2008 In April 2008, two local beekeepers, Stanley Bosher and Bert McLaughlin, held an exploratory meeting that led to the formation of the East Richmond Beekeepers Association (ERBA). A formal organizational meeting followed in May, where officers were elected, a bylaws committee was formed, meeting dates and times were set, the Sandston Public Library was selected as a tentative meeting location, and dues were established. The first officers were: Bert McLaughlin, President; David Stover, Vice President; Anne Morrow Donley, Secretary; and Clara Bosher, Treasurer.
In June, the bylaws committee--Marvin Gardner, Tony Parker, and Anne Morrow Donley—presented the first draft of the bylaws, which were adopted with amendments in July. The group’s early programs included presentations by Tom Fifer (June) and Kenneth Andrews (July). The bylaws outlined ERBA’s objectives: to promote better beekeeping methods, cooperation, problem-solving, public education, and strong relations within the beekeeping community.
The club began rotating meeting locations in late summer. August’s meeting was held at the home of Raymond and Barbara Moore for a picnic, hive demonstration, and brief business meeting. In September, members met at the home of Dennis and Nancy Williams, with a program on feeding bees led by Barbara Ruslander and Dennis Williams. S
September also saw ERBA represented at the Virginia State Fair by Bert McLaughlin and David Stover, giving the new organization additional public exposure.
Meetings returned to the Sandston Library in October, where Marvin Gardner presented on pollinators other than honey bees. The November program featured Keith Tignor, Virginia State Apiarist, along with Leanne DuBois. December’s meeting included a program on planting flowers for bees and a potluck to celebrate the year.
By late 2008, ERBA was listed on the Bee Culture website and the Virginia State Beekeepers Association (VSBA)website, which helped bring in new members. Membership grew rapidly—from a handful of founders to more than 30 members from across the Richmond metropolitan area, including parts of Hanover, Prince George, Charles City, New Kent, Henrico (Varina, Sandston), Richmond city, Quinton, Providence Forge, and King William.
As founding President Bert McLaughlin said: “We’re rolling!”
2009 ERBA began 2009 with the election of new officers: David Stover, President; Daryl Douglas, Vice President; Anne Morrow Donley, Secretary; and Clara Bosher, Treasurer. According to the bylaws, presidents may not serve consecutive terms, and treasurers may serve only two consecutive years.
The program committee -- Daryl Douglas, Barbara Ruslander, Bert McLaughlin, and David Stover -- met early in the year to plan future meetings. January’s program featured Kenneth Andrews presenting winter hive chores. Due to scheduling conflicts at the Sandston Library, Doris Bohr arranged for ERBA to meet at Fort Lee Baptist Church, which became the club’s long-term meeting location. Programs for 2009 included:
February: “Getting Your Hive in Order,” led by Daryl Douglas, Algis Radzisauskas, and Barbara Ruslander
March: Dr. Wyatt Mangum on top-bar hives
April: Keith Tignor on honey bee biology and the Master Beekeeper Program
May: State Beekeepers Association meeting review
June: Peter Ostrowski on honey extraction, with equipment provided by Algis Radzisauskas
July: Potluck picnic
In July 2009, ERBA launched its website, eastrichmondbees.org, created by webmaster Jones Tyler with text and photos from David Stover and Anne Morrow Donley. The August meeting featured Tom Fifer discussing chemical use around hives. The month also brought sad news: the passing of Tony Parker, a charter member who served on the bylaws committee and was known for his knowledge, helpfulness, and gentle manner. Autumn programs included:
September: John Adams, sharing his research and illustrations on the history of beekeeping equipment
October: Kenneth Andrews on preparing hives for winter
November: Keith Tignor on winter hive management and pest awareness
December: A lively potluck with bee-related items shared for fun and learning. Honey sales featuring products from the hives of Kenneth and Sue Andrews and Stanley and Clara Bosher rounded out the year.
2010 In January 2010, the following officers were elected: Anne Morrow Donley, President; Barbara Ruslander, Vice President and Program Planner; David Stover, Secretary; and Evelyn Waring, Treasurer. January’s program was presented by Tony Banks of the Virginia Farm Bureau, speaking on pesticide awareness and its impacts on honey bees. February’s meeting was canceled due to several snowstorms.
Spring programs included:
March: Hive equipment assembly, led by Kenneth Andrews and Algis Radzisauskas
April: “Architecture of the Nest” by Tom Fifer, using his observation hive
May: Splits and nucs with Kenneth Andrews
In June, John Adams presented on his long-box hive design and treatment-free beekeeping insights gathered from travels and conferences.
