[board] Educational Program Update and Tentative Lecture Schedule

[Dana Pepp]

Hi Justin,

Thanks for all of this planning!
I have a couple thoughts - and they are only mine, so not speaking for anyone else.

1.  I think it’s good to continue to get a variety of speakers, including some local experts (like Bonnie).  
2.  I like the mixed format.  Maybe a q and a, a panel, an interview format?  Some lecturers can get … long winded on their own. 
3.  So sad that you scheduled Jennifer V (the tinctures) for Labor Day weekend.  I’m away and think that others may be, too. 
4. I think a monthly meeting is enough for most/the majority.  I think we need to focus on re-engaging folks and we need to be thoughtful about not burning out or over-doing it with folks.

I think the hive dives once a month would be enough for some folks to get a little extra.

Just my 2 cents.

Thanks,
Dana


Because this is sent from my iPhone, please excuse any typos.  

> On Jul 9, 2026, at 5:46 PM, Justin Strom <westnovatohoney at gmail.com> wrote:
> 
> 
> Dear Board Members,
> 
> I wanted to provide everyone with an update on our educational program and the tentative lecture schedule for the remainder of the year and into early 2027. My goal is to continue offering high-quality educational opportunities for our members while balancing hands-on activities, guest speakers, and social events.
> 
> I would also like to add one Zoom class each month to provide additional educational content between our regular meetings. This will allow us to bring in speakers from outside our area, offer more specialized topics, and give members another opportunity to learn without having to travel.
> 
> Tentative Schedule
> 
> July 21, 2026 (Zoom)
> - Jennifer Ratke – The Importance of Hive Inspections
> - Honorarium: $150
> 
> August 6, 2026
> - Potluck at the Log Cabin
> - Members will be asked to purchase their beverages from the bar to support the venue.
> 
> September 3, 2026
> - Jennifer Verstrepen – Processing Beeswax, Candle Making, and Tinctures
> - Honorarium: $250
> 
> October 1, 2026
> - Jennifer Ratke
> - Honorarium: $200
> - We will select one of several lecture topics she has available.
> 
> November 5, 2026
> - Currently open.
> - Possible speakers include Michael Thiele, Christine Kurtz, or Mike Turner.
> 
> December 3, 2026
> - Holiday Potluck at the Log Cabin.
> 
> January 7, 2027
> - Bonnie Morse – Seasonal Beekeeping: Coming Out of Winter
> 
> February/March 2027
> - Working to schedule Randy Oliver for a lecture and Hive Dive workshop.
> 
> March 13, 2027
> - Randy Oliver queen cell pickup for club members.
> 
> April 2027
> - Randy Oliver nuc pickup for club members.
> 
> If anyone has questions, concerns, suggestions, or additional speaker ideas, please don't hesitate to reach out. I welcome your feedback and want to make sure we're providing the best educational experience possible for our members.
> 
> Thank you all for your continued support. I'm looking forward to building an exciting and educational year for the Marin County Beekeepers Association.
> 
> Best regards,
> 
> Justin Strom
> Educational Director
> Marin County Beekeepers Association
> --
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