I recently received a private e-mail message concerning a "Bees in
Cyberspace" talk I did at a local BeeKeepers Association Meeting. The words
(in one of its paragraphs)  "increase participation and awareness of bees"
ties in with some thoughts I have had lately for creating a software program
(illustrated Electronic Book-which I will 'modestly' say I am pretty good at
creating) about HoneyBees for the general public-an educational type of work
- to try and move many people away from their typical reaction that is not
that dissimilar from people's thoughts on Sharks, etc.
 
I would not mind doing it as "freeware". Perhaps it could have an ad in it
for another program that I would create on "Starting Your Own Bee Hive" that
maybe I would sell or perhaps better yet, that could be "freeware" to, with
maybe "paid for" ads placed by BeeKeeping Suppliers. (Any suppliers out there
who would be interested in this idea?)
 
For reference purposes, I will call this Educational E-Book "Buzz" unless one
of you out there suggests something better. Maybe the "Buzz" program could
also emphasize and encourage people - young or old - to try out BeeKeeping.
 
Perhaps some of you out there would be interested in creating an article for
this "freeware", which of course would be annotated as being Copyrighted by
the author. Something from a hobbyist, as well as some of you experienced
commercial types, would be great  - what got you interested or started - how
has beekeeping enriched your life - new friends,etc. Great hobby for new
retirees or those looking for something to keep them alive and alert when
they do retire, etc.
 
I would like the overall theme to be simple, educational, interesting reading
with a touch of good humor thrown in. Something "fun" to read.
 
I also have thought about an Electronic BeeKeeper Magazine  and its
possibilities-although Bee-L itself is in effect an Ezine of sorts.
 
Anyway, if any of you readers (worldwide) have any thoughts on this subject
or would be interested in contributing in some way to this "Buzz" program -
I'd like to hear from you. Perhaps some of you have some scanned photos that
would be appropriate (also appropriately credited/ copyrighted to you.) Given
what appears to be the possible wholesale dissapearance of feral bees, I
think we need to do something protect our bees and create a healthy
appreciation of same amongst the general public.
 
Al Needham
Hobbyist
Scituate,MA,USA