By KRISTIE LINDEN
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Monongahela’s Aquatorium Innovations, the nonprofit that operates the outdoor venue, will end this year with a deficit.
The group, which has produced the highly successful Rockin’ on the Mon summer concert series since 2013, faces some serious questions in the new year.
During an end of the year city council meeting, Monongahela Councilwoman Claudia Williams gave all council members a year-end report. Williams is an organizer and volunteer with the nonprofit.
After reviewing the information, Councilman Ken Kulak said it looked like the group was facing a deficit and Williams responded that it was a serious issue.
Kulak asked about the prospect of turning the problem around.
“We haven’t decided if we’re going to continue or not,” Williams said.
“I would hate to see that,” Kulak said.
Trying to figure out the problem, Kulak asked if attendance or lack of sponsors were to blame.
Williams said it was neither, instead she points the finger to two events held in October when “the weather killed us.”
The first-ever Wizard Festival was held Oct. 13. The theme was wizards and magical creatures. It featured many animals, well known witches and wizards, lessons on how to make potions and spells and games. Admission was $10.
The Aquatorium held the third annual Witch Festival on Oct. 26 and 27. It features a witches dance instruction, dancing, adult games, a costume contest, food and merchandise. The event has free admission, but donations are encouraged.
Williams said the weather hurt both festivals in terms of attendance.
Kulak asked if it was possible to forget about both fall events and just go back to the summer concert series.
“Maybe,” Williams said, adding that the volunteer board is not ready to discuss it yet. “Typically we discuss it about now, but no one is ready yet. It’s a lot of work and a lot of effort. When it’s done, we’re physically and mentally done with it. We need a break.”
Aquatorium Innovations is tasked with maintaining the facility, operating the venue and organizing a schedule of 10-weeks of outdoor entertainment. Admission for each concert is $10.
The Noble J. Dick Aquatorium was built in 1969 and received a major face-lift and expansion in 2012. While the renovations were under way, city council approved an agreement with Aquatorium Innovations to maintain and operate the site.
The nonprofit raises funds through sponsorships and public contributions to keep the operation going.
The low-cost events have routinely brought big crowds to Monongahela and area businesses have benefited.
Anyone who would like to make a donation to the Aquatorium should visit www.monaquatorium.org/donate.