Sunday, December 15, 2013

Two memorial services set for Barbara B. Mann


Barbara B. Mann, 100, died Sunday. Her legacy lives on, both in the performing arts hall that bears her name and the countless people she has inspired across the arts landscape in this corner of Florida. (read the complete story)

Frank Mann Sr. remembers his mother's "boundless energy;" he says it was the key to her accomplishing "so much" for Southwest Florida.

"I never saw my mother take a nap," he said.

There will be a formal memorial service for Barbara B. Mann at 2 p.m. Saturday at First Presbyterian Church, located at 2438 Second Street in downtown Fort Myers.

At Barbara Mann's request, a "light-hearted" reception for friends of the family and the entire membership of the Fort Myers Community Concert Association will be held from 4-6 p.m. Friday at the Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall.

Frank Mann Sr. spoke also of her determined attitude and forthright nature.

"It was work with her or get out of the way," Mann said. "Our family is very proud of her legacy."

Then-state Sen. Franklin B. Mann Sr. coaxed about $6.5 million dollars out of the Florida Legislature in 1984. The cash was split between the then-Edison Community College and the University of South Florida satellite campus to build a performing arts hall. The building would cost around $50 million today. It was renamed to honor Mann's efforts in steering the bill through the legislature and opened Jan. 12, 1986.  (read the complete story)


More coverage:
(Naples Daily News) Barbara B. Mann, leading lady of the arts, dies at 100

(The News Press) A Tribute to Barbara B. Mann
(The News Press) Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall shines bright
(The News Press) What Southwest Florida had to say about Barbara B. Mann

(The News Press) Performing arts icon Barbara B. Mann passes away at 100
(The News Press) Barbara Mann's show still goes on

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