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.