M’CHIGEENG—Due to a water pipe burst within the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation (OCF), the facility will be closed until further notice and all activities scheduled within the facility will be postponed.
“Staff is still working in the building, but it is closed to the public for now,” said Glen T. Hare, executive director of the OCF. “The flooding and damage took place throughout the whole building, and the flooring and materials will need to be repaired or replaced.”
“We hope it won’t take more than a couple of weeks for the work to be carried out, but we are probably dreaming that it will be done that quickly,” said Mr. Hare. He pointed out a similar situation took place in the OCF about a year ago.
“Things had just really got going and we were starting to enjoy the work that has been carried out toward our goals and vision,” said Mr. Hare.
“Late afternoon on Saturday, January 25 a pipe burst within the cultural facility. Primary damage/flooding was to the flooring of our studio, museum, gift shop, front office and Gimaa Radio office,” an OCF release explains. “All of which are not easily replaced. Therefore, we are not open to the public until further notice and all activities within the facility will be postponed.”
Mr. Hare pointed out the OCF staff will continue to host the Elders’ Council gathering on February 15, at the Manitoulin Hotel and Conference Centre. “Any type of major event like this that we are putting on will be held at the Manitoulin Hotel and Conference Centre.”
Although Mr. Hare is saddened by the setback, he is hopeful that the water damage will be repaired sooner than later. “Our programming was really ramping up with upcoming activities which we’ve had to postpone, we were also working on our “A Call to Action-Renovation Project” fundraising campaign to make some necessary upgrades to the building.”
“We are extremely grateful and excited for the kick start towards our fundraising goal,” said Mr. Hare. “We have received a few generous donations from very kind private donors in the past two months. Some of the renovations and upgrades include the roof, skylight, stage and lodge chimney repairs to name a few, estimated at $1.2 million for the upgrades.
Mr. Hare explained, “We will continue to fundraise to address our renovation project through various means. However, the water damage repairs will have an impact on when and how we deliver regular activities and events within the facility.”
“It will take time to restore, however, for the safety of our visitors we are ensuring that the facility is safe for everyone,” continued the release. “Our restorers have begun the process to remove all the wet and damaged flooring and any materials that can be saved i.e. inventory. Once that is completed, they will treat the areas to prevent mold growth, as well as assess the need to replace or repair damaged areas and finally order and install materials.”
“All of which will happen in good time. Therefore, g’chi miigwech to all for having patience with our temporary shutdown. We will continue to update our Facebook page and announce when we will be receiving visitors and hosting activities and events,” the release adds.
