Farm to finance, a story of hometown success. Steve Palmer’s story begins in the mountainous countryside of Richmondville and leads him to the boardroom of the Bank of Richmondville. Steve, President & CEO of the Bank of Richmondville, was raised on a dairy farm where he learned the value of hard work early. “Growing up on the family farm, for as early as I can remember, instilled in me a strong work ethic and problem-solving skills,” Steve shares. These lessons shaped his character and laid the foundation for his success in Schoharie County. 

Joan Wissert, the creative force behind Middleburgh Mercantile, has crafted more than just a small business—she’s built a home in the heart of Middleburgh, one that’s rooted in deep passion for community, sustainability, and artisanal craftsmanship. Supporting small and local businesses is a motto Joan lives by, “If someone has that entrepreneurial spirit, I’m going to support them.” 

Discover the inspiring journey of Joanne Crum, a trailblazing entrepreneur with over 38 years in business as a Women-Owned Business Enterprise (WBE) land surveyor and attorney. Joanne's story is one of perseverance, community, and leadership, from a $1,000 gamble in 1957 to founding her own surveying company in a male-dominated field. Learn how she balances career, family, and mentorship while shaping the next generation of professionals in Schoharie County.

SEEC features, Dean Haskin, owner of Mickle Hollow Maple & Honey in Schoharie County for the August 2024 ROOTED article. Dean has turned his passion for beekeeping and maple tapping into a successful business known for its premium honey and maple products - offering a variety of products like infused creamed honey and maple creams. Mickle Hollow emphasizes sustainable agriculture and the importance of bees in local crop pollination by hand-building the hives, and creating a thriving environment for them. Visit Mickle Hollow’s apiary in Warnerville, Schoharie County, NY - or find their products at local farm stands and retailers.

SEEC got the opportunity to interview the founder of Brimstone Bakery, Anthony Leberto. A member of Beekman 1802’s former community of artisans, Brimstone Bakery, takes pride in sourcing local ingredients, using fresh eggs from local farmers, honey from nearby apiaries, and local produce. A local gem in the Village of Sharon Springs, Schoharie County, NY, the local bakery has captured the hearts and palates of locals and visitors alike, and is a true testament to Anthony's 30+ years of culinary expertise and creativity.

In a recent interview, SEEC had the privilege of delving into the journey of founder and owner of Love Shine Tea, Michelle Rivera: a dynamic and determined driving force of community. As a local entrepreneur, mother of four, and community curator, she has become Rooted in Schoharie Valley through her creation of Love Shine Tea: a tea, plant-based and allergen-friendly bakery, eatery, and cafe. Located on Schoharie's historic Main Street, Love Shine Tea emerges as more than a tea shop—but a sanctuary of compassion, community, and empowerment.

SEEC had the privilege of interviewing the founders of Weiss Ferments—an intimate, multi-acre outdoor brewery and biergarten. Owners, Erica and Brian Weiss, weave a narrative of nostalgia and community, drawing NYS Craft Beer Award-winning inspiration from simpler times. To them, their journey in Schoharie County goes beyond crafting gold-medal beer and healthy bread, to create moments of true connection and belonging within Schoharie County's community.

SEEC had the pleasure of sitting down at Schoharie’s own, 287 Main headquarters with serial-entrepreneur, Army veteran, Breast Cancer Survivor, single mom of two boys, and Schoharie County native Tina Wellman--a symbol of resilience and entrepreneurial prowess. Her journey from Army service, to founding successful ventures like BrightDrive Healthcare Solutions embodies the indomitable spirit of the region, and serves as an inspiration for aspiring business leaders.

SEEC is excited to announce the launch of ROOTED: a series designed to highlight organizations, businesses, and entrepreneurs that represent the fabric of Schoharie County’s economy. ROOTED aims to engage, inspire, and weave the fabric of community through the power of storytelling. The first feature of Wayward Lane Brewing, New York State Brewery of the Year 2023, was published January 29th--followed by a release on February 26th, highlighting the work of the Schoharie River Center.

SEEC had the privilege of sitting down with John McKeeby, the Executive Director of the Schoharie River Center. Driven by a shared vision of community preservation, John and his wife, Ellen, set out to breathe new life into a neglected structure in Schoharie County that now offers water quality monitoring programs, upon other skill-building opportunities, that encourage consciously sustainable growth for both participants, and our community environment. SRC is rooted in a commitment to environmental literacy and community empowerment, and fosters a deeper connection between humanity, our planet, and Schoharie County.