July’s event was a well-attended summer picnic with food, prizes, and member families at a local park. August returned to regular meetings with a “What’s Your Bee Line?” discussion led by Barbara Ruslander.
September’s program featured Keith Tignor presenting “The Drone: The Underappreciated Bee,” covering drone biology, mating, queen quality, and pesticide impacts.
October’s meeting welcomed Jones Tyler, who spoke on “Perspectives of a Newer Beekeeper” and shared insights from his blog. In November, Ann Harman presented on the winter cluster, followed by the club’s first designated Q&A session between the business meeting and program.
Nominations were finalized for 2011 officers: Jones Tyler, President; Barbara Ruslander, Vice President; Tina Abate, Secretary; and Evelyn Waring, Treasurer.
December’s meeting was a members-only potluck supper with delicious contributions despite cold weather. ERBA also established its Facebook page in December 2010.
2011 - 2015
2011 ERBA began 2011 with regular monthly meetings open to the public at Fort Lee Baptist Church. The year continued the club’s tradition of educational programs, community-building, and hands-on learning opportunities for new and experienced beekeepers.
In July, members gathered at Dorey Park for the annual summer picnic, enjoying food, fellowship, and conversations about the season’s beekeeping challenges.
The August 9 meeting featured John Adams, who presented on safely removing honey bees from structures. Drawing from his many years of experience with cut-outs and colony rescues, John shared techniques, equipment tips, and advice for relocating bees responsibly.
Later in the year, the club held its November 8 meeting at the Sandston Public Library, with a program focused on protecting beehives from bears. The session covered bear behavior, preventive strategies, and methods for safeguarding apiaries in areas with active wildlife.
2012 ERBA continued to grow in 2012, offering members a full year of educational programs, legislative updates, community events, and the ongoing development of beginner training opportunities. The year began with a program on February 14, focusing on making splits and raising queens. Wilhelm Golub presented his rapid “Increase Methodology,” demonstrating a technique that allows experienced beekeepers to make a split in approximately ten minutes.
March brought a major regional event to Richmond: the Mid-Atlantic Organic Honey Bee Convention, held on March 17 at 4500 Kensington Avenue. Organized with participation from ERBA members, including John Adams, the convention featured presentations from leading voices in alternative and organic beekeeping. Topics included Langstroth and top-bar management, low-cost beekeeping, hive design variations, treatment-free approaches, and top-bar hive production techniques. Speakers included John Adams, Sam Comfort, Wyatt Mangum, and Keith Tignor, drawing participants from across the region.
Throughout February and March, the club also shared important legislative updates regarding SB354 and HB300, two proposed bills relating to tax credits and grant programs for beekeepers. Updates from Lannie Ballard kept members informed about the progress of the legislation, proposed amendments, and the potential impact on Virginia beekeepers. ERBA’s regular meetings continued through the spring and summer. The July 12 meeting featured Tom Fifer, who spoke on practical beekeeping techniques and best practices. July also included the club’s annual picnic, which went forward despite inclement weather. Members enjoyed a fish fry generously hosted by Bruce Weaver and his family, and the club looked ahead optimistically to “sunny and 70°” for next year’s event.
In the fall, the November 13 meeting returned to Fort Lee Baptist Church, featuring a presentation by ERBA member Jack Weisskohl on the therapeutic value of honey bees. His talk explored the emotional, psychological, and physical benefits that many beekeepers experience through working with their colonies.
By late fall, ERBA announced plans for another Beginner Beekeeping Course, scheduled for late January or early February. Interest was strong, and by mid-December the class was nearly full, with books being ordered for early pickup by participants.
2013 ERBA entered 2013 with a newly seated Executive Committee and a renewed focus on beekeeper education and seasonal management. The club began the year preparing members for late-winter hive needs, with the February meeting dedicated to winter maintenance strategies, including assessing colony strength, evaluating stores, and preparing for early spring buildup.
On March 12, ERBA welcomed Virginia State Apiarist Keith Tignor for a timely and well-attended program on the significant winter losses experienced across Central Virginia. Keith provided guidance on how beekeepers could respond to these losses, along with an overview of the broader “state of beekeeping in the Commonwealth,” covering disease pressures, seasonal challenges, and recommendations for sustainable hive management.
2014 No records available for this year
2015 ERBA experienced a highly active year in 2015, marked by frequent educational programs, expanded community outreach, and a growing online presence. The year began with a February meeting featuring Virginia State Apiarist Keith Tignor, who presented on swarms and splits, providing timely guidance for spring management. Community involvement increased dramatically in the spring. On May 30, ERBA members staffed an all-day outreach event at Southern States East End, answering questions for prospective and beginning beekeepers. The club also announced four short new-beekeeper classes, taught by ERBA members, encouraging experienced beekeepers to “pay it forward” by helping newcomers.
