Presentation Details
The Buzz about Beeswax - Malinda Barr - The Beeswax BARRN
I will talk about the other end of honey production which results in BEESWAX!!
We will learn about the top 15 ways to use Beeswax in your home/workplace that don’t involve a wick. As well as the top 3 things that make beeswax the ONLY wax to ever burn…and WHY!!
Honey: The Key Ingredient - Delanie Craighead - American Honey Queen
Join 2026 American Honey Queen Delanie Craighead for a little background on where we get our honey – not only about the bees but also the beekeepers that are entrusted with their care and who share the bees’ sweet product with us! Delanie will explain the wonders of a honeybee colony and then will treat the audience with tips and tricks on how to use honey. It comes in unique aromas, colors, and flavors, so every recipe with hone is truly one of a kind. Join her as she also discusses why there is a honey for every tastebud and how the sweet substance is made.
Maintaining Honey Bees for Pollination
Alexandra Knieper, Ashley Krupp, & Madyson Schneider from the New Lothrop FFA presenting their State Winning Demonstration
Beekeeper Boo-Boos
In a fireside chat style presentation, hear local beekeepers talking about the mistakes they have made and some tips and tricks they learned from their boo-boos.
Honey: What can’t it do? - Delanie Craighead - American Honey Queen
There’s no limit to creativity when honey is involved. Join 2026 American Honey Queen Delanie Craighead as she dives into the abundant uses of honey and just how versatile it can be! With over 300 different types of honey in the U.S. alone, you can mix, match, and create something unique and tailored to you! Whether it's for cooking, skin care, or medicinal uses, honey can do more than you think. Come and learn for yourself about the amazing uses of honey, particularly those you wouldn’t expect!
Journey Through The HIVE - Classroom Experience
Journey Through the Hive offers a classroom learning for every experience level. From beginner beekeeping and hive management to honey harvesting and bee health, each class is led by experienced Michigan beekeepers and educators, with time for questions after every session.
Saturday, July 18th
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM (15 min Q&A)
Beekeeping 101: Everything You Need to Get Started
Speaker: David Anthony
Thinking about becoming a beekeeper? This beginner-friendly class covers everything you need to confidently start your beekeeping journey. Learn about essential equipment, choosing your first bees, setting up your apiary, and what to expect during your first season. Whether you're just curious or ready to purchase your first hive, this class is the perfect place to begin.
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM (15 min Q&A)
Getting Your Bees Home: Nucs, Packages & Installation
Speaker: Kyle Browne
Not sure whether to start with a nuc or a package? Learn the differences between each option, how to transport your bees safely, and the proper steps for installing them into your hive. This class will help new beekeepers get their colonies off to a strong, healthy start.
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM (15 min Q&A)
Growing a Healthy Hive: Feeding, Adding Boxes & Honey-Safe Treatments
Speaker: Dr. Meghan Milbrath
Knowing when your colony needs more space, supplemental feeding, or treatment is key to successful beekeeping. Learn how to recognize hive growth, when to add boxes, best feeding practices, and honey-safe treatment options that help keep your bees healthy throughout the season.
Sunday, July 19th
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM (15 min Q&A)
Bee Health: Understanding Common Diseases & Treatments
Speaker: Ana Heck
Healthy bees build healthy colonies. Learn how to identify common honey bee diseases and pests, understand available treatment options, and discover best management practices to help keep your hive thriving throughout the season.
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM (15 min Q&A)
After the Harvest: Processing Honey & Caring for Your Bees
Speaker: Clay Ottoni
The work doesn't stop once the honey is harvested. Learn how to properly extract and process your honey, prepare your equipment, and provide the nutrition and care your bees need after harvest to ensure they remain healthy heading into the next season.
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM (15 min Q&A)
Preparing Your Hive for Winter: Feeding, Storage & Seasonal Success
Speakers: Hayden Andres & Ashtin Andres
Michigan winters can be tough on honey bee colonies. Learn how to prepare your hive for colder months through proper feeding, equipment storage, winterizing techniques, and planning ahead for a successful spring. This class is full of practical tips that can help improve your bees' chances of surviving winter.
3:30 PM - 4:30 PM (15 min Q&A)
Everything Beekeeping: Ask the Experts
Speakers: Leo Stevens, Gale Moore & Chris Persall
Have questions about beekeeping? This interactive panel gives you the opportunity to ask experienced Michigan beekeepers about hive management, seasonal challenges, equipment, honey production, bee health, and more. Whether you're brand new or have years of experience, bring your questions and learn from decades of hands-on knowledge.