august 28th, 2025

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Mountain Empire Beekeepers Association

Minutes for August 28, 2025, Membership Meeting

Call to Order: A monthly membership meeting of Mountain Empire Beekeepers Association

was held on August 28, 2025 at Wytheville Community College- “NEW LOCATION - Bldg #2

room 118 for the remainder of the year.  THERE IS PARKING ON THE SIDE OF THIS

BUILDING” . Monthly meeting began at 6:35 p.m. and was presided over by Mickey

Cunningham, MEBA President. A total of 18 members were present.

Minutes: A motion to approve the July 28, 2025 minutes was made by Ethel Parks and

seconded by Rodney Sayre

Agenda Item:

• MEBA Chairperson, Mickey Cunningham opened the meeting at 6:35 pm with a

discussion the upcoming elections in November.

• Rodney provided an update on the Quilt Raffle – this is one of our biggest money maker

– we have sold over $2,000 so far. If you need more tickets please see Rodney

• MEBA President, Mickey Cummingham presented a brief on Winter survival,

recommending starting your preps now.

• Rodney Dye presented on New Beehive / show and tell – great presentation.

• Mickey presented on the Vire Meeting MEBA Sponsorship

• Great DVD / YouTube on More than Honey – must see!

• The VSBA Convention that we will be hosting the last weekend in October will provide

another place to sell tickets.

Raffle:

Several items were presented for our monthly raffle.

Next meeting: Thursday September 25, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. at Wytheville Community College.

Action Items:

• None at this time.

Friendly Reminder:

• Hat and T-Shirt update provided, colors and logo look great. Mickey is the point of

contact. Cost for tee shirts is $13.50 each.

Adjourned: There being no other business, Mickey adjourned the meeting at _8:12 p.m.

Mountain Empire Beekeepers Association

Minutes for July 28, 2025, Membership Meeting

Call to Order: A monthly membership meeting of Mountain Empire Beekeepers Association

was held on June 26, 2025 at Wytheville Community College. Monthly meeting began at 6:36

p.m. and was presided over by Mickey Cunningham, MEBA President. A total of 228 members

were present.

Minutes: A motion to approve the June 26, 2025 minutes was made by Hank Sturkie and

seconded by Rodney Sayre

Agenda Item:

• MEBA Chairperson, Mickey Cunningham opened the meeting at 6:36 pm with a

discussion the upcoming elections in November.

• Rodney provided an update on the Quilt Raffle – this is one of our biggest money maker

– we have sold over $900 so far. If you need more tickets please see Rodney

• Hank Sturkie, MEBA Financial Secertary, presented the financial position for MEBA A

copy of the presentation is available upon request.

• Kathy presented an extensive training on the importance of Beekeeping. Which will be

on line.

• Hank and Rodney tickets can be sold at the Grayson County fair August 8-9. The VSBA

Convention that we will be hosting the last weekend in October will provide another

place to sell tickets.

Raffle:

Several items were presented for our monthly raffle.

Next meeting: Thursday August 28, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. at Wytheville Community College.

Action Items:

• None at this time.

Friendly Reminder:

• Hat and T-Shirt update provided, colors and logo look great. Mickey is the point of

contact. Cost for tee shirts is $13.50 each.

Adjourned: There being no other business, Mickey adjourned the meeting at _8:05 p.m.

Mountain Empire Beekeepers Association

Minutes for June 26, 2025, Membership Meeting

Call to Order: A monthly membership meeting of Mountain Empire Beekeepers Association

was held on June 26, 2025 at Wytheville Community College. It began at 6:34 p.m. and was

presided over by Rodney Sayre, MEBA Chairperson. A total of 23 members were present.

Minutes: A motion to approve the May 22, 2025 minutes with one minor typo was made by

Arlene Crockett and seconded by Rodney Sayre

Agenda Item:

• MEBA Chairperson, Mickey Cunningham opened the meeting at 6:34 pm with a

presentation and discussion on his European Bee trip

• Rodney provided an update on the Quilt Raffle – SELL, SELL SELL – this is one of our

biggest money makers.

If you need more tickets please see Rodney

• Guest Speaker, Mr. Sullivan provided an amazing brief “Better than Free Bee’s”

presentation. A copy of the presentation is available upon request.

• Rodney provided an update on the quilts. $580 + has been collected so far. The

drawing will be in November. About a $300.00 expense has been invested so far.

Tickets can be sold at the Grayson County fair August 8-9. The VSBA Convention

that we will be hosting the last weekend in October will provide another place to sell

tickets.

Raffle:

Several items were presented for our monthly raffle.

Next meeting: Thursday July 24, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. at Wytheville Community College in Smyth

Hall room 122.

Action Items:

• None at this time.

Friendly Reminder:

• Hat and T-Shirt update provided, colors and logo look great. Mickey is the point of

contact. Cost for tee shirts is $13.50 each.

Adjourned: There being no other business, Mickey adjourned the meeting at _7:35 p.m.

Call to Order: A monthly membership meeting of Mountain Empire Beekeepers Association

was held on May 22, 2025 at Wytheville Community College. It began at 6:35 p.m. and was

presided over by Rodney Sayre, MEBA Chairperson. A total of 14 members were present.

Minutes: A motion to approve the April 24, 2025 minutes was made by Arlene Crockett and

seconded by Hank Sturkie.

Agenda Item:

• MEBA Chairperson, Rodney Sayre opened the meeting at 6:35 pm with a presentation

and discussion on Swarms.

• Rodney provided an update on the Quilt Raffle – SELL, SELL SELL – this is one of our

biggest money makers.

If you need more tickets please see Rodney

• Hank Sturkie provided a brief on the new Bee Class – final class will be held on 7 June

2025, Total of 40 students attending. Initial class comments is that it is an

outstanding class.

• Mickey announced at our May meeting last that the Hillsville Expo has been

postponed/canceled.

• Rodney provided an update on the quilts. $400.00 + has been collected so far. The

drawing will be in November. About a $300.00 expense has been invested so far.

Tickets can be sold at the Grayson County fair August 8-9. The VSBA Convention

that we will be hosting the last weekend in October will provide another place to sell

tickets.

• A handout was provided for the The Honey Integrity Act S.1028- 119 th Congress (2025-

2026) was discussed. The attached is a summary of this Act. *Adulterated honey will

be destroyed and not sent back to their country of origin. Enforcement will happen to them

as well.

Raffle:

Several items were presented for our monthly raffle.

Next meeting: Thursday June 23, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. at Wytheville Community College in Smyth

Hall room 122.

Action Items:

• None at this time.

Friendly Reminder:

• Hat and T-Shirt update provided, colors and logo look great. Mickey is the point of

contact. Cost for tee shirts is $13.50 each.

Adjourned: There being no other business, Rodney adjourned the meeting at _7:27 p.m.

Mountain Empire Beekeepers Association

Minutes for April 24, 2025 Membership Meeting

Call to Order: A monthly membership meeting of Mountain Empire Beekeepers Association was held on April 24, 2025 at Wytheville Community College. It began at 6:38 p.m. and was presided over by Mickey Cunningham, MEBA President. A total of 26 members were present. 

Minutes: A motion to approve the March 27, 2025 minutes was made by Dicky Morgan and seconded by Torrence Van Lear.

Agenda Item:

• MEBA President, Mickey Cunningham opened the meeting at 6:38 pm and gave a presentation on splitting hives. 

• Mickey announced that the Hillsville Expo has been postponed/canceled.

