how do I use sffms.cls with LyX?
 

how can I make LyX recognize /usr/share/texmf/tex/generic/sffms.cls LaTeX class file? when I go View > TeX information, it shows up but not as an option in Layout > Document so I can format my document using it.

You might be able to get that info here

I suspect it's something in the way of a pluggin that you need to install, then start Lyx and click on Help/LaTex Configuration to pickup the added pluggin. Something on that order, anyhow.