More educational opportunities followed. In July, ERBA again welcomed Keith Tignor, who presented on small-scale queen rearing to a full room. Members praised the program and left eager to try new queen-production techniques. The August 11 meeting explored alternative hive designs—including top-bar hives, long Langstroths, and the Flow Hive—and was held at a new temporary meeting location, the community room at Martin’s Grocery on S. Laburnum Avenue. In September, guest speaker Andy Westrich of Hampton Apiary presented on fall and winter preparation, including innovative techniques such as insulating hives with Styrofoam sheets. ERBA members spent the month participating in multiple outreach events, including educational demonstrations at Southern States, Strange’s Garden Center, and the Virginia State Fair, where the club showcased an observation hive and raffled a complete beginner setup.
October’s meeting continued the educational momentum with a program on Products of the Hive, including bee-sting therapy, propolis, pollen, and beeswax uses. November’s meeting returned to the Sandston Public Library, where members learned about reliable information sources for beekeepers and reviewed the club’s new Constitution and Bylaws. Nominations for 2016 officers were also opened.
The year concluded with the traditional December potluck, held at Martin’s. Members shared food, fellowship, and updates about the club’s upcoming permanent meeting location, closing out one of ERBA’s most active and community-focused years to date.
2016 - 2019
2016 ERBA entered 2016 with a new meeting location at Sandston Presbyterian Church (13 N. Confederate Avenue), offering a larger and more permanent space for the club’s expanding membership. The year began with a strong focus on beginner education. The January 5 meeting welcomed seven new beekeepers, followed by a successful woodenware workshop on January 16, supported by Hampton Apiary Supplies and joined by members from the Ashland Beekeepers.
Early in the year, ERBA also shared important updates on HB535, a Virginia bill proposing limited liability protections for beekeepers, and SB356, focused on statewide pollinator protection. Members were encouraged to contact their legislators to support the bills, highlighting ERBA’s commitment to advocacy for the beekeeping community. Educational programming continued throughout the winter. At the February 2 meeting, Virginia State Apiarist Keith Tignor presented on splits and updates for Virginia beekeepers, drawing a strong turnout. The March 1 meeting featured Wilhelm Gollub, who taught practical techniques for installing packages and nucs, along with a simple method for making queens.
Spring brought increased activity and growth. By early April, meetings saw “bunches of new people” joining, as swarming season was already underway. On April 5, the club hosted a session on swarms, trap-outs, cut-outs, and bait hives, followed by voting for new officers.
ERBA remained active in public outreach, offering educational tables and demonstrations at Strange’s Garden Center in Mechanicsville on April 16. A planned spring picnic and hive-opening on April 30 had to be canceled due to weather. In May, ERBA supported local ordinances legalizing backyard beekeeping, including the successful passage of the Hanover County Backyard Bee Ordinance, with Henrico expected to follow. The club also held beginner classes at Southern States on May 21 for community members interested in starting beekeeping.
Summer activities included participation in the Bee Festival at Rockwood Park in Chesterfield, and the July 5 meeting focused on honey extraction. After a brief August break, the club resumed monthly meetings with a September 6presentation on observation hives, followed by additional beginner classes at Southern States on September 10. Education continued into the fall, with an October 4 program on Products of the Hive, highlighting honey, pollen, propolis, and apitherapy. ERBA concluded the year with its traditional End-of-Year Potluck on November 1 at Sandston Presbyterian Church. The club also raffled a complete beginner hive setup and announced plans for January 2017, including a beginner beekeeping class and another woodenware workshop.
2017 ERBA began 2017 with a strong emphasis on beginner education. The January 3 meeting offered an Introduction to Beekeeping class, encouraging members to bring friends and family interested in starting their beekeeping journey. Monthly meetings continued at Sandston Presbyterian Church on N. Confederate Avenue.
Winter programming focused on building confidence for the spring season. In February, members gathered for a session on Increasing Your Hives, which included a door prize drawing. The March 7 meeting covered installing packages and nucs, with additional demonstrations to prepare members for the busy spring ahead. Later in March, ERBA held a public Introduction to Beekeeping class at Southern States on Williamsburg Road, where the club also began selling tickets for its annual raffle hive.
Spring brought a series of hands-on learning opportunities. The April 4 meeting covered swarms, bait hives, and cut-outs, while an extended Introduction to Beekeeping class was held at the Varina Library on April 8. At the end of the month, ERBA welcomed Virginia State Apiarist Keith Tignor, who presented on simple queen rearing for hobbyists and sideliner beekeepers.
