31 North Main Street – WWJB Radio -  Barbara Manuel

A Melody of Impact

Barbara Manuel, a long-time Brooksvillian whose love for music, community, and progress has left a mark as bright as the notes she taught her students. So, let’s dive into the story of this remarkable lady who greets everyone with her familiar “Hey! How are you?”

Barbara Manuel, born around 1945, moved to Brooksville in 1966 and quickly became a cornerstone of the community. As a chorus teacher at Hernando High School, she spent decades shaping young voices and hearts, fostering a love for the arts that echoed far beyond the classroom. Her choir room was more than a place for singing—it was where she mentored generations of Brooksvillians, teaching them leadership skills that carried them into careers from business to the arts. Her passion for music wasn’t just a job; it was a gift she shared, making sure every student felt the joy of hitting that perfect note.

But Barbara’s impact didn’t stop at the schoolhouse door. She poured her heart into Brooksville’s community, supporting nonprofits with a tireless spirit. She helped raise funds for the Live Oak Theatre, turning dreams of a local stage into reality, and pitched in for the Hernando Park Rotary fence, sprucing up a community gem. Every Christmas, Barbara was right there organizing the Christmas on Main Street event, filling downtown with holiday cheer and drawing folks together. As a founding member of the Brooksville Vision Foundation, she helped launch the nonprofit Brooksville Main Street, serving as its first chair of the Promotions Committee. Her work brought new life to downtown, with events and initiatives that made Brooksville’s brick-lined streets buzz with visitors and pride.

Alongside her husband, Steve, Barbara runs WWJB and WXJB radio stations, keeping Hernando County informed and entertained with local news and tunes. Her dedication earned her the 2023 Great Brooksvillian Award, a unanimous choice by the city council, with folks like Vince Vanni of Live Oak Theatre singing her praises. Vanni, who’s known her since 1986, called her “one of the most creative artists and artistic leaders” in the community. Even with all the accolades, Barbara stayed humble, telling the Hernando Sun that the other nominees—Sandra Knox, Roy Link, and Mabel Sims—were just as deserving.

Standing here, you can almost hear the echo of Barbara’s choirs or the chatter of folks at a Main Street festival she helped plan. From teaching kids to leading community efforts, she’s woven music and service into Brooksville’s soul. 

Citations 

Barbara Manuel Named 2023 Great Brooksvillian, Hernando Sun, August 20, 2023, https://www.hernandosun.com. 

Brooksville Main Street, https://www.brooksvillemainstreet.org. 

Live Oak Theatre, https://www.liveoaktheatre.org. 

Barbara Manuel - Owner - WXJB 99.9 FM, LinkedIn, https://www.linkedin.com.