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Treasurer's
Report | AGENDA |
Committees
MINUTES
June 9, 2010
General Membership Meeting
Beekeepers Association of Southwest Florida
Conference Room, Lee Co. Ext. Offices
The meeting was called to order at 6:45 p.m.
Treasurer’s Report: The report was read by Virginia Riggs and
accepted as read.
Secretary’s Report: The report was read by Lisa St. John and
accepted as read.
Old Business:
 Honey
Bee Program: The application can be downloaded from the front page
of the http://swfbees.com website. We’re the only Florida group
participating in the Honey Bee Program, so the winning girl would
automatically win at the State level. This is a great opportunity
for scholarships and etc. The age for participation in the contest
is 18-24 yrs.
Florida
State Beekeepers Association Annual Convention: Estero Community
Park is being used for the Convention location that is being held
October 28, 29, and 3o, 2010. They have a good combination of
classrooms and seem to be an ideal location for the event.
-
-There are many classrooms and an arts & crafts room
-
-All classroom facilities have AV for presentations
-
-There will be a hospitality room & a large pavilion
-
-There is lots of vendor space
-
-There are 464 parking spaces & 200 spaces on the grass
They also have a facility for a live bee yard. It will be roped off
and in a rather secluded area. There will be an attendant on the
site with the live bees at all times. The Bee College will be part
of the convention. There will also be a State sit-down dinner,
banquet, awards and auction. An awards committee needs to be
established for this. We need to contact the various clubs to find
out who they’re going to nominate for awards such as “Volunteer of
the Year” and many others.
This proposal (for the Convention) has been submitted to Lee County
and we’re awaiting approval.
501(C)
Status: We still haven’t gotten the directions and instructions to
apply online yet. This is the only delay. IRS hasn’t released the
software yet.
Summer
Fling in West Palm Beach: June 19th is the date for the Summer
Fling. More information can be found at the www.swfbees.com website.
Rebecca
did the newsletter and it’s available on the home page of the
swfbees.com website. She still needs good floral photos to add to
the “What’s Blooming” section, as well as bee pictures. Please send
them to Rebecca.
Division
of Plant Industry website has everybody’s name and information that
is registered in the State of Florida.
New Business:
FSBA
Board Members: Bill Jones is going to temporarily fill in for Ron
Weisburg as our representative for the FSBA Board Member meeting. He
will take minutes. Bill Jones is a volunteer until Mr. Weisburg’s
status is known. If Mr. Weisburg doesn’t respond to BASF’s calls,
then it will be voted on.
Educational Part of the Meeting:
Dennis
Riggs spoke on Nuc (as in nucleus)... a hand-out was given out to
members to add to their notebooks.
Give your bees just the amount of room that they need. Any excess
space is more work for a small colony. Nucs are used for keeping
spare queens, collecting swarms, keeping small hives, splits and
etc.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:35 p.m.
The next meeting will be held July 14, 2010 at 6:30 p.m.
MINUTES
May 12, 2010
General Membership Meeting
Beekeepers Association of Southwest Florida
Conference Room, Lee Co. Ext. Offices
The meeting was called to order at 6:51 p.m.
Treasurer’s Report: The treasurer’s report was read by
Virginia Riggs and accepted as read.
Secretary’s Report: The minutes were read by Lisa St. John
and accepted as read.
Old Business:
*Beth Ceiley is chairman of the committee for the Honey Queen
Program.
*The Bee Awareness Day needs a new chairman for the committee. Bee
Awareness Day will be held Saturday, August 21st at Gulf Coast Palm
& Tree Nursery in Ft. Myers.
*BASF needs volunteers for the State Convention held locally in
October.
*BASF is established as a corporation now, but we need to apply for
501(c) status from the IRS. This is for tax status with the IRS .
BASF has a tax number and can receive donations.
*The property that was donated for bee hive use needs to be walked
and checked for low lying areas that are prone to flooding.
New Business:
*City of Cape Coral Code Enforcement was called out to a member’s
home and officers asked if there were bees on the property. They
asked for the members license number. They checked it, thanked him,
and left. It is legal to keep bees on your own property in Cape
Coral if they are registered.
*Hawaii now has a problem with beetles and varroa mites.
*The association is going to hold a new contest for honey. It will
be judged. Keith has bottles to use to submit your honey for the
contest.
*Palmetto honey is blooming early this year. People can help out
with ‘what’s blooming’ by sending in their pictures with bees on
what’s blooming.
*We need some artwork for a half page ad (for the State Convention
we are hosting) in the Florida State (yellow) Beekeeping Journal. We
have one week to accomplish this.
*There is a new apiary that is open to the public from 12-5. It’s
called Bee and Nature Place and is located at 2749 Kent Road in
Bonita Springs. They just had their grand opening on May 1st and
have a 20 x 10 bee house with an observation hive, pictures, and bee
equipment. The City of Bonita Springs Parks and Recreation has a
link on their website.
*Make sure your registration numbers are on your boxes. It’s even
better to put your number on the bottom board, hives, etc. It’s also
a good idea to write your name and phone number on them as well.
*Keith and Melissa talked about backyard beekeeping on National
Public Radio last week.
*There is a new company in Florida that is making beekeeping
equipment called The North American Bee Hive Co.
*Keith Councell has plenty of bees to sell.
Educational Part of Meeting:
*Dennis Riggs spoke on Bee Math and the lifecycle of the honeybee…a
hand-out was provided.
The next meeting is June 9th at 6:30 p.m. at the Lee County Ext.
Office.
The meeting adjourned at 8:45 p.m.
MINUTES
April 14, 2010
General Membership Meeting
Beekeepers Association of Southwest Florida
Conference Room, Lee Co. Ext. Offices
Meeting began at 6:55 p.m.
Treasurer’s Report: Virginia Riggs read the treasurer’s
report. It was read and accepted.
Secretary’s Report: Lisa St. John read the secretary’s
report. It was read and accepted.
Old Business:
*The association is trying to figure out a solution to our honey
bottling situation.
*State Convention is being held in October and the association is
trying to find a good place to rent for the convention.
*National Bee Awareness Day is in October.
New Business:
*The Beginner Beekeeper Class will begin registration in early May.
It will begin around July 9th and will be each Friday after that for
a total of 4 weeks. We will need volunteers for the class. Class
size will be 30-40 people. The education committee will meet and
talk about the details.
*BASF had been offered a 60 acre piece of property for keeping bees
on. The details still have to be worked out. We need to set up a
committee and a bee yard manager.
*Mark your calendars for the Spring Fling 2010. Check out the home
page of the BASF website for more information. http://swfbees.com
*Rebecca has taken over the BASF newsletter and it is being emailed
to members.
*Honey Bee Queen- There is 5-6 contestants for the Honey Bee Queen
Pageant. BASF is still taking names.
*Master Beekeeping Program- There is a link on the BASF website.
*It was agreed that we need to have a “field day”. When the date is
set, it will be posted on the website.
Educational Part of the Meeting:
*The educational topic for this meeting is swarming. A hand-out was
given to be added to each member’s notebook. We watched a video on
swarming.
*Dennis Riggs showed us his antique queen trap.
Please participate in the State Bee Survey that will be emailed to
you.
The meeting adjourned at 9:25 p.m.
The next meeting will be held Wednesday, May 12th at 6:30 p.m.
MINUTES
March 10, 2010
General Membership Meeting
Beekeepers Association of Southwest Florida
Conference Room, Lee Co. Ext. Offices
The meeting began at 6:50 p.m.
Treasurer’s Report: The February treasurer’s report was read
by the treasurer, Virginia Riggs. It was read and accepted.
Secretary’s Report: The February minutes were read by the
secretary, Lisa St. John. They were moved, seconded, and accepted.
Old Business:
* We are still working on the kitchen issue.
* There is no report on the 501(c) this month.
New Business:
* Ron Weisburg read the minutes from the B.O.M. meeting.
* New attendees introduced themselves.
* The first newsletter for BASF is out electronically and can be
viewed on the website, http://swfbees.com. Rebecca offered to do the
newsletter.
* The next education meeting will be March 17, 2010. If anybody is
interested in being on a committee they can email Dennis Riggs. He
will publish a list of the committees in a future newsletter.
* FSBA is doing their June 19, 2010 Summer Fling. It will be at the
Pine Jog Environmental Center in Palm Beach County.
Educational Part of the Meeting:
* Splits. An informational fact sheet was given out on how to do
splits, the concept of it, the timing for it, and frequently asked
questions. There was a question and answer session.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:29 p.m.
MINUTES
February 10, 2010
General Membership Meeting
Beekeepers Association of Southwest Florida
Conference Room, Lee Co. Ext. Offices
The meeting was called to order at 6:46 p.m.
Virginia gave out brochures to those interested in attending the Bee
College that is being held in St. Augustine, Florida on March 12-13,
2010. Registration is now open. The form can be printed from
http://ufhoneybee.com . You can
also access the official 2010 Bee College brochure from this
website. You’ll get to meet with all the people doing research on
bees right now. It is worth attending. There is also a link to the
Bee College on the front page of the BASF website,
http://swfbees.com .
The contact numbers for the State Officers were given out. Put it in
your notebook under ‘Contacts’. A contact list for the local
association was also given out.
The new attendees introduced themselves.
A fact sheet for the wax moth was given out.
Treasurer’s Report
Virginia Riggs read the treasurer’s report. It was accepted as read.
Reading of the Minutes
Lisa St. John read the minutes and they were accepted as read.
Old Business
* Gene Sipe attended the ABF Convention and observed that there was
too much happening at the same time. He suggests that we don’t give
more than two options at the same time. He said it was a great
conference and there were beekeepers from all over the world.
* There is no news on the kitchen yet. Hopefully we will have some
news for the next meeting on March 10, 2010.
New Business
* Keith and Tom tried to come up with a time for the Education
Committee to meet. Dennis asked for volunteers for the Education
Committee. Dennis will email everyone on the committee when a date
and time is set.
*Our delegate, Ron Weisburg, gave a report of the last B.O.M.
meeting which included possible statute (statute 586.045) changes
currently being considered. A motion was moved and seconded to have
Gene Sipe prepare a proposal to send to Jerry Hayes to show that our
association is in support of the statute to shift authority from
local government to his office. Motion passed.
*A committee needs to be made to organize the “Queen Bee” pageant.
The qualification to enter is that as of Jan.1, 2010 you need to be
between 18-24 years of age. We need to get a sash and a tiara. The
winner will be required to “promote beekeeping, bee awareness, and
be able to educate about bees”. Our club is the first step for them
to be able to move up to available scholarships and etc. They have
to start with us locally. The committee will be set up to schedule
speaking engagements, events, and etc. The contestant does not have
to be a beekeeper, but must display knowledge of bees. The
contestant would be representing District 14.
Educational Part of Meeting
A fact sheet was handed out on wax moths. There was a question and
answer session.
There are more wax moths and varroa mites right now than any other
time of the year.
Dennis gave us a reminder about the Florida Beekeepers Discussion
group with Yahoo. There are advantages to being a member of the
yahoo group. There are links from the BASF website to the Florida
group and the local discussion group.
Tom Allen brought in his new observation box to show us. He built
his observation hive into a standard box so that he can tend to the
bees and travel with them easier.
A drawing was held to give one member a full pass to the Bee
College, worth $160.00.
The meeting was adjourned @ 8:41 p.m.
The next meeting is on March 10, 2010 at 6:30 p.m.
MINUTES
January 13, 2010
General Membership Meeting
Beekeepers Association of Southwest Florida
Conference Room, Lee Co. Ext. Offices
The meeting was called to order at 6:44 p.m.
The meeting began with notebooks. Kim Barselou made binders for each
member. They hold all your bee information, including informational
hand-outs, by-laws, a section to put the meeting minutes, and
contacts. Each member at the meeting was given theirs.
Treasurer’s Report:
Virginia Riggs read the treasurer’s report. Fifteen (15) people
became BASF local/State due paying members. The report was accepted.
Old Business:
*The input on the potluck dinner from December was that it was
absolutely delicious and wonderful. Thank you to Kim Barselou for
organizing it and doing all the lovely decorations.
*Lynne James hasn’t received any input from the attendees of the Bee
Awareness Day.
*A commercial kitchen was offered by a new member to BASF. The
member has a licensed catering kitchen that he volunteered to make
available on a limited basis. There are still issues to be discussed
about this.
New Business:
*Our FSBA delegate (Ron Weisburg) read a report on how small
beekeepers can bottle honey with minimum restrictions. There is a
rising demand for local produce and honey falls into this. There are
a lot of questions going on about the constitutional revision. The
State is not a 501(c) and is not tax exempt. He said there would be
a lot more developmental things happening to build up the strength.
*Registration is open for the 2010 bee college. You can google it at
honeybee.org. It is located just south of St. Augustine. The same
program will be here locally next October. Our event will be called
the State Beekeepers Convention. It will either be the last week of
October or first week in November. Keith Councell will be doing an
Africanized bee exhibit.
*All members received an informational hand-out on hive beetles.
Dennis Riggs showed a film about his own hive beetles. His film can
be viewed on ‘You-tube’. Dennis gave us lots of information about
the problematic hive beetles. Hive beetles are not native to
Florida. They became a problem here in 1948. They damage your colony
by infiltrating the brood section and they do damage to the brood
box with their larvae. They prefer weak colonies. The bees could
abandon the hive and eventually the hive beetle will win out. The
beetles also defecate into the honey. It causes a smell and causes
the cells to burst. An fact sheet about the hive beetles was given
out at the meeting and put into each member’s notebook.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:45 p.m.
MINUTES
December 9, 2009
General Membership Meeting
Beekeepers Association of Southwest Florida
Conference Room, Lee Co. Ext. Offices
The December meeting was called to order at 6:45p.m.
It was decided to forgo the usual formal meeting and enjoy the
potluck dinner. There were questions and answers on “feeding” since
it is so critical this time of year. There are issues to discuss
that will be postponed until the next meeting. The delinquent letter
for late membership dues will be sent out. You will have thirty days
to pay your dues if you are delinquent.
Keith said we need to start preparing for the State Convention that
will be held here in Ft. Myers in October. It will take the entire
year to get ready for it. Keith said to get in touch with him to
help.
MINUTES
November 11, 2009
General Membership Meeting
Beekeepers Association of Southwest Florida
Conference Room, Lee Co. Ext. Offices
The November meeting of the
General Membership was called to order at 18:45 11 November 2009 by VP Dennis
Riggs.
Reading of the Minutes
Member Gene Sipe, acting
for the Secretary, who was unable to attend, read the Minutes of the 14 October
2009 General Membership meeting. Two amendments were made for the record. Otto
Barsho moved the minutes be approved as amended. Tom Conrad seconded the motion
and the motion carried.
Member Statement
Member Alex ******
reported to the group that she has come to an understanding with the county.
Her bees are healthy and the county is no longer interested in pursuing her
case. The statutes are still open to interpretation and the association should
continue to lobby for changes.
Treasurers Report
Treasurer Virginia Riggs
presented the Treasurers report for the month of October. Treasurer Riggs
reported we now have an Association bank account with Sun Trust Bank. The
account is for an association and is not charged a service fee. A total of
fourteen (14) new members paid BASF local and State dues. Balance brought
forward was $867.73, deposits 975.00, withdrawals 375.00 to the State
Association & 60.00 advertising in the state newsletter. Balance. $1,407.73.
Bill Jones moved to accept the treasurer’s report. SteveConraders seconded the
motion and the motion carried.
Old Business
Member Steve Beersley
reported that the articles of incorporation were mailed to the State this past
Monday. The application was made for 501c3 status. The state turnaround time
is generally prompt and he expects it to be completed by the next meeting.
President Keith Councell
made a request on behalf of Secretary St. John. Anyone who participated in the
Bee Awareness Day event, please contact Lisa.
President Councell asked
for feedback if anyone has accepted Member Jordan Webser’s offer to use his
commercial kitchen. None of the members present had used the facility.
