I am in the north Georgia area and going into my 3rd year of beekeeping. I have started with two hives but lost them due to starvation over the first winter. Now I have 4 hives and so far they are doing well. I guess I got lucky on my first year and my bees made purple honey. I entered it in the local county fair and got first place. Won $2 and still have the check.
Second year they did not make any so we will see for this coming year.
I am a member of the local bee club and agree with other post that it is a great resource for support,information and training.