Submitted by Al Darman
Secretary, WCBA
The October 24th, West Central Beekeeping Association meeting was called to order by President Dale Cunningham at 1:11 p.m., with 37 members present, including all officers.
Judy Kerns reported the unfortunate news of the passing of Rick Magly. The membership expressed the general consensus Rick will be sorely missed and remembered as a hardworking, likable fellow. Our deepest condolences to his family.
Foundation is still available for membership purchase at the special membership cost.
On motion by Margaret Rush, seconded by Brenda Tatterson and passed without dissent, it was decided to hold an auction at our Thanksgiving meeting. The membership was asked to bring items to be auctioned off and a covered dish if you wish to the meeting.
Dale reported the money for the cost sharing grant for the purchase of bees will allow approximately $50 per member.
Chuck Conners presented the proposed New Beekeepers Agreement. It will require the new beekeeper to join the WCBA and attend at least 4 meetings a year. The WCBA will provide the new beekeeper with bees, a hive, and smoker and assign a mentor. The new beekeeper will be expected to provide their own suit, mask and gloves. The members were asked to comment on the proposal.
On motion by Margaret Rush, seconded by Mike Blessing and passed without dissent the club decided to add $2.00 to the purchase cost of T-shirts, hats, etc. as a fundraiser for the club.
Wade Stiltner, State Apiarist, led an interesting discussion on all things bee. Wade pointed out that, due to new regulations, many bee medications will no longer be available. Also, only veterinarians will be able to prescribe some bee medications. There will be new regulations requiring spraying companies to notify local beekeepers when they will be spraying in the vicinity. To minimize the spread of infectious bee diseases, Wade stressed the need to reduce the importation of bees into West Virginia and how important it was to buy local bees from hives you know to be clean of disease. Wade also pointed out the label requirements for those selling honey. Information on these labeling requirements can be found in the "Beekeeping in West Virginia" handbook.
A drawing for the winners of the tote and the bee hive was held. The tote winner was Jeff Thomas of Sandyville, WV. Terry Haner of Gallipolis, Ohio was the winner of the bee hive. Brenda Tatterson will contact them.
At 2:38 p.m., the business meeting was adjourned; thanks was given by Larry Siers, and lunch was served.
The next meeting of the WCBA will be held Nov. 28 at the COA in Spencer, WV starting at 1:00. The public is invited.
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