Yet another "possibly dead hive" question

[tecumseh]

not all hives will requeen themselves.... some hives will not even build queen cells.  if a hive becomes queenless during the peak of the summer heat.... proper mating becomes difficult.

most newbees would be better advised to minimize their removal of surplus honey in year one.  even in year two (and beyond) the appropriate quantity of honey (how much?) to remove is a difficult decision