09/01/2026
As the final return pump was turned off, the shop was filled with an eerie silence - one that hadn’t been heard for nearly a decade. The sound of things coming to an end.
Reflecting on the years, the tens of thousands of coral and fish that passed through our hands, and the hundreds of customers who walked through our doors, I am incredibly grateful for the friendships and memories this industry has provided.
When I opened BLC, my goal was to create an environment where customers—new and old - felt comfortable asking questions, learning, and sharing their experiences. Offering healthy, reasonably priced livestock was important, but it always came second to creating a community where people felt welcome.
This past year has brought several difficult hardships, but despite those challenges, I am content knowing that we achieved what we set out to accomplish.
Thank you to every customer who has supported BLC since its formation in Texas in 2015 and the opening of our Illinois storefront in 2017. Your support, conversations, friendships, and passion for the hobby meant more than you probably realize.
A huge thank you to everyone who helped us operate smoothly over the years. Jay Romano, Matt & Becky Wood, Jonathan Ellis, Dan Becvar, Glen Piske, Jay Mixa, Alex Russo, Kyle Shady, Christy Carberry, Nick Ponce, John Gudewicz, Dustin Walker, Allie Cervone, Jon Ralis (as well as anyone else I may have accidently forgotten to list), BLC would not have been what it was without your hard work, dedication, and support.
Nearly a decade of coral, fish, late nights, early mornings, road trips, challenges, successes, and countless conversations that won't be forgotten.
Thank you for being a part of it.
-Dan (Owner)