• Mickey gave an update on the quilts. $400.00 have been collected so far. The drawing will be in November. About a $300.00 expense has been invested so far. Tickets can be sold at the Grayson County fair August 8-9. The VSBA Convention that we will be hosting the last weekend in October will provide another place to sell tickets.

• Hank Sturkie and Cathy Hounshell gave an update on the bee class.

• Hank Sturkie presented the Quarterly Finance Report for 1/1/25 to 3/31/25.

• Cathy’s Corner: Queens and Things- Email Cathy if you want to order to get a discount on vaccines for American Foul Brood and Deformed Wing Virus.

•  The Honey Integrity Act S.1028- 119thCongress (2025-2026) was discussed. The attached is a summary of this Act. *Adulterated honey will be destroyed and not sent back to their country of origin. Enforcement will happen to them as well.

• Rodney discussed catching swarms. It is illegal to sale swarms because there is no comb. A good product to use when trying to catch swarms is Swarm Command. It is about $35.00 per bottle.  

Raffle:

Heat gun – Arlene Crockett 5 frames – Rodney Dye

Swarm box –Paul Chambers 5 frames – Millie Haulsey

Swarm box- Doug Paddock Queen excluder – Arlene Crockett

Pollen/Candy board screen – Tamra Blackburn Super – Maston Parks

Hive top board slanted roof – Tamra Blackburn Brood frames – Rodney Dye

Honey Sieve – Doug Paddock Feeder box – Patty Younger

Candy board screen – Arlene Crockett

2 Super wooden boxes – Maston Parks 

Next meeting: Thursday May 21, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. at Wytheville Community College in Smyth Hall room 122.

Action Items:

• Establish procedures to ensure accountability of raffle ticket sales. Action to be MEBA Board of Directors

Friendly Reminder:

• Hat and T-Shirt update provided, colors and logo look great. Mickey is the point of contact. Cost for tee shirts is $13.50 each.

Adjourned: There being no other business, Mr. Cunningham adjourned the meeting at _8:03 p.m. 

The Honey Integrity Act, formally titled S. 1028, is a bill introduced in the Senate to protect the integrity of honey marketed in the United States. It focuses on preventing adulteration and misbranding of honey, ensuring consumers can have confidence in the natural, wholesome, and healthy nature of the honey they purchase. 

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Key Provisions of the Honey Integrity Act:

· Standard of Identity for Honey:

The bill requires the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to establish a detailed standard of identity for honey, aligning with United States Pharmacopeia standards. 

· Reporting Adulterated Products:

The act mandates that honey packers report to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) whenever they detect an adulterated product. 

· Interagency Cooperation:

FDA, Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and the USDA will collaborate in detecting, testing, and enforcing regulations related to adulterated and misbranded honey. 

· Honey Integrity Program:

The bill directs the Secretary to establish the "Honey Integrity Program" to detect adulterated honey in interstate commerce. 

· Testing and Certification:

The Honey Integrity Program will require qualifying commercial honey packers to test and certify that their honey is not adulterated, and a list of these packers will be published and updated. 

· Enforcement Actions:

The Secretary will be required to report to Congress on enforcement actions taken against adulterated and misbranded honey. 

· Fee Structure:

Packers will be required to pay appropriate fees to the Secretary for administering the Honey Integrity Program. 

Purpose and Goals:

· Consumer Protection: The bill aims to protect consumers from adulterated and misbranded honey, ensuring they receive a natural and wholesome product. 

· Fair Competition: It seeks to level the playing field for honest American beekeepers who compete with adulterated products. 

· Transparency: The act aims to increase transparency in the honey supply chain. 

Background:

· The American Honey Producers Association supports the Honey Integrity Act, recognizing the need for adequate protections against honey adulteration. 

· The bill was introduced in the Senate on March 13, 2025. 

· The bill is currently in the first stage of the legislative process and will be considered by committee. 

Call To Order: A monthly membership meeting of Mountain Empire Beekeepers

Association was held on March 27, 2025 at Wytheville Community College. It began at

6:36 p.m. and was presided over by Mickey Cunningham, MEBA President. A total of

22 members were present.

Minutes: A motion to approve the February 27, 2025 minutes was made by Rodney

Sayre and others.

Agenda Item:

• MEBA President, Mickey Cunningham opened the meeting at 6:36 pm and introduced guest speaker on Bee Inspections

• Committee reports provided by the following individuals.

Rodney – ED Committee

Shawn – Earth Day

Mickey Grayson Fair

• Rodney discussed NUC List

• Mickey Discussed New Business

• Quilt Raffle – Mr. Sayre discussed the 2025 quilt raffle. Raffel tickets were

handed out to each member present, list of names provided to Rodney.

Funds due back along with signed raffle tickets. Left over tickets will be

mailed to paid members.

• 2025 Beginning Beekeeping Class – Mr. Sturkie provided an overview of the

class.

Next meeting: Thursday April 24, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. at Wytheville Community College

in Smyth Hall room 122.

Action Items:

• Establish procedures to ensure accountability of raffle ticket sales. Action to be

MEBA Board of Directors

Friendly Reminder:

• Hat and T-Shirt update provided, colors and logo look great. Mickey is the point

of contact. Cost for tee shirts is $13.50 each.

Adjourned: There being no other business, Mr. Cunningham adjourned the meeting at

_8:01 p.m.

Mountain Empire Beekeepers Association

Minutes for February 27, 2025 Membership Meeting

Call To Order: A monthly membership meeting of Mountain Empire Beekeepers Association was held at February 27, 2025 at Wytheville Community College. It began at 6:40 p.m. and was presided over by Mickey Cunningham, MEBA President. A total of 37 members were present. 

Minutes: A motion to approve the January 23, 2025 minutes was made by Rodney Sayre and others.

Agenda Item:

• Rodney provided results of survey as well as best bee practices. 

• Hat and T-Shirt update provided, colors and logo look great. Mickey is the point of contact. Cost for tee shirts is $13.50 each.

• Quilt Raffle – Mr. Sayre discussed the 2025 quilt raffle. 1,000 tickets to be reprinted due to several concerns. Each member will be responsible for 2 booklets of tickets, each ticket $5 each. 

• Mr. Sturkie emphasized the need to ensure accountability for funds received. Mr. Sayre for action. 

• 2025 Beginning Beekeeping Class – Mr. Sturkie provided an overview of the class. 

• Mickey provided in overview of Spring Bee preparation. 

Next meeting: Thursday March 27, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. at Wytheville Community College in Smyth Hall room 122.

Action Items:

• Establish procedures to ensure accountability of raffle ticket sales. Action to be MEBA Board of Directors

Adjourned: There being no other business, Mr. Cunningham adjourned the meeting at _7:59 p.m. 

Mountain Empire Beekeepers Association

Minutes for January 23, 2025 Membership Meeting

Call To Order: A monthly membership meeting of Mountain Empire Beekeepers Association was held at January 23, 2025 at Wytheville Community College. It began at 6:35p.m. and was presided over by Mickey Cunningham, MEBA President. A total of 18 members were present. 

NEW MEMBER: Dicky Morgan attended and joined MEBA at the meeting.

Minutes: A motion to approve the November 21, 2024 minutes was made by Rodney Sayre and others.

Agenda Item:

• Election Results – Mr. Cunningham presented the results of the proxy voting, Rodney Sayre was elected Vice President and Mary Encarnacao was elected Secretary for 2-year terms ending December 31, 2026.

• October 2024 Board of Directors Meeting discussion was presented by Mr. Sayre.

• Ideas for education topics and raffle items presented by Mr. Sayre.

