The "Manhattan Optimist Club Bulletin" Vol. 2026 #10 12-3-25

Posted December 3, 2025

VOLUME 2026 DECEMBER 3 NUMBER 10

President Kelly Karl welcomed everyone, gave us our morning reflection that was followed by the flag salute.

ACHES & PAINS: Remember those less fortunate and embrace the beauty of the season.

PROGRAM: Mike Fincham introduced our speaker this morning. We welcomed Blade Mages back once again to give us “A Wareham Update”! Blade is a dynamic entrepreneur and the Executive Director of Wareham Hall. He began his career by founding “Middle” in 2008, a creative agency that became nationally recognized under his guidance, tackling diverse projects across various industries. In 2021 he embarked on a new journey with Wareham Hall, bringing his entrepreneurial spirit, community network and communication experience to the world of performing arts. Under his leadership, Wareham Hall is being transformed into a premier cultural hub, enhancing our community’s access to world-class performances and educational opportunities. The organization’s efforts are not just about preserving a historic building but about creating a vibrant space where art and community intersect. Blade’s commitment extends beyond the walls of Wareham Hall. He actively engages in numerous local business and nonprofit initiatives, demonstrating his dedication to the growth and enrichment of Manhattan.

Blade Mages, Executive Director of Wareham Hall

Today Blade gave many updates, the first and most visible perhaps has been the removal of the iconic Wareham sign! This removal marked a major milestone that confirms renovation work is now fully underway on the historic opera house. Interior work, including selective demolition, cleanup and preparing the structure for renovation has started. Mages stated that because this is a historic tax credit project, every detail of the renovation plans has been reviewed and approved by the Historic Preservation Office to ensure they’re protecting everything that makes the building historic.

Blade spoke and showed images of what’s to come. This is a two-year project and there will be state-of-the-art technology, everything from a small intimate acoustic set or a jazz performance to a rock show. An agreement has also been made with K-State’s School of Music, Theater and Dance; there will be more performances at Wareham Hall in the future. The Wareham will be a “home away from home” for K-States performing arts department.

Although construction has started, there is still a bit of fundraising to be done. People can give online at warehamhall.org, talk with Blade or any of the other officers or participate in the newly launched seats campaign. Name a seat by purchasing a personalized plaque to honor your connection, or that of a loved one to the beloved theater. There are limited quantities available, act fast!! WarehamHall.org/leave-a-legacy

CLUB STUFF/ANNOUNCEMENTS and UPCOMING EVENTS:

Annual Christmas Breakfast will be held Dec 17th, Santa will be in the house and there is wonderful entertainment by the MHS Pops Choir!

Hoop Holler & Shoot finishing up, another great event.

See Korey Klingenberg if you can assist with the Early Expressions Art Program, all artwork from K-12 will be picked up from the schools on Dec 11th and prepared for judging on Dec 12th

TREE LOT! Steve Boeckman reported 510 have been sold with about 253 remaining. Any additional help is certainly welcome on the weekends!

No meeting will be held on Dec 24th but there will be a business meeting on the morning of the 31st.

DUES ARE DUE: October 1st, $140.00 can be given to Clyde Scott.

Thanks to all the "Tree Unloaders" who unloaded a semi full of trees. Additional pictures after the Birthdays!