Hi Keith and all,

Since you called me out I thought that I would reply as best that I can.
A number of things that you addressed about me and our beekeepers
association are misleading to the readers on this list and paint Alaskan
beekeepers with a very broad brush.  Members of our association up here
are varied in their experience as well as their methods of beekeeping.
Many of us do keep bees through the winter, contrary to your
implications.  As with any group of people with a common interest the
purpose of the organization is to provide support, education, and
companionship.  To dictate ones point of view to others as to the one
proper method to do anything only serves to offend and alienate folks.
The subject of keeping bees year round has been the topic of many
discussions.
Small hive beetle has also been the topic of several newsletters,
meetings, and is included in our annual beekeeping classes.  Members are
aware of this pest and are not quite as sleepy as you would have folks
think.

Steve Victors
Big Lake, Alaska
Southcentral Alaska Beekeepers Association

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