Have you ever wondered... "Why is store-bought garlic powder not good?" Well, so has Raema Rotindo, founder of Rockerbox Spice Co, a woman-owned garlic, onion and specialty spice and passion project turned profit. Raema is rooted in more than just the additive-free, USA-grown spices, she creates flavor. 

In the heart of Cobleskill, NY, the Bull's Head Inn is Cobleskill’s oldest building, dating back to 1801. Originally constructed to face south, the Inn was positioned to accommodate merchant traffic along Central New York’s trade routes. However, in 1810, when Cobleskill’s Main Street was developed, the Inn underwent a transformation—its staircase was repositioned, and front door redesigned, allowing it to face the newly established brick-lined street. Today, the Bull’s Head Inn continues to stand as a source of (haunted) history, authenticity and upscale, yet down-to-earth meat and potatoes spot for locals and visitors alike. 

If you’re not greeted by owner and general manager, Chris Guldner or his partner Mary Sagendorf, you may be greeted by Thomas Jefferson whose portrait hangs directly in the foyer. Why? Thomas Jefferson was President when the Bull's Head was built.  

A Times Journal Star, Maggie Pryor, Executive Director of the Animal Shelter of Schoharie Valley and co-owner of Carpets & Then Some, has deep roots in Schoharie County, though her path back home wasn’t always straightforward. Well-known for her involvement in the community, Maggie serves on the Head Start Board, Schoharie County Animal Shelter Board, CRCS Sports Booster Club, works with FBLA, Cobleskill Partnership, Inc., helped start the Prom Project, organizes Cobleskill parades, town Easter egg hunts, holiday food drives and “anything involving kids really.”  

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 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.

SEEC sits down with the crew of Wayward Lane Brewing, Andrew Rowles—Farm Manager and Sales, Adam Rosenthal—Head Brewer, and Kyle Bergen—Head of Business Operations and Sales, about the unfolding story of their award-winning, three-year-old craft beverage venture rooted in New York’s Schoharie Valley. Wayward Lane Brewing taps into the unique quality and profile of the water that flows so easily in Schoharie County.

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.