Dear Family,
We are so very excited as the months draw near to our next Vines-Barnes Family Reunion to be held on August 5-6, 2016.
On Saturday, the family will be getting together at the
Thomas S. Fleming Building.
A facility in the making since a fund-raising campaign began in
August 2000, the Thomas S. Fleming Building opened in April 2004.
For smaller gatherings, such as exhibits, wedding receptions, and
other social and business events, a large exhibit hall named the Mobley
Atrium is available to residents of Edgecombe and surrounding counties.
The Mobley Atrium honors Jack Mobley, who left a substantial gift to the
Fleming Building in his estate.
Construction on the 70,000-square-foot, two-story facility began in
December 2002. By late 2003, the building was up and finishing details
were under way. Edgecombe Community College faculty and staff moved into
their offices during April and May 2004, in time for the summer session
that began in late May.
In addition to its use as a multi-purpose facility for the benefit of
residents of Edgecombe and surrounding counties, the facility is
providing much-needed space for teaching and learning at ECC. About 75
percent of the space is being utilized for academic purposes. Academic
space includes:
- 1 Continuing Education computer/lab room
- 1 Distance Learning classroom
- 2 small conference rooms
- 3 large conference/classrooms
- 5 computer classrooms/labs
- 10 general classrooms
Of the total $11 million price tag, $7.5 million has been provided by
the state. The balance is being funded through private donations.
Hundreds of local residents have purchased and are continuing to
purchase engraved bricks. The first installment of bricks has been laid
permanently at the entrance to the Fleming Building.
"This is what the county deserves," Hartwell Fuller, who was
president of ECC at the time, remarked shortly after the building
opened. "It was built for the people, and it will serve them very well
for many years to come."
To learn more about the Fleming Building,
click here.
Remember "We are Family" and we'll see you all August 5-6, 2016. If you have any questions, please email us at
vinesbarnes2016@gmail.com.