President Councell reported
that the State Beekeepers Association Educational Grant was deferred until the
newly elected officers have settled into their positions. The funds will
eventually be available and are expected to amount to $600.00. The funds may
only be used for printed material that is distributed to children. Member Tom
Allen reported that he obtained some material from the Alachua Beekeepers
Association that can be utilized.
Member Tom Allen reported
that the Education committee met on 28 October 2009. President Councell, Tom
Allen, Dennis Riggs and Gene Sipe were in attendance. Roy Beckford was detained
and the materials were locked in his office. The committee will reschedule
meeting.
** President Councell
called for a break in old business to introduce new attendees. First time
attendees were acknowledged and the meeting resumed. **
President Councell asked
members who needed bees. Hives needed tallied 12 boxes. President Councell
announced that the bees will be available this week for pick-up. He reminded
all members that once picked up, the bees are your bees and you are responsible
for them. He is unable accommodate all of the requests for personally attending
members bees. VP Riggs stated that the association has many talented members
who can help new beekeepers. Tom Allen, Tom ** (Dallas Tom) and Dan Murray
offered to mentor as needed.
New Business
President Councell
announced that BASF has been selected to host the 2010 State Association
Conference here in Ft Myers Florida. This conference can anticipate a draw of
approximately 1,000 attendees. Every club member is needed to make this event
successful. A volunteer list was circulated for committee members. A chairman
will be appointed and the committee will be notified of the kickoff meeting by
email.
Member Kim Berselon
reported that the December membership meeting would include a Pot Luck Social.
Kim made up sign-up sheets for attendees and she will follow up with email
reminders to the entire membership. VP Riggs reported that sign up sheets can
also be completed on the BASF web site. Kim further reminded everyone that the
use of the Extension Service meeting room is conditional on our clean-up when we
are through. Please, take a minute before you leave to make sure everything is
in order.
VP Riggs reported that as
the club membership grows, more members are seeking information. If a member
has a question other members may also benefit from the answer. To share this
information a new Q&A Session will be conducted at each monthly meeting,
starting with this meeting. Other sources of information are the
bushfarms.com - beekeeping web site and the local and state beekeepers list
servers on Yahoo. Both list servers are monitored and answers come back very
promptly. Access to the web site and list servers can be found on the BASF web
site. We will also publish an educational topic to be covered at the meeting
prior to the meeting by the email list.
President Councell
announced a Beekeepers Training Workshop at the Orange River Loop Bee Yard this
Sunday morning 09:00 15 November 2009. VP Riggs stated the directions and a map
would be posted on the BASF web page.
Treasurer Riggs announced
that the Newsletter with our new ad was distributed at the State Association
conference. The newsletter will contain the ad for the entire year.
Member Penelope ****
suggested the information shared at the meetings be put into a handout for the
members. A discussion ensued on the concept of each member being supplied with
a binder with club information and to hold the handouts. One of the new
attendees (name unknown) volunteered to donate 20 binders to the club for this
project. Treasurer Riggs and Kim Berselon volunteered to coordinate preparation
of these binders.
Member Otto Barisho
presented a report on a new product Petroleum Remediation Product (PRP), used
commercially and made of beeswax. Otto offered the suggestion that members not
using their beeswax could donate it to the club for sale to PRP as a club
fundraising vehicle. President Councell offered that the current rate is
$2.00-$2.10 per pound.
Question and Answer
Session
The following is a summary
of the answers as the session became a brainstorming freeflow exchange. Note
that beekeepers opinions vary and these are to be considered suggestions only.
·
Normal approach for returning
bees to a hive is a low direct trajectory. Robber bees will come in high and
empty, looking for any opening in the hive.
·
Strong colonies will rob from and
possibly destroy weaker colonies.
·
Robber bees can be seen sniffing
around cracks of a hive. The smell of honey attracts robber bees.
·
The best way to deter robbers is
to have tight fitting lids and reduced entrances (1”x.5”). Reducers should be
wood so the smell of honey is reduced and does not attract robbers.
·
Feed bees away from the box. At
least 50 yards is recommended. Top feeders will also work, but don’t use
entrance feeders in robbing season.
·
A wet sheet over the hive lying
loose on the ground will discourage robbers. Returning bees will know how to
find their way back in. Robbers won’t know where to look.
·
Screen bottom boards allow the
smell of honey out and attract robber bees.
·
Robbing starts after the last
flora is gone or when the major flow is over.
·
Beetle traps can use any kind of
oil. Good success is reported from olive oil.
·
Don’t use essence of banana in
the oil for beetle traps. If you step on a banana before you work your bees you
are likely to get stung.
·
If your brood box is getting
bound with pollen, pull pollen frame out or wash with water (carefully).
·
Queens are not available after 01
Oct. Banked queens are only good to hold your bees in the hive and they tend to
be expensive. Currently price is up to $44.00/queen.
- Order queens in the
fall for Spring 2010.
- Winter laying pattern
is different. Don’t be overly concerned if the queen changes her pattern.
- It is not good to open
hives in the robbing season. To tell if you need to start feeding, lift the
back of the hive to see if it is getting light.
- Feeding in the winter
is to sustain the colony. Some feed before a crop to build the colony
population.
- Mixed reviews on
Supplements. Some say No Supplements - Some say you should. After honey is
off, you can use
TERRAMYCIN®.
Follow directions on package.
·
If you are going to feed your
bees you can pull all suppers down to the brood box.
·
Winter supers – Leave two frames
of honey and empty frames for the bees.
·
Too little honey is better than
too much because you can always feed the bees if they need more.
·
When you pull all your supers,
you must trap beetles to keep them out of the brood chamber.
·
New beetle traps were presented
at the State Conference. Beetle Blaster - a disposable trap that fits on top
between the frames. Good success has been reported. If you use them put them
in the center to the back of the box.
·
Plastic frame foundation has
resolved wax foundation blowing out during extraction. Chinese plastic has a
longer longevity than the US product.
·
The optimum temperature inside
the boxes is 90º-93º. Don’t open the boxes if the air temperature is below
70º.
·
European drones cannot compete
with Africanized (more aggressive) drones. Queens will not lay drone cell in
the winter because drones are not needed and they are just extra consumers.
Unless you are commercially mating queens, there is no need to raise drones.
·
The state position on feral
colonies is that they want them eradicated. They only will allow licensed pest
control (who will destroy them) or registered beekeepers (who will requeen with
marked) to remove feral bees.
Concluding Topics
MINUTES
October 14, 2009
General Membership Meeting
Beekeepers Association of Southwest Florida
Conference Room, Lee Co. Ext. Offices
The meeting began at 6:51 p.m.
The meeting began with guest speaker, Joe Anderson, from the Risk
Management Agency. He said there is an apiculture pilot insurance
program available to beekeepers. It is based on rainfall, which they
measure with grids. Prices range from $3.00 to $18.00 per colony.
They can insure as many colonies as you want. He says to call and
make an appointment so he can come to you. It’s written through and
subsidized through the Federal Government. His number is
863-494-2486 and his email is cropinsurance1@verizon.net.
Treasurer’s Report: The September treasurer’s report was read
by the Treasurer, Virginia Riggs. Since the last meeting, there are
25 new members. We still don’t have a bank account, so nothing has
been deposited yet. $375.00 was sent to the State for membership and
$16.00 was paid for an ad. The year starts Oct. 1st for the State,
so that is when she collects the dues. The banking will be
straightened out soon. Also, name tags will be finished soon for the
new members. It was moved, seconded, and accepted.
Secretary’s Report: The September meeting minutes were posted
on the overhead for everybody to read along with Lisa St. John. They
were read and accepted.
Old Business:
* Lynne James asked for input from the attendees of the Bee
Awareness Day. Lynne did the press release.
*Roy Beckford spoke about the results of the citation with Alice
Brown. The citation was from Code Enforcement for her four bee
hives. The BASF tackled the issue by talking with Commissioner Frank
Mann. Roy has been assisting with the Small Farm Network and they
had a lawyer from Sarasota resolve the matter quickly. Roy set up a
couple of meetings to deal with the issue. Roy also spoke with
Commissioner Judah. Beekeeping is a legitimate agricultural business
and a very important part of urban farming. It is growing
exponentially in Lee County and other Counties. As you push
beekeeping out of urban centers, then you allow Africanized bees to
infiltrate and increase the niche. Frank Mann is in full support of
the beekeepers. Roy recommends that the Education Committee meet
once more to thrash out some of these rules. Roy had 17 calls today
about Africanized bees. V.P. Dennis said that the State recommends
that we deal with our local commissioners. National laws won’t do
any good because State’s make their own laws anyway.
*Steve has been working on our Federal ID number. We need registered
Agents. V.P. Dennis has sent out a lot of emails to other clubs to
find out what they do. They all have a 501(C) 3. We need to
incorporate with the State first. Steve, Dennis, and Virginia said
they would work it out. Virginia said she would go and get a bank
account set up as soon as possible.
*Dennis said there is still the possibility of an online store, but
there is no head way on it yet. Pres. Keith Councell has lots of
inventory to sell and does take credit cards; he just can’t do it
online.
*As a member of BASF, you are also a member of the State
Association. The State Association Convention is coming up next
month in Monticello, Florida. Make your reservations now. Four
people from BASF are planning to attend the November 5, 6, and 7th
Convention. A detailed itinerary is on the home page of BASF (swflbees.com).
*The news segment regarding the yellow jackets and featuring our own
President, Keith Councell is on the BASF website for viewing.
*The slide show of the Welsh Honey Competition from September’s
meeting is also on the BASF website.
New Business:
*The new members introduced themselves.
*We are a sub-chapter of the State Association. Their business year
is Oct.1 – Sept. 30. It was moved and accepted to amend our business
year to coincide with the State’s business year. Everything will now
be in sync and the by-laws will be correct.
*Kim Berselou did a lot of research on children’s educational
information. It has to be printed material that kids can actually
have in their hands. Keith asked for it to be given to the Education
Committee.
*Lisa St. John asked that somebody come forward and replace her as
the Secretary. Gene Sipe and Lynne James said they would help to
back up the Secretary, but could not take over the position.
*Roy still has 150 people interested in attending another beekeeping
class. The Education Committee needs to set a date. A grant will
cover 25-30%. Roy is going to give us some tentative dates…late
January or February.
*Kim proposed for the December meeting to have a potluck dinner for
some social aspect to the December meeting.
*Carroll Rhodes said there has been a tremendous amount of bees
harvesting. It has been a bumper crop.
*Keith is working on visitor speakers for future meetings.
*Dennis reminded everybody to manage their hives and their queens to
keep their colonies gentle. Be careful that all your colonies are
re-queened. Make sure that you have Freddie Howard come out to
inspect your hives.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:39 p.m.
MINUTES
General Membership meeting
Beekeepers' Association of Southwest Florida
Wed., Sept., 9, 2009
Conference Room, Lee County Extension offices
Present 43 members and guests
Pres, Keith Councell opened meeting at 7:50p.m.
Unlabeled entries in the Welsh Honey Standards demonstration contest
were accepted by judges C. Cowert and Carroll Rhodes. They
reviewed categories (light, amber, dark) and criteria details such
as jar sizes, absence of fingerprints, no interior foam or debris,
clean lids, clarity (no pollen when illuminated); aromatic
characteristics (no smoky-like taste); glossy surface, calibrated
moisture content (less than 18% necessary legally to be saleable).
Ribbons were issued for 1st, 2nd, 3rd places and honorable mention
at the end of the meeting with winners to be posted on the BASF
website with a recap of judging criteria.
Minutes of the Aug. 12 meeting were read by the Secretary. It was
moved, seconded and carried to accept them as read.
Treasurer's Report -- Treas. Virginia Riggs said the BASF checking
acct. had been closed by the Bank of America for non-compliance with
regulations regarding non-profit corporation. Hence, no deposits or
disbursements could be made presently.
$150 in funds received from six new members and a $30 Manatee Park
donation were being held in abeyance, bringing the BASF funds'
balance to $1,017.73 as of 8/31/09
It was moved, seconded and carried to accept the written Treasurer's
Aug. report, dated Sept. 9, as presented.
OLD BUSINESS -- Dennis Riggs read a memo from Ext. Agent Roy
Beckford explaining options to get the BASF filed as a State
tax-exempt 501(c)7 entity through Jim Crawford with an appropriately
compiled Article of Incorporation. Comments were made that the BASF
not be registered as a social club, as suggested, but rather as an
agricultural or educational non-profit entity.
It was also suggested by David Mendes that the matter be discussed
with State Assoc. staff executive officer Malcomb Sanford. V-P Riggs
to give an update at the Oct. meeting
Bee Awareness Day -- V-P Dennis Riggs recapped the success of the
BASF's recent participation in the 2009 National Bee Awareness Day
in Fort Myers. Hot dog & soda, door prize, flowerpot raffle and sale
of honey were some of the features of the event which started at
8a.m. He announced the next event to be held in January;. It was
suggested that presentation sessions be repeated throughout the day
to extend programmed events for added benefit to afternoon
arrivals/attendees who had little exposure this year to the
educational aspects given by David Mendes, Tom Allen, Keith
Councell, Dennis Riggs, and other BASF members.. Lynne James
volunteered to handle/promote the next event.
2009 Beekeeping Class wrap-up -- Ext. Agent Beckford's report was
received by Treas. Virginia Riggs and Sec. Ron Weisburg. The 37
attendees generated $3,330 in course fees (@ $90 each).
Cost of books, DVD and shipping totaled $317.75, leaving $3,012
available for other expenses (beekeeping equipment issued in
classes).
The invoice received by the Extension agent from Keith Councell for
bee equipment totaled $3,304.57. Sec. Weisburg said Roy Beckford
asked that it be reported at the meeting that funds could not be
disbursed, not because the charges were more than the above $3,012
reserved funds, but that the invoice was based on a quantity of 38
for each item and only 37 had taken the course. The county finance
dept. would not allow such a reimbursement with such a variance.
Matter to be discussed with Councell and Beckford for resolution.
County Ordinance citation re. Alex Michel Brown's bees -- It was
reported by Pres. Keith Councell that Roy Beckford is attempting to
gather all relevant county officials for a meeting to discuss
implications of citing properly managed bee yards like Alex's and
the impact similar citations would have on local Africanized feral
bees, and the need for a reasonably drafted beekeeping ordinance.
New Business -- Vacancies in State Assoc. officer posts were
explained by David Mendes. Replacement nominees must be submitted by
Fri., Sept 11. Known Candidates:
For President -- Gary Ranken of Tampa (a former state v-p)
For Vice-president -- David Webb of Coco Beach
For Treasurer -- Bert Kelley, current Treasurer
Nominees for State Volunteer of the Year now being accepted. Keith
Councell was nominated. A PDF file of the nomination form can be
printed from the BASF website and mailed in by Friday (9/11) by any
members.
State Association Program ad -- To show our support of the state
association and our newly found presence and spirit, it was moved,
seconded and carried to authorize payment of $60 to the FSBA for a
1/4 page ad. Dennis Riggs to compile graphics content with members
submitting encouraged to suggest copy points.
New Business
David Mendes reminded members of upcoming meetings to expand their
knowledge of beekeeping:
* FSBA Annual meeting, Nov. 5-7, near Tallahassee
* Georgia Beekeeping Assoc. Fall meeting, Sept 25-26, Rock Spring
Ga. (nr. Chattanooga TN)
* 2010 North American Beekeeping Conference, Jan. 12-16, Wyndham
Orlando, Orlando FL
BASF Election of Officers
It was moved and seconded that the first year of elected BASF
officer terms (which was a partial year) not be considered a full
term for the purposes of compliance with the bylaws which require a
two-year elected service maximum as president. Motion carried.
2009-10 President Nominations -
Keith Councell and Dennis Riggs were duly nominated. By a majority
vote, Keith Councell was elected 2009-10 president and congratulated
by all.
