On April 20, 2009 OFI met with representatives
from each of the island's organizations to collect input on OFI's newest project - the acquisition of the Community Square and Hutcherson property across the street.  Next to the Park Service, this would be the only dedicated public and community space along the historic village waterfront.  OFI will be working closely with the Trust for PublicLand (www.TPL.org), Hyde County Manager Carl Classen and island residents.  Success will see: dedicated waterfront access for marine dependent trades, locally owned businesses remain, securing an anchor property in the village downtown area, installation of a pump out system for boats, wastewater improvements would permit installation of public restrooms, preservation of National Register structures and the lease income will be utilized for community needs.  "We are excited by the possibility of bringing back to the Square - the Blackbeard Theater, square dancing, evening gatherings and tourism events.  This is a special place in the village and we don't want to loose it", the group agreed.

On Friday May 9th the retail reopened after being under renovation since December. 

 

 

 

 

In November 2008 OFI received $407,710 for the fish house project from the Golden LEAF Foundation. The project grant was for economic innovation.  The funds were for renovation, new equipment, education, marketing and oyster restoration. One of the objectives of the project is to create an industry around Ocracoke's seafood assets thereby making it possible for our watermen to thrive.  If our watermen thrive, Ocracoke will be able to hold onto its 300 year old maritime heritage.  A community open house is in the works. Stay tune for a date and time!
 

non-commercial broadcast station is located at the Anchorage bungalows on the harbor.  The Ocracoke Community Radio Project (OCRP) committee has been working on an on-line station www.WOVV.org, which was made possible in part through funding OFI received from the Outer Banks Community Foundation, private donations and fundraisers. OCRP is awaiting word on a Federal grant filed in December of 2008. Grant funds would build a PBS quality station and enable WOVV to broadcast on FM.  Stop by the station to learn more and see the operation. 

After more than a year of seeking funds, work on the Ocracoke Watermen's Exhibit will soon commence.  With funding received from private donations and the Mr. and Mrs. David Beveridge Estate through the Ocracoke Preservation Society, OFI is 70% closer to it's project goal. Located at the former Jack's Store on the Community Square docks, the space will feature exhibits on the watermen and Ocracoke's natural environment. The mission of the exhibit is to educate people about the important link between community, environment, the traditional workplace and the local economy - and of course the benefit of buying fresh local seafood!  Educational activities are also being planned for and OFI will have a very much needed small office. The Ocracoke Preservation Society will work closely with OFI on the exhibits.