Barbara Latkowski
Caledonia Courier
It’s a mission statement that now means more to the people of Binche since its grand opening on May 21.
It reads: Independence is freedom and is key to our survival as Binche Whut’enne. We control our own future.
And according to Cynthia Tom, administrative assistant at the newly built Binche Administrative Building, the grand opening was all about honouring and remembering those that fought for and believed in Binche’s independence.
“These people believed that we could be a self-reliant community once more and that we can succeed,” Tom said.
“We honoured Frank and Sarah Duncan. Their home was once built in the location of this spectacular building. The couple wished that the children of Binche could use a centre such as this to build and grow in ways that they could only imagine.”
Nancy Tom, who Binche named their health centre after, was also honoured for her hard work and dedication to health and wellness for all of Tl’az’ten and for the community members of Binche.
Lastly, Frankie Dominic was honoured for his friendship and kindness over the years. This highly respected elder left a generous gift of $6,000 to the children of Binche.
The new Binche Administrative Building consists of seven offices, including a beautiful Council Chambers with a hardwood table containing a built in historical artifact. It was made by Dado Construction.
The centre also includes a computer lounge with three up to date computers for students and community members to use for educational or employment purposes.
A kitchen is also available with everything necessary to whip up a meal for 100, and a spacious gymnasium is ready to seat 125 people and will be used for such events as: family gatherings, meetings, sports and recreation and cultural and traditional teachings.
For Tom, it’s been an exciting time for her and the community of Binche.
“It’s with great honour that we open our centre and say to the world, we are open and ready for business.”