Vice-president Nominations -
Dennis Riggs and Carroll Rhodes were duly nominated. By majority
vote Dennis Riggs was duly elected and congratulated by all.
Treasurer Nominations -
Virginia Riggs was duly nominated and by majority vote duly elected
unanimously and congratulated.
Secretary Nomination -- current sec. Ron Weisburg declined to run
and Lisa St. John was nominated, duly elected unanimously, and
congratulated.
State Delegate -- Ron Weisburg nominated and elected unanimously.
Africanized bee incidents reported on local NBC-2 were discussed as
well as new criteria set by apiary inspection on when suspect bees
may be submitted for an analysis. Procedures and hand tabulation are
skewed toward results over-weighting Africanized bees genetic
presence in feral hives. This is contrary to the presumed higher
concentration presence of non-Africanized genetics in feral colonies
in Florida. Hence, Africanized percentages and number of their
swarms being reported to media on Florida bees may not accurately
reflect reality.
Beekeeping merchandising --
V-P Dennis Riggs announced a BASF website addition of beekeeping
supply sales, including $15,000 of wood hardware. Anyone interested
in starting to bee keep can now go on line to purchase the necessary
equipment locally with a credit card. A handling fee will be
included and pickup of purchases will be a Keith Councell's bee yard
operation at the St. Nicholas Monastery, 1340 Piney Rd., North Ft.
Myers.
The meeting concluded at 9:45p.m. with the honey judging results
announced by Carroll Rhodes and C. Cowert.
MINUTES
General Membership meeting
Beekeepers' Association of Southwest Florida
Wed., Aug. 12, 2009
Conference Room, Lee County Extension offices
Present 38 members and guests
The meeting was called to order by Pres. Keith Councell at 6:45p.m.
Program Speakers, Roger Lavelle & Paul Eberhart from the Lee County
Property Appraiser's office, defined the seven factors considered in
the process of reviewing agricultural exemption applications for a
particular parcel when petitioned by an owner, as provided for in
state statute 193.461. The factors being:
* Any previous agricultural use of the property
* Its current use as of Jan. 1
* Zoning (and pending rezoning requests)
* Purchase price
* Any leases on property
* Intensity of ag use to size of property
* Additional information/proof on beneficial ag use (egs., income
tax returns, purchase and sales receipts, licenses/certifications,
etc.)
They said currently 10-16 property owners have beekeeping ag
exemptions in Lee County, while not necessarily meeting all seven
factors.
While no specific number of hives/acre or number of acres is
required, a certificate of apiary registration and the number of
hives and potential/actual generated revenue would be evaluated.
For any residence on the parcel, one acre is automatically
disqualified from consideration of ag exemp., tax-reduced status
(See dictionary: curtilage/curtility).
Lack of a qualified honey extraction house and a U.S.D.A. Ag
certificate are not grounds for automatic disqualification.
Hypothetical specific examples of their decision-making evaluation
process were given for beekeeping ag exemption applications (one of
25 different classes of ag. exemptions with which they deal - cow,
horse, goat, etc.) Example details included parcel size from 2-300
acres, 10-100 hive colonies, existing lease contracts for colony
placement, good/poor nearby forage, no honey house, etc. This was
done so as to convey a sense of how factors are weighed by the
assessor's office. Every case, each parcel, for example, use of a
solid concrete parking pad for hive placement is evaluated on it own
unbiased merit.
Applications accepted Jan. 1-March 1 each year. However, a parcel is
disqualified if actual declared use is not in place as of Jan. 1.
Of some $27 billion in taxable property value in Lee County, more
than $500 million has ag exemption standing, egs., citrus - $60
million, row crops - $30 mil., Pine Island trees/ornamentals - $30
mil.
In a recent year, 450 ag exempt applications resulted in 233
approvals. The staff considered some of those unapproved after
review as mere paperwork fiction. They noted that property
designated in a conservation zone prohibits all future construction
of outbuildings, honey houses, etc.
Secretary's Report - It was moved and seconded to dispense with the
reading of the July 8 membership minutes and to accept them as
posted on the BASF website. Motion carried unanimously.
Treasurer's Report for July (dated Aug. 12) was presented by
Virginia Riggs, showing an ending balance of $867.33 after dues
revenue from five new members. The monthly bank maintenance fee
($15) was still being automatically assessed as the non-profit
standing of the BASF was not yet in compliance with the non-profit
tax-exempt corp. regulations.
Annual dues for Oct. 1 '09 - Sept. 30, '10 were collectible at the
next monthly meeting, it was announced (Bring funds!). It was moved
by Tom Allen, seconded and carried to accept the report as
presented.
OLD BUSINESS -
Desired 401c(3) tax exemption status - V-P Dennis Riggs and Roy
Beckford, Extension agent, had no progress to report presently. A
member of the U-F Extension Advisory Committee Jim Carford, who was
knowledgeable on preparing an organizational resolution & submission
of appropriate paperwork to the State to qualify for federal 401c(3)
tax-exempt standing, would be contacted for assistance.
Intro to Beekeeping Course -- Roy Beckford reported good attendance
for the classes which began Fri.., July 31with 36-37 attendees,
resulting in more than $3,000 of revenue based on the $90 course
fee. Pres. Councell purchased suitable beekeeping equipment from
Dadant for the attendees. An income/expense report to be made at the
next BASF meeting (Sept. 9).
V-P's Report -- Dennis Riggs previewed photos from the first two bee
class sessions. He also reported on a recent well-attended program
conducted by the officers at Manatee Park for young future
beekeepers and also gave a rundown of new foraging bee/botanical
photos on our website photo gallery. Members applauded, recognizing
Dennis for his outstanding efforts to record and communicate these
BASF events and features.
Honey Production & Products/ Honey tasting/Welsh honey judging will
be the focus of the Sept. BASF meeting, Pres. Councell indicated.
Members are requested to submit three clear glass bottles of
unlabeled filtered honey. Details & Welsh rules to be posted on our
website. Categories to include light, amber and dark.
Old Business -- Appeal/hearing of Lee County ordinance citation of
Alex Michel-Brown's bees for removal from her family's Lehigh
residential property as a nuisance. Note - Alex's colonies are in
full compliance with all state regulations including voluntary "Best
Management Practices", it was reported. They are also considered by
several opinion leaders as amongst the most gentle colonies in the
county.
It was reported that County Comm. Frank Mann was not aware of the
case although his assistant initially received complaint and
referred it to code enforcement.
With commissioners not in chamber session in July, further
discussion would likely be with Mary Gibbons, County Director of
Community Development.
Roy Beckford, Extension Agent facilitated attorney Jane Russell (who
specializes in small farm issues) to work with Alex on a pro bono
basis on her upcoming appeal hearing..
Beckford said he had spoken with Commissioner Ray Judah on this
issue and the need for active, managed urban beekeeping and a
suitable regulatory ordinance so as to protect the beneficial
European honey bees and combat the proliferation of Africanized
feral bees which are most potentially harmful to people. Future
discussions with Gibbons and the commissioners on what the BASF
might be looking for in an ordinance are likely and very much
needed, he said.
Beckford suggested the BASF education committee meet with Mary
Gibbons and other county policy/decision makers to make progress in
these efforts. He suggested the ordinance citation in Lehigh was a
misinterpretation and that an urban beekeeping ordinance would fill
current voids which result in misinterpretation of what honey bees
are and why they are needed.
FSBA Technical Council (Gainesville)-- Pres. Councell reported that
while there was significant discussion on the subject of local bee
ordinances it was not reflected in the Council's minutes. Five
speakers made presentations. Among them, Del Doverly on mosquito
control, Tracy Hamrick on new honey standards, Nancy Gentry on new
state law to supersede local ordinances, and Tony Harness.
Discussion on advocating the exemption from state bottling safety
laws of sideliners and hobbyists with their e-mail, roadside, and
local farm market sales to the public was tabled apparently because
of concerns to not diminish the newly-enacted honey standards law.
Inspected local commercial kitchen --
Extension agent Beckford talked of possible need for a food handling
supervisor to oversee food quality and safety in the use of the
Extension's new kitchen.
Potential committed use of the kitchen must be defined and future
revenues from its use projected as the kitchen can not be made
available with a budgeted loss. Rather positive revenue over
expenses from food production is in order, he said.
Other newest delay is the need for overhead sprinkler system, per
fire marshal.
He urged BASF members to respond to another communiqué with their
explicit interest and commitment to bring in extracted honey for
bottling to in the kitchen generate so as to accurately define
realistic operating funds.
Bee Awareness Day (Sat., Aug. 23) -- No suitable facilities yet
available for the event, Beckford reported. Members asked again to
e-mail Roy with suggested facility as so much could be accomplished
in public awareness with the envisioned event. NOTE: Since the
meeting a suitable locale was found and the event a success thanks
to Roy and BASF core leadership.
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9p.m.
Minutes
General Membership meeting
Beekeepers Association of Southwest Florida
Wed., July 8, 2009
Conference Room, Lee County Extension Offices
Present 29 members and guests
The meeting was called to order by Pres. Keith Councell at 6:58p.m.
Minutes of the June 10 meeting were read and accepted. Motion made,
seconded and carried.
Treasurer's Report was presented in writing in the absence of Treas.
Virginia Riggs. Current funds total $782.73 after receipt of 3 new
memberships. Motion made, seconded and carried to accept the report.
Old Business - V-P Dennis Riggs reported that information on
nematodes which seasonally combat larvae of small hive beetles is
now on the BASF website (swfbees.com). Also info on the honey jar
label source detailed during the June meeting by Tom Allen has been
posted.
Bee foraging photos - Kim Barselou and Melissa Dahn were recognized
for their recent contributions to the swfbees.com website photo
gallery of local nectar & pollen sources for bees.
V-P Riggs said current bee foraging is now in cabbage palm and saw
palmetto.
Education Committee - Roy Beckford, extension agent, reported 26
registrants for the upcoming Intro to Beekeeping course with at
least 30 total expected, including several youths accompanied by
adults.
He said Tom Allen, Dennis Riggs, & Keith Councell would be assisting
with the class presentations and field work.
Local beekeeping nuisance citation -- Roy Beckford updated members
on the Lee County ordinance citation involving Alex Michel-Brown's
full-state-compliant bees which had to be moved off her Lehigh
residential premises earlier this month or incur substantial
penalties ($250 a day). A supportive attorney (familiar with similar
issues from involvement with the U-F regional small farm network) is
likely to be available to assist in an upcoming hearing on the
matter. Roy noted that nothing in the county ordinances expressly
prohibits managed honey bees and that Alex reportedly has been in
full compliance with the Fla. Best Management Practices issued by
its apiary inspection dept.
As most Lee County state-registered beekeeping is done in
residential settings, any precedent in this "test" case is critical,
Roy said, as others could be similarly cited and fined with their
bees removed.
Updated correspondence via e-mail on this matter was sent by Roy
Beckford to County Commissioner Frank Mann who has personal bee
experience and is jurisdictionally responsible for Lehigh matters.
It was moved by Gene Sipe and sec. by Ron Weisburg that Roy Beckford
be authorized to compose a letter to Commission Chair Ray Judah (and
other commissioners), subject to BASF officer review, such letter to
convey the beneficial aspects of pollination by managed honey bee
colonies as well as their beneficial impact in reducing forage
available to the proliferating Africanized feral colonies and the
apparent incongruous classification of honey bees by the ordinance
enforcement dept as exotic pets by the citation. The need for a
beekeeping ordinance to be emphasized
As efforts were being made telephonically to immediately reach Comm.
Mann, a subsequent motion was made to table the above Sipe motion
(Further efforts to contact Comm. Mann were not successful during
the meeting).
Members expressed concern that a supportive voice of advocacy and
support was in order to protect beekeeping in Lee County.
National Bee Awareness Day, Thurs., Aug. 27 -- Pres. Councell noted
that our participation would be as a natural extension of the BASF
Beekeeping Class which ends Fri., Aug. 21.
BASF's need for non-profit 401(c)3 status -_ Because of the Patriot
Act's requirement of all local banks (including that of the BASF),
for documentation proof of official State non-profit corporate
status (and subsequent IRS 401(c)3 status) of non-profit type
account holders.
Without compliance, our tax-exempt checking account and its low fees
are in jeopardy. Roy Beckford suggested BASF retain Stephen
Beardsley (at an approx. cast of $150) to register the BASF with the
State of Florida so as to meet the IRS and banking requirements.
Keith Councell updated members on state association level efforts to
gain exemption for small volume honey product farmers from food
preparation laws. He noted that Jerry Hayes, Fla. chief apiary
inspector had indicated in a June ABJ article that beekeepers
HARVEST honey, they do not PROCESS honey.
It was suggested that extraction and containerizing unprocessed raw
honey similarly is little more than allowing gravity to flow a
liquid into a transportable vessel. It is not bottling.
Members suggested that food safety concerns need be centered on
imported honey and not local honey sales.
New Business -
V-P Dennis Riggs said there was info on our website regarding the
agenda for the upcoming July 29 Fla. Honey Bee Technical Council
meeting in Gainesville. State Assoc. opinion leader Nancy Gentry
wants more regulation which may not be in the best interest of local
beekeeping from our members' economic standpoint.
Commercial Kitchen - Roy Beckford said kitchen access is being hold
up by the need for some incidental "frills" such as curtains as well
as a supervising kitchen manager on premises during use. Sanitizing
standards of bottles for honey has questioned
Discussed was a commercial equipment extracting kit valued at $475,
rented for $10, with a $20 deposit fee, for example.
Education on cleaning equipment and how to uncap/extract in a
sanitized manner also mentioned.
Next beeyard education session - Pres, Keith Councell said that
session would be held Sun., Julyt 19 at dawn in his Orange River
Loop Rd. beeyard.
Roy Beckford asked for samples of bees in 70% alcohol for testing.
Ron Weisburg suggested monthly beeyard visits be rotated among other
member beeyards to offer members a broader exposure of practices and
conditions.
Mailing List Distribution. It was moved, seconded and approved to
allow access to the BASF mail list by the IFAS Extension Group so as
to be able to contact us on matters related to beekeeping.
Hive tasks/tips -- Pres. Councell said this is a good time to
balance colonies by switching framed of pollen from strong colonies
with unused frames with unused frames in weak colonies.
Maintaining a 4"x5" piece of corrugated plastic signboard, resting
on the bottom board allows a place for SHBs to collect. It can be
pulled out and dowsed in soapy water for extermination.
Screened bottom boards are major aids in checking varroa mites, he
said.
Available foraging -- Saw palmetto available to mid-Sept. In late
Sept., Brizilian Pepper becomes available.
Next meeting -- Lee County Property tax assessor staff guest
speaker.
Sept. meeting -- It was moved, seconded and carried that a honey
class with the Welsh honey judging standards be held. Members to
bring honey samples. Keith Councell would also demonstrate making
mead.
AG Exemption -- Several members acknowledged being granted AG
exemption based on pollinating, sale of bees and bee products (honey
house not a critical factor). An allocation of percent exempted is
made after removing residential property portions from
consideration.
Fla. Farm Bureau -- Details of it many services and benefits were
discussed. Fee is $45/yr.
Bureau may help with AG exemption interests and zoning issues.
Taste of Lee, July 18, downtown FM was noted with three beekeepers
signed up to participate.
Next month's refreshments --Members signed up for providing drinks,
honey and bagels.
Mango Mania -- July 11-12 - Keith Councell to display a demo hive
and sell honey.
Roy Beckford encouraged BASF members to consider participating in
future urban farm tours being planned by the extension offices.
Anyone not getting e-mail meeting notices was asked to contact
Dennis Riggs who could update the master e-mail list.
Detailed flyers on the upcoming beekeeping classes were passed out.
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at
8:50p.m.
Submitted by Sdec. Ron Weisburg
MINUTES
General Membership meeting
Wed., June 10, 2009
Conference Room, Lee County Extension Offices
Present 21 members and guests.