• MEBA Website – Mr. Cunningham noted that Ms. Younger will be paid $25 per month for services. rendered

• Shirts – Mr. Cunningham stated the embroidered shirts cost $13.50 each.

• Quilt Raffle – Mr. Sayre discussed the 2025 quilt raffle. 1,000 tickets will be printed and sold for $5 each. Mr. Sturkie emphasized the need to ensure accountability for funds received.

• 2025 Beginning Beekeeping Class – Mr. Sturkie provided an overview of the class. 

• Financial Report – Mr. Sturkie presented the financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2024. 

• Education: Best Practices, presented by Mr. Sayre. 

• Monthly Raffle was conducted by Mr. Cunningham and Mr. Sayre.

Next meeting: Thursday February 27, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. at Wytheville Community College in Smyth Hall room 122.

Action Items:

• Mr. Sturkie and Mr. Encarnacao will research the need to file with the IRS.

• Establish procedures to ensure accountability of raffle ticket sales. Action to be MEBA Board of Directors

Adjourned: There being no other business, Mr. Cunningham adjourned the meeting at _8:pm___ p.m. 

  The meeting was called to order at 6:30 p.m. by Mickey Cunningham, MEBA President at Wytheville Community College, in Smyth Hall room 122.   7 members were present.

Minutes:  A motion was made to approve the minutes by Joe Bontrager, and was 2nd by Rodney Sayre.   

Presenter: Rodney Sayre

Presentation: Best Practices

Old Business:  

• Website.  https://mountainempirebeekeepingassoci.godaddysites.com/ .  The new MEBA website is now up and running.

• Patty Younger is in need of photos for our new website.  You can email her at youngerbass@gmail.com .

• https://scientificbeekeeping.com/how-to-use-randys-handy-mite-wash-cup/    

• https://www.virginiabeekeepers.org/Master-Beekeeper-Program 

• Mary Dickenson Tomlinson of Cresthaven Veterinary Services in Galax, Virginia can be found on Facebook.  If your beehives are in need of a veterinary, she is a good one to call.

• Anyone who would like to submit something for the MEBA agendas, let Connie Armentrout or Rodney Sayre know prior to the meeting.  

• Cathy Hounshell sent information regarding the Fox Hound Bee Company’s oxalic acid strips.  https://www.foxhoundbeecompany.com/blogs/beekeeping-pests/varroxsan-a-cardboard-oxalic-acid-strip?srsltid=AfmBOoqZroHoUBy8FUNzf-E0GlcPRzQ5VCd5ZUFYGrXrB11rNUOTAGpR.  It was discussed possibly making a large group purchase to save money for everyone.  A case of 600 could be purchased.  Four strips are needed per deep.

New Business

• Dues are $10.00.  If you do not have a nametag, it will be another one-time $10.00.

• More volunteers for the Fair Committee are needed.  

• We need input from members for raffle items.

• The board has budgeted $300.00 for the annual picnic hive dive.

• The election was not held due to not having a quorum needed.  Instead, a ballot will be sent to voting members by email for the election for Vice President and Secretary.  Results will be mailed out.

• A quilt raffle will be held next year.  Mary Encarnacao will be making another quilt similar to the quilt she made before.  In addition, Shannon Sayre will be making a small quilt as well.

-10 lbs. Sugar

10 Lbs. Sugar

Raffle Winners: 

A complete hive (2 deeps with 20 assembled frames, lid, bottom board, intercover, super) – LaVonda Heath

Next meeting: Thursday January 23, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. at Wytheville Community College in Smyth Hall room 122.  

Adjourned: at 8:02 p.m.

Respectfully submitted, 

Connie Armentrout, MEBA Secretary

The meeting was called to order at 6:30 p.m. by Mickey Cunningham, MEBA President at Wytheville Community College, in Smyth Hall room 122.   26 members were present.

Minutes:  A motion was made to approve the minutes by Hank Sturkie, and was 2nd by Kathy Quinn.   

Presenter: Mickey Cunningham

Presentation: Winter Preparation –Winterizing Bees

Education Committee Report: 

Old Business:  

• Website.  https://mountainempirebeekeepingassoci.godaddysites.com/ .  The new MEBA website is now up and running.

• Patty Younger is in need of photos for our new website.  You can email her at youngerbass@gmail.com .

• https://scientificbeekeeping.com/how-to-use-randys-handy-mite-wash-cup/    

• Information on the Virginia Master Beekeeper Program call Adam Wilson 915-929-1556.  The test is given once a year.  Community Service is required.  https://www.virginiabeekeepers.org/Master-Beekeeper-Program 

• Rodney Sayre gave an update on the Master Bee Keepers qualifications.  An exam will be avail to take at the Virginia State Beekeepers Association convention on October 26, 2024 at Wytheville Community College.  You must be a member of the Virginia State Beekeepers Association. 

• Kristine Smith, VSBA Webmaster will be presenting at our monthly meeting during the month that the VSBA Convention will be rescheduled for.   She will present on How to Raise Queens.  She will also be presenting at the VSBA state convention as well.  

Volunteers will be needed.

• Mary Dickenson Tomlinson of Cresthaven Veterinary Services in Galax, Virginia can be found on Facebook.  If your beehives are in need of a veterinary, she is a good one to call.

• Anyone who would like to submit something for the MEBA agendas, let Connie Armentrout or Rodney Sayre know prior to the meeting.  

New Business

• To volunteer for the VSBA Convention you must be a member of the VSBA.  On the VSBA website, you can click a link if you are a member to volunteer.

• Cathy Hounshell sent information regarding the Fox Hound Bee Company’s oxalic acid strips.  https://www.foxhoundbeecompany.com/blogs/beekeeping-pests/varroxsan-a-cardboard-oxalic-acid-strip?srsltid=AfmBOoqZroHoUBy8FUNzf-E0GlcPRzQ5VCd5ZUFYGrXrB11rNUOTAGpR.  It was discussed possibly making a large group purchase to save money for everyone.  A case of 600 could be purchased.  Four strips are needed per deep.

• Elections for the next MEBA Vice President and Secretary will be held in November.  A ballot will be emailed to members prior to the meeting.

• Claims can be filed October 29, 2024 at Meadow View Baptist Church from hurricane Helene.

-10 lbs. Sugar

10 Lbs. Sugar

Raffle Winners: 

Honey bucket with spout– LaVonda Heath

Assembled frames – LaVonda Heath

Hive tool – LaVonda Heath

Shim spacer – LaVonda Heath

Hive cover– Fred Williams

MEBA hat – Connie Armentrout

Candy board (1/2 inch hardware cloth) – Connie Armentrout

MEBA hat – Beth Orvec

Assembled frames – Torre Vanlear

Frame gripper – Rodney Dye

Comb scrapper – LaVonda Heath

Hive tool – Mary Encarnaco

Bee escape – Allen Schuster

Bee shirt – Maston Parks

Gnome air freshener and bee stain glass – Kathy Quinn

Next meeting: Thursday November 21, 2024 at 6:30 p.m. at Wytheville Community College in Smyth Hall room 122.  Please note this meeting will be the 3rd Thursday in November since the 4th Thursday is Thanksgiving.

Adjourned: at 8:11 p.m.

Respectfully submitted, 

Connie Armentrout, MEBA Secretary

The meeting was called to order at 6:30 p.m. by Mickey Cunningham, MEBA President at Wytheville Community College, in Smyth Hall room 122.  15 members were present.

Minutes: A motion was made to approve the minutes by Patty Younger, and was 2nd by Rodney Sayre.  

