"Bee-Whiskered" Apiarist Named Co-Winner of WVBA's 2024 Beekeeper of the Year
🐝 Apiarists' Accolade: John Welty and Charlie Metz have been named co-winners of the 2024 "Beekeeper of the Year" award by the West Virginia Beekeeper’s Association (WVBA). The recognition reflects their outstanding contributions to beekeeping in the region.
👨🌾 Charlie Metz: The Bee Man: Charlie Metz, one of the co-winners, is affectionately known as "The Bee Man." His journey into beekeeping began in childhood when his father owned beehives. Metz bought his first hive for $25, a purchase triggered by a scratch-off ticket.
🧔 Innovative Beekeeping Practices: Metz gained renown for his distinctive bee beard, a practice he learned from his mentor, Steve Conlon, in 1989. This innovative approach became a signature feature, drawing attention to the world of beekeeping.
🎓 Contributions to Education: Beyond his unique beekeeping practices, Metz has been actively involved in contributing to education. He has donated three of his personal hives to West Virginia University and various high schools within Marion and Monongalia counties.
🍯 Apiary Products and Mentorship: Metz not only sells honey and wax products from his apiary but also extends his expertise to assist beginner beekeepers. His commitment to mentorship and sharing knowledge reflects in his willingness to educate others about the world of beekeeping.
🏆 Awards Ceremony: Both John Welty and Charlie Metz are set to receive their "Beekeeper of the Year" awards at the WVBA's 2024 Spring Conference in Harpers Ferry, scheduled for April 5 and 6. The recognition acknowledges their dedication to the beekeeping community.
🌐 Connecting with Charlie Metz: For those interested in bee or honey-related inquiries, Charlie Metz can be contacted at 304-692-4981.
🔗 Further Information: To learn more about the West Virginia Beekeeper’s Association and explore local honey sources, interested individuals can visit the association's website.
As the WVBA celebrates the accomplishments of beekeepers, the co-winners showcase the diverse and dedicated efforts within the beekeeping community.
The West Virginia Beekeeper’s Association has named John Welty and Charlie Metz as the co-winners of the 2024 "Beekeeper of the Year" award. Both apiarists, nominated by different beekeeping associations, share the title. Charlie Metz, known as "The Bee Man," gained recognition for his bee beard, a practice he learned from his mentor in 1989. Metz, residing near Morgantown, is praised for his innovation, mentorship, and contributions to beekeeping education. His involvement in donating hives to educational institutions and selling honey products from his apiary reflects his commitment to the beekeeping community. Metz and Welty will be honored at the WVBA's 2024 Spring Conference in Harpers Ferry.
[FAQ]
Q1: Who are the co-winners of the 2024 "Beekeeper of the Year" award by the West Virginia Beekeeper’s Association? A1: John Welty and Charlie Metz are the co-winners of the 2024 "Beekeeper of the Year" award.
Q2: What is Charlie Metz known for in the beekeeping community? A2: Charlie Metz, also known as "The Bee Man," gained recognition for his practice of creating a bee beard. He credits his mentor, Steve Conlon, for introducing him to the bee beard in 1989.
Q3: How did Charlie Metz start his journey in beekeeping? A3: Charlie Metz's beekeeping journey began in his childhood, as his father owned beehives. He bought his first personal hive for $25 with a scratch-off ticket he found.
Q4: What are some contributions and activities mentioned regarding Charlie Metz's involvement in beekeeping? A4: Charlie Metz is noted for his innovation, mentorship, and contributions to beekeeping education. He has donated hives to West Virginia University and high schools, sells honey and wax products from his apiary, and actively assists beginner beekeepers.
Q5: When and where will John Welty and Charlie Metz receive their awards? A5: John Welty and Charlie Metz will receive their awards at the WVBA's 2024 Spring Conference in Harpers Ferry on April 5 and 6.
#Beekeeping, #WVBA, #BeekeeperOfTheYear