Summer meetings continued the club’s focus on practical skills. The July 11 meeting featured a live demonstration of honey extraction, along with a bonus session on making oxalic acid/glycerin shop towels for Varroa mite treatment. On August 1, members gathered for a presentation on alternative hive designs, including top-bar and long-hive options.
Beginning in September, ERBA shifted its meeting time to 7:00 PM. The September 5 session examined honey bee pests and problems, along with updates on staffing the club’s booth at the Virginia State Fair. Members stayed active throughout the month, teaching a Beginning Beekeeping class at the Varina Library and working at the fair’s Honey Booth, where the club displayed an observation hive and sold raffle tickets for the November hive drawing.
The October meeting focused on Products of the Hive, including apitherapy, propolis, pollen, and beeswax rendering and uses. Members also planned the club’s annual End-of-Year Potluck, scheduled for November 7—the same evening as the raffle hive drawing.
2018 ERBA began 2018 with hands-on learning and renewed community involvement. In February, the club held its annual Woodenware Workshop, giving members the chance to assemble hive equipment using the club’s jigs and tools, with materials offered at special pricing through Hampton Apiary Supply. Photos shared later that month highlighted a successful workshop thanks to numerous volunteers and the support of Andy Westrich.
Throughout March, ERBA focused on beginner outreach. On March 24, members taught two Introduction to Beekeeping classes at Southern States on Williamsburg Road, where local raw honey was also available for purchase. These spring classes drew new beekeepers from across the Richmond area.
In early May, ERBA welcomed Virginia State Apiarist Keith Tignor as the speaker for the May 1 meeting, where he presented on Integrated Pest Management and best practices for hive health. Later that month, the club announced a special meeting for June 18 to discuss dwindling attendance and vacant officer positions.
At the June 18 meeting, instead of deciding to dissolve the club, ERBA experienced an unexpected revival: new officers volunteered to take on the roles of President and Vice President, beginning in August. With renewed momentum, the club entered a period of revitalization.
Regular meetings resumed in August under the newly installed officers. The August 7 meeting featured Ed Mekalian of Hunny Bee Good, who spoke on honey bee pests and management strategies, receiving enthusiastic feedback from members. In September, former President David Stover presented on winter hive preparation.
Monthly programs continued into the fall. The October meeting hosted former President and current Vice President Jones Tyler, while the November 6 meeting featured R.D. Radford, who shared his beekeeping experiences and early-spring management techniques. Each meeting encouraged members to arrive early for refreshments and conversation, strengthening the club’s sense of community.
Toward the end of the year, ERBA prepared for its annual December Potluck, with members signing up through a shared online form to ensure accurate planning. The event marked a celebratory close to a year that had begun with uncertainty but ended with renewed leadership, active membership, and restored momentum.
As the year wrapped up, ERBA announced that there would be no January 2019 meeting, with February programming to be announced.
2019 ERBA continued its steady revitalization in 2019 with a full calendar of monthly educational meetings, guest speakers, and community engagement. The year opened with the February 5 meeting, where longtime member Chip Dahlstrom presented Alternative Hives: Adventures in Top Bar Hivekeeping, offering members insight into non-Langstroth approaches to colony management.
Spring programming kicked off with the March 5 meeting featuring Keith White of Honey and the Hive Beekeeping Supplies, who spoke on swarms and brought pre-ordered supplies for pickup. In April, John Davis returned as a guest speaker to present on queen rearing techniques, giving attendees practical strategies for raising their own queens. The May 7 meeting welcomed Randy Buchanan, who discussed Integrated Mosquito Management and its importance for protecting local honey bee colonies from pesticide exposure.
During the June 4 meeting, members elected a new Vice President, and ERBA member Charles Aardema presented a short film created by his grandson. July’s meeting brought the club’s first-ever Beekeeping Game Night, complete with trivia and small prizes, which quickly became a member favorite.
Late summer and fall continued the momentum. On August 6, Bob Gibson, Superintendent of the Virginia State Fair Honey Competition, gave an informative talk on entering hive products in the fair. The September 3 meeting featured Doug Anderson of Honey and the Hive, who introduced members to the Master Beekeeper Program and pathways to certification. In October, ERBA welcomed back State Apiarist Keith Tignor, who provided timely guidance on winter hive preparation.
The November 5 meeting offered members a chance to reflect on the season, sharing the challenges faced during the 2019 beekeeping year. The club closed the year with its traditional December Potluck, held on December 3, where members gathered for food and fellowship and celebrated another year of learning and community support.
