Ed Bell, an Oswego resident, said he was just 12 when he used to enjoy reading the Foxfire series of books which recorded the traditional folk culture in Appalachia from building log cabins to faith-healing. He said he liked the stories of beekeeping and always wanted to keep bees.

Bell who started working with bees nearly nine years ago said in a statement that today his company belfry Bees and Honey, sells honey and offers educational classes related to honey.

The company presently has nearly 150 to 160 hives at 19 different sites, said Bell. They have developed a great relationship with area farmers who welcome bees. All of our bees are kept on USDA certified organic properties. Each hive produces between 40 to 120 pounds of honey for harvest, he said.

Furthermore in explanation, Bell said that they leave near about 60 to 80 pounds of honey for the bees for their survival in winters.

Bell's company sells most of the harvested honey at area farm stands and Farmer's Markets, including markets in Aurora and Geneva.

"I have seen a real growth in hobbyist beekeeping. It is simple enough that anyone can do it provided their city ordinances allow it", said Bell.

The company takes classes about honey and also trains people about the art of beekeeping at several area locations, including SciTech in Aurora.

Bell will also be part of the free August 23 event at the Conservation Foundation's Dickson-Murst Farm at 1550 Dickson Road in Montgomery.