Marine Discovery Center to share intriguing insights on Honeybees.

Written by Kristen Schmutz

Belden Communications News

With National Honeybee Day just around the corner, the Marine Discovery Center is preparing to host a Public Lecture Series dedicated to our little honey-making friends on Thursday, August 17, at 6:30 p.m., when local apiologist Doug McGinnis will take center stage to enlighten attendees about the crucial role of honeybees in pollination and honey production.

Doug McGinnis, a respected figure in the beekeeping community, is the former president of the esteemed Tropical Blossom Honey Co. The family-owned company, based in Edgewater, has been sourcing honey and honeycomb from beekeepers in Florida and Georgia for an impressive 75 years. The delicious honey produced by Tropical Blossom has been marketed not only within the state and nation but also to over 20 countries worldwide.

In his captivating presentation, titled "The Journey of Florida’s Beekeepers and Bees: Creating Nature’s Most Perfect Food and So Much More," McGinnis will shed light on the importance of native, bee-friendly plants in supporting these industrious insects. Attendees can expect to be inspired and informed about the remarkable world of beekeeping and the significance of honey production in Florida.

Following the lecture, McGinnis will offer a limited amount of local honey for sampling. Participants will have the unique opportunity to savor the diverse flavors of each honey variety, including floral, earthy, herbal, and even salty notes.

According to a release, McGinnis brings a wealth of experience and expertise after serving six years on the National Honey Board and a 17-year-member of the Atlantic Center for the Arts Board of Trustees, McGinnis maintains beehives on the ACA campus, and the honey produced is for sale in ACA’s gift shop. McGinnis has led ACA’s Environmental Member program, which allows citizens to take part in beekeeping adventures and learn about the native plants that grow on the ACA campus.

The Marine Discovery Center is thrilled to offer this enlightening lecture as part of its Public Lecture Series. The event is free, but donations are welcome to support the center's initiatives. Pre-registration is encouraged to secure a spot at this exciting event.

For more details about this enlightening lecture and to pre-register, contact the Marine Discovery Center at 386-428-4828.