2020 - 2022
2020 ERBA began 2020 with a strong start and a full slate of educational programs. The January 7 meeting focused on reviewing, updating, and approving the club’s bylaws, while Vice President Sue Rowland shared updates on mentorship opportunities for new beekeepers. Later that month, members learned about a bill moving through the General Assembly proposing February as “Winter Honey Month,” an initiative widely supported by the beekeeping community.
Early in the year, the club continued its hands-on instructional tradition. On February 4, Doug Anderson of Honey and the Hive presented a woodenware workshop, helping members assemble boxes and frames and demonstrating the use of the club’s EZ-Vape oxalic acid vaporizer. Members voted on the revised bylaws, and the session was met with enthusiastic feedback.
The March 3 meeting featured Professor Chris Catanzaro of Virginia State University, who presented on pollinator-friendly plants and strategies to build bee-supportive gardens. Plans were announced for a session on swarms in April. But within days, the COVID-19 pandemic brought major changes to the club’s operations.
By late March, social distancing guidelines made in-person meetings impossible, and ERBA quickly transitioned to virtual Zoom meetings. The April 7 meeting—ERBA’s first held online—featured Doug Anderson covering swarm management. The club embraced the new format, with Keith Tignor presenting virtually on apiary pest control at the May 5 meeting.
June’s meeting was canceled due to difficulty securing a remote speaker, but programming resumed online in July. The August 4 meeting featured a video lecture by Dr. Debbie Delaney of the University of Delaware on bee genetics, followed by a live Q&A with Keith Tignor. The online format allowed members across the region to participate despite ongoing restrictions.
Virtual education continued in the fall. Doug Anderson returned in September to present on late-fall and early-winter hive preparation, offering practical advice even for seasoned beekeepers. In October, ERBA hosted Bruce Hamon—President of the Ashland Beekeepers Association, Vice President of Rockwood Park Backyard Beekeepers, and First Vice President of the Virginia State Beekeepers Association—who spoke about how clubs statewide were adapting during the pandemic and shared updates from the VSBA.
In November, ERBA partnered with the Virginia State Beekeepers Association for a special statewide virtual meeting featuring renowned beekeeper and author Dr. Dewey Caron, who presented Mites by the Numbers. Later that week, Doug Anderson held an in-person, socially distanced apiary demonstration, teaching hive inspection techniques and mite-counting methods.
ERBA concluded the year without its traditional December meeting, instead encouraging members to attend a VSBA Zoom lecture by Kaylee Richardson on homesteading and livestock. The final update of the year announced that virtual meetings would continue in January 2021, beginning with a presentation by Keith Tignor on spring hive preparation.
Despite the challenges of 2020, ERBA remained active and connected—adapting quickly to new formats and continuing to provide accessible education and support for beekeepers across the region. 2021 ERBA spent 2021 straddling the line between pandemic constraints and a gradual return to in-person activities, delivering a full year of high-level educational programs and guest speakers.
The year began virtually. On January 5, members joined a Zoom meeting with Virginia State Apiarist Keith Tignor, who discussed winter hive management and spring preparation. In February, ERBA hosted Jennifer Berry from the University of Georgia for a detailed talk on oxalic acid treatments and effective Varroa management, drawing on years of research into application methods and integrated pest management.
On March 2, Theo Hartmann of BroodMinder presented on using instrumented and monitored hives to reveal what’s happening inside colonies—requeening, swarms and their precursors, mite treatment comparisons, and fall feeding patterns. Members using BroodMinder were invited to share their own data for interpretation. The April 6 Zoom meeting featured Sean Bresnahan, a PhD student at Penn State, who spoke on “Cooperation and Conflict: Genetic Building Blocks of Sociality,” exploring how genetics and epigenetics shape social behavior in honey bees.
Virtual programming continued into late spring. On May 4, Julia Mahood, Georgia Master Beekeeper and creator of MapMyDCA.com, presented “The Game of Drones,” highlighting the biology and often-overlooked importance of drones and their congregation areas. At the June 1 meeting, Bob Gibson, co-chair of the State Fair Honey Booth Committee, briefed members on the return of the Virginia State Fair and the honey and beeswax competitions scheduled for September 24–October 3.
Summer marked the first cautious steps back to in-person events. In July, ERBA organized a hands-on demonstration with Doug Anderson of Honey and the Hive, rescheduled to July 17 due to illness. At Vice President Sue Rowland’s home in Quinton, Doug demonstrated the use of Johno’s Easy Vap oxalic acid vaporizer and answered member questions, while also delivering pre-ordered supplies.
