Plain Talk: Tri-County (274)

In this episode of Honey Bee Obscura, Jim Tew reflects on attending a recent Tri-County beekeeping meeting—one he helped organize years ago while working at the OSU Research Center in Wooster, Ohio. His plan was to record conversations with beekeepers at the event and capture some of the voices and stories from the meeting. But sometimes plans change. A packed room, wind, and background noise made recording nearly impossible. Back at the bee yard, Jim shares his impressions of the day instead. Standing in the barn on a cool early-spring afternoon, he describes the signs of the season beginning to unfold: temperatures near 50°F, clear blue skies, and maple trees beginning to bloom—an important early pollen source that signals colonies to start building up. The meeting itself reminded Jim how valuable local beekeeper gatherings can be. Bee clubs and regional meetings bring together people with all levels of experience, creating opportunities to ask questions, share stories, and pass along practical knowledge that doesn't always appear in books. For longtime beekeepers, these gatherings also become part of a personal history—places where friendships develop and where the shared experiences of keeping bees accumulate over time. Even without the interviews he hoped to capture, Jim reflects on the spirit of the day: early spring in the bee yard and the enduring importance of beekeepers coming together to talk about bees. ______________________ Thanks to Betterbee for sponsoring today's episode. Betterbee's mission is to support every beekeeper with excellent customer service, continued education and quality equipment. From their colorful and informative catalog to their support of beekeeper educational activities, including this podcast series, Betterbee truly is Beekeepers Serving Beekeepers. See for yourself at www.betterbee.com ______________________ Honey Bee Obscura is brought to you by Growing Planet Media, LLC, the home of Beekeeping Today Podcast. Music: Heart & Soul by Gyom, All We Know by Midway Music; Christmas Avenue by Immersive Music; original guitar music by Jeffrey Ott Cartoons by: John Martin (Beezwax Comics) Copyright © 2026 by Growing Planet Media, LLC