I have recently attended a wonderful class at the Sullivan County Community College (SCCC). This class was created for the general public, but its main focus is to help farmers expand their businesses on their farms or for people who work with farms. The classes teach how to create value-added food products: how to create a product, test it, market it and the rules and regulations that apply to this process. You would learn how to start your own business and have proven entrepreneurs speak about their successes.

The first class was taught by Beth Linskey of Beth’s Farm Kitchen of Stuyvesant Falls, NY. Linskey started by making jams in her kitchen, and now sells her products in the Greenmarket in NYC and in stores in several states and employs 13 people. She also has an online store and has just put out a cookbook. She gave her students a great example of someone who takes an idea and turns it into a successful business. Considering the sluggish economy and lack of jobs in the area, creating your own seems to be a good way to go. Thanks to Kristin Geeslin and SCCC for these opportunities. There are still classes that you can attend. Email kgeeslin@sullivan.suny.edu or call Kristin Geeslin at 845/434-5750, ext. 4382 for more information. The next class will be held on April 28.

Amy Erlwein

Jeffersonville, NY