37 comprehensive eye examinations, resulting in 25 students receiving prescription glasses. Churches United provided eye coverings and other supplies for students following their exams, while Sweep Optical helped students select and fit their eyeglass frames before the finished glasses were delivered to the district.
Vickery said Pacific University considered the program a success and will look to return this fall. Armed with data identifying which students received glasses, the district also plans to study whether improved vision leads to measurable gains in reading performance and classroom engagement.
Career and technical education also remains a major focus for the district. Vickery updated chamber members on the Barbara Roberts CTEC initiative, explaining that while funding challenges continue to delay construction of a permanent regional career technical education center, the district has shifted to its Start Learning Now model, allowing students to begin participating in career pathways using existing classrooms and newly acquired equipment rather than waiting for the permanent facility to be completed.
As part of that effort, Sheridan has installed STEM learning labs and truck-driving simulators while continuing to develop a regional Fire Science pathway. Twenty students from four participating high schools have already expressed interest in the program, which is expected to meet on Friday mornings once an instructor is hired. The district also plans to renovate Building 1 on the Sheridan High School campus into a community classroom for educational programs and community meetings.
Vickery also provided updates on projects funded through the district's bond program. Parking lot improvements, upgraded lighting, drainage work, and new security cameras are underway, while future projects include a secure entrance at the high school and renovation of the Chapman gymnasium.
Vickery reported that, like every other district, Sheridan has made significant budget cuts, reducing its budget by approximately $850,000 while absorbing six teaching positions. High school enrollment has also declined to about 160 students, compared with about 225 when she arrived six years ago. Vickery said the enrollment decline is part of a trend occurring across Oregon.
Looking beyond the coming school year, Vickery said she wants to begin developing a "Portrait of a Sheridan Graduate," a community conversation focused on identifying the knowledge, skills, and character traits students should possess when they graduate and enter either higher education or the workforce.
Following Vickery's presentation, the discussion turned to economic development as chamber members explored ways to encourage additional businesses to locate in Sheridan. Ideas included recruiting established businesses from neighboring communities to expand into Sheridan and identifying opportunities for businesses such as coffee shops, bakeries, and seasonal ice cream shops.

08/15/2026

West Valley Mercantile Hosts Chamber Meeting Featuring Energy Trust of Oregon Guests
Members of the Sheridan Chamber of Commerce gathered June 19 at West Valley Mercantile, where guests from Energy Trust of Oregon shared information about programs available to homeowners, businesses, farms, and industrial customers before the hosts highlighted new products and developments at the store.
Maria Robinson, outreach manager for the Willamette Valley and Coast region, said the nonprofit organization is working to expand awareness and participation in rural communities. She explained that Energy Trust programs are funded through public purpose charges paid by customers of participating utilities and provide incentives for improvements ranging from insulation and heat pumps to irrigation systems and industrial equipment upgrades.
Robinson said residential programs include free home energy assessments and varying levels of incentives based on income. Energy Trust also works with community-based partners to coordinate projects and connect homeowners with additional resources when needed. Retrofit projects and certain do-it-yourself improvements may also qualify for assistance.
Jose Soto, who works with small business lighting programs, described Energy Trust's direct-install program. He said qualifying businesses with 24 or fewer employees and facilities under 20,000 square feet may receive no-cost upgrades from fluorescent fixtures to LED lighting if they are customers of Portland General Electric or Pacific Power. He added that the organization is also interested in bringing local electricians and contractors into the Energy Trust network so that program dollars remain in local communities.
The presentation concluded with a question-and-answer session covering manufactured homes, homes undergoing renovation, crawl space insulation, and programs available to customers of various utility providers. Robinson said Energy Trust can help connect customers with the appropriate resources and determine what incentives are available based on their circumstances.
Following the Energy Trust presentation, the Mercantile's hosting segment gave West Valley Mercantile an opportunity to share updates on the store and invite attendees to take a look around. Suzi Cooper, manager and buyer for the Mercantile, said she and Lucie Mann are constantly looking for ways to better serve customers.
“It's a lot of changes, a lot of new things in the store,” Cooper said. “Lucie and I work hard every day to try to keep new things in here that the customers are interested in, and if there's stuff that I don't have in the store, let Lucie and I know. We'll try to order it and bring it in the store for you guys.”
Cooper noted that the Mercantile has expanded its automotive section with oils, transmission fluid, air fresheners, and car care products, while continuing to carry feed, farm supplies, pools, fans, pest control products, and seasonal merchandise. She also highlighted the popularity of the locally sourced grains now being carried by the store.
“They love this stuff, though. Don’t let this go,” Cooper said, referring to customers who have switched to the locally sourced grains.
Sheridan Building Materials Manager Russ Benedict discussed several promotions currently underway, including sales on fencing products and other seasonal items. He also highlighted the store's selection of Fourth of July items and encouraged customers to stop in and see what is available.
Retail Operations Manager John Gladkowski discussed the broader family of businesses connected to the Mercantile, including the Salem Bargain Barn. He said the company is able to help customers locate specialty products and assist with project planning.
Brad Myers said he is excited to see new faces and continued investment in downtown Sheridan. He said the company appreciates community support and is always willing to help where it can. Chamber members in turn, thanked Myers, his wife Lecia, and their businesses for their continued support of community projects and organizations.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Lecia Myers invited the community to attend the next Saturday Market at the Mercantile, scheduled for the second Saturday in July.
The chamber's next meeting will be held on the third Friday in July, with no meeting scheduled during the Independence Day weekend.

