On February 3rd, 2006 we lost one of North Jersey's most dynamic members Mike (Mr. Sunshine) Sheridan. I first met Mike in 1977. Chuck met him previously and said to me "I met a guy who has fish that would eat your Oscars!" I couldn't wait to meet him! Mike fit into North Jersey right away. Mr. Sunshine was a booming present at all North Jersey events. I still remember his fish room in North Bergen. The sun porch where I was greeted by one of the most impressive large cichlids ever. A 12" Amphilophus Trimaculatus called McAleer. McAleer was the most famous cichlid on this side of the Rocky Mountains! In addition to McAleer Mike had fish I had only seen in books. Thanks to him I was able to get these fish.

He introduced us to the ACA and along with Chuck, Bob and Eddie were instrumental in bringing the first ACA convention to East. Long before the Internet and e-mail Mike used cassette tapes to correspond to other ACA members including Guy D. Jordan and others.

I remember the talks we had. He was the first guy to convince us to do large water changes. The Hidey Hole Method, dither fish and divide tank method are all things he introduced us to.

As a fish judge I always remember his judging motto: When judging a show fish you must ask yourself "What should a good example of the species look and act like, base your judging on that."

I will never forget his "conversations" with fellow life member the late Frank Dowling! He was always giving fish away and more importantly advise. What matters to me the most as besides being one of my mentors he was my Friend, my dear Friend. The North Jersey Aquarium Society and the American Cichlid Association lost one of it's own. He will be greatly missed in the Aquarium Society. As I look back on my memories I remember how he made us laugh, how he taught and most importantly how he gave.

One of the advantages of belonging to The North Jersey Aquarium Society is that we are not just members, we are Friends as well.

Mike I will miss you, but never forget you. Goodbye my Friend.

P.S. Mike, Frank is up there waiting for you to do water changes!

Rest In Peace MIKE