Presenter: Fred Williams

Presentation Bee Pest Capture

Education Committee Report:

Up Coming Meetings:

September – Dead Outs – Cathy Hounshell

October – Feeding Techniques – TBA

November – Best Bee Practices – Open Forum Moderator/Rodney Sayre

Old Business:  

· Website.  https://mountainempirebeekeepingassoci.godaddysites.com/ 

· Patty Younger is in need of photos for our new website. You can email her at youngerbass@gmail.com .

· https://scientificbeekeeping.com/how-to-use-randys-handy-mite-wash-cup/ 

· Bees in The News- Bee Culture has an article about the ins and outs of mentoring. 

· The Carroll County Fair is the last full week of August. 

· Information on the Virginia Master Beekeeper Program call Adam Wilson 915-929-1556. The test is given once a year. Community Service is required. https://www.virginiabeekeepers.org/Master-Beekeeper-Program 

· Rodney Sayre gave an update on the Master Bee Keepers qualifications. An exam will be avail to take at the Virginia State Beekeepers Association convention on October 26, 2024 at Wytheville Community College. You must be a member of the Virginia State Beekeepers Association. 

· The VSBA state convention will be held October 25-27 at the Wytheville Meeting Center on the campus of Wytheville Community College. Registration begins August 1, 2024. https://www.virginiabeekeepers.org/VSBA-CONFERENCE an application to join the VSBA can be found here that you can print and mail in: https://www.virginiabeekeepers.org/join-usYou can also join on-line if you prefer here: https://www.virginiabeekeepers.org/join-us

· Kristine Smith, VSBA Webmaster will be presenting at our monthly meeting in October on How to Raise Queens. She will also be presenting at the VSBA state convention as well.
Volunteers will be needed.

New Business

· August 17, 2024 Dr. James Wilson, Extension Agent from Virginia Tech Entomology Department will be doing a Varroa presentation in room 112 Smyth Hall 9:00-12:00. He is in need of volunteers for a Varroa study.

· To volunteer for the VSBA Convention you must be a member of the VSBA. On the VSBA website, you can click a link if you are a member to volunteer.

· Eight potential members from the Grayson County Fair were obtained for the next bee class. Next year we want to have a honey competition/show. Many people inquired about a honey competition/show this year.

· Cathy Hounshell sent information regarding the Fox Hound Bee Company’s oxalic acid strips. https://www.foxhoundbeecompany.com/blogs/beekeeping-pests/varroxsan-a-cardboard-oxalic-acid-strip?srsltid=AfmBOoqZroHoUBy8FUNzf-E0GlcPRzQ5VCd5ZUFYGrXrB11rNUOTAGpR   It was discussed possibly making a large group purchase to save money for everyone. A case of 600 could be purchased. Two strips are needed per deep.

· WDBJ 7 had a 30 second news report about the rising sugar prices during WWI cause everyone to have 1 to 4 bee hives in order to sweeten things or sell colonies. During that time, there were 2.1 to 2.3 million hives. 

· The new MEBA website is now up and running.

· Check out James Ellis of the University of Florida Two Bees in a Pod podcasts for information on his research. https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ufhbrel/episodes/Episode-166-Environmental-DNA-e2k67rk

· Mary Dickenson Tomlinson of Cresthaven Veterinary Services in Galax, Virginia can be found on Facebook. If your beehives are in need of a veterinary, she is a good one to call.

· Anyone who would like to submit something for the MEBA agendas, let Connie Armentrout or Rodney Sayre know prior to the meeting. 

-10 lbs. Sugar

10 Lbs. Sugar

Raffle Winners: 

Bee float feeder for feeding water– LaVonda Heath

Frames – LaVonda Heath

Bee air freshener gnome – Fred Williams

MEBA hat – Meyka Paddock

MEBA hat – Rodney Dye

Bee cape and gloves – Doug Paddock

Bee escape for harvesting – Rodney Dye

Bee air freshener gnome – LaVonda Heath

Bee Veil and hat – Rodney Dye

Bee window stain glass – Rodney Dye

Next meeting: Thursday September 26, 2024 at 6:30 p.m. at Wytheville Community College in Smyth Hall room 122. 

Adjourned: at 8:08 p.m.

Respectfully submitted, 

Connie Armentrout, MEBA Secretary

The meeting was called to order at 6:30 p.m. by Mickey Cunningham, MEBA President at Wytheville

Community College, in Smyth Hall room 122. 25 members were present.

Minutes: A motion was made to approve the minutes by Patty Younger, and was 2nd by Mickey Cunningham.

Presenter: Mickey Cunningham

Presentation: Discussion/Questions & Answers

Due to an unforeseen change of our meeting room, the DVD scheduled for tonight’s event will

been shown at another date.

Education Committee Report:

Up Coming Meetings:

July – Queen Rearing -TBA

August- Bee Pest Capture – Fred Williams

September – Dead Outs – Cathy Hounshell

October – Feeding Techniques – TBA

November – Best Bee Practices – Open Forum Moderator/Rodney Sayre

Old Business:

 Patty Younger is in need of photos for our new website. You can email her at

youngerbass@gmail.com .

 https://scientificbeekeeping.com/how-to-use-randys-handy-mite-wash-cup/

 Bees in The News- Bee Culture has an article about the ins and outs of mentoring.

 The Carroll County Fair is the last full week of August.

 Information on the Virginia Master Beekeeper Program call Adam Wilson 915-929-1556. The

test is given once a year. Community Service is required.

https://www.virginiabeekeepers.org/Master-Beekeeper-Program

 Rodney Sayre gave an update on the Master Bee Keepers qualifications. An exam will be avail

to take at the Virginia State Beekeepers Association convention on October 26, 2024 at

Wytheville Community College. You must be a member of the Virginia State Beekeepers

Association.

 The VSBA state convention will be held October 25-27 at the Wytheville Meeting Center on the

campus of Wytheville Community College. Registration begins August 1, 2024.

https://www.virginiabeekeepers.org/VSBA-CONFERENCE an application to join the VSBA can

be found here that you can print and mail in: https://www.virginiabeekeepers.org/join-us You

can also join on-line if you prefer here: https://www.virginiabeekeepers.org/join-us

 A motion was made by Rodney Sayre to make dues $10.00 and name badge $10.00 (total

$20.00 first year). Thereafter dues will be $10.00 each year following. The motion was passed.

 List Serv – Connie Armentrout will be sending Drew White a list of members who have opted in

for the List Serv.

 Kristine Smith, VSBA Webmaster will be presenting at our monthly meeting in October on How

to Raise Queens. She will also be presenting at the VSBA state convention as well.

Volunteers will be needed.

 Cathy Hounshell shared an article about artificial “honey” being made without honeybees.

https://bee-io.com/

 Bepe (Elizabeth) Kafka presented information about Preserve Grayson. You can learn more

about the aerial spraying and its negative effects on honeybees, and this very worthy group at

https://www.preservegrayson.org/ . A motion was made by Rodney Sayre and 2 nd by Gay

Stephens for MEBA to support Preserve Grayson with their efforts for laws to provide

transparency in aerial spraying with notification. The motion was passed.

New Business

 If anyone would like to sell honey at the Grayson County Fair, you will need to volunteer at

least 4 hours.

 The president of the Farmer Bureau purchased and ordered information about pollination to

pass out at the Grayson County Fair for MEBA.

 Cathy Hounshell will be working the community table at the Wytheville Farmers Market

Saturday July 27, 2024 8:00 a.m. -12:00 p.m. If you would like to volunteer with her let her,

know.

