We opened back up in September with a great talk from Marc Levenson of Melev’s Reef. Marc spoke on how to move your tank. Something we all run into at least once or twice. It was a thorough discussion on everything you have to think of and how to avoid last minute surprises. We had a full house for the auction too, with over 270 items for auction, plus our usual sales table.

Our annual elections for board members took place that night as well. It was a very busy meeting to say the least. As always, our board members and volunteers all stepped up to execute a great event. This includes running around from Long Island to New Jersey to pick up donations for the show. There is a lot of work that goes into our event every month. Without them we could not put on such a great event every month. That’s what makes our club the best around, and still going strong after 114 years!

It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Lou Ekus, CEO of Tropic Marin USA, who passed away on September 27, 2025. Lou led Tropic Marin USA with vision, integrity, and unwavering dedication for 28 years. Under Lou’s leadership, the company grew to be a household name within this industry. Lou was not only a leader but also a mentor, a friend, and a passionate advocate for marine life and sustainability. Lou’s knowledge and passion for this hobby was well known as he was always eager to share his knowledge to help industry experts and hobbyists alike. Lou always had time to help you out and explain anything you asked. He has spoken many times at our club, and will surely be missed. Our deepest condones go out to his family.

Our photo contest will still run, so enter your pictures. You can enter as often and as many as you like. As you know, taking good pictures of your fish is challenging, but showing off your tank can be rewarding.

The 50/50 will continue each month, as it has been really successful for both the club, and our members. Whatever livestock and plants members bring in, we split the proceeds 50/50 for their highest ten bags. This is for livestock only. We have had encouraging feedback from doing this, because it’s a great way to make some money and enjoy breeding your favorite species.

Let us know if you want speakers on a particular aquatic topic. We need our members to be more involved as we are always trying to improve our club. So let us know your ideas! Also consider lending a hand at the meetings. It takes a lot of hard work from our board members to put on an organized, informative and entertaining show every month. Anyone wishing to help out, we will gladly give you something to do.

Remember to visit our Facebook page where we feature items for sale, manufacturers listings, and member’s feedback. We always have tanks and equipment for sale. If you are looking for something aquatic, reach out to us. We probably have it in storage. We can’t bring everything to the meeting! Also if you have any aquatic related items you don’t need, we will always take them for our sales table.

After the auction ends, please exit the building promptly so clean up can occur. Only board members should be in the building after the auction ends. The aquarium security needs to leave at a reasonable time. We must stay on good terms with the Aquarium, so we can continue to meet there.

Our sole publication, AquaticNews, will now be published twice a year: Fall/Winter and Spring/Summer. Any hobby or aquatic information you hear or read about, please share with our editor, Ginny Cahill. Please send all emails to Ginny at editor@basny.org. We are always looking for your input on our events and publications!

For more info, please call out hotline 718-837-4455.