Seminars by members of the Batavia-based Fox Valley Beekeepers Association (FVBA) highlighted a summer conference.
Sherrie Benson of Batavia and Jim Konrad, Aurora, were among guest speakers at the Illinois State Beekeepers Association conference Aug. 16. The annual event was held at Meyer Bees apiary in Minooka.
Benson, FVBA president, discussed “Hives for Heroes: A Community of Heroes and Beekeepers.” The non-profit helps veterans, active-duty military, and first responders deal with life challenges through beekeeping.
She said, “The sound of the honeybees in the hive resonates with the brain and helps decrease the effects of PTSD. The smells of the hive and the organization within the hive also helps.”
Benson also presented four paintings of hive scenes donated by Batavia artist Chris Johnson. The artworks were among items included in a silent auction fundraiser. She added that she supported the 4H SPIN Pollinator club this past summer. It teaches youth about beekeeping and leadership skills.
At the conference, Konrad presented “The Bees Do What the Bees Do. Can Hobby Beekeepers Learn Sustainability from the Bees?” He said a hivemaster with only 1-25 hives can sustain honey production without buying bees annually.
During the conference, Konrad produced his “Breakfast with Bees,” a Saturday morning Zoom gathering that explores beekeeping strategies and issues. As club education specialist, he teaches classes for new and intermediate beekeepers.
Guest speaker at the Aug. 25 meeting was Batavia resident Marty Zudarski who explored preparing beehives for winter.
For more information, call 630-878-2023 or visit foxvalleybeekeepers@gmail.com.
—Al Benson