Join us for our regular open meeting. Our featured topic for the evening is Queen Vaccine & New Miticides. This evening’s speaker is Dr. Tracy Farone, DVM a Professor of Biology at Grove City College in Pennsylvania. Dr. Farone manages two apiaries with the help of her research students. Her most recent publication is “Honey Bee Vet: The adventures of a veterinarian seeking to doctor one of the world’s most important animals”. She is a regular conference speaker and contributor to “Bee Culture Magazine”.
Doors open at 6:30pm and the program begins at 7pm.
Xenia Community Center, 1265 W. 2nd Street, Xenia, OH 45385

Reed M. Johnson of THE Ohio State University, Department of Entomology
presents Bee Biologist, an Online Self-Paced Class
This course introduces learners to the fundamental biology of honey bees and their pollinator relatives. Through six structured modules, participants will explore colony life cycles, communication strategies, species diversity, and the ecological importance of bees. The course combines video lectures, readings, and quizzes to provide a self-paced, comprehensive overview of bee biology.

Varroa Mite control is a key factor in maintaining the health of a colony. As parasites, the directly weaken individuals, spread more than two dozen viral diseases, and open opportunities for other pests, e.g. small hive beetles and wax moths.
As small-scale beekeepers, there are limitations on our ability to breed varroa resistance into our colonies without this being swamped out by a few surrounding wild hives and managed hives that rely on chemical treatment.
However, as a group, the GCBA members can identify local pockets of natural varroa resistance, import livestock with proven genetics, share bees the exhibit varroa resistant characteristics, and effectively spread this throughout the county.
The first steps have already begun to develop consistent monitoring methods for a small number of hives spread across Greene County. While working out the kinks, there is already an indication that there are colonies that control varroa through leg biting and shell cracking.
This fall, we will be sending bee samples from the monitored hives to BVS Inc. for them to conduct virus assays. For this we are looking at individuals or foundations to assist with the cost. We wish to raise $400 to $500. We welcome any donation amount.