Treasurer's Report, dated June 10, showing May month-end balance of
$737.72 as well as the minutes of the May 1`3 meeting were accepted
as read (Note meeting date verbally corrected to May 13, 2009)
Motions made, seconded and carried.
Treasurers report discussions centered on the need and advantages
(lower bank acct. charges) of establishing the BASF as a registered
non-profit corporation eligible for 501c (3) status. Also, it was
moved, seconded and carried that V-P Riggs look into the
feasibility, with Malcolm Sanford, of increasing local dues, solely
for new members who opt out of joining the State FSBA, said increase
from $10 to $25. Note: If enacted, an application copy change would
be necessary.).
President's report - Keith Councell reported that the Lee County
appraiser staff members were seeking an invitation from the BASF
president to speak and answer questions at a future BASF meeting
regarding the criteria/process for attaining an ag exemption on
property taxes by beekeepers.
A National Bee Awareness date of Aug. 22 calling for local public
education programming was announced. It could be an opportunity to
enhance local awareness of the benefits of beekeeping and bees by
BASF members..
Tom Allen inquired on the planned BASF follow-up to requests from
local schools for bee education speakers from the BASF.
Also, dates of next beekeeper training classes were asked of ext.
agent Roy Beckford.
It was determined that an education committee meeting would be held
Mon., 6/15, 10:30a.m. at the Extension offices to address the above
items. Any interested members were encouraged to attend.
It was noted that Tom Allen was a scheduled program speaker on bees
at an upcoming education forum on pollination in Gainesville.
V-P Riggs summed up the recent BASF field trip to Keith Councell's
Orange River Loop bee yard as well attended, very educational, and
fun.
Riggs also demonstrated the extensive BASF website revamp with many
user-friendly features and windows.
For example, a downloadable membership application and information
on membership benefits; info. windows on officers; how to contact
apiary inspector Freddie Howard and extension agent Roy Beckford;
and the BASF events calendar.
A unique feature of the website is for inquiries seeking FREE BEE
REMOVAL. When "hit," it clarifies why there is no such thing.
Information of the Taste of Lee (July 18) tasting event and how to
participate as a honey vendor is also included.
Extension agent Roy Beckford commended V-P Riggs for his efforts in
creating, managing and upgrading the BASF website.
Also discussed were varroa mites, impossibility of too much pollen
in a brood box, benefits of black plastic foundation (eg., ease of
spotting eggs), clipping of queen wings (both upper and lower on one
side only), queen jelly, and jelly box with cells for finishing.
Pres. Councell said another field meeting woud be held for
interested BASF members in a few weeks.
Nematode packets (avail. @ $20 each) capable of destroying SHB
larvae in a 10' x10' area were passed around. They are only usable
during the wet season. Pres. Councell explained details in applying.
Congregating bees (bee beards) outside the hive entrance was
discussed, as well as their occasional washboarding behavior.
Members present who recently received their new golden queens
through Keith were surveyed on the number of successful requeenings.
Percentages varied.
It was requested that the education committee include "successful
queen installation" on a future meeting agenda.
Code enforcement -- A recent verbal warning of code violation to
Alexander Michel-Brown and her bee yard was reported. A written
notice was to be served by the enforcer citing specific statute
violations, according to Alex. No action by BASF to be taken until
written notice of violation served.
Label art - - Tom Allen previewed new exquisite custom labels from
"Amy" found in ABJ classifieds. Priced from $35-$48 for 250 labels
depending on size.
Keith Councell reviewed seasonal foraged botanicals - saw palmetto -
last month, citrus (reblooming), cabbage palm and gallberry now.
Kim Barselou was commended for the outstanding member name tags she
created and donated for current members use at meetings..
Hospitality -- The need for members to step forward to bring snacks
(like bagels & honey) and beverages to future meetings was
emphasized as Keith Councell has been carrying the burden for all
the past year by providing pizza, and other items with little
expressed appreciation or recognition.
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at
8:45p.m.
MINUTES
General Membership Meeting
Beekeepers' Association of Southwest Florida
Wed., May 13, 2009
Conference Room, Lee County Extension Offices
Present 28 members and guests
Treasurer's Report dated May 13, showing an April month-end balance
of $727.73, as well as the minutes of the April 18 meeting were
accepted as read. Motions made, seconded and carried.
President's Report -- Keith Councell announced that 100+ open-mated
(not artificially mated) "Big Blonde" cordovan queens from C.F.
Koehnen & Sons, Glenn CA would be available at his NFM beeyard for
distribution on or about 5/19.
Pricing tentatively set at $19 plus shipping and handling. They
will be unmarked and unclipped.
President Councell said a recent analysis of local feral colonies by
the State apiary inspector showed an approximate 10% Africanized
genetic component.
He announced a BASF beekeeping clinic on both diagnostics and
grafting, to be held Sun., May 17, 8a.m., at a citrus grove off
Orange River Loop Rd. with directions to be forwarded to interested
members prior to the event.
V-P Dennis Riggs announced a 2-day U-F Small Farm Alternative
Conference, Aug. 1 & 2. One educational session will be on the
honey bee.
County Tax Ag Exemption criteria such as a honey house was discussed
along with the receptivity (or lack thereof) of county assessor
staff to issues in the process leading to an ag exemption.
V-P Riggs suggested BASF members mark the upcoming June 13 FSBA
mid-year meeting in Bartow on their calendar and plan to attend.
(NOTE: Meeting have since been cancelled or postponed).
Dennis also pointed out a link on our swfbees.com website to a Tampa
Beekeepers Assn upcoming demonstration and educational event to be
held Sat., May 16.
A U-F Field Guide to Beekeeping video focusing on small hive beetles
was previewed. It covered controls which involve cultural,
mechanical, genetic, biological, and pesticidal aspects.
Keith Councell said he had the Georgia address for anyone wanting to
acquire the nematodes which destroy SHB larvae (TWO VARIETIES).
Discussion on other pests--Keith Councell said that trachael mites
currently are rare in Florida. And, varroa mite populations are now
rising seasonally with infestations to be higher in fall.
He also mentioned that with the start of the spring forage, we are
now out of the hive robbing season.
A raffle was conducted and the meeting was adjourned at 8:30p.m.
MINUTES
General Membership meeting
Beekeepers Association of Southwest Florida
Wed., April 8, 2009
Conference Room, Lee County Extension Offices, F.M.
Present 42 members and guests
The meeting was convened at 6:45p.m. by Pres. Keith Councell. He
introduced Drew Sternwaldt, News-Press reporter who was looking for
local beekeeping stories.
Minutes of the March 11 meeting and the Treasurer's March '09
report, dated April 8, 2009, were read & accepted by the membership
as presented. Motions made, seconded & carried.
Treas. Virginia Riggs indicated four individuals had joined the
BASF: Tommy Isham, Barbara Mader, Otto Parisho, & Gene Sipe. March
month-end balance was $732.73 after receipts (including a $65
donation from Veterans' Memorial Elementary) & disbursements.
Limited number of carneolan queens from Honeyland Farms (N. Fla.)
had been distributed by Tom Allen. Queens from Dave Mendes for those
on separate sign-up sheet would not be available till May, Councell
indicated. An new list was passed around for updated ordering of
queens.
A short presentation was made by a local Florida Farm Bureau
staffer, detailing its history, benefits of joining, cost of dues
($45a yr.), and major focus. Major focus is improving quality of
farm life and sustaining strong family farms in Florida.
Handbooks on the FFB positions on various ag-related issues were
passed out. It included positions on issues such as no occupational
licensing for farmers (including beekeepers), and tax-exemption of
their ag produce, including honey, and unfair farmhouse exclusion
from ag property tax exemptions.
A suggestion was made for establishing a central local facility for
children to learn about bees and beekeeping.
Details were given on applying for ag exemption status, including:
Property size, home exclusion details, record-keeping of income and
expenses, tax year calendar application deadlines, official notice
of approval or denial, appeal hearing process, & temperament of tax
assessor staff. An ag exemption is not possible if land not zoned
for ag use, he said.
Request for school presentations by BASF members -- Keith Councell
asked for volunteers to assist with the 16 requests, two of which
are in Collier. He reported on the workshop conducted for area K-8
environmental teachers.
V-P Dennis Riggs previewed flyers being distributed on BASF which
are well accepted by the public. (Early copies with website
corrected from swfbee.com to swfbees.com).
Queens - the very gentle cordovans, an Italian strain, were
discussed. Their major negative is tendency to rob other colonies.
Dennis Riggs explained U-F research finding that powdered-sugar
dusting is NOT a significant varroa control.
A program report on FSBA efforts to exempt small bee operations from
state bottling health-related requirements were made.
A 500-gal honey bottling exemption now exists in Mississippi for
beekeepers.
Efforts by Tom Allen (who submitted photos of more bee-foraged local
botanicals onto the SWFbees.com website) were acknowledged by V-P
Riggs. He reminded all that any members can submit photos of bee
attractors blooming in their area.
A question was raised on identifying the bright orange pollen
entering some local hives.
Recent appearance of U-F Dr. Jamie Ellis promoting beekeeping at the
Naples Conservancy/Autobahn confab on insect problems was reported.
Old Business - Pres. Councell said a P.A. system was needed for BASF
meetings.. It was noted that the Extension Office has a mike & amp
unit which could be made available at future meetings. No action
taken.
Pres. Councell asked members dropping off brood boxes at his beeyard
to affix their name and state number
to avoid confusion.
Beth Ceilley reported on the recent well-received U-F Bee College.
Top national bee researchers and authorities made up the faculty. It
was an excellent opportunity for both seasoned and new beekeepers,
she said, to be updated in the lab, classroom and outdoor hive
manipulations on the latest techniques and research findings for
better beekeeping.
FSBA State meetings will be held in early Nov., members were
reminded.
Other business -- Roy Beckford would be conducting bee classes in
the near future, it was announced. The extension office commercial
kitchen is now open and available for honey work. Keith said his
extractor is available for use by BASF members.. Members were
encouraged to place bee equip. orders and p/u from Keith who was
going up to the Dadant Florida office soon. One thousand honey bears
also might be available to those interested.
Carrol Rhodes asked for consistency in 10-frame brood boxes and
supers only, as he is seeing too many variations in size to offer
support.
Suggestion was made -- Check with your local supermarket's deli and
bakery departments as food-grade buckets were being thrown out
weekly.
Open discussion & polling on varroa mite populations being
experienced, current lack of honey in the local hives and prevalence
of chemicals in U.S. vs. Europe which highly regulates chemicals
entering agriculture or residences. The outstanding bushfarms.com
website was referenced for all members' perusal.
Showing of an educational video from U-F was postponed till next
meeting (May 13).
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9p.m.
MINUTES
General Membership Meeting
Beekeepers' Association of Southwest Florida
Wed., March 11, 2009
Conference Room, Lee County Extension Offices
Present: 37 members and guests
The meeting was convened at 6:45p.m. by Pres. Keith Councell.
Minutes of the Feb,. 11 meeting and Treasurer's Report as of 3/11/09
were accepted as presented. Ending balance, $625.73
Guest Speaker - Shelly Redovan, deputy director, education &
communication (as well as Brian Cotterill, compliance and safety
officer), Lee County Mosquito Control. A detailed overview was given
by the deputy director of the agency's jurisdiction in human disease
prevention, scope of authority, and types of larvacides & mosquito
adulticides relative to their application safety for citizens and
various beneficial insects, including bees. Typical seasonal methods
& their decision-making process in choosing appropriate chemical
were explained.
Pres. Councell announced that BASF was being asked by Cindy Baer,
Lee County School's environmental resource educator to present
educational information on honey bees to the Lee County teachers'
convention of environmental curriculum teachers, Wed., April 1.
Keith Councell, Tom Allen and Ron Weisburg volunteered to be
present. Relevant educ. materials for k-3, sponsored by the Honey
Board, might be used, it was suggested.
V-P Riggs explained how local events suitable for honey sales could
be posted on the BASF website calendar, along with info. on each
event's relevancy to our assoc.
V-P Riggs said newly released U-F research, conducted by Dr. Amanda
Ellis, concludes that application of powdered sugar to tops of
frames in hive boxes has no effect on varroa mite reduction.
Councell also detailed an initiative by the Apalachee Beekeepers
Assoc. to have the FSBA Board of Managers endorse a resolution
calling for an exemption of part-time beekeepers from current
Florida food-processing regulations. The FSBA meets Nov. 5-7 in
Tallahassee to be hosted by the Apalachee Beekeepers.
He reported the FSBA Board of Managers was currently focused on the
honey standards initiative currently being implemented by State
regulation, yet bottling over-regulation which discourages new
beekeepers was also a major concern.
The cost burden on new beekeepers starting up an operation and then
facing compliance with costly bottling regulations is injurious to
the future of the industry, it would appear. Detailed costs examples
portrayed on a website would be helpful in efforts to remove the
health bottling laws as applied to small-scale beekeeping.
BASF members were reminded of the upcoming U-F Bee College & Master
Beekeeping annual training and testing next week upstate..
A Lee County Urban Farm Tour next week (and details on signing up to
participate with the extension office) were announced.
A Cape Coral Strawberry Festival (honey sales opportunity) next
weekend was announced by Pres. Councell. Booth fee: $15.
N/P senior staff writer Drew Steenwalker is expected to write a
positive feature story on local beekeeping in an upcoming edition of
the paper.
Rob Bootcher built a complex demonstration hive featured at the
Naples Arboretum, recently, it was announced.
Keith Councell is holding an equipment sale at his NFM honey house
locale next Sunday afternoon.
Frames with multiple Africanized queen cells and samples of varroa
mites and SHB's were displayed by Tom Allen for the benefit of
members. Deformed wings and mite-affected larvae were evident.
Discussion of beehive accessibility by mosquito control so as to
monitor impact of their efforts on local hives could be helpful.
Pres. Councell announced raffle winners and the meeting was
adjourned at 9:05p.m.
Minutes
General Membership Meeting
Beekeepers' Association of Southwest Florida
Wed., Feb. 11, 2008
Conference Room, Lee County Extension office
Present 34 members and visiting guests (who were introduced and
welcomed)
Minutes of 1/15 meeting and Treasurer's Report as of Jan. 31 were
accepted as presented.. The treasurer clarified membership year
(Oct. 1-Sept. 30) and yearly dues amounts ($15 State, $10 local) and
encouraged guests to join.
The Extension Agent introduced Claudia (from Brazil) who had
recently joined the Extension staff and who has
Africanized-beekeeping experience.
Roy Beckford further announced upcoming Urban Farm Tour and
encouraged beekeepers to be involved. He encouraged honey sales at
the Harvest Festival farm market at the Gateway Lutheran church each
Sat. in Feb. The Extension offices commercial kitchen would soon
have its official opening, he noted
After Beckford's announcement that the county 20-20 parcel near I-75
off Bayshore Rd. was not available by policy at this time as a
training bee yard, David Mendes indicated that one of his nearby bee
yards, just NW of that intersection, might be made available for
such purpose. BASF president to inspect and follow-up.
Burrowing Owl Festival, C.C. (2/21) - Open invitation made to all
members to participate to sell honey and to educate public on bees.
The V-P updated members on BASF website features. Photos of any
honeybee nectar/pollen plants were solicited for the website and
details on honey marketing events to be forwarded for BASF website
calendar.
Club queen rearing - Education possibilities discussed (see recent
ABJ article). David Mendes offered to sell good stock queens to club
members at at a price to be determined. A order/sign-up sheet was
passed out. Officers to follow-up on Mendes' offering to coordinate
distribution. It was noted that availability would not likely be
till late March. Tom Allen said he had queens available in early
March from a north Florida source for those needing queens earlier.
Dynamics and seasonality of requeening were discussed as well as
winter feeding of colonies. Essentials of successful healthy
colonies with good honey production were defined bY Mendes as: 1)
Clean fresh comb, 2) Providing balanced nutrition, 3) Frequent
requeening as often as twice per year.