MEBA will be ordering shirts and hats with our logo. Patty Younger and Mickey Cunningham

will be looking into a local vender and comparing this with other online venders for the best

deal.

August 17, 2024 Dr. James Wilson, Extension Agent from Virginia Tech Entomology Department

will be doing a Varroa presentation in room 112 Smyth Hall 9:00-12:00. He is in need of

volunteers for a Varroa study.

Raffle Winners:

Bee rug – LaVonda Heath

Bee shirt – Diane Wolford

Bee rug – Dustin Osborne

Bee table runner – Niki Osborne

Shower Curtain – Fred Williams

Bee bathroom rug set – Beth Orvec

Next meeting: Thursday August 22, 2024 at 6:30 p.m. at Wytheville Community College in Smyth Hall room

122.

Adjourned: at 8:01 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Connie Armentrout, MEBA Secretary

 The meeting was called to order at 6:30 p.m. by Mickey Cunningham, MEBA President at Wytheville Community College, in Smyth Hall room 122.   23 members were present.

Minutes:  A motion was made to approve the minutes by Mickey Meredith, and was 2nd by Rodney Sayre. 

Presenter: Mickey Cunningham

Presentation: Honey Sales and Labeling

• Honey sales are no longer under USDA.  Honey sales and guidance and regulated by the Food and Drug Association.  https://www.afdo.org/resources/honey-laws-and-guidance/
• Some of the best tasting honey in the world comes from Appalachia due to the diverse nectar sources. https://www.londonhoneyawards.com/
• It is important to know a 6-mile radius around your apiary.  Meet your neighbors.  We have a 10 to 10 ½ month blooming season.  Yucca is a good drought tolerant plant.  
• Have wooden spoons to taste honey.  
• Your label should specify Honey, All Natural Honey or Pure Honey.  It should have the farmer’s name, address, phone number and email address.  It should also specify Not Inspected by USDA, Not Pasteurized, and Do Not Feed to Children under 1 year of Age.   The net weight in ounces and grams need to be on the label as well. 
• Check around for the best prices for bottles and lids, and order in bulk.
• Have no air space after filling jar with honey.
• Bee Culture magazine states that for area 2 which includes Virginia and North Carolina the average price for 1 lb. of honey is $12.20.  There is no tax for honey that is sold at Farmers Markets for the first 55 gallons.  
• Clethra alnifolia is a good a good flowering shrub for nectar.
• Have a sample jar for tasting.  Coffee stirrers are good to use for this.  Let them know that the honey is strained not filtered.  
• One frame will give you 4 lbs. of honey.  Freeze it in the box.  Put it in a chest on ice so it does not melt.   

Education Committee Report:

Up Coming Meetings:

July – Queen Rearing -TBA

August- Bee Pest Capture – Fred Williams

September – Dead Outs – Cathy Hounshell

October – Feeding Techniques – TBA

November – Best Bee Practices – Open Forum Moderator/Rodney Sayre

Old Business:  

• Fred Jones from Pilot, Virginia bought Tim Service’s queen rearing business.  He will have queens available.  His phone number is (540) 745-2982. 
• “Tator” David Miller of Abingdon, Virginia is still buying wood to make woodenware bee supplies.  He can be reached at 25155 Walden Road Abingdon, VA 24210.  His phone number is (276) 608-6225.
• Olivarez Queen Producers in California https://www.ohbees.com/products/ohb-saskatraz-queens  Saskatraz Queens $44.75  1 to 5 queens (877) 865-0298.  Anyone interested should notify Mickey Cunningham at (276) 579-2123 by the end of August.
• Website.  https://mountainempirebeekeepingassoci.godaddysites.com/  .”
• Bee and Comb has a 10% discount and free shipping on bee suits and veils.  https://www.beekeepingservices.com/   Get your payment to Mickey Cunningham at the March meeting.  Get payment to Mickey also for anything from Miller Bee Supply. 
• The Grayson County Fair will be the second weekend in August on Friday the 9th, Saturday the 10th and Sunday the 11th.    Eight people are needed to help with MEBA’s display table.  (Four on Friday and four on Saturday to  selling honey)  So far, the Fair Committee consists of Sean Malarkey and Rodney Sayre.  Times needed for volunteers include 5:00-9:00 Thursday, 10:00-45:00 Friday, and 9:00-2:00 on Saturday.   The fair is located in Elk Creek at Bottomley’s Evergreens and Farms.  If you are going to sell honey, you have to work 4 hours at least.  
• Patty Younger is in need of photos for our new website.  You can email her at youngerbass@gmail.com .
• https://scientificbeekeeping.com/how-to-use-randys-handy-mite-wash-cup/   

New Business

• Bees in The News- Bee Culture has an article about the ins and outs of mentoring.  
• MEBA t-shirts will be available for purchase in November.
• The Carroll County Fair is the last full week of August.  
• June 8, 2024 Benny Quesenberry will host at his home a lunch and hive dive starting at 9:30.
• Rodney Sayre discussed the oxalic acid method and an oxalic acid gun that will be available in October for about $150.00.  
• List of tips while doing a split:  Eurel Clippard always said to have several hive tools.  Cathy Hounshell gave a tip to use a cork for the end of your smoker to put out the fire when finished.  Also, put a magnet on it to attach it to the side of the smoker so you can find it.  Mickey Cunningham suggested brown vinegar to clean your smoker.
• Roberts Bee Company (queens) - https://www.robertsbeecompany.com/index.html  Always ask if the queen is mated.  
• Information on the Virginia Master Beekeeper Program call Adam Wilson 915-929-1556.  The test is given once a year.  Community Service is required.  https://www.virginiabeekeepers.org/Master-Beekeeper-Program 
• If volunteering for the Grayson County Fair, please bring a lawn chair.  Only 4 people can sell honey at any one time, but honey can be rotated out.  On Friday all 4th graders from Grayson County will be coming through the fair.
• Rodney Sayre gave an update on the Master Bee Keepers qualifications.  An exam will be avail to take at the Virginia State Beekeepers Association convention on October 26, 2024 at Wytheville Community College.  You must be a member of the Virginia State Beekeepers Association. 
• The VSBA state convention will be held October 25-27 at the Wytheville Meeting Center on the campus of Wytheville Community College.  Registration begins August 1, 2024.  https://www.virginiabeekeepers.org/VSBA-CONFERENCE  an application to join the VSBA can be found here: https://cdn.wildapricot.com/300374/resources/Documents/VSBA%20Membership.pdf?version=1673914456000&Policy=eyJTdGF0ZW1lbnQiOiBbeyJSZXNvdXJjZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vY2RuLndpbGRhcHJpY290LmNvbS8zMDAzNzQvcmVzb3VyY2VzL0RvY3VtZW50cy9WU0JBJTIwTWVtYmVyc2hpcC5wZGY~dmVyc2lvbj0xNjczOTE0NDU2MDAwIiwiQ29uZGl0aW9uIjp7IkRhdGVMZXNzVGhhbiI6eyJBV1M6RXBvY2hUaW1lIjoxNzIxODUwMjkyfSwiSXBBZGRyZXNzIjp7IkFXUzpTb3VyY2VJcCI6IjAuMC4wLjAvMCJ9fX1dfQ__&Signature=rwAfFgZYRFA4w8cTslml8TaaSBuQEWIbVgsQCKPudqMsz8rayOjPSEkz53eLXBP7MwX0C7jzzKBsE0szTBMHxlSZ98KhALYTdk0OwSpLXxaTwoa2iWbNsYKZVsucPiHBcoUBW0LeG~T44Hqg4R29QISL048xkmZSIwIUhQrmipMDkHyYFbIBrMxeL3BcqNoBkHq1YpAfUqfuAMJfL3uWGokNVP1UmkFa8feIOmJsZJO5bU5SRvS1V1K22Km0~8CGeXNTXqB3Q~WI7m2lIbyKHoqz1k9pSHnbTyO5fYCmAS-4E6AGIMHvT2jOESjdgKKhNUWTc4rr63aJ8oBtaEMF~w__&Key-Pair-Id=K27MGQSHTHAGGF

