Introduction to Keeping Honey Bees. You will gain enough knowledge about beekeeping to begin keeping bees this Spring. You will learn the basic equipment, tools, and protective clothing needs. You will be able to light a smoker and open a hive with an actual bee colony, (weather permitting). The class is taught by South Carolina Master Beekeeper, Allen Johnson. The cost is $45.00 per individual which includes lunch and a copy of First Lessons in Beekeeping. An extra $10.00 per family member to cover additional lunches.