08/14/2026

Members of the Sheridan Chamber of Commerce gathered at Techtonics Tuning on June 5 for a morning meeting co-hosted by My Hauler with Claw owner Mark Pauletto and Techtonics Tuning co-owner Collin Gyenes.
Gyenes welcomed attendees and spoke briefly about Techtonics Tuning, a company specializing in high-performance Volkswagen and Audi parts. He noted the business is celebrating its 45th year in operation and that he has spent 44 years with the company, where he now serves as co-owner. Gyenes also invited chamber members to tour the facility following the meeting.
The featured presentation came from Pauletto, who showcased his truck-mounted crane and grapple system during a 15-minute demonstration outside the business.
Before beginning the demonstration, Pauletto told attendees, "You'll see how quick it is for setup. It's not that long."
During the demonstration, Pauletto extended the crane from its transport position, unfolded the grapple, lifted a large tree round from the bed of the truck, placed it on the ground in front of the vehicle, loaded it back onto the truck, and returned the equipment to its travel position in approximately 2 minutes and 20 seconds.
Pauletto said the rapid deployment gives him an advantage over equipment that must be unloaded from a trailer before work can begin.
Throughout the presentation, he shared examples of projects completed throughout the region, including placing hot tubs over fences, moving landscape boulders, relocating concrete livestock troughs, and handling oversized logs. Several chamber members also shared personal experiences working with Pauletto and described projects that would have been difficult or time-consuming using traditional equipment.
One chamber member described how Pauletto removed a hot tub from a backyard without requiring fencing to be removed, lifting it over a fence and onto a trailer before delivering it to its new owner.
My Hauler with Claw helps homeowners, contractors, landscapers, and tree services with hauling, junk removal, debris removal, and heavy-lifting projects. Pauletto's business slogan is, "Before your body has a flaw, call the Claw."
In addition to the crane truck, Pauletto’s mini excavator was on display. Pauletto stated that he uses his excavator for excavation, cleanup, brush removal, and material-handling projects.
As summer approaches, discussion also turned to wildfire preparedness. Pauletto highlighted services such as brush removal and blackberry clearing, while attendees discussed the importance of removing ladder fuels and other vegetation that can contribute to fire spread around homes and businesses.
Before concluding the meeting, attendees were reminded of the chamber's role in supporting local businesses. One speaker noted, "The Chamber of Commerce is not only our businesses to the community, but it's our businesses to each other. We're as much a B2B group as we are B2Consumer."
The Sheridan Chamber of Commerce meets on the first and third Fridays of each month. Information about upcoming meetings and events can be found on the Chamber's events page at sheridanoregonchamber.com.

06/04/2026

Pictures from the Gala.