You can also join on line if you prefer here:  https://www.virginiabeekeepers.org/join-us

• A motion was made by Rodney Sayre to make dues $10.00 and name badge $10.00 (total $20.00 first year).  Thereafter dues will be $10.00 each year following.  The motion was passed.
• List Serv – Connie Armentrout will be sending Drew White a list of members who have opted in for the List Serv.
• Cathy Hounshell spoke about an event coming up July 27 at the Wytheville Farmers Market.   A community table will be set up entitled “Meet the Honey Bee”.  MEBA will provide educational information.  Volunteers will be needed to help with this.  If you prefer not to volunteer, feel free to still come by and visit the table.
• Kristine Smith, VSBA Webmaster will be presenting at our monthly meeting in October on How to Raise Queens.  She will also be presenting at the VSBA state convention as well.  
  Volunteers will be needed.
• Cathy Hounshell shared an article about artificial “honey” being made without honeybees.  https://bee-io.com/ 
• Bepe (Elizabeth) Kafka presented information about Preserve Grayson.  You can learn more about the aerial spraying and its negative effects on honeybees, and this very worthy group at https://www.preservegrayson.org/ . A motion was made by Rodney Sayre and 2nd by Gay Stephens for MEBA to support Preserve Grayson with their efforts for laws to provide transparency in aerial spraying with notification.  The motion was passed.

10 lbs. Sugar

10 Lbs. Sugar

Raffle Winners: 

Varroa Mite Count Jar – LaVonda Heath

Bee Veil – Mickey Meredith

Bee Veil and Jacket – Allan Schuster

Varroa Mite Count Jar – Diane Wolford

Bee Sign – Gary Stephens

Bee Shirt – Ethel Parks

Bee Veil – Gary Bolt

Bee Veil and Jacket – Drew White

Comb Scrapper – Gene Murgaleta

Bee Veil – Tommy Cox

Next meeting: Thursday July 25, 2024 at 6:30 p.m. at Wytheville Community College in Smyth Hall room 122. 

Adjourned: at 8:27 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Connie Armentrout, MEBA Secretary

The meeting was called to order at 6:30 p.m. by Mickey Cunningham, MEBA President at Wytheville Community College, in Smyth Hall room 122.   24 members were present.

Minutes:  A motion was made to approve the minutes by Cathy Hounshell, and was 2nd by Rodney Sayre. 

Presenter: Mickey Cunningham

Presentation: Splits

Education Committee Report:

Up Coming Meetings:

June – Honey Sales-Mickey Cunningham

July – Queen Rearing -TBA

August- Bee Pest Capture – Fred Williams

September – Dead Outs – Cathy Hounshell

October – Feeding Techniques – TBA

November – Best Bee Practices – Open Forum Moderator/Rodney Sayre

Old Business:  

• Fred Jones from Pilot, Virginia bought Tim Service’s queen rearing business.  He will have queens available.  His phone number is (540) 745-2982. 
• “Tator” David Miller of Abingdon, Virginia is still buying wood to make woodenware bee supplies.  He can be reached at 25155 Walden Road Abingdon, VA 24210.  His phone number is (276) 608-6225.
• Olivarez Queen Producers in California https://www.ohbees.com/products/ohb-saskatraz-queens  Saskatraz Queens $44.75  1 to 5 queens (877) 865-0298.  Anyone interested should notify Mickey Cunningham at (276) 579-2123 by the end of August.
• Website.  https://mountainempirebeekeepingassoci.godaddysites.com/  .”
• Bee and Comb has a 10% discount and free shipping on bee suits and veils.  https://www.beekeepingservices.com/   Get your payment to Mickey Cunningham at the March meeting.  Get payment to Mickey also for anything from Miller Bee Supply. 
• The Grayson County Fair will be the second weekend in August on Friday the 9th, Saturday the 10th and Sunday the 11th.    Eight people are needed to help with MEBA’s display table.  (Four on Friday and four on Saturday to  selling honey)  So far the Fair Committee consists of Sean Malarkey and Rodney Sayre.  Times needed for volunteers include 5:00-9:00 Thursday, 10:00-45:00 Friday, and 9:00-2:00 on Saturday.   The fair is located in Elk Creek at Bottomley’s Evergreens and Farms.  If you are going to sell honey, you have to work 4 hours at least.  
• Patty Young is in need of photos for our new website.  You can email her at youngerbass@gmail.com .
• https://scientificbeekeeping.com/how-to-use-randys-handy-mite-wash-cup/    

New Business

• Bees in The News- Bee Culture has an article about the ins and outs of mentoring.  
• MEBA t-shirts will be available for purchase in November.
• The Carroll County Fair is the last full week of August.  
• June 8, 2024 Benny Quesenberry will host at his home a lunch and hive dive starting at 9:30.
• Rodney Sayre made a motion for next year for there be a $10.00 due and $10.00 name badge starting in November.  People who take the bee class would get a 1-year membership with MEBA and a name badge.  This motion was tabled until the next meeting in June 2024.
• Rodney Sayre discussed the oxalic acid method and an oxalic acid gun that will be available in October for about $150.00.  
• List of tips while doing a split:  Eurel Clippard always said to have several hive tools.  Cathy Hounshell gave a tip to use a cork for the end of your smoker to put out the fire when finished.  Also, put a magnet on it to attach it to the side of the smoker so you can find it.  Mickey Cunningham suggested brown vinegar to clean your smoker.
• Roberts Bee Company (queens) - https://www.robertsbeecompany.com/index.html  Always ask if the queen is mated.  
• Information on the Virginia Master Beekeeper Program call Adam Wilson 915-929-1556.  The test is given once a year.  Community Service is required.  https://www.virginiabeekeepers.org/Master-Beekeeper-Program 

-10 lbs. Sugar

10 Lbs. Sugar

Raffle Winners: 

Bee stencils – Connie Armentrout

Hat/veil – LaVonda

Clock – Sahar Husseini

Hat/veil – Bill Page

Queen excluder – Randy Muir

Honey gate – Mickey Meredith

Honey cold knife – Allen Schuster

Queen excluder – Benny Quesenberry

Hive tool – Fred Williams

Hive robbing screen – Jeff Macquarrie

Hive tool – Annette Vankleeck

Queen excluder – Beth Oravec

Queen excluder – Christine Macquarrie

Bee caution sign – Joe Bontrager

Next meeting: Thursday June 27, 2024 at 6:30 p.m. at Wytheville Community College in Smyth Hall room 122. 

Adjourned: at 8:06 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Connie Armentrout, MEBA Secretary

The meeting was called to order at 6:30 p.m. by Mickey Cunningham, MEBA President at Wytheville Community College, in Smyth Hall room 122.  39 members were present.

Minutes: A motion was made to approve the minutes by Anita Parks, and was 2nd by Drew White.  

Presenter: Randy Muir

Presentation: To Treat of Not To Treat: Process of Washing for Mites

 Video of Randy Muir in his bee yard demonstrating getting a March mite count through a wash. 

