When I was a boy, I was reading a foxfire book. It featured an only timer in the Application Mountains which kept bees, the old way, using bee gums. This was very interesting to me and must have sparked an interest. A while later, My uncle invited me to tag along with him and one of his co-workers to an open invitation event at a MEMPHIS Beekeepers Association meeting. This event was highly publicized by The Memphis Commercial Appeal News Paper. It Just so happened that Tim Durham, now known as the Walls Bee Man now famed on YouTube, was the speaker that night. Of course back in those days YouTube did not exist. Tim was really a charismatic speaker and held the crowds interest. He was a well rounded speaker, never letting boredom set in. The Place was absolutely packed. My uncle became a beekeeper as a result, so did his co-worker. Though I did not enter beekeeping at that time, I would tag along with my uncle while working his bees from time to time. This also added to my interest. This impression never left me and my interest came and faded through the years, time and time again, until the bug finally bit harder. I searched for more information concerning bees and found this forum. That was about 10-12 years ago. I spent a little spare time reading here, but I did not join the forum. I knew I did not have the time to get into beekeeping at that point. There were several folks here that stood out to me and made an impression. Brian D Bray and Michael Bush, were two bit there were others which were equally enthusiastic and impressive in their topics and knowledge. I went on with my business, only thinking about beekeeping from time to time, but always mindful of bees each time I would see them. Finally; I happened upon a video featuring JP The Bee Man and his good buddy Schawee. I watched many of these videos, which concentrated on cutouts, and swarm removals.. Finally I knew I could resist no longer. I remembered this forum. Read much here and joined after talking to JP on the phone, he gave basic advise as how to get started with cutouts. And a text or two to Schawee, giving me general advise on what to charge for the first cutout. I (EARNED) my first hive.... It was a hot day and in full sun! Now here I am today. Thanks to each of you here for your answering my many questions this past year. As my friend Mr Van says, blessing to each of you.
Phillip