Abstract: A beekeeping hive base having a container with a bottom and a continuous wall extending upwardly from the bottom about a perimeter thereof. Two spaced apart openings extend through the walls. Each of the two openings is positioned so as to allow with corresponding openings of two adjacent hive bases. A respective gate assembly is mounted to a sidewall for selectively closing and opening each of the openings A beekeeping method is provided using beekeeping hives having such a hive base.

Abstract: A method of producing ice cubes in a mold and pan in cool ambient air wherein the steps of removing the mold from the pan and removing the ice cubes from the mold are carried out without any heating or thawing to obtain individual ice cubes with a substantially dry outer surface. A method of producing a block of ice cubes in cool ambient air is also provided wherein the steps above are repeated so that the ice cubes drop row above row to produce a block of ice cubes. A method of packaging ice cubes is also provided comprising obtaining a plurality of ice cubes with a substantially dry outer surface and of a stackable shape. The ice cubes are arranged adjacently into a block, and the block is encapsulated in a suitable packaging material.

Abstract: A method of producing ice cubes in a mould and pan in cool ambient air wherein the steps of removing the mould from the pan and removing the ice cubes from the mould are carried out without any heating or thawing to obtain individual ice cubes with a substantially dry outer surface. A method of producing a block of ice cubes in cool ambient air is also provided wherein the steps above are repeated so that the ice cubes drop row above row to produce a block of ice cubes. A method of packaging ice cubes is also provided comprising obtaining a plurality of ice cubes with a substantially dry outer surface and of a stackable shape. The ice cubes are arranged adjacently into a block, and the block is encapsulated in a suitable packaging material.