This fall, Academia Hernando welcomes a fascinating exploration into the world of honeybees with local expert Matthew Beck as part of its diverse 2024 lecture series. On Friday, September 27, at 10 a.m., Beck will present “Honeybees!” at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Spring Hill, where attendees can expect a captivating deep dive into the life cycle of honeybees, their critical role in pollination, and the challenges they face from diseases and pests.
Beck, a commercial beekeeper based in Hernando County, brings over a decade of experience in the honey business, beginning as a hobbyist and evolving into a full-time professional. During his presentation, Beck will offer insights not only for curious beginners but also for seasoned beekeepers. He plans to demonstrate essential beekeeping tools and equipment, along with a look at his bees. Attendees will have the opportunity to purchase local honey and learn more about Beck’s “honey shack,” a place where community members can buy his locally produced honey.
In addition to honey production, Beck raises bees for pollination and sells queen bees and nucleus colonies, which are starter kits for aspiring beekeepers. His bees play an essential role in agricultural pollination, traveling to locations as far north as Jacksonville and as far south as St. Petersburg. His bees have even ventured across the country, pollinating almond crops in California before returning to Florida.
Beck, who previously spoke at Academia Hernando four years ago to great acclaim, will share his experiences in both hobby and commercial beekeeping. He will cover many topics, from bee biology to commercial honey production, providing valuable knowledge for anyone interested in bees’ essential role in our ecosystem. His talk will conclude with an open discussion and time for questions, allowing the audience to delve deeper into this critical subject.
Academia Hernando, a not-for-profit lifelong learning organization, continues its mission of educating and inspiring adult learners with this event. As part of their fall 2024 series, which runs from September 13 through November, attendees can enjoy presentations on various topics, ranging from royal history to wildlife, architecture, vintage fashion, and even a mystery bus trip.
Matthew Beck’s “Honeybees!” will surely be a highlight of the season for those eager to learn more about honeybees and beekeeping. Take advantage of this opportunity to discover the fascinating world of honeybees and support local agriculture by attending the lecture and purchasing local honey straight from the source.
A Series subscription is $80 per person and includes all eight lectures and a bus excursion or event for series subscribers only.
Mail your check for $80, payable to Academia Hernando, Inc. to:
Bev Nuzzi
15027 Middle Fairway Drive
Brooksville, FL 34609
Your canceled check is your receipt. Tickets to individual lectures are $15. Walk-ins are welcome (cash or check only). Due to space restrictions, individual tickets may not always be available at all lectures. For more information call 352-345-8345 or 352-515-0300.
Event Details:
Date & Time: Friday, September 27, 2024, at 10 a.m.
Location: St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 2301 Deltona Blvd., Spring Hill, FL
Duration: 2 hours (with a 15-minute intermission)
Admission: Local honey will be available for purchase.
