Andy-i have used hardemans in the past.at the same time,we used queens from calvert apiaries,calvert alabama.these italians are very prolific , produce lots of honey and they people there are very helpful.we are in upstate Ny and they dont winter as well as some.they tend to raise brood all winter and need to be fed in the spring. nick shilliff _____________________________________________________________________ You don't need to buy Internet access to use free Internet e-mail. Get completely free e-mail from Juno at http://www.juno.com Or call Juno at (800) 654-JUNO [654-5866]