Bert’s advice is excellent!
Here is a site that not only shows clubs but also has lots of great information, including a FREE (the best kind) beekeeping course.
http://www.bees-on-the-net.com/beekeeping-clubs.html
I too have been seriously considering getting into bees this year. I haven’t had any hives for about 15-18 years - seems all the old companies I used to deal with are no longer... J.I. Root used to be the Sears Roebuck of beekeeping supplies, but seems they are no more...
These folks are just over the mountain and are an excellent vendor. They have no relation personal or business other than as a supplier in the past.
Their site is Here,
Editorial:
Most bee keepers, amateurs at least, keep bees to watch and study them. Bees are extremely interesting and provide hours and hours of real learning opportunity. (as opposed to a book) The honey and wax are not necessary to enjoy the coming and going of the colony. For me, bees were a continuous science project with the reward of honey and wax. (the wax is valuable for tons of uses)
Once you learn their ways and treat them decently there will be few if any stings. Once or twice after being in the midst of an angry swarm with hive parts disassembled,and general disarray, you will never fear a banker or lawyer who might be aggressively after your hide.
They can do quite well by themselves and all new bee keepers are far too attentive. That is good I guess because you get to know them and they get to know you. However the time spent is mostly up to you. Remember though, total neglect is harmful
Good luck.....go get some bees