Greetings!

Back in the 70s, when I was in my twenties, I had the good fortune to work for 5 years in a bee supply factory. I met almost all the beekeepers from San Diego, Orange, and Imperial Counties, plus dozens of others from as far way as Montana. I learned many things but one that stuck in my mind was the fact that *almost* all beekeepers think that there is one way to do things: their way.

Whereas, it occurred to me that if all these people were more or less successful and all doing things quite differently, that it *doesn't matter* which or what technique you use, as long as it works for you. I picked from all and constantly changed my methods as indicated, rather than settling in on one routine and repeating annually. I was eager to hear new ideas from all, whether commercial or sideliner.

I think it is especially true in these difficult times with more and worse pests, and fluctuating prices -- to be on your toes, and not be so sure that one is using the best or only technique. Don't be so quick to suppose that this or that *won't work*. A good method is one that doesn't hurt the bees and gets you what you want from them. A discussion is only useful if everyone contributes and also listens.

pb

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