FEBRUARY 27TH 2025

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.

november 21st, 2024

November Minutes

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

October 24th, 2024

October Minutes

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.

• 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

August 22nd, 2024

August Minutes

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

July 25th, 2024

Minutes

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

June 27th, 2024

Minutes

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

may 23rd, 2024

Minutes

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

April 25th, 2024

Minutes

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

March 28th, 2024

Minutes

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

February 22nd, 2024

Minutes

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 25th, 2024

Minutes

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

February 23, 2023

Minutes

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. 29 members were present.

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

Speaker: Brian Kreowski, Agricultural Inspector Presentation: Apiary Inspection Program Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/title3.2/chapter44/ http://law.lis.virginia.gov/admincode/title2/agency5/chapter319/section30/ file:///H:/2022-2023/MEBA/Brian%20Kreowski%20-%202-23- 2023%20Presentation/Apiary%20Inspection%20Map.pdf

Old Business:

• The trifold needs to be redone. Wytheville Word Print may have the original. We need members to submit pictures of people extracting, going into their hives or food service with honey. Pictures of flowers, shrubs or trees that bees like are needed too. New Business:

• The Bee Class will run February 28-March 28, 2023. April 4 will be a makeup should there be any inclement weather.

• Tim Service is going in March to pick up package bees with queens for about $150.00 if anyone is interested. canoemaker@centurylink.net

• A motion was made by Mickey Cunningham to have $200.00 to procure items for the bee class raffle. Drew White seconded it.

• Mickey Cunningham shared that Crimson Clover (annual) is great for bees, but not the perennial Crimson Clover. He suggested that those of us who want to purchase some do so in bulk together in order to save money. $10.25 per lb. For information: https://territorialseed.com/products/clovercrimson-clover • Dr. Tignor with VSBA did research that shows sunflowers tend to keep the varroa mite population down. Get your seeds early!

• Do not feed pollen or protein supplements in September or October.

• The president of Wytheville Community College approved for MEBA to have open hives on campus Saturday May 13 for the bee class. Volunteers will be needed to help that day. The site on campus is yet to be determined by the executive committee. 3-5 colonies will be needed. A Security Safety Plan will be submitted to Wytheville Community College 72 hours before bees are brought to campus. Mickey Cunningham, Cathy Hounshell, Fred Williams, Joe Turpin and Jeff Sexton have volunteered to help.

• Fred Jones from Pilot, Virginia bought Tim Service’s queen rearing business. He will have queens available. His phone number is (540) 745-2982.

• Tim Service purchased 50 packages of bees. Call him between now and March 2 to buy a package from him. His phone number is (276) 952-5077.

• The Mann Lake Bee Supply will be having their March Madness Sale through the month of March. Joyce with Mann Lake can help you at this phone number (218) 675-6688.

• Tractor Supply has the cheapest prices on sugar right now.

• “Tator” David Miller of Abingdon, Virgina 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.

• Mickey Cunningham will be verifying the pricing with Karén Avetisyan, Ph.D. of Bee and Comb, LLC on the new British hood and jacket. The price is around $79.00. Bee and Comb, LLC in Durham, North Carolina is offering free shipping on orders more than $50.00. *Also, when sent to Virginia is tax-free. https://www.beekeepingservices.com/ Let Mickey know if you are interested in purchasing. His number is (276) 579-2123.

• A motion for consideration as “How to Conduct Basic Bee Class” for the next five (5) years “Whereas part of the mission for Mountain Empire Beekeepers Associations (association) is to help new beekeepers to become established, therefore, I move that the tuition cost be set at $47.00 per student and family discount be set at $75.00 and family tuition provides maximum of two textbooks per family. Duration of this motion is not to exceed five (5) years from January 26, 2023. (Second required here) Discussion: Purpose of this motion is to aid class recruitment on a multiyear basis. Also, this motion is not to limit the powers of the executive committee on a biennial basis to adjust tuition based upon the economy and the development of a new textbook. Perception from recruiting this year is that more persons will be retiring to the area covered by the association and that when discussion on the class reaches price for tuition it should remain stable for at least two years. Secondly, this motion will allow our membership to talk to other persons with assurance of facts about our educational program.” This motion has been tabled for 2 months.

Raffle Winners: Five sheets of foundation wax– Darlene Lockard Hive box woodenware deep – Jonathan Wright Mouse guard/anti-robbing screen/pesticide protection screen – Justin Osborne Inner cover – Hank Sturkie

Next meeting: Thursday March 23, 2023 at Wytheville Community College in Smyth Hall room 122. Adjourned: at 8:30 p.m.

Respectfully submitted, Connie Armentrout, MEBA Secretary

March 23, 2023

March Minutes

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. 36 members were present.

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

Speaker: Randy Oliver www.scientificbeekeeping.com

Presentation: Varroa Mite Concepts and Practice https://scientificbeekeeping.com/scibeeimages/2023-Concepts-in-varroa-management.pdf https://chickabuzz.com/model.html

Old Business:

New Business: