We arrived at the front yard of the property's owner, and after shaking everyone's hand, we sat down on the other side of the well, facing the dignitaries. An opening prayer was given, then the dignitaries were recognized. L-R The LDS Bishop of the ward for that area, DeDe our translator and organizer of the program, the Mayor (speaking), and the elected Water Committee on the front row. The tribal chief was also present and spoke during the ceremony (no, he was in dress pants and shirt!)
Here is the Bishop cutting one of the ribbons and being closely observed by a portion of the children who had crept ever closer to watch from the sidelines.
As the "MC" kept up a fairly loud and constant commentary, a young woman brought two glasses on a tray and everyone waited with anticipation for the young man who was manning the pump to bring forth water.
When the water began to gush out, all the people clapped and shouted for joy.
Then they all roared with approval when the mayor took the first sip and continued to show their enthusiasm with each person who followed.
I loved seeing how attentive, excited and engaged in the ceremony the children were (with the possible exception of one).
How in the world could anyone help but fall in love with these sweet children?
It is common to see brothers and sisters holding, tugging & pulling along younger siblings or otherwise taking care of each other.
The Binghams, legally representing the Church, are signing over full ownership of the well to the community, to take care of it henceforth, under the direction of their elected Water Committee.
This serious little girl with the blonde in her hair seemed to be hanging around me for a long time so she managed to get in several pictures. I kept smiling at her and finally got her to smile later!