The club officially returned to in-person monthly meetings on August 3 at Sandston Presbyterian Church. Doug Anderson presented on winter preparation and brought the Honey and the Hive trailer so members could purchase equipment and supplies. Later in the fall, Doug returned to give an in-depth talk on feeding colonies, offering practical guidance on nutrition and syrup management.
In November, ERBA welcomed Bill Drumheller, owner of Royall Bees in nearby Quinton, as the featured speaker. He described what it takes to start and maintain a commercial bee operation and outlined the products and services his bee “farm” provides to the region. The club ended the year with a December program by Don Cole of Back Forty Bees, who inspired members to explore build-your-own equipment projects such as hive components and solar wax melters.
By the close of 2021, ERBA had successfully blended virtual and in-person learning, maintained strong connections with regional experts and universities, and set the stage for continued in-person programming in 2022.
2022 ERBA began 2022 with caution after a major winter storm swept through Central Virginia. Hazardous conditions and widespread power outages led to the January 4 meeting being canceled, with plans to reschedule the featured speaker, Monta Worley of the USDA Four Rivers Farm Service Agency.
The club returned to in-person meetings in February, welcoming Monta Worley, who provided an engaging overview of USDA programs that support beekeepers, agricultural cost-sharing opportunities, and the role of the Four Rivers FSA in Central Virginia. Members appreciated the extensive Q&A time and her practical, experience-driven insights.
In March, ERBA hosted Master Beekeeper Doug Anderson for a comprehensive presentation on spring preparation, helping both new and experienced beekeepers prepare for the active season. Members were encouraged to pre-order supplies from Honey and the Hive for pickup at the meeting.
The April and May meetings introduced a new, highly interactive format: “Opening Hives in the Spring: What We Found and What It Means—Good and Bad.” Members shared real hive inspection findings—healthy brood patterns, early queen issues, drone-laying workers, comb irregularities, moisture problems -- and discussed how to interpret what they observed. These sessions also featured door prizes, equipment swaps, and membership renewals for the coming year.
In June, ERBA partnered with the Richmond Beekeepers Association and Ashland Beekeepers Association to host nationally recognized educator and author Dewey Caron at First Baptist Church of Ashland. Dewey delivered two deep-dive talks -- “Inspecting the Beehive” and “Two and a Half Colonies” -- both strongly attended and valuable for beekeepers at every level.
ERBA continued in-person programming through the summer. The August meeting featured Bob Stapleton, longtime coordinator for the Virginia State Fair Honey Sales and Exhibition, who discussed fair operations and the art of crafting creamed honey. In September, Doug Anderson returned for a well-received presentation on becoming a self-sustaining beekeeper by creating and maintaining resource hives -- an approach that reduces dependence on purchasing bees each year. Members were also invited to volunteer at the State Fair’s honey booth.
The club adjusted its schedule in October, hosting a special outdoor meeting on October 22 at the home of ERBA President Sue Rowland. State Apiarist Keith Tignor led an in-depth discussion on winter preparation, answered questions about apiary inspections, and (weather permitting) guided optional hive inspections. The gathering also included a wax rendering demonstration, drawing strong member interest.
The November meeting returned to Sandston Presbyterian Church and featured an open forum for members to discuss their beekeeping experiences from the year, their winter plans, and topics they hoped to explore in future programming.
ERBA concluded 2022 with its cherished tradition - the December Honey-Themed Potluck on December 6. Members and their families brought dishes made with honey, swapped recipes, participated in a door prize drawing, and celebrated another year of learning, community, and shared love of beekeeping.
2023 - 2025
2023 ERBA began 2023 with a slight schedule shift, moving the January meeting to the second Tuesday of the month. Members kicked off the year with a lively discussion of their favorite beekeeping books, sharing which references they rely on most and the topics they frequently revisit. Master Beekeeper Doug Anderson also presented an important session on diagnosing winter hive die-outs, navigating unusual winter weather patterns, and adjusting feeding strategies. The club introduced a new community initiative, announcing that ERBA would match Hives for Heroes donations up to $500 during January and February, supporting veterans through beekeeping.
The February meeting featured State Apiarist Keith Tignor, who spoke on pre-spring management and answered questions about preparing colonies for buildup. Members and mentors were connected through the club’s spring mentoring program, strengthening support for new beekeepers. The club also announced an upcoming auction of donated, state-inspected equipment scheduled for March.
In March, ERBA held its annual auction, inviting nearby clubs to participate. The event helped new and experienced beekeepers acquire gear while raising funds to support club activities.