Mendes said that while Fall (Sept/Oct) is the ideal time to requeen,
the Spring window (March/April) with ample pollen is good also. He
said he requeens 75% of his hives in Fall and again 50% in Spring.
Queen splits break the varroa mite breeding cycle because of the
pause in brood production.
Frequent Spring inspections for balance of pollen, honey, & brood is
essential in good bee management.
Other items discussed:
* The potential need for an ongoing "club" store of routine
equipment and queens.
* Conducting of a future public symposium on bees in our urban/small
farm setting.
* Review of seasonal nectar/pollen sources in SW Florida (as noted
in Melitto files/BASF website), especially upcoming spring sources
(oak, willow, citrus).
* Food handler license requirements
* Radial extractor availability
* Importance of periodic varroa mite counts via sugar dusting or
denatured alcohol methods
* Monitoring/medication for nosema spores
* Hive inspection/diagnostic procedures in general
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at
8:45p.m.
MINUTES
General Membership Meeting
Beekeepers' Association of Southwest Florida
Wed., Jan. 14, 2009
Conference Room, Lee County Extension Office
Present :17 members
The meeting was called to order by Pres. Keith Councell at 6:45p.m.
BASF website update - Naples Botanical Gardens provided missing
botanicals on our bee foraging photos (and seasonal chart) feature
per V-P Dennis Riggs. Pres. Councell had consulted on beekeeping
with garden staff there recently.
V-P Riggs also demonstrated the Dadant Day in Bee Yard slideshow
feature and reported many e-mails from visitors interested in our
website.
Sec. Ron Weisburg questioned the use by non-BASF members of the BASF
website' promotional ad tiles for honey producers. He questioned
the benefit of a beekeeper joining the BASF if the unique
promotional feature was available free without paying dues. He
suggested studying a two-tiered approach of annual ad service fees,
perhaps $600/yr. for non-members and $100-200/yr. for members which
could be used to compensate the webmaster for his ongoing design and
management services.
Other members suggested that continuing a no-cost, open access
approach may be more beneficial to all concerned, including the
public. V-P Riggs restated his willingness to design and post
similar website ad tiles for any members selling honey. No action
taken.
Treasurers Report - Virginia Riggs said that with 6 new dues-paying
members in Dec., a $10 raffle donation , and a payout of State dues
and $50 for an observation hive, the current balance was $702.73.
It was moved by Tom Allen, seconded by Ron Weisburg and carried that
the Treasurer's Report of Jan. 14 be accepted as presented.
Education Committee - Pres. Councell said an education committee
had meet the previous week to discuss several items:
Tom Allen read a drafted letter, dated 1/12, asking for state
association funding of $700 for local school-related teacher and
student educational programming on bees and beekeeping.
Carroll Rhodes emphasized that from past experiences, teaching about
bees in the schools was hard work but the students always really
appreciate the efforts.
The feasibility of using an observation hive on school premises
because of child safety concerns/liability/school policy was
discussed. Carrol Rhodes emphasized that live bees must be under
the presenter's control.
It was moved by Tom Allen, seconded and carried to forward the
request for fund, the draft to be reproduced on BASF letterhead and
forwarded to State Sec. Bert Kelley. Funds for veil, gloves and
hive tools might also be sought.
Tom Allen also discussed the public educational opportunity in
participation in the upcoming Burrowing Owl Festival in Cape Coral's
Rotary Park, Sat., Feb. 21, 10-4. An observation hive, and handouts
could be distributed and honey sold.
Other bee education/honey marketing opportunities were announced:
SAME WEEKEND: Pine Island Garden Club Gala, Phillips Park, Sat.,
Feb. 21, 9-2. With the event being simultaneous with Owl event, no
interest in participation was expressed despite tentative booth
reservation.
Annual Florida Yards & Neighborhoods Conference, Edison College,
Sat., Feb. 28, 9-4
Slow Food Garden Market for Jan. 31 CANCELLED. Remaining Feb. 28
and March 28 events (targeted to high-end buyers) will be held in
the Robb & Stuckey parking lot across from Bell Tower Mall. Cost is
$25 each event. Contact Ron Weisburg to participate.
Crew Wildflower Festival, Fri./Sat., March 27-28.
SMALL BUSINESS FARM meeting -
Roy Beckford reminded BASF members that beekeeping is small
business farming. He announced a Small Farm meeting, Mon., Jan. 26
at Mr. Citrus' Organic Farm in Arcadia. The RSVP event has a
catered lunch, but a light dish to pass is suggested.
Directions/phone on Mr. Citrus' website.
BASF Bee Yard - A request from Roy To Cathy Olson, 20-20 lands
management, Lee County requesting availability of a 20-20 fenced
site off Bayshore Rd, nr. I-75 was met with a quick response that
bee hives were not allowed on 20-20 land. Roy to follow up on
county policy relative to educational purposes.
He also announced an urban farm bus-tour for late Feb./March and
wished participation by a BASF member. Ron Weisburg volunteered his
hive sites.
The announced speaker from Mosquito Control did not show. And
continuing interest in a local beginners beekeeping course was not
discussed.
U-F Feed Handlers Certification - Mr. Beckford distributed
registration brochures on dates of food handler safety classes. He
also asked for volunteers to help move heavy equipment in the
Extension Services kitchen which will soon be certified for food
handling/honey processing.
He also asked for beekeeper assistance wi th a forest
management/Africanized bee project. Pres. Keith Councell
volunteered.
Roy Beckford also said the 2008 TASTE of LEE event which drew 1500
people will be held this year in the downtown F.M. Civic
Center since a much larger attendance is expected.. BASF Education
Committee asked to assist in planning.
Roy requested permission to access the BASF membership e-mail list
to disseminate his office's information which he feels to be
relevant to our members' general interest. For privacy reasons such
an e-mailing must contain a statement which indentifies a legitimate
connection/relevance between his mail-out and the mission/interest
of BASF, and also contain an "opt out" clause allowing for
recipients to unsubscribe to future mailings from his office. It
was moved by Dennis Riggs, seconded and carried that permission be
granted for Roy to use the BASF membership e-mail list with the
statement and clauses as stipulated. Motion carried.
Minutes of the Dec.15 meeting were read. It was moved by Tom Allen,
seconded, and carried that the motion be accepted as read.
Used hive frames analysis - Keith Councell and Carroll Rhodes
"diagnosed" unusual details on the drawn foundation of old frames.
Used of cotton knitting thread and wax moth damage was detailed.
Season for requeening is approaching for spring citrus bloom, Pres
Councell took a list of those wanting to order new queens at this
time.
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:30
p.m.
MINUTES
General Membership Meeting
Beekeepers' Assoc. of Southwest Florida
Wed., December 10, 2008
Conference Rm., Lee County Extension Office
Present: 21 members and guests
Before the meeting, Tom Allen previewed his unique observation hive design, one
of which could be purchased by the club at cost, he said.
The meeting was called to order by Pres. Keith Councell at 6:48p.m. Five
prospective members introduced themselves.
Minutes of the Nov. 12 meeting were read. It was moved by Tom Allen, seconded
and carried that the minutes be accepted as read. Sec. Ron Weisburg noted that
Brushy Mtn. bee catalog had a no-freight-charge holiday promotion till Dec. 19,
details in their ABJ Dec. issue ad.
Treasurer's Report - Virginia Riggs reported two more 2009 member dues collected
in Nov., balance increasing from $407.73 to $542.73 during that month with $135
deposited. It was moved , seconded and carried that report be accepted as
presented.
The U-F repeated apprentice training sessions of its Master Beekeepers Program,
held in Gainesville in early Nov., was cited as excellent by those who attended.
Members were encouraged to participate in future offerings.
OLD BUSINESS
State Education Funds - Tom Allen suggested his unique demonstration/observation
hive could be used with the distribution of printed materials for school-aged
children purchased from state assoc. educ. funds or even used for new beekeeper
training sessions. He would make one available at cost (approx $45-50) if the
BASF was interested.
Discussion centered on whether to create a BASF educ. brochure or purchase
available materials from bee/honey organizations. Also, a pamphlet for local
resources use in beginning beekeeping, why bees are good for the community, and
to create awareness of the risk of poisoning bees with the improper use of
chemicals. Tom Allen and Ron Weisburg again volunteered to serve on a BASF educ.
committee with Pres. Councell, Roy Beckford and any other interested members.
Exten. Agent Roy Beckford reported the State Dept. of Agriculture likely will be
promoting use of local farm produce (including honey) in local schools in the
near future. He asked for a copy of current BASF members to be sure they are on
the Extension's future mailing list.
Agent Roy suggested the Education Committee meet next week (on a date to be
determined) for planning the offering of the 2009 Introduction to Beekeeping
course and the Lee County fire districts' bee sting response training, to be
held at the extension office.
He also reported a vast numbers of grants are possible for beekeeping education
and suggested an interested member might be able to identify likely grant
sources and draft suitable proposals. One of our members offered to assist and
participate at next week's educ. committee meeting.
It was moved by Ron Weisburg, and seconded, that BASF funds be expended for the
purchase of one of Tom Allen's observation hives for $50.00. Motion carried.
Keith Councell reported that Kelly Williamson is no longer at the Calusa Nature
Center and is now with the Lee County Parks and Rec. Dept. training for nature
walk interpreting. This leaves a void as no one now talks to F.M. area children
on bees with the demo hive and visual aides which Keith Councell had provided to
the nature center.
Pres. Councell announced that a possible bee yard could be sited in the NW
corner of the nature Center acreage, accessible off Ortiz.
The Pine Island Garden Club will sponsor a Feb. event at a mid-island locale at
which a booth could be manned by BASF members at no charge if used for
educational beekeeping purposes. For any sales (honey), 15% would be assessed by
the Garden Club, however.
The Extension office will have a free booth available at the Lee County Fair at
which an observation hive could be displayed, as well as educ. materials on a
project board.
It was reported that roadway maintenance crews were using herbicides/pesticides
on public walkways and landscaping which were likely detrimental to bees.
It was suggested that the mosquito control agency be asked to provide a future
speaker at a BASF meeting.
Phenomenon/Open discussion
An open review was held on various hive disease symptoms and behaviors involving
dead bees or unusual behavior observed by keepers:
A large cluster of bees on Palm fronds, likely attracted to honey dew from
aphids; snowy purple flowers on arbor vitae were also discussed, as well as the
illegality of spraying foraging bees.
White mangrove has started to bloom on the Sanibel Causeway, Per Keith Councell.
A queen who stops laying in winter may be responding to lack of space in brood
box from too much honey/ stored sugar water. Removing some food may correct .
If two or more frames of brood in hive currently and bees are being fed, the
bees often will be seen bringing in pollen but no nectar. Winter feeding
stimulates queen laying. As little as one and a half frames of brood in winter
is still in the range of normalcy.
Curtis Honey (curtishoney.com), in Labelle, has all varieties of local honey for
anyone who wishes to check out what can be harvested in SW Florida. Citrus
blooms for tourist honey blooms in April/June.
Next meeting - Pres. Councell said he would attempt to book Mosquito Control at
Jan. 14 meeting and FSBA's Elmer Herman to conduct an education session at the
Feb. meeting.
Roy Beckford offered some surplus bee equipment for the new beekeepers in
attendance. The Extension kitchen is now certified for those who wish to package
honey. (Extraction can be done at Keith Councell's NFM location).
The "Fresh from Florida" program and assistance with labels was discussed.
Licensing before marketing honey -
Roy Beckford explained that a "food handlers" license from the Health Dept. was
necessary to bottle honey. Passing a written exam is involved
Also, an occupational (business) license to sell food products (Ag. Dept) is
required.
Roy will compile a set of all Fla. laws affecting Florida beekeepers and honey
processing sales.
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:15p.m.
MINUTES
General Membership Meeting & Pot Luck (Covered Dish) Dinner
Beekeepers' Association of Southwest Florida
Wed., Nov. 12, 2008
Small Conference Rm., Lee County Extension Office
Present: 11 members.
The meeting was called to order by Pres. Keith Councell at 7:15p.m., following a
pleasant pot luck dinner.
Treasurer's Report -- Virginia Riggs presented written signed reports, dated
Oct. 29, 2008 and Nov. 12, 2008, showing ending balances of $407.73 and $471.80
respectively. Details of the variance, due to income (mostly 2009 dues)
and several disbursements, was made.
It was moved by Tom Allen, seconded and carried that the report be accepted as
presented.
Minutes of the Oct. 29 general, membership meeting were read. Moved by Tom
Allen, seconded by Ron Kurtz and carried that minutes be accepted as read.
Old Business
Pres. Councell reported that the BASF had not utilized the state
association's allocated agricultural bee education funds set aside for local
programming. Such funds could be used here to disperse coloring books to school
age children on the benefits of bees, for example.
An educational committee of Tom Allen, Ron Weisburg, Roy Beckford, and any other
interested members was formed. It will gather available items (such as from the
National Honey Board) or create suitable pamphlets and make appropriate
recommendations for their printing or distribution locally.
Consensus was that a request of $300 be made of the FSBA for acquiring or
printing such materials. A sampling of those suitable could be obtained from
Bert Kelley, FSBA Treasurer (KelleysApiaries@aol.com)
for review.
SHB Presence --Pres. Councell polled members in attendance on current incidences
of SHBs. They agreed there was still no significant infestations experienced
this year, compared to 2007.
Pres. Councell shared advisory passed on from State meetings that, since
the combs of older equipment contain yeast pheromones which attract beetles,
foundations should be replaced on each year on a gradual monthly basis.
Tom Allen reported that he attributes his new use of screened bottomboards as a
significant factor in the reduction of SHB's in his hives this year.
Pres. Councell said he is beginning some experiments with the use of traps,
pheromone lures and rotting oranges to study SHB control.
Members present who attended the recent FSBA meeting in Gainesville (Keith
Councell, Virginia and Dennis Riggs, Ron Weisburg, and Ron Kurtz) were quite
positive about the experience. The Dadant beeyard sessions were geared to both
small-scale keepers as well as commercial operators.
A Farm Bureau lobbyist had reported on the near success in the enactment of
law by the state legislature in 2008 to offer relief to small-scale keepers from
enforcement of local ordinances detrimental to their agricultural business
practices, exemption from food-processing laws, progress in implementing state
honey standards and planned efforts to continue these battles in 2009.
Dennis Riggs had been honored as FSBA volunteer on the year during the State
meeting banquet, reported Virginia Riggs.
V-P Riggs explained a method of utilizing the SWFBees.com website to sell
bee-related merchandise (at a fair or reduced price) along with a manual method
to donate an agreeable percentage (or dollar amount) to BASF thru the PayPal
"donate" button feature of our webpage.
2009 Beginner Beekeeping classes to be offered in Feb. (bloomtime) - Those
present concurred that the educational committee was an ideal resource to expand
assistance in the classwork and lab/beeyard sessions . The 2007 course had been
conducted solely by extension agent Roy Beckford with several visitations to
Keith Councell's beeyard and honey house. All agreed it is time for the BASF to
assume much more of this responsibility.
Discussion proceeded on a suitable beeyard at which various members could
demonstrate their manipulation techniques during bloomtime. Several suggested
locations were offered (Pine Island - Ron Kurtz's yard, an Orange River yard,
Garden St. location, etc).
Beth Ceilly would check with Roy Beckford on a suitable site on Parks and Rec
land or 20-20 set-aside land. Possibilities of the need for a security/bear
fence was noted.
Member training - Pres. Councell suggested another "day at the beeyard "
inspecting hive boxes and the possibly of 2008 former state assoc. president,
Elmer Herman, as the program speaker for the Dec. 10 meeting.
Virginia Riggs noted that while there was now more than 30 BASF members, not all
have paid 2009 dues.
Moved to adjourn at 8:10p.m. by Tom Allen, seconded and carried.
