Students pay final tribute to Manatee High's Davis Building

On Saturday, Nov. 21, Manatee High School held a final tribute for its beloved Davis Building. The evening was a celebration for the new facility that will be complete in about a year and a half.

The beloved Davis Building was celebrated as a final tribute by alumni, former faculty, and staff members.

Manatee alumni and former faculty and staff members were among the guests present. Anyone who had been a part of the Manatee High family was encouraged to attend, as it was an open event to the community.

The evening began with the national anthem, sung by Emily Roff, a former MHS student, and continued with an upscale sit-down meal courtesy of Canes CafŽ, Sarasota Ritz Carlton, Bonefish Grill and many more culinary partners. There was live entertainment from the Manatee Jazz Band followed by performances by the chorus, Sugar Canes, Orchestra, Drama and Ballroom Dance Team.

Silent and live auctions were also held throughout the evening. Auctioned items included a house in the Keys, an opportunity to be the guest conductor at the last concert in the original Davis Building, a chance to be the principal for a day, and other great items.

Slide shows showing the past history of the Davis Building were played for guests to enjoy during dinner.

”The Davis Building is an icon for the Manatee High School,“ said Frank Brunner, who was in charge of organizing the event. ”It’s a chance for anyone, past or present, to come and celebrate their memories and ties to the Davis Building.“

Students played a large part in the event’s success. From planning to executing, the Hurricanes got the job done. Various club members volunteered their time to help with the festivities. And in the end, it was all worth the time and effort put in. Memories have been made and held in the Paul F. Davis Building for more than 85 years, and for many Manatee High alums, this night may have been the last.