In a message dated 4/10/00 9:22:37 PM Pacific Daylight Time,
[log in to unmask] (George Imirie)  writes:

> but I think that the
>  lack of beekeepers getting on their soapboxes and explaining the value of
>  apis mellifera to the American public is almost sinful; an

    A tip o' the hat to you, George for all the good you've done in keeping
beekeeping before the school children.  We owe you a lot of gratitude.

    And the sentiment quoted is RIGHT ON!   I encourage y'all to get into the
schools as much as possible.  Don't worry about not being a polished speaker,
but take along lots of visual aids.  Do you have any video of your beekeeping
operations? Most teachers have the capability to show these. Do you have an
observation hive? Even better.  For quite awhile (until the termites got into
it) I had a screen room I could put on my trailer, and I could take these to
schools and exhibitions. One of these days I hope to do it again, because
showing a live hive is the best interest-catcher you can provide.   But even
if you can't do this, take along samples of well pollinated and poorly
pollinated produce. Many folks have little understanding why some cukes are
knotty and some watermelons aren't sweet. Make sure you understand, then
explain it to them.  The elementary kids are the most fun, but don't forget
the ag classes, FFA clubs, even biology classes.

    There are opportunities not only in schools, but in many adult affinity
groups.  You have a natural IN with gardening clubs (even on the
internet--there are two beekeepers who are regulars in garden forums) and
farmers groups.  But I wouldn't miss the chance to do a program at the local
Lions Club, either.

    One of our simplest aids is a presentation board with a lot of photos
(which we mostly capture from our videos and print out).  Anyone can make
these. Some very nice pics and other materials are also available from the
bee supply places, if you'd rather not make your own.

     Another good idea is to be acquainted and keep in touch with your
representatives. I'd venture that a lot of folks don't know who their
representatives are, much less keep in touch.  I need to do more of this.

     This post probably doesn't qualify as education for beekeepers, as there
is nothing new here; rather it is an exhortation, encouragement to do what we
really know we should be doing more of...

Dave Green
The Pollination Home Page:   http://pollinator.com