MINUTES
General Membership Meeting
Beekeepers Association of Southwest Florida
Wed., Oct. 29, 2008
Conference Room, Lee County Extension Office
Present 23 members and guests
The meeting was called to order by Pres. Keith Councell at 6:35p.m.
V-P Dennis Riggs spoke on the new "What's Blooming" feature on our
SWFbees.com website. Members were asked to review it and update (by
e-mail) any info. lacking on current gallery plant postings (common
name(s), botanical name, whether pollen and/or nectar source,
blooming season, and any other reference sources. Also, forward
any other bee-foraging botanicals not yet included. All bee/plant
photos should be dated when shot to validate season of foraging.
Treasurer's Report: Virginia Riggs said $471.8 was in BASF account
at beginning of Oct., with $90 forwarded to FSBA, leaving current
balance of $381.80 in our account. Members were reminded 2009 dues
were "due" Oct. 1 per By-laws and that she was available to collect
and give receipts at meeting. It was moved by Dennis Riggs,
seconded by Tom Allen and carried that the report be accepted.
Future Auction/equipment sales -- Members discussed preceding
future meeting with a brief bee-equipment sales session, presumably
during the 1/2 hour immediately before our usual 6:30p.m. meetings.
Tom Allen said he had wood-working equipment available to make brood
boxes, supers, and nucs and could be of help to members who provided
appropriate lumber to construct, and thus expanding their inventory.
Secretary's Report -- Ron Weisburg read the minutes of the Sept.
20, 2008 meeting. He thanked Tom Allen for preparing them in his
absence last month. It was moved by Tom Allen, seconded and carried
that the minutes be accepted as read.
Frame Hanger alternatives (for use during hive inspections) were
discussed. Besides type in catalogs, some said they used a spare
brood box, others simply rest pulled frames alongside hive, and
others substituted with improvised hangars made from wire, similar
to catalog type.
New Business --
Pres Councell said state bee officials wanted input from BASF
members on degree of mite & SHB infestation in our area. On
polling, few reported any recent significant numbers (way down from
last year). Tom Allen kept a brief log on responses during meeting.
Agricultural Exemptions -- Extension Agent Roy Beckford urged
members who wished to apply to do so immediately as the time to
submit deadline was approaching soon. He offered to assist any
interested with forms and application process details. He
encouraged all beekeepers to apply, but said property cannot have
both Homestead and Ag exemptions. A member noted that beekeepers
can also lease hives to someone seeking an Ag exemption.
Fire Dept. training -- Agent Beckford said the next fire personnel
training in Africanized bee response was soon approaching and he
would like to see BASF members take an active role in sessions.
In addition Roy stated he receives many calls from the public
seeking information on bees/beekeeper-training (besides rescue
calls) and would like to refer such calls to interested members as
part of an education committee. He noted that last year he
received a $3,000 grant for bee equipment and class materials and
would like to see such a BASF committee be involved in such future
offerings. He thanked Pres. Councell for the steam kettle for
blending and pasteurizing honey (available for BASF member use).
Tom Allen reported a pattern of losing queens from weak hives and
asked for reasons why. Pres. Councell offered the following:
1) Robbing season - It began two weeks ago (mid-Oct.) and will last
to "first bloom" in early Jan. 2009. Robbing bees are inclined to
work weaker hives and will often attack queens in doing so.
If robbing occurs throw a fine net over hive or reduce entrance for
the time needed to change behavior. Since bees always seek what is
fresh before eating stale honey and/or pollen, robbing stops at
first bloom.
2) Trend of higher pesticide use may be a contributing factor.
3) Mites/beetles often do in embryonic queens. Symptom will be
vacated queen cells with lots of royal jelly.
4) Excessive frequency of entering/manipulating hive during robbing
season. Keep manipulations to an absolute minimum.
5) Feed hives from a remote location during robbing season makes
them fly to it and keeps robbing pressure down.
Other suggestions -- V-P Riggs suggested any late season honey
harvesting be done with zealous use of lid covers being placed on
top of stacked supers while working hives and using a blower as a very
time-efficient means of removing bees from frames prior to harvest.
Absconding by unclipped queens with a small swarm is an Africanized
trait and can lead to frequent queenlessness.
Other Issues re. pesticides/fertilizers -- Pres. Councell reported
that research around the world is pointing out the detriment of many
new agricultural chemicals to the health of bees, many of which
have not been associated with insects before.
E.g., European government researchers are correlating decline of
frogs and bees to certain chemicals. Bayer Advantage (a systemic)
is being pulled from market.
Councell said BASF member Dave Mendez is in France now attending a
Conference on these very concerns. He had a recent lab analysis of
his hives which reported well over 50 different trace pesticides and
agricultural chemicals. Because of residual chemicals, Pres.
Councell advised members to cycle all frames and foundation out of
brood boxes annually (perhaps at the rate of one frame per mo.?).
Both frame wood and foundation wax store diseases. Also extended
reuse of cells results in their diminished size and hence, reduced
brood and adult bee size.
Food Vendor permit -- Pres. Councell said that members bottling at
the Extension Office's kitchen need only a food vendor permit to
legally sell their packaged honey.
Members reported that more local citizens who suffer from allergies
are seeking local honey in season. Further, Florida veterinarians
are promoting bee products for anti-microbial wound dressings and
other benefits.
2009 Officers -- It was moved by Dennis Riggs, seconded by Tom Allen
and carried that the BASF 2008 officers be retained in office
(re-elected),
because of the initial short period of service in 2008, year of
BASF inception.
Next meeting Wed., Nov. 12 to be in a smaller conference room at
Extension Office (because of an earlier booking) and will be a
potluck. All members are asked to bring a dish to share.
Marketing -- Sec Weisburg said he had a file on various special
marketing events and seasonal Farmers' Markets held in Lee County.
Members who might be looking for opportunities to market honey could
contact him for details.
Upcoming events include an Edison/Ford Winter Estate Farmers market
to be held weekend following Thanksgiving and an upscale weekly
Farmers Market on Saturday mornings starting the Sat. before
Thanksgiving in the vicinity of Bell Tower shopping mall. Dennis
Riggs said events and weekly markets may be posted on our website
calendar and he provided Sec. Weisburg with access code to post
details.
State publications --Anyone not receiving State Association's "The
Florida Beekeeper" or State of Florida Melitto Files mailings should
let Keith C. know.
There being no further business, it was moved by Ron Weisburg,
seconded by Tom Allen and carried at 8:45p.m. that the meeting be
adjourned.
MINUTES
General Membership Meeting
Beekeepers Association of Southwest Florida
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Held at Keith Councell’s Residence on Gail St.
North Fort Myers
Present: 21 members and guests.
The meeting was called to order by President Keith Councell at 1:10
p.m. The minutes for the August meeting were accepted and approved
as presented. The Treasurer’s report was read by Virginia Riggs.
Mrs. Riggs stated that deposits for August totaled $125.00; no
disbursements were made, leaving the ending balance for August at
$471.80. It was also pointed out that dues for 2009 were due on
October 1, 2008.
Since this was to be a working meeting President Councell had
several displays set up on the tables and discussed each. He first
discussed placing CheckMite strips in hives to control small hive
beetles and varroa mites. He used a piece of corrugated plastic
sheeting cut out to fit the pesticide strip inside so that it
wouldn’t come in direct contact with frames, comb or hive body. He
also talked about placement in the hive and mentioned that he
preferred to place it on the bottom board or screen so that it could
be pulled out periodically and cleaned. Carroll Rhodes assisted with
an explanation of the use of these pesticides, when to use safely
and when not to use. President Councell also discussed the proper
procedure for sampling bees for genetic or microscopic testing for
degree of Africanization. Tom Allen also brought in an observation
hive for people to see, which can be made available for various
programs and presentations.
Next President Councell talked about an assortment of plants he had
on display that bees use for nectar. There were 20-25 species on
display. It was mentioned that Brazilian Pepper was just coming on
now along with many of the palms. Several of the plants were
identified and their use by bees discussed including coral vine,
goldenrod, joint weed, mimosa, Brazilian pepper, willow, etc. Dennis
Riggs said that he would post a series of photos if members would
send them in showing bee use of various plant species and the time
of year that nectar gathering occurred. It was stated that over time
the Association could amass a series of plant photos for each season
throughout the year. This would be helpful in learning what plants
are most important to honey bees in this area throughout the year.
Carroll Rhodes discussed collecting of swarms and how to handle
them. He stated that if a member collected a swarm the queen needed
to be caged initially to keep the swarm from leaving, and plans
should be made to re-queen the swarm as soon as possible to prevent
the spread of Africanized bees. Keith mentioned that swarms did best
when placed in a box where they could drop their own comb initially,
or at least draw comb. Dennis Riggs pointed out that branches where
the swarm hung should be clipped and removed to eliminate pheromones
that would be present. Chemical sprays should not be used on
honeybees especially on another’s property as it could be in
violation if done without the proper licenses for pest control.
After a short break with refreshment provided by members, we suited
up and went into the field at 2:30 p.m., smokers in hand, to inspect
several hives. President Councell opened various hives that had been
collected within the last couple weeks and showed everyone what to
look for. A few hives were weak and a few strong. Others had a good
brood patch and a few had sporadic brood or very little brood. One
hive that was checked had a laying worker as the brood was all
drone. Keith mentioned that if we encountered a laying worker we
could leave a brood frame and a queen in a new hive at the site, and
take the queenless hive of bees a few blocks away and dump them out.
The workers would return to the hive location and the laying worker
would be lost. We also looked at an Africanized hive of bees and
observed their aggressive behavior.
We then looked at some equipment, extractors and a new, improved
comb that President Councell was now using.
Following President Councell gave us a demonstration on the art of
candle making from bees wax. All in all it was an educational and
very informative afternoon.
MINUTES
General Membership Meeting
Beekeepers Association of Southwest Florida
Wed., Aug. 20, 2008
Conference Rm., Lee County Extension Office
Present: 30 members and guests
The meeting was called to order by Pres. Keith Councell at 6:35p.m.
Guests included John Glasen (current Democratic candidate for Lee
County property appraiser), David Jones (Collier County bee removal
specialist), Beth Seally and Paul Rignowski (who attended to learn
about local beekeeping).
Featured speaker Jason R. Graham of the honey bee research &
extension lab, U-F Entomology and Nematology Dept. was unable to
attend because of Tropical Storm Fay. He had been scheduled to
present research findings on small hive beetles, a current common
hive pest for BASF members.
<r. Glaser briefed members on his qualifications for the office
sought and his position on various property appraisal and taxation
issues affecting beekeepers.
David Jones indicated he had a quality (like-new) extractor for
sale.
The minutes of the July 16 minutes were read. It was moved by Tom
Allen, seconded by Bob McKinney and carried to accept the minutes as
read.
Treasurers Report - Virginia Riggs reported BASF's account balance
as of Aug. 1 as $346.80 after collected state assoc. dues were
forwarded. Moved by Tom Allen, seconded by Tom McKinney and carried
that the report be accepted.
Old Business -
V-P Dennis Riggs reported on a very successful bee education program
at Manatee Park in late July and directed members to the BASF
website photo gallery of the event. A $25 check to BASF was
received by the Pres. and V-P for their volunteer efforts.
V-P Riggs also said the new PayPal button/tile is now activated on
the BASF website for anyone wishing to support BASF programming by
making a donation.
A report on BASF participation in the "TASTE of LEE" event in early
Aug was made - Very large attendance by the public and much honey
sold. Sec. Ron Weisburg suggested appointing a committee to
explore setting up a 2009 Lee County Honey Festival at one of the
shopping malls, as little expense need be added to the mall's
promotional budgets to publicize and huge dividends in public
awareness and honey sales could be attained based on the Taste of
Lee experience. Dignitary judges and/or a chef's competition were
also suggested. No action taken.
Tom Allen reported an update on the Friends of Wildlife interest in
a bee rescue support program would not be known until after Sept. 1.
New Business -
Scott and Lora Ebson invited all BASF members to the 1st Annual
Farmer and Beekeeper Potluck BBQ, Sun., Sept. 28, 2p.m. at the Hoo
Haw Honey Farms, 3840 28th Ave., S.E., off of Everglades Blvd.,
Naples.
RSVP - 239-285-8567. Music and hog roast to be provided. BYOB and
a dish to pass, they suggested.
David Jones talked about his visit with an Alaskan beekeeper:
Excellent honey harvest, viscosity harvest challenges, Total annual
hive restart with package bees because of yearly die-offs, hives
kept on top of storage buildings because of bear raids., etc.
Pres. Councell briefed members on happenings at the State and
national levels such as National Honey month.
Guests John Glasen asked whether BASF was in contact with the Farm
Bureau (local office nr. Metro Pkwy. and Daniels) as they were in
his experience a most powerful agricultural assoc. and lobby at all
levels. Possible future meeting speaker.
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8p.m.
Sept. meeting's date/time/place to be announced on website as
Extension agent Roy Beckford was not present to confirm conference
room availability next month.
MINUTES
Beekeepers Association of Southwest Florida
General Membership Meeting
Wed., July 16, 2008, Conference Room, Lee County Extension Office
Present: 8 members, 1 guest
Preceding the meeting, a new U-F public educational video featuring
the value of Florida managed bees from pollination & honey
production. It also highlighted the history of Africanized feral
bees in the Americas and their dangers to Floridians, including
how to respond to their aggressive defensiveness and available
resources in an emergency.
The business meeting started at 7:05p.m.
Minutes of the June 25 minutes were read with two corrections: 1)
Mango Mania dates - July 12-13; 2) Attribution to V-P Riggs on
report of possible lifting of state bottling/health
restrictions. Moved by Dennis Riggs, seconded by Tom Allen to
approve minutes with noted corrections. Motion carried.
Treasurer's Report - Virginia Riggs indicated that with expected fee
credits from Bank of America the current balance was $321.60. It
was moved by Tom Allen, seconded by Dennis Riggs and carried that
the report be accepted.
OLD BUSINESS
Publication of BASF Roster - V-P Riggs clarified that with current
Privacy Rights law, dissemination of a BASF membership list with
addresses, phone numbers and e-mails would not be possible
(Currently, only BASF officers have this info.). A "release" of
private information form would be drafted and once signed and
executed by a significant number of members such info. could be
published on the BASF website and possibly accessible only by BASF
members. If a member opts not to sign, their name and info would be
excluded from the roster, Riggs added.
NEW BUSINESS
Written monthly meeting announcements - Concern with inadequate
notification to members of upcoming meetings led V-P Riggs to
request that Ext. Agent Roy Beckford and Sec. Ron Weisburg be in
contact 2 weeks prior to all future meetings so as to mail printed
postcard reminders to all who are not able to access the BASF
website's meeting notices.
Riggs further suggested that members with internet access to the
BASF website search for and click on the purple Yahoo tile towards
the bottom of the website. This opens up a registry which allows
interested individuals to sign up for an automatic meeting notice, a
forum to ask beekeeping questions (such as where to buy queens),
share bee-related photos and current experiences. The BASF chat
site is closely monitored by State bee inspectors and U-F bee
research personnel in the efforts to keep advised of developments in
the field and to authoritatively answer questions about current
events occurring on apiary diseases, legislative matters and other
bee issues. To register for the Yahoo site requires creating a
e-mail names and password.
Volunteers needed - V-P Riggs reported many requests for BASF
assistance or speaking engagements. Any members who are willing to
be on a speakers bureau list or assist in responding to requests and
questions from the public should contact him by e-mail.
Examples cited were: Speaking before grade school groups such as
4-H or science classrooms, and a presentation at Manatee Park on
July 29-30 on the importance of and how to deal with bees.
Dennis Riggs as BASF webmaster also detailed a new click-on "tile"
on the BASF website which hyperlinks to a how-to-join page including
a printable mail-in application.
An animated cartoon on the website was also demonstrated.