The April meeting featured Chip Dahlstrom presenting on top-bar hives, offering perspectives on management, design, and alternative beekeeping approaches. Members enjoyed a hands-on look at equipment and lively discussion. ERBA’s annual picnic returned in June, held at the home of Mark Smith. Members enjoyed food, fellowship, and the always-popular “Beekeeper Olympics” games. With July’s meeting falling on the Fourth of July holiday, ERBA rescheduled for July 11, hosting Master Beekeeper John Davis for an informative program on queen rearing.
In August, Doug Anderson returned to present fall and winter preparation strategies, emphasizing colony strength, mite management, and ensuring adequate stores. The September meeting welcomed a speaker from Dandelion Springs Apiary, who presented on products of the hive—including honey, wax, propolis, and value-added items. The October meeting focused on woodenware, giving members practical guidance on maintaining and repairing their equipment before winter. November’s meeting continued with member discussion and seasonal guidance.
December was an especially festive month for ERBA. The club once again held its cheerful Holiday Gathering at Sandston Presbyterian Church, where members shared food, celebrated the season, and welcomed new beekeepers. In addition, ERBA proudly participated in the Varina Big Toy Parade, showcasing the club to the wider community and spreading awareness of beekeeping through a fun, family-friendly event.
ERBA closed out 2023 with a strong sense of community, outreach, and excitement for the year ahead.
2024 ERBA began 2024 with a strong focus on education, outreach, and expanding opportunities for both new and experienced beekeepers. The January meeting opened the year with a popular pollinator gardening program and seed swap, giving members practical ideas for planting bee-friendly habitats at home.
In February, the club launched its first full year of ERBA Intro to Beekeeping Classes, hosted at Fairfield Middle School. The first session sold out, received excellent evaluations, and brought several new members into the club. The February monthly meeting focused on spring preparation, helping local beekeepers get ready for the busy season.
The March meeting featured a lively and informative program on mead, followed by the club’s first Intro Class of the year. On March 16, ERBA celebrated a successful and well-reviewed “Class #1,” thanks to the teamwork of instructors Mike Woodward, Doug Anderson, Chip Dahlstrom, Jenny Inker, Jessica Ciokan, and Mark Smith. With three more classes scheduled throughout the year, ERBA committed to offering a full, structured introduction to beekeeping for newcomers.
In April, ERBA hosted Dr. James Wilson of Virginia Tech for a hybrid in-person/Zoom presentation on bee research and pollinator health. The turnout was outstanding, with 29 members attending in person and 21 online. Dr. Wilson’s program was followed by prize giveaways of vegetable plants, donated by ERBA member Jessica Ciokan. Later in the month, ERBA proudly represented the club at the Bee & Berry Festival in Charles City, where members answered questions from curious families and shared the importance of pollinator conservation.
The May meeting featured ERBA’s Annual Auction, attracting members from across the region and providing a fun way to acquire equipment, tools, and books. June brought warm weather and the beloved ERBA Annual Picnic, held once again at Mark Smith’s home, where members enjoyed food, fellowship, and the tradition of outdoor beekeeping camaraderie.
In July, ERBA welcomed Nate Brauner for a presentation on “Beyond Honey,” exploring additional products of the hive and ways to diversify beekeeping. A mid-July wooden-ware work group also met via Zoom to collaborate on equipment maintenance and DIY projects. Later in the month, ERBA hosted Intro to Beekeeping Class #2, continuing the year-long course for new beekeepers.
The August meeting featured State Apiarist Keith Tignor, who delivered an in-depth talk on fall and winter preparation, always a popular and well-attended topic. Members returned in September for a special presentation on Slovenian hives, offering insights into alternative hive styles and management practices.
In Fall 2024, ERBA launched its first-ever club pop-up store, offering members the chance to purchase ERBA-branded shirts, sweatshirts, and hats. The response was overwhelmingly positive, and the custom items were delivered just in time for the December Holiday Gathering, where members proudly showed off their new club gear.
In October, Doug Anderson presented on Resource Hives, teaching members how to maintain sustainable apiaries and reduce dependence on purchased bees. Later in the month, ERBA held Intro to Beekeeping Class #3, rounding out the year’s full educational series.
Because of election day, the November meeting was moved to November 12. Mike Church presented “Determining, Setting, and Achieving Your Beekeeping Goals,” helping members plan their apiary growth and personal development through the coming season.
ERBA wrapped up the year with its festive Annual Holiday Gathering on December 3—a warm evening of food, conversation, and celebration of another successful year of club activities.
