CULLMAN, Ala. – The Cullman Aquatics Society will host its next meeting Sunday, Nov. 8, at 2:30 p.m. in the conference room at the Cullman OmniPlex. The meeting is open to anyone interested in learning the ins and outs of aquatic life, regardless of their experience level. Attendees will have an opportunity to meet fellow hobbyists, exchange knowledge and participate in an auction featuring fish, aquatic plants and aquarium accessories.
Founded by Judy Thomas and Jeff Still, the Cullman Aquatics Society began as a tropical fish group and has since expanded its focus to include all aspects of aquatic life. Now with 23 members strong and continuing to grow, the club welcomes aquarium and fish enthusiasts from all sides of the tank who want to expand their knowledge and enjoy the hobby as a community.
“The Cullman Aquatics Society was started with a simple idea: to bring together people who share an interest in aquatic life and create a place where everyone can learn, share experiences and enjoy the hobby together,” said Interim President Zach Higgins.
While connecting fellow hobbyists is a key part of the club’s mission, Higgins said the group also aims to provide educational opportunities through monthly meetings, guest speakers, demonstrations and discussions covering different aspects of aquarium keeping.
Just as important, he said, is creating an environment where people feel comfortable learning from one another, regardless of how much experience they bring to the table.
“One of our biggest goals is to create a community where people feel welcome, regardless of their experience level,” Higgins shared. “You might be someone who has kept aquariums for 30 years, or someone who just bought their very first fish tank. We want both of those people to feel like they belong.”
So perhaps you are Interested in freshwater fish? Saltwater aquariums? Outdoor tubs? Aquatic plants? Fish breeding or outdoor ponds? The club’s upcoming meeting has a place for you.
“Our Nov. 8 meeting is going to be a great opportunity for people to come out, meet other hobbyists and experience what our club is all about. We’ll be featuring a fish auction, which is always an exciting part of the aquarium hobby,” Higgins said.
He continued, “It’s an opportunity for attendees to see different fish, discover new varieties, connect with other hobbyists and potentially take home something new for their aquariums. It’s also a chance to talk with people who have experience keeping and breeding different species and learn from one another.”
Auction transactions will be cash only. A small percentage of the proceeds will go toward supporting the club’s room rental costs, guest speakers and future events.
And for those who have never been to an aquatics club meeting before and need a little reassurance, Higgins has you covered.
“For anyone who has never attended an aquatics club meeting, my biggest message would be don’t be intimidated, and don’t feel like you need to know anything about fish to come,” he said. “You don’t have to be an expert; you don’t even have to own an aquarium yet. If you’re curious about the hobby, you’re welcome.”
As the Cullman Aquatics Society continues to grow, Higgins hopes the organization will become a unique place where people can truly find their community amongst other like-minded aquatic hobbyists.
“Ultimately, we want the Cullman Aquatics Society to become a place where people don’t just come to talk about fish, but where friendships are formed, knowledge is shared and people feel like they’re part of something,” he said.
“We want people to walk through the door and feel like they’ve found their people.”
For meeting updates and additional information, follow the Cullman Aquatics Society on Facebook or contact Jeff Still at 256-339-8439.
The Cullman OmniPlex is located at 1634 Field of Miracles Dr SW, Cullman, AL 35055.
