Presidents Message – November 2025

We had another great meeting this month with over 250 bags for auction, and a insightful talk by Harry Faustmann who shared his knowledge on Killifish. Harry always brings an informative talk — even pointing out the Cadillac of Killifish! He has a vast knowledge on many topics and we love having him here! Thank you Harry.

We continue to build our saltwater membership, and as a result we have more and more saltwater items for auction. With many new sponsors, our number keeps growing. We had some terrific coral pieces this month, thanks to donations from Pop Coral, Bull Reef, Absolutely Fish and others. Thank you all.

I would also like to thank some new sponsors such as Tropical Showcase, The Aquarium Shop, Natures Reef and Reptile as well as all our regulars. I can’t forget Monster Aquarium who donates every month. We appreciate your generosity!

All this would not be possible without our board members running around soliciting and picking up from Long Island to New Jersey. A special thank you to Rob Kolsky and Paul Santiago for finding new store for us. They are our store liaisons. Thank you guys.

The 50/50 continues each month, since it is successful for both the club and our members. Whatever livestock and plants members bring in, we split the proceeds 50/50 for their highest 10 bags. This is for livestock only. It’s a great way to make some money and enjoy breeding your favorite species.

Next month will be our annual Holiday Party in the New York Aquarium Education Hall. On Friday Dec. 12 from 7-9, come to our usual meeting place where we will have a buffet style party at just $20 a person. Foods will include penne vodka, chicken Francaise, sausage and peppers, veal marsala, grilled vegetables, caesars salad, coffee, soda, desert, and more. All participants have to pay by December 2nd. You can reach out to me (347 277-4793) or David Manuel (917 678-4637). No money will be accepted at the door, this has to be paid in advance, no exceptions. This is a holiday party not a regular meeting.

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

Listing, and member’s feedback. Follow us on Facebook, tell your friends we would like to increase our followings. 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!

After the auction ends, please exit the building promptly so clean up can occur. 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 on future events please call out hotline 718-837-4455, or visit our site at www.brooklynaquarium society.org

Steven Matassa
President