NEXT MEETING - Ext. agent Roy Beckford said Wed., Aug. 20, 6:30p.m.
is the next available slot for the monthly BASF meeting at the Lee
County Extension office.
Beckford also said he has received inquiries on how to make
donations to the BASF. V-P Riggs said he would sign up PAYPAL to
the BASF website to accommodate future donors. He suggested that
the Secretary draft a mission statement.
Sept. 25 Bee Production Workshop - Beckford asked for collaboration
from the BASF on a full-day U-F/Lee County workshop on Bee
Production. He added that the conference might be ideal for
attendance by Cape Coral and Lee County policy makers to gain
understanding and awareness of the scope of the local bee industry
and assess possible strategies on dealing with Africanized feral
bees. Public awareness could also be increased by the event. He
proposed forming a public education/public relations committee to
draft a promotional flyer.
Possible publicity outlets were discussed. The extension office has
a press/media contact list. Tom Allen also suggested contacting "On
the Move," a Cape Coral periodical for more exposure. Breeze
Newspapers support was likely but News/Press coverage was likely to
result only from some persistence.
Speakers for the event might include U-F's Drs. Jamie and Amanda
Ellis and local beekeeper and national bee authority, Dave Mendez.
State of the Local Industry - Pres. Councell said there have been
overwhelming local swarm calls because of the rain. Many C.C.
swarms are gravitating to L.C.E.C. utility poles (300 swarms - best
current estimate). Pres. Councell said he placed traps on poles at
west end of C.C. Parkway and had 4 different colonies within
hours. At present, no budget or policy by L.C.E.C. for removal to
protect adjacent residents from swarms. But a case for city funding
might be made, indicated Councell, as the entire community benefits
from feral swarm removal.
Tom Allen said the C.C. Friends of Wildlife might be approached to
fund purchase of bee traps assuming the feral swarms could be
requeened, boxed and sold. General consensus was, that with the
cost of travel, labor, new queens, and marketing expenses, there was
not sufficient margins to make the rehab/resale effort feasible,
even with volunteer help and a free place to put nucs temporarily.
Local market for package bees w/queens in nuc is approx. $50., said
Councell.
There being no further business, it was moved by Dennis Riggs,
seconded by Tom Allen at 7:55p.m. and carried that the meeting be
adjourned.
A member experiencing spotty brood patterns asked the membership
about availability of quality mated/clipped and marked queens.
Sources mentioned included: Curtis Honey, N.C.; Kelley Bees;
Koehnen queen bees, California; and Purvis Bros. An internet search
likely would assist in reaching any of these.
MINUTES
Beekeepers Association of Southwest Florida
General Membership Meeting
Wed., June 25, 2008, Conference Room, Lee County Extension Office
Present 16 members, 2 guests.
Pres. Councell opened meeting at 6:45p.m. with a workshop session,
featuring disease-laden honey combs. He passed all a sample comb
harvested within the hour and 6-8 years old. He pointed out live
SHB and Varroa mites on larvae, vacated swarm cells on the outer
edge (supercedure cells would have been on centers of the combs).
He pointed out that the swarm cells were vacant as the first-born
queen had removed the developing queens. He also said that if a
keeper is installing a new queen in a healthy hive, all swarm cells
similarly should be destroyed.
He also showed smaller-cell comb sections which were Africanized.
He further noted that Africanized drone cells were indistinguishable
from European drone cells, sizewise.
PRESIDENT'S REPORT
Cape Coral Citation - Pres, Councell reported the hive cited as
an offending "visible storage container" had been moved to a less
visible backyard location and code enforcement has ceased pressing
the matter. He said no beekeeping ordinance exists in C.C. or Lee
County. Collier has an old ordinance from an in-town agitated hive
incidence long ago but it has not been enforced in recent history.
V-P Riggs reminded members that model beekeeping ordinance
guidelines are available on the internet if needed.
Mango Mania - Pres. Councell welcomed members to utilize a part of
his reserved space at the Festival, July 23-13 at the
German-American Club, Pine Island, C.C. to merchandise their
honey/bee products.
Potential Lifting of State Honey Bottling/ Health Dept. Restrictions
- V-P Riggs reported substantial progress in efforts at the
State level to exempt first 1,000 gallons of hobbyist honey
bottling. The new initiative started after legislative reviews of
the staggering detailed costs incurred by a typical hobbyist in
complying with current law. Progress on this likely change will be
reported at next month's meeting and on the State Assn. website
reports by Malcolm Sanford.
All present concurred that our BASF State Rep. Carroll Rhodes be
encouraged to support such proposals while attending any 2008 State
Ass'n. meetings. (no motion),
Membership directory - Whether published electronically or in print,
a directory could likely not be printed unless members were polled
by mail for a release to publish personal data. (No motion). Info
on all registered beekeepers is already on internet, per V-P Riggs.
Several members offered to merchandise beekeeping supplies at future
meetings for the convenience of members. This could lower the
impact of rising shipping and handling since the member/merchandiser
could buy in volume at discount and sell ideally at catalog prices
less shipping, assuming strong member support.
Alternatives were discussed with other members. One suggestion was
a bee supply stand at the Naples Flea market near Collier County
Fairgrounds. V-P Riggs offered a free on-line standing ad for such
a distributor/member as part of the BASF website.
Taste of Lee - Pres. Councell were again reminded of the Taste of
Lee as a honey merchandising opportunity event. It will be held
Sat., Aug. 9, 9a.m.-2p.m. at the Riverside Community Center, Ft.
Myers. Call Extension office to register.
A member, Alex Michel-Brown, asked on how to avoid the
complexities of establishing a legally-compliant honey bee services
and products "business" which allowed for income and property tax
deductions. One member suggested becoming a compliant registered
plant nursery, but inspections would follow. Income tax and
property tax agricultural exemptions were further discussed.
Pres. Councell advised members of his appearance within the week on
a national CBS Morning Show bee health interview. He also had
several other speaking engagements, one July 1 in Naples, involving
Rotary Club, Botanical Gardens.
Next Meeting - To be scheduled for Wed,., July 16, 6:30p.m. If no
objection, 2009 meetings could be held the 3rd Wed. each month, per
Roy Beckford, Councell said.
Commercial Kitchen availability - The adjacent Extension Office's
facility will be completed by next year and available for honey
bottling before each monthly meeting. Pres. Councell to donate a
steam kettle for the bottling process.
Treas. Virginia Riggs was absent but members were reminded next
years dues will be payable Dec. 1, 2008, after which they will be
considered delinquent per bylaws.
An anonymous donor/artist was reported to be interested in creating
and donating a crystal art piece to be auctioned of with the
proceeds to be given to the State Assoc. and designated for bee
conservation, education and research on the current demise of
honeybee colonies. The donor asked for creative concepts. Sec.
Weisburg suggested the State Assoc.'s new logo be forwarded to the
artist.
Pres. Councell finished his report by announcing that Davis Barnes,
IFAS lab head would be available to speak to BASF members at a
future meeting. State funds are not budgeted for overnight stays,
so presumably his lodging expenses would need to be covered
locally. No action taken at this time.
Following the president's report, minutes of the May 21, 2008
meeting were read. It was moved by Mr. Riggs, seconded and carried
that they be accepted as read. There being no treasurer's report,
no old business, new business or committee reports, the meeting was
adjourned at 8:10p.m., Moved, seconded and carried.
MINUTES
Beekeepers Association of Southwest Florida
General Membership Meeting
Wed., May 21, 2008, Conference Room, Lee County Extension Office
BASF President Keith Councell previewed at 6:15p.m. the second part
of the Ed Weiss "Introduction to Beekeeping" video which dealt with
extracting and bottling honey, as well as winter and
spring preparation (northerly state style).
He called the General membership meeting to order at 6:45p.m. with
26 members in attendance.
Minutes of the April 23 meeting were read by the Secretary. It was
moved by Tom Allen, seconded by Kathy Herrin that the minutes be
accepted as read. Motion passed.
Treasurer's Report -- Virginia Riggs reported a balance of $241 and
five new members after a total of $80 collected in dues and $34
disbursed for printed checks. It was moved by Dennis Riggs,
seconded by Tom Allen that the Treasurer's Report be accepted.
Motion carried.
Regarding the video, a question was asked about the need to
sterilize honey before bottling. The consensus was that bacteria
was not a major concern because it could only be on the surface of
the honey but heating to delay crystallizing was often appropriate.
Old Business -
A question on frequency of queen replacement was asked with answers
varying from six months to two years. Carroll Rhodes suggested
performance in brood and honey production and bee attitude were
important practical considerations. State apiary officials
recommend the shortage intervals (twice a year) because of
concerns with Africanization risk.
New Business -
Members were updated on a very recent ordinance citation for a
beehive on the residential premises of a state-certified Cape Coral
beekeeper (He was cited for an unauthorized "outdoor storage
container" (to be removed in 5 days). After considerable
discussion and an update by Roy Beckford who had been contact with
the C.C. city attorney's office, the consensus was that education of
the Cape Coral decision makers was needed on the benefits and best
practices of State-certified beekeepers (who have a right to farm)
versus the current feral bee problems manifesting themselves in C,C,
water meters. President Councell indicated he was assembling a
committee including Extension Agent Roy Beckford and Tom Allen (C.C.
resident) to discuss the matter with the city officials to enhance
their understanding of the standards and scope of responsible
beekeeping in the city.
An announcement was made about the Sat., Aug. 9 first ever Taste of
Lee local food- fair type event. It would provide an opportunity
for BASF members to exhibit a "sampling and sales" honey table from
9a.m.-5p.m. at no charge. Those interested may contact Ron Weisburg
656-0781 or
RCVOYAGER@hotmail.com for more details on reserving space.
Related to this development, Pres. Councell encouraged all BASF
beekeepers to attend a Cape Coral city council hearing at City Hall,
Mon., June 2, 6p.m. on the increasing incidences (now about 5 per
day) of feral bee swarms found in water meters throughout the city.
The need exists for either a city employee or contracted specialist
with appropriate budgeting to deal with the incidences as there was
much fear of the swarms, bee stings, and allergic reactions by
meter readers and the residents as well as those in day care and
convalescent care facilities. The consensus was that this was not a
difficult problem to manage with the resources and personnel
available -- similar to managed response to stray dogs and
alligators.
Sec. Ron Weisburg said he had received word from Dr. Jamie Ellis
(U-F) that the prerequisite 6 modules of bee training and exams
would be offered on-line in the near future for those who were State
apprentice beekeepers wished to attend to Advanced Beekeeper course
next March in Apopka. This prework can simply be done at home
rather than completed at the local Extension Offices. More details
to follow.
Dave Mendez and Pres. Councell commented on an article in a recent
edition of SPEEDY BEE which said U.S. Sec. of Agriculture Ed Schafer
has an unsupportive opinion of the urgent need for additional
funding for bee disease research (because of CCD). Mendez pegged
the current Ag. Dec. as biased towards major commodity oriented big
grain crops and not attuned to bee dependent vegetable/fruit/nut
crop industries which heavily utilize pollination services.
It was suggested that a sample letter be drafted to be sent to U.S.
officials on the need for immediate funding for CCD/bee disease
research before it is too late.
State Health Codes affecting honey bottling -- Several states are
enacting legislation to exempt beekeeper's first 250 gals of honey
from restrictive bottling requirements. If enacted in
Florida this would go a long way to freeing small-scale Fla.
beekeepers from the complexities of State Health laws, suggested Roy
Beckford. Support from State Representatives must be actively
sought by BASF members and others throughout the state if this is to
occur.
Tom Allen said he is looking for ideas on marketing honey>
Suggestions were:
* Create awareness and future demand by initially giving it away to
neighbors and friends.
* Offer honey for sale at Ft. Myers Farmers Market, Thurs mornings.
* Place a "Honey for Sale" sign (per Fred Howard) in front yards
* Roy Beckford said that the Lee County Extension Office commercial
Kitchen (adjacent to our meeting room) was 90% completed. Once
finished, the kitchen could be used by BASF members to avoid Health
Dept concerns with home bottling. Simply bring raw honey to monthly
meetings and bottling it in the kitchen afterwards.
Illegal to kill bees? Questions were raised about statements made
by Caloosa Nature Center staff that killing bees is illegal.
Consensus of members was that killing a wild colony is not illegal
as that is the position of the State bee inspectors under Jerry
Hayes. Roy Beckford is to research status of the State Act for
Protection of Beneficial Insects and report back on legal standing.
Imported pollen -- Dave Mendez reports that the importation of
pollen (80% from China) is legal but feeding it to U.S. bees is
illegal.
Training workshop on receiving new queen bees -- Carroll Rhodes
gave a presentation on handling, clipping & marking queens .
Included were colors/year CODES: (WHITE - YEARS ENDING IN 1 OR 6,
YELLOW 2 & 7, RED 3 & 8, GREEN 4 & 9, BLUE 5 & 0). Tips included --
"Don't reuse queen cases because traces of old pheromones can
trigger death of attendants or queen."
Door prizes were presented. There being no further business, it was
moved by Tom Allen, seconded by Cathy Herrin and carried at
8:30p.m. that the meeting be adjourned. Refreshments served.
Next meeting is scheduled for Wed., June 25, 6:30 p.m.
MINUTES
Beekeepers Association of Southwest Florida
General Membership Meeting
Wed., May 21, 2008, Conference Room, Lee County Extension Office
BASF President Keith Councell previewed at 6:15p.m. the second part
of the Ed Weiss "Introduction to Beekeeping" video which dealt with
extracting and bottling honey, as well as winter and
spring preparation (northerly state style).
He called the General membership meeting to order at 6:45p.m. with
26 members in attendance.
Minutes of the April 23 meeting were read by the Secretary. It was
moved by Tom Allen, seconded by Kathy Herrin that the minutes be
accepted as read. Motion passed.
Treasurer's Report -- Virginia Riggs reported a balance of $241 and
five new members after a total of $80 collected in dues and $34
disbursed for printed checks. It was moved by Dennis Riggs,
seconded by Tom Allen that the Treasurer's Report be accepted.
Motion carried.
Regarding the video, a question was asked about the need to
sterilize honey before bottling. The consensus was that bacteria
was not a major concern because it could only be on the surface of
the honey but heating to delay crystallizing was often appropriate.
Old Business -
A question on frequency of queen replacement was asked with answers
varying from six months to two years. Carroll Rhodes suggested
performance in brood and honey production and bee attitude were
important practical considerations. State apiary officials
recommend the shortage intervals (twice a year) because of
concerns with Africanization risk.
New Business -
Members were updated on a very recent ordinance citation for a
beehive on the residential premises of a state-certified Cape Coral
beekeeper (He was cited for an unauthorized "outdoor storage
container" (to be removed in 5 days). After considerable
discussion and an update by Roy Beckford who had been contact with
the C.C. city attorney's office, the consensus was that education of
the Cape Coral decision makers was needed on the benefits and best
practices of State-certified beekeepers (who have a right to farm)
versus the current feral bee problems manifesting themselves in C,
C, water meters. President Councell indicated he was assembling a
committee including Extension Agent Roy Beckford and Tom Allen (C.C.
resident) to discuss the matter with the city officials to enhance
their understanding of the standards and scope of responsible
beekeeping in the city.
Related to this development, Pres. Councell encouraged all BASF
beekeepers to attend a Cape Coral city council hearing at City Hall,
Mon., May 26, 6p.m. on the increasing incidences (now about 5 per
day) of feral bee swarms found in water meters throughout the city.
The need exists for either a city employee or contracted specialist
with appropriate budgeting to deal with the incidences as there was
much fear of the swarms, bee stings, and allergic reactions by
meter readers and the residents as well as those in day care and
convalescent care facilities. The consensus was that this was not a
difficult problem to manage with the resources and personnel
available -- similar to managed response to stray dogs and
alligators.