Committee Reports:

Education Committee-  Rodney Sayre reported information on a Queen Rearing CD.

Beth Oravec reported information on the Grayson Fair and gave an update on Earth Day which is Saturday 10:00-3:00 off exit 14 in Hillsville across from the Farmers’ Market.

Financial Report: Mickey Cunningham gave the financial report on behalf of Hank Sturkie in his absence.

Old Business:  

• Fred Jones from Pilot, Virginia bought Tim Service’s queen rearing business.  He will have queens available. His phone number is (540) 745-2982. 
• “Tator” David Miller of Abingdon, Virginia is still buying wood to make woodenware bee      supplies. He can be reached at 25155 Walden Road Abingdon, VA 24210. His phone number is (276) 608-6225.
• Olivarez Queen Producers in California https://www.ohbees.com/products/ohb-saskatraz-queens Saskatraz Queens $44.75 1 to 5 queens (877) 865-0298. Anyone interested should notify Mickey Cunningham at (276) 579-2123 by the end of August.
• Website.  https://mountainempirebeekeepingassoci.godaddysites.com/ .”
• Bee and Comb has a 10% discount and free shipping on bee suits and veils. https://www.beekeepingservices.com/ Get your payment to Mickey Cunningham      at the March meeting. Get payment to Mickey also for anything from Miller Bee Supply. 
• The      Grayson County Fair will be the second weekend in August on Friday the 9th,      Saturday the 10th and Sunday the 11th. Eight people are needed to help with  MEBA’s display table. (Four on Friday and four on Saturday to selling honey) So far the Fair Committee consists of Sean Malarkey and Rodney Sayre. Times needed for volunteers include 5:00-9:00 Thursday, 10:00-45:00 Friday, and 9:00-2:00 on Saturday. The fair is located in Elk Creek at Bottomley’s Evergreens and Farms. If you are going to sell honey, you have to work 4 hours at least. 
• Patty Younger is in need of photos for our new website. You can email her at youngerbass@gmail.com .

New Business

• Mary Encernacao made the quilt that was auctioned off at the April meeting for  $800.00!  Congratulations to Rebecca (Diane) Woodford who made the winning bid.  Thank you Kathy Queen for your donation. The quilt was beautiful.
• A motion was made by Anita Parks to auction the first quilt and the next quilt to be raffled to whomever wants to buy a raffle ticket. 
• A motion was made by Rodney Sayre for the creation of a List Serve for MEBA. It was 2nd by Randy Muir. Motion was passed. In order to participate in the List Serve, you have to opt-in. Everyone will continue to receive emails as before whether they are on the List Serve or not. Drew White volunteered to create the List Serve. An email will be sent to all MEBA members asking if they would like to be part of the List Serve.
• https://scientificbeekeeping.com/how-to-use-randys-handy-mite-wash-cup/       
• Cathy Hounshell has been developing monthly calendars that list for our area things that are in bloom and what beekeeping tasks should be done. Cathy gathers information on the average temperatures for our area at weather.gov. She is currently working on the May calendar.
• Bee safety equipment jackets will be shipped 2 weeks from 4/25/24. All bee suits will be 2 to 3 weeks after jackets.
• May 4 is the Hive Dive. Bring a packed lunch. Cathy Hounshell will send information about this to send out to MEBA members. The backup date is May 18, 2024.
• The Wytheville Farmers’ Market will be coming up in early June.
• Rodney Sayres will be getting hard copies of the Honey Bee Healthy Coalition booklets. 

Raffle Winners: 

Auction of quilt – Winning bid Diane Woodford

Next meeting: Thursday May 23, 2024at 6:30 p.m. at Wytheville Community College in Smyth Hall room 122. 

Adjourned: at 8:06 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Connie Armentrout, MEBA Secretary

The meeting was called to order at 6:30 p.m. by Mickey Cunningham, MEBA President at Wytheville Community College, in Smyth Hall room 122.  35 members were present.

Minutes: A motion was made to approve the minutes by Catherine Forsyth, and was 2nd by Rodney Sayre.  

Presenter: Brian Kreowski, Agricultural Inspector brian.kreowski@vdacs.virginia.gov

Presentation: Apiary Inspection Program

Old Business:  

• Fred Jones from Pilot, Virginia      bought Tim Service’s queen rearing business. He will have queens available. His phone number is (540) 745-2982. 
• “Tator” David Miller of Abingdon, Virginia is still buying wood to make woodenware bee      supplies. He can be reached at 25155 Walden Road Abingdon, VA 24210. His phone number is (276) 608-6225.
• Olivarez Queen Producers in California https://www.ohbees.com/products/ohb-saskatraz-queens Saskatraz Queens $44.75 1 to 5 queens (877) 865-0298. Anyone interested should notify Mickey Cunningham at (276) 579-2123 by the end of August.
• Website.  https://mountainempirebeekeepingassoci.godaddysites.com/ .”
• Bee and Comb has a 10% discount and free shipping on bee suits and veils. https://www.beekeepingservices.com/ Get your payment to Mickey Cunningham at the March meeting. Get payment to Mickey also for anything from Miller Bee Supply. 
• The  Grayson County Fair will be the second weekend in August on Friday the 9th,      Saturday the 10th and Sunday the 11th. Eight people are needed to help with MEBA’s display table. (Four on      Friday and four on Saturday to selling honey) So far the Fair Committee consists of Sean Malarkey and Rodney Sayre.
• Patty  Younger is in need of photos for our new website. You can email her at youngerbass@gmail.com .

New Business

• A motion was made to pay the artist $100.00 for the MEBA logo. Motion was approved.
• Kathy Queen donated a quilt that will be auctioned off at the April meeting.
• Catherine Forsyth made a motion to pay an admission fee of $200.00 to participate at      the Grayson County 2024 Fair. The motion was 2nd by Anita Parks. The fair will be the second weekend in August. Times needed for volunteers include 5:00-9:00      Thursday, 10:00-45:00 Friday, and 9:00-2:00 on Saturday. The fair is located in Elk Creek at Bottomley’s Evergreens and Farms. If you are going to sell honey, you have to work 4 hours at least. We need four      people at a table at a time.

Raffle Winners: 

Book: Growing and Marketing Ginseng, Goldenseal and other Woodland Medicinals - Connie Armentrout

Book: The New Starting Right with Bees – Catherine Forsyth

Book: Old Favorite Honey Recipes: Over 250 Great Recipes from Beekeepers and Cooks – Wendy Pierce

Book: The ABC and Bee Culture – Lavonda Heath

Book: Cooking with Honey – Toren Vanlear 

Book: The Healing Power of Honey – Wendy Pierce

Book: The Beeman (children’s book) – J.J. Hamlet

Next meeting: Thursday April 25, 2024 at 6:30 p.m. at Wytheville Community College in Smyth Hall room 122. 

Adjourned: at 7:56 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Connie Armentrout, MEBA Secretary

The meeting was called to order at 6:30 p.m. by Mickey Cunningham, MEBA President at Wytheville Community College, in Smyth Hall room 122.  32 members were present.

Minutes: A motion was made to approve the minutes by Randy Muir, and was 2nd by Anita Parks.  

