I would suggest going on beesource.com. They have a very active forum that has backyarders, sideliners, as well as commercial.
As far as mites, I've had good success with formic acid (MAQS). You have to be careful of temps, though. I also treat with oxalic in the winter when they are broodless. There are other treatments as well. Stay away form the touchy-feely treatments. Use something that's proven effective. Focus on keeping them alive the first couple of years. After that you can start playig with things. Mites, starvation, and moisture.
Check with clubs in the area. All beekeeping is local.
