AceBird; I presented what "I" feel is a cold snap for me , my neighbors and family and my bees, nothing more or less. Someone in Florida, NY or Siberia might have other ideas :)
BjornBee, you are on the money "again" (must get tiresome ;) I may have to pay you a visit and to pick up some bees as no one I know around these parts uses Russians. Been reading about them for awhile and I believe you are right about they're suitability to cold winters (really cold). I'm willing to travel if neccessary.
thomas