I'm a hobby beekeeper here in Pocahontas County, West Virginia. Beekeeping has been in my family for at least 4 generations. When I first subscribed to this List I thought I knew a lot about bees. It didn't take long for me to learn I better keep my mouth shut and just listen. My goal is to keep a few hives going despite the pests and occasionally enjoy some fresh honey. I either leave my hives unpainted or stain them. In late summer I treat for mites. Best Wishes, Steve Davis :::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::: -- Visit www.honeybeeworld.com/BEE-L for rules, FAQ and other info --- ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::