05/20/2026

The Sheridan Rural Fire Protection District hosted the recent Sheridan Chamber of Commerce meeting on Friday, where district representative Rob Foster discussed staffing challenges, ambulance funding, and future recruitment efforts while also encouraging support for the district’s local option levy currently before voters.
Foster, speaking on behalf of the firefighters’ union, said the district is attempting to balance emergency coverage with limited staffing and rising operational demands.
“We’re asking for more money, and we hate doing that,” Foster said. “We’re trying to provide a minimal service in finding this balance.”
Foster said the district currently operates with two line staff a day 24/7 plus two admin staff members weekdays and covers roughly 145 square miles between Sheridan and Willamina, south toward Highway 22, and east toward the former Pine Tree Patio area between Sheridan and McMinnville. He said staffing reductions have limited firefighters’ ability to remain active in community outreach because of increased station duties while the department works to maintain emergency coverage across the large rural area.
The department is also working to expand CPR and first-aid training opportunities in the community. Foster credited Marguerite for helping provide American Heart Association-certified instruction and said the district is seeking grant funding to help offset certification costs. He also encouraged residents interested in budgeting or finance to support the district by participating in budget committees.
Foster described Sheridan as a “stepping stone” department where younger firefighters often gain experience before moving to larger agencies, but said Sheridan currently has an unusually experienced workforce.
“I am the least experienced firefighter that you have,” Foster said. “And I’ve been doing this for 13 years.”
During a question-and-answer session, Foster said the Sheridan School District’s Career and Technical Education Center training tower could help attract younger firefighters, though staffing levels and limited equipment still create training challenges. He said the department hopes to build a resident firefighter program that could work alongside the high school CTEC program to help retain local recruits after graduation.
Foster also discussed the financial strain of ambulance operations, explaining that ambulance service functions as a pay-for-service system rather than through dedicated tax funding. Sheridan has provided emergency medical transport within its Ambulance Service Area since the 1970s or 1980s under assignment from Yamhill County. Foster said the district’s six-member union has become increasingly active at the state level despite the department’s small size, helping raise awareness about the financial and staffing challenges facing rural fire and ambulance providers.
Foster said state requirements mandate 24-hour ambulance staffing with at least one paramedic and one EMT on duty, while ambulance calls can also leave limited personnel available for simultaneous fire responses.
“You can send a $2,000 bill and get paid $400 and some odd bucks,” Foster said of Medicare and Medicaid ambulance reimbursements.

05/12/2026

It's that time of year for the Sheridan Chamber Gala, and we would like the community to participate in voting for Sheridan's best business, non-profit, volunteer, and Jr. Volunteer (must be under 18). If you are a resident of the West Valley area or often shop/visit Sheridan, we would like to hear from you.
Voting closes on Friday May 22.

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04/29/2026

04/22/2026

Walker Showcases Creativity - and New Products - At Chamber Meeting

“Most of you know what I do, but I have some new things,” Sandra Walker said as she began her 15-minute floor time as the host of the Sheridan Chamber of Commerce meeting on Friday, April 17.
Walker, the local owner of Do-U-Bless Designs, is no stranger to area markets and bazaars. If there’s a booth with a steady stream of people picking up personalized gifts or business items, there’s a good chance it belongs to her.
Her table often looks like a collection of possibilities — cups, some even equipped with small Bluetooth speakers on the bottom, clocks, cookies, Christmas ornaments, T-shirts, coasters, car air fresheners, cellphone stands, Chapstick holders, lanyards, and signs both big and small. It’s the kind of display that makes you think of gift shopping lists, business promotions, or that one custom item you didn’t know you needed until you saw it.
If it can be printed on paper, chances are Walker can transfer it onto something — sometimes even onto cookies, complete with photos. She also creates custom-burned cowboy hats and baseball caps, adding another personal touch to her growing lineup.
But it was the “new things” she teased at the start that drew special attention.
Among the latest additions were customizable business payment signs, designed to match a company’s décor or branding for those who want something more eye-catching than the standard versions. She also displayed a customizable purse and introduced new banners measuring up to three feet by four feet.
“So if you have a business or something, I can put your names on there,” Walker said, holding up one of the banner examples.
For those curious to see her work in person — or to chat about custom ideas — Walker will be set up at the Sheridan Spring Bazaar, scheduled from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, May 2–3, at Sheridan High School.
And for those who simply can’t wait that long, Walker welcomes inquiries by email at [email protected].