Sec. Ron Weisburg said he had received word from Dr. Jamie Ellis
(U-F) that the prerequisite 6 modules of bee training and exams
would be offered on-line in the near future for those who were State
apprentice beekeepers wished to attend to Advanced Beekeeper course
next March in Apopka. This prework can simply be done at home
rather than completed at the local Extension Offices. More details
to follow.
Dave Mendez and Pres. Councell commented on an article in a recent
edition of SPEEDY BEE which said U.S. Sec. of Agriculture Ed Schafer
has an unsupportive opinion of the urgent need for additional
funding for bee disease research (because of CCD). Mendez pegged
the current Ag. Dec. as biased towards major commodity oriented big
grain crops and not attuned to bee dependent vegetable/fruit/nut
crop industries which heavily utilize pollination services.
It was suggested that a sample letter be drafted to be sent to U.S.
officials on the need for immediate funding for CCD/bee disease
research before it is too late.
State Health Codes affecting honey bottling -- Several states are
enacting legislation to exempt beekeeper's first 250 gals of honey
from restrictive bottling requirements. If enacted in
Florida this would go a long way to freeing small-scale Fla.
beekeepers from the complexities of State Health laws, suggested Roy
Beckford. Support from State Representatives must be actively
sought by BASF members and others throughout the state if this is to
occur.
Tom Allen said he is looking for ideas on marketing honey>
Suggestions were:
* Create awareness and future demand by initially giving it away to
neighbors and friends.
* Offer honey for sale at Ft. Myers Farmers Market, Thurs mornings.
* Place a "Honey for Sale" sign (per Fred Howard) in front yards
* Roy Beckford said that the Lee County Extension Office commercial
Kitchen (adjacent to our meeting room) was 90% completed. Once
finished, the kitchen could be used by BASF members to avoid Health
Dept concerns with home bottling. Simply bring raw honey to monthly
meetings and bottling it in the kitchen afterwards.
Illegal to kill bees? Questions were raised about statements made
by Caloosa Nature Center staff that killing bees is illegal.
Consensus of members was that killing a wild colony is not illegal
as that is the position of the State bee inspectors under Jerry
Hayes. Roy Beckford is to research status of the State Act for
Protection of Beneficial Insects and report back on legal standing.
Imported pollen -- Dave Mendez reports that the importation of
pollen (80% from China) is legal but feeding it to U.S. bees is
illegal.
Training workshop on receiving new queen bees -- Carroll Rhodes
gave a presentation on handling, clipping & marking queens .
Included were colors/year CODES: (WHITE - YEARS ENDING IN 1 OR 6,
YELLOW 2 & 7, RED 3 & 8, GREEN 4 & 9, BLUE 5 & 0). Tips included --
"Don't reuse queen cases because traces of old pheromones can
trigger death of attendants or queen."
Door prizes were presented. There being no further business, it was
moved by Tom Allen, seconded by Cathy Herrin and carried at
8:30p.m. that the meeting be adjourned. Refreshments served.
Next meeting is scheduled for Wed., June 25, 6p.m.
ABBREVIATED (Non-Concise) MINUTES ~ Beekeepers Association of
Southwest Florida (BASF)
Date: April 23, 2008 ~ General Membership Meeting
Conference Room, Lee County Extension Office
BASF President Keith Councell opened the meeting at 6:30p.m.
Present - 38 members, prospective members, and guests
A video, "Introduction to Beekeeping, Step by Step Guide," by Ed
Weiss was viewed, with the second segment, on honey production, to
be shown at the beginning of the May meeting.
President Councell announced that surplus handouts (catalogs,
educational advisories, etc.) from the recent UF Bee College were on
the back table for distribution.
Minutes of the March 5 meeting were read by Sec. Ron Weisburg.
Moved by Tom Allen, seconded by Ron Weisburg and carried that the
minutes be accepted.
Treasurer Virginia Riggs reported 14 beekeepers applied for BASF
membership in March with nine also paying State Assoc. dues. Total
of $275 collected and an account with Bank of America had been
opened. Of these funds, $135 was forwarded to the Florida State
Beekeepers Assoc., leaving $135 in the local account (Many others
were applying for membership at the April meeting).. The
Treasurer's report was accepted (moved by Ron Kurtz, seconded by Tom
Allen, & carried).
Vice-president Dennis Riggs asked by membership if there was any old
or new business. President Councell announced that the May meeting
would include a session on queen raising. Extension agent Roy
Beckford said that, with current meeting room availability, the next
meeting might be tentatively scheduled for Wed., May 21, 6:30p.m.
(Confirmation to be posted on BASF website: swfbees.com). Roy
will work with BASF officers to define a fixed schedule for the
remainder of this year and 2009, so members can plan their
attendance accordingly.
Carroll Rhodes, BASF State Representative, announced that a shipment
of European queens from Hawaii was expected shortly; price was
approx. $20 each. He asked anyone interested to contact him
immediately.
Vice president Riggs underlined the opportunity for members to use
the BASF website (swfbees.com) which is continually updated on
salient events/news in beekeeping that directly affect SWF
beekeepers.
Open discussion ensued on various happenings. Ron Weisburg
suggested the president include in each future meeting a brief
update on local bee news as he was uniquely in touch with many local
apiaries and rescues on a daily basis.
Current Haagen Dais ice cream website encourages youth towards
beekeeping and its importance, a NEWSWEEK interview of Keith
Councell, and an article in the N.Y. Times were referenced by
various members.
David Mendez, local member and National Vice-president of the
American Beekeepers Federation and a national director of PROJECT
APIS M., noted that pollen patties are a sure way to grow strong
levels of SHB beetles. He suggested Permathrin to eliminate fire
ants & beetles. He said an inexpensive, but effective trap to keep
SHB in check is corrugated-plastic sign material, immersed in soapy
water and then installed in the hive entrance. 70-80 trapped
beetles is the typical yield upon regular inspection. Greased PVC
pipe legs prohibit hive access to ants, another said.
It was moved by Tom Allen, seconded, AND APPROVED THAT A DIRECTORY
OF MEMBER NAMES, ADDRESS AND PHONE NUMBERS BE COMPOSED AND
DISTRIBUTED.
Discussion centered on Legislative support/USDA research funding
matters.
David Mendez referenced a letter from U.S. Sen. Barbara
Boxer (Calif.) which generated the signatures of 53 Senators to the
Sec. of Agriculture, asking for accountability and help with bee
research. Sen Nelson (Fla.) signed the letter.
Many Florida legislators generally appear to not be knowledgeable
about the importance of bees in this highly-agricultural state.
Beekeeper Mendez referenced a recent meeting with an assistant to
U.S. Congressman Connie Mack as an example of bee
issue unawareness. Knowledgeable and supportive exceptions exist
such as State Rep. Tim Mahoney. BASF member letters to our
U.S. Senators, and state legislators was encourage. Mendez reported
that the State of Florida spent $300,000 on bee research last year.
ARS spends $7 million/ a year. Their national CCD projects are by
design long-range-oriented and are not apt to reacting to what is
happening in the fields now. State apiary research head Jamie Ellis
is being asked to improve bee disease diagnostic methods. Florida,
with its full-time chief inspector and a stable of field
inspectors, is the ideal setting for research and real-time
diagnostic testing, measuring and compiling statistics on incidences
of nosema, varroa mites, etc. No one is doing this. Florida should
be the national leader. Only part of research should be
morphometric; bee attitude, not just genetics, is most important
It was noted that at the national level, Florida beekeepers have
only one vote , which is through the national delegate of the FSBA
State association .
Locally Roy Beckford spoke of good rapport with the Lee County
Commissioners and State Rep. NickThompson on bee issues which, he
said, should be further cultivated by BASF members.
Through an open polling, a local problem with absconding colonies
was noted. Also noted was a low-to-none citrus nectar yield this
year locally as 2008 citrus blooms were few.
Concern about state-prescribed systemic pesticide applications of
9-10/year to control citrus greening was an expressed concern. One
beekeeper said cumulative concentrated levels of specific toxic
elements in his apiary's honey are 3-4 times levels higher than that
found in the botanical materials sprayed by local farmers and
foraged by the his bees, Because of the high influence of the citrus
industry, the state protocol is decimating many natural predators of
pests and affecting bees health. When bee colonies die, something
is wrong. Gaining the attention of State and national legislators
on this issue is imperative to swing back the pendulum.
Several members underlined these concerns of intense use of
pesticides (rather than use or find natural predators ) to solve
agricultural problems. One noted - "people and bees are
co-dependent.
A local rare fruit gardener/visitor inquired on whether the complete
swarming of a long-time feral "friendly" colony on her property was
a good or bad thing.
Members were reminded of the State's "Good Beekeeping Practices"
program and its emphasis on requeening. Keith Councell and Carroll
Rhodes are good sources of quality queen and package bees it was
noted.
There being no further business, it was moved by Dennis Riggs,
seconded and carried at 8:30 p.m. that the meeting be adjourned.
Concise minutes of the meeting on the Beekeepers Association of
Southwest Florida (BASF)
Date: March 5, 2008
Venue: Lee County Extension conference rooms
Attendance: 19
• 6:30 – 6:50 PM – Refreshments
• Commencement – 6:50 PM
• Roy Beckford called the meeting to order and introduced the
members of the Steering
Committee who were all present with the exception of Tom Allen.
• Present were: Mr. Keith Councell, Mr. Ron Weisburg, Mr. Dennis
Riggs and Mr. Roy
Beckford.
• Roy turned the meeting over to Dennis Riggs. Mr. Riggs announced
the next order of
business to be the nomination of and election of an association
president.
Nominations for President:
1. Mr. Keith Council – Nominated by Otto Parisho, seconded by John
Adams
2. Dennis Riggs – declined nomination
• Votes were cast for Keith Councell. Vote was unanimous.
• Keith Councell was elected to the position of President of the
Beekeepers association of
South west Florida.
• Chairmanship of the meeting was turned over the newly elected
President. Election of
officers continued.
Nomination for Vice-president:
1. Mr. Dennis Riggs - Nominated by Ron Weisburg, seconded by Scott
Edson
• No other nominees were proposed. Vote was unanimous. Mr. Dennis
Riggs was elected
to the position of Vice-president of the Beekeepers association of
Southwest Florida.
• All other nominations to the executive body was done according to
the constitution and
by-laws accepted on February 7, 2008.
Position of Secretary: Mr. Ron Weisburg
Position of treasurer: Mrs. Virginia Riggs
Position of Representative to the State Association Board of
Managers: Mr. Carroll Rhodes nominated in absentia and was consulted
by phone. Mr. Rhodes accepted nomination and the vote was unanimous.
• Having elected officers, the order of business as mandated by the
by-laws was followed.
• Membership dues were collected by Virginia Riggs and receipts were
issued.
• Minutes of the last meeting was shown on the PowerPoint screen,
read by all, and
C. Cowert made a motion to approve. This was seconded by Dennis
Riggs.
• A full beesuit was raffled off – Donated by the Agriculture Agent,
Lee County
Extension Service. Mr. Scott Edson was winner of the raffle.
• The date for the next meeting was announced (Changed to April 23rd
consequently)
• The website swfbees.com was shown by Mr. Denis Riggs who also
informed the group
about the taping of an interview by Roy Beckford and Dennis Riggs
for the Fox 4
Morning Blend Television Show.
• Dennis Riggs moved to adjourn the meeting. Bill McCauley seconded.
The meeting
adjourned at 7:54 PM.
Date: November 28, 2007
Venue: University of Florida, IFAS, Lee
County Extension Service, 3406 Palm Beach
Boulevard, Fort Myers,
Florida 33916
Minutes taken by: Roy Beckford,
Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent, Ph: 239-461-
7512,
e-mail:
fbeckford@leegov.com
-
-
Commencement: 6:45 PM
-
- 27
persons in total attended; 20 males, 7 females.
-
-
Introduction and brief address by: Roy Beckford
-
- Group
introduced themselves and gave a brief background on level of participation in
beekeeping and apiculture
-
- Keith
Councell gave a brief update on the delay of Mr. Bert Kelly and Mr. Gary
Ranker of the State Association. They were stuck in traffic on Interstate 75.
-
- Roy
Beckford asked attendee Mr. Ron Weisburg to speak to the group about the
possible direction the association could take. Ron Weisburg has expertise in
association development
-
- Roy
Beckford suggested, as a start, that the group select a core planning
committee to direct the development stages of the association until officers
are selected at the next meeting
-
- 7:58
PM - Mr. Kelly and Ranker arrives.
-
- Mr.
Kelly addressed the group and gave pointers on ways to commence the
association
-
-
Questions were fielded to Mr. Kelly on membership issues, dues, adoption of
by-laws; direction other association chapters have taken
-
- Mr.
Gary Ranker addressed the group and provided print material as models for
a constitution and by-laws
-
- Mr.
Ranker suggested that the name ‘Southwest Florida’ may be in use as the
previous chapter may be ‘asleep’ and therefore still in existence.
-
- Six
(6) persons were chosen to form a steering committee to implement the
association and determine the next meeting date. The six are: (with area of
expertise and contact information following their names)
-
Mr. Tom Allen – By-laws
and constitutional writing
-
Mr. Ron Weisburg –
Association and organizational development
-
Mr. Dennis Riggs – E-mailing
and website development
-
Mr. Keith Councell
-
Mr. Roy Beckford
– IFAS information, mailing list development
-
Mr. John Ringland
-
The meeting adjourned at 10:22 PM
Rough Draft for Committees
|
Committee Name |
Chairperson
(tentative) |
Members (tentative) |
|
Education |
Tom
Allen |
Keith
Councell, Dennis Riggs, Roy Beckford, Gene Sipe, Barbara
Mader, Beth Ceiley, Claudia Cowert |
| Honey
Queen |
Barbara
Mader |
Beth
Ceiley, Claudia Cowert, Lynn James |
|
Hospitality** |
Dennis
Riggs |
Virginia
Riggs, Kim Barselou, Jeff Thomas, Mellissa Dahn |
| Apiary** |
Dennis
Riggs |
Keith
Councell, Dave Mendes, Carroll Rhodes |
|
Convention Planning |
|
Keith
Councell, Melissa Cunningham, Dennis Riggs, Lynn James, Gene Sipe,
Andy Sipe, Tom Isham, Tom
Allen, Stephanie Belknap (e-mail bounces), Cheryl King, Bill Jones, Jeff &
Ronda Thomas, David Gatley, Bill Conrod, Siegfried Rupp, Otto
Parisho, Don Murray, Ted McGee, Barb Mader, Joe Anderson, Beth
Ceiley, Kim Barselou. Click here for
COMPLETE LIST |
|
Executive* |
Keith
Councell |
Dennis
Riggs, Lisa St. John, Virginia Riggs, Ron Weisburg |
| Budget
|
Virginia
Riggs |
Dennis
Riggs, Kim Barselou |
| National
Bee Awareness Day |
Lynn
James (withdrew) |
Lisa St.
John |
| |
|
|
|
*Executive Committee is limited to officers and delegate
only... no other members. Membership closed.
**Hospitality & Apiary Committee must be chaired by Vice
President per Constitution & ByLaws |
Beekeepers Association of Southwest Florida can use
your help. Please DONATE to support our group's efforts.
We are NOT a charity and your donations are NOT tax deductible:
Notice: You do NOT have to be a member of PayPal (or sign up) to
use your credit card to donate, simply look during the donation process for the
section "Don't have a PayPal account? and click continue.
This document was created on 9/20//08, rev.
07/26/10
©2010 Denrig, Inc.,
All rights reserved.
How do I join Beekeepers Association of Southwest Florida (BASF)?
Attend one of our meetings and pay applicable dues to our Treasurer,
or you can DOWNLOAD an application
for membership, and mail it to our treasurer along with
applicable dues. Currently $10 for current year if you
are already a member of the Florida State Beekeepers Association (FSBA).
If you are not a member of FSBA then we can collect membership dues
for FSBA as well, in which case the total amount would be $25
($10 BASF + $15 FSBA).
|
