im from near the utca rome region and next spring will be my first year beekeeping...any advice on companies or technique is appreciated! :-D
Welcome to the forum. I would suggest reading as much as you can between now and spring. Also, your about 2 hours from Betterbee in Greenwich, NY and about 2 1/2 hours from Dadant in Waverly, NY. Both are good companies to deal with and it would be well worth your time to take a trip to either. Have a look around and have a talk. I know Betterbee offers a beginner's course and perhaps Dadant does as well. I would also suggest trying to find a local beekeepers club and start attending the meetings. Beekeeping is very regional and finding a mentor in your area is always the best. Of course, there is an abundance of knowledgeable folks here that are always will to give advice as well.
Good luck and plan big, it is very addicting. :-D
Welcome to the board.
I second everything Robo said. Use the search feature and go back and read through previous posts on topic you are interested in. It will make the winter pass quicker. Watch JP's videos and you will learn a lot about handling bees (and where to find good milkshakes!).
You are gonna have a fun 2011!
thanks for all the info! im planning on getting bees from betterbee hopefully. and i do want to take a trip out that way.
Be sure to check days and hours. I know Dadant is never open on Saturdays.