In addition to its monthly meetings, ERBA was proud to have a strong community presence throughout 2024, including staffing an outreach booth at the Honey Bee Festival in Chesterfield, where volunteers answered questions, shared educational materials, and connected with dozens of curious families. ERBA also continued its tradition of supporting the Virginia State Fair, with members volunteering at the honey booth to help educate the public, promote pollinator awareness, and showcase local hive products.
A major milestone came in December 2024, when the East Richmond Beekeepers Association officially registered with the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC), strengthening the club’s organizational foundation and opening doors for future growth. In addition to this achievement, ERBA also began exploring Zeffy as a platform for online membership management and fundraising. This allowed the club to test digital tools for payments, registrations, and communication while avoiding transaction fees.
With expanded education programs, strong meeting attendance, and increased community outreach, 2024 marked one of ERBA’s most active years yet.
2025 ERBA entered 2025 with another full slate of educational programs and expanded training opportunities. The January meeting was cancelled, but the club resumed its momentum in February with a well-attended meeting featuring Dr. James Wilson on Swarms and Swarm Prevention, along with ERBA’s first “Happy Half Hour” social time and a seed swap. Later in the month, ERBA hosted Intro to Beekeeping Class #4 at Fairfield Middle School, continuing its year-round education program.
In March, ERBA held its highly anticipated Annual Auction, drawing members from across the region to bid on equipment, books, tools, and donated supplies. A few weeks later, ERBA kicked off its spring education cycle with Intro to Beekeeping Class #1, again at Fairfield Middle School.
April brought two major events: ERBA’s regular meeting on Increasing Honey Production & Growing Degree Days, presented by State Apiarist Keith Tignor, and a free Queen Rearing class hosted by Mike Church, which attracted both beginners and advanced beekeepers eager to improve their queen-rearing skills.
In May, the club enjoyed a fascinating program on Layens hives from David Rusinak, followed by enthusiastic discussion. Members later received David’s slides and resources via email. The evening also included the opening of ERBA’s Spring Pop-Up Store, offering apparel, garden flags, bags, and mugs with ERBA's new logo.
June featured one of the most anticipated gatherings of the year: the Annual ERBA Picnic, held at Chip Dahlstrom’s home, with a rain date built in for the following day. Members enjoyed food, games, and a chance to reconnect outside of the meeting hall. Later that month, ERBA offered Intro to Beekeeping Class #2, this time at Sandston Presbyterian Church.
Throughout the summer, ERBA continued hosting its Happy Half Hour before each monthly meeting, strengthening member connections. The July meeting featured Doug Anderson on Brood Management and Fall Prep, a timely topic as colonies moved into late-summer dynamics.
In August, ERBA welcomed Dr. Hollee Freeman for a unique presentation on Beekeeping Across Cultures & Generations, which resonated deeply with members and highlighted the diverse global traditions of beekeeping.
The September meeting brought Dr. Hugh Hemsley to speak on Honeybee Pests & Diseases, followed in October by a scheduled program on propolis with Dr. Mike Simone-Finstrom. However, because he is a USDA employee, he was unable to attend due to the longest federal government shutdown in U.S. history. Members instead used the evening for open discussion, hive troubleshooting, and sharing resources.
During Fall 2025, ERBA offered another online pop-up store, expanding the selection to include apparel, garden flags, and coffee mugs. Members once again embraced the opportunity to show their club pride, with all items scheduled for pickup at the December Holiday Gathering.
ERBA closed the year with a Member Share-Out in November, highlighting personal hive experiences and lessons learned. In December, the club held its annual Holiday Gathering, combining the monthly meeting with food, festivities, and year-end reflections.
ERBA continued expanding its public outreach by once again participating in the Honey Bee Festival in Chesterfield, offering demonstrations, guidance for new beekeepers, and hands-on learning opportunities for children. ERBA volunteers were also active at the State Fair honey booth, helping represent the beekeeping community, answering questions from attendees, and sharing the importance of honey bee stewardship across the Commonwealth.
Two significant organizational milestones took place in 2025:
September 2025 – ERBA updated its bylaws, ensuring they reflected the club’s modern structure and expanding educational mission.
October 2025 – ERBA achieved 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, a major step forward for fundraising, grants, community partnerships, and long-term sustainability.
Also in 2025, ERBA significantly expanded its use of Zeffy. Members could now join or renew online with optional annual auto-renewals, and the club was able to accept credit cards at the annual auction. Zeffy also powered ERBA’s online pop-up stores and enabled tax-deductible donations for the first time.
With expanded programming, strong attendance, and major administrative achievements, 2025 marked an important turning point in ERBA’s development as a professional, forward-looking beekeeping association.
