I've heard that this is going on in 22 states. I just checked on my bees and lost 2 out of 3, but I am pretty sure that CCD was not the reason. Although I believe that there is a case near by me.
Lufah, You can keep bees even if your wife is allergic. I have had bees in my backyard for 3 years now. I am the only one that has been stung and only while inspecting the hive. Well 7 times once while mowing the lawn, but thats another story.
Anyways honey bees are very docile and with them in my backyard we never see them while in the yard. They rarely come near the house.
I would post a pic if I knew how, but I have a pic of my stepson when he was ten, holding on to a frame full of bees with no protection at all. He goes out to the colony with me often and has not been stung yet.
Beekeeping is a great hobby. I enjoy it as much as brewing and it is less work.[/img]