Presenter: Mickey Cunningham

Presentation: Swarming DVD

Old Business:  

• Fred Jones from Pilot, Virginia bought Tim Service’s queen rearing business. He will have queens available. His phone number is (540) 745-2982. 
• “Tator” David Miller of Abingdon, Virginia is still buying wood to make woodenware bee      supplies. He can be reached at 25155 Walden Road Abingdon, VA 24210. His phone number is (276) 608-6225.
• Olivarez Queen Producers in California https://www.ohbees.com/products/ohb-saskatraz-queens Saskatraz Queens $44.75 1 to 5 queens (877) 865-0298. Anyone interested should notify Mickey Cunningham at (276) 579-2123 by the end of August.
• Per Cathy Hounshell – Honey Bee Health Coalition is the best site for Varroa mite control. https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org/resources/varroa-management/
• Bill Weaver with Weaver’s Nursery will have Clethra Alnifolia (Summer Sweet)      available next year around October. MEBA will consider doing a group purchase as we did with the      sourwood trees at that time.
• The elections results for MEBA were as follows: President – Mickey Cunningham, Vice      President – Rodney Sayre, Secretary – Connie Armentrout, Treasurer – Hank      Sturkie
• Go to https://scientificbeekeeping.com/ to learn more about slow release oxalic acid. However, it is not available in the U.S. yet due to the FDA. 
• The Beekeepers Class will start February 19 from 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. The class will continue for five consecutive Mondays in Smyth Hall room 122. 
• The old website will turn off February 4, 2024. Per Patty Younger, “This is the new website URL.  In July, the old address will be switched to the new site.  https://mountainempirebeekeepingassoci.godaddysites.com/ .”
• Anthony Ellis is selling five frame nucs that will be ready the second week of May for $165.00 weather permitting. Randy Muir and Johnathan Wright are selling nucs as well.

New Business

• Bee and Comb has a 10% discount and free shipping on bee suits and veils. https://www.beekeepingservices.com/  Get your payment to Mickey Cunningham at the March meeting. Get payment to Mickey also for anything from Miller Bee Supply. 
• A motion was made to approve the budget by Rodney Sayre and 2nd by Anita      Parks.
• The Grayson County Fair will be the second weekend in August on Friday the 9th,      Saturday the 10th and Sunday the 11th. Eight people are needed to help with MEBA’s display table. (Four on Friday and four on Saturday to  selling honey) So far the Fair Committee consists of Sean Mullarkey and Rodney Sayre.
• Patty Younger is in need of photos for our new website. You can email her at youngerbass@gmail.com .
• A motion was made by Beth Oravec for MEBA to support the celebration of Earth Day in      collaboration with the Carroll County Litter Task Force. It was 2nd by Rodney Sayre and approved. Beth Oravec asked if anyone would like to set up a booth across from the Farmer’s Market during the Earth Day celebration in Hillsville to sell honey.
• The Washington County Garden Fair will be April 20, 2024.

Raffle Winners: 

David Poe – Bee brush, entrance feeder, crimper and queen catcher

Ethel Parks – Hat and veil

Bennie Quesenberry – gloves, hive tool

Anita Parks – Knife, smoker fuel, gripper

Connie Armentrout – frame holder

Jeff Sexton – Bee comb

Next meeting: Thursday March 28, 2024 at 6:30 p.m. at Wytheville Community College in Smyth Hall room 122. 

Adjourned: at 8:30 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Connie Armentrout, MEBA Secretary

January 25, 2024

The meeting was called to order at 6:30 p.m. by Anthony Ellis, MEBA President at Wytheville Community College, in Smyth Hall room 122.  23 members were present.

Minutes: A motion was made to approve the minutes by Mickey Cunningham, and was 2nd by Hank Sturkie.  

Presenter: Hank Sturkie

Presentation: Review of Revised By Laws and Constitution 

Hank gave another review of the proposed revisions to the By Laws and Constitution. A move to approve the revised By Laws and Constitution was proposed by Mickey Cunningham and seconded by Rodney Sayre. The motion passed. The vice president and secretary will have a one-year term this year, and the president and treasurer will have a 2-year term starting this year. Two-year term limits will continue with two offices being voted on per year, but not all four offices on the same year. Hank Sturkie proposed that Connie Armentrout continue as secretary for one more year. He also nominated Mickey Cunningham as president. Rodney Sayre volunteered to run as vice president. 

Old Business:  

• Fred Jones from Pilot, Virginia      bought Tim Service’s queen rearing business. He will have queens available. His phone number is (540) 745-2982. 
• “Tator” David Miller of Abingdon, Virginia is still buying wood to make woodenware bee      supplies. He can be reached at 25155 Walden Road Abingdon, VA 24210. His phone number is (276) 608-6225.
• Instructions for the Dyce Method for making creamed honey:

1. Blend the honey to the desired color, flavor and moisture content. 2. Pasteurize the honey you wish to crystallize by first heating the honey to 120 °F. Then strain it to remove large impurities, especially wax particles. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWugwfMct9o

• Bee Cozy - https://nodglobal.com/bee-cozy/ They slide on and off to help with windbreak.
• Winterization presentation from September 2022 by Hank Sturkie will be put on the MEBA website. Helpful information about candy board can be found in this presentation. It will be attached to the MEBA meeting reminder email as well.
• Olivarez Queen Producers in California https://www.ohbees.com/products/ohb-saskatraz-queens Saskatraz Queens $44.75 1 to 5 queens (877) 865-0298. Anyone interested should notify Mickey Cunningham at (276) 579-2123 by the end of August.
• Per Cathy Hounshell – Honey Bee Health Coalition is the best site for Varroa mite control. https://honeybeehealthcoalition.org/resources/varroa-management/
• Bill Weaver with Weaver’s Nursery will have Clethra Alnifolia (Summer Sweet) available next year around October. MEBA will consider doing a group purchase as we did with the      sourwood trees at that time.
• The North American Honey Bee Expo was held Thursday January 4, 2024 1:00p.m.      –Saturday January 6, 2024 at 7:00p.m. There were lots of vendors and new inventions. Anthony Ellis attended and said it was fabulous. Go to https://www.nahbexpo.com/ to join an interactive Facebook group to chat with other beekeepers and keep up with the latest news with the North American Honey Bee Expo.

New Business

• The elections results for MEBA were as follows: President – Mickey Cunningham, Vice      President – Rodney Sayre, Secretary – Connie Armentrout, Treasurer – Hank Sturkie
• Go to https://scientificbeekeeping.com/ to learn more about slow release oxalic acid. However, it is not available in the U.S. yet due to the FDA. 
• The Beekeepers Class will start February 19 from 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. The class will continue for five consecutive Mondays in Smyth Hall room 122. 
• The old website will turn off February 4, 2024. Per Patty Younger, “This is the new website URL.  In July, the old address will be switched to the new site.  https://mountainempirebeekeepingassoci.godaddysites.com/  .”
• Anthony Ellis is selling five frame nucs that will be ready the second week of May for $165.00 weather permitting. Randy Muir and Johnathan Wright are selling nucs as well.
• It was proposed by Hank Sturkie to make Mickey Cunningham a lifetime member of MEBA. Mickey Meredith seconded the motion. Motion was approved. Congratulations to Mickey Cunningham.
• Tom Lavelle gave information about VDAC hiring Seasonal Bee Inspectors should anyone be interested. 

Raffle Winners: 

Ethel Parks – Bee and Comb hat and cage anti-robbing screen

Bennie Quesenberry – Uncapping roller

Catherine Forsyth – MEBA hat and cage anti-robbing screen

Fred Williams – Bee brush

Connie Armentrout – Smoker material

Bennie Quesenberry – Pollen patties

Johnathan Wright – nails

Fred Williams – Uncapping comb

Next meeting: Thursday February 22, 2024 at 6:30 p.m. at Wytheville Community College in Smyth Hall room 122. 

Adjourned: at 8:30 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Connie Armentrout, MEBA Secretary