Mike, I am not expert, but only a hobbist with 7 colonies and 5 years experience. I've been told that there are typically numerous queen cells present which are partly complete. The only time you have to be concerned is when they contain royal jelly or are sealed over. Regarding communication holes, whenever I used solid foundation the bees always create their own by chewing holes in the bottom corners or all along the bottom of the frame. DaleG