What’s Happening in Shell Lake!!
First, I want to extend my sincere gratitude to everyone who has supported me over the past two years and placed your trust in me to continue serving as the Mayor of Shell Lake. It has truly been an honor to represent this community, and I look forward to continuing to serve to the very best of my ability.
Throughout this journey, many of you have shared words of encouragement and highlighted the positive changes you’ve seen in our city. On the campaign trail, residents offered thoughtful suggestions for future improvements as well as kind recognition of the progress we’ve made together. That is one of the greatest strengths of our community—hearing directly from people across every part of Shell Lake and valuing each perspective. Every resident has a voice, and I am proud to say that we are committed to listening. Our doors remain open to anyone who has a concern, a comment, or even a compliment. As we begin the next two years with our newly elected city officials, please know that we remain dedicated to working for the betterment of all who call Shell Lake home.
The month of May marks the beginning of what promises to be a very busy—and very exciting—summer. We are thrilled to highlight the upcoming events at the Shell Lake Arts Center (SLAC). This project, along with the fundraising efforts behind it, has been more than ten years in the making, and now we are just weeks away from the official ribbon-cutting ceremony. On May 9th, the 4th Annual Fundraiser and Gala will take place. We’re excited to welcome Morpheus back for another concerto performance to help raise the remaining funds for the Capital Campaign. This incredible band, known for its classic rock from the ’60s and ’70s, performs exclusively for nonprofit organizations. The evening will feature a live auction, silent auction, the always-popular gift cardboard, and a 50/50 raffle. It’s a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with familiar faces, meet new friends, and enjoy great music, dancing, food, and drinks.
Then, on May 22nd at 3:00 p.m., we will celebrate the official Ribbon Cutting for this remarkable new facility. An open house will follow, giving everyone the chance to tour the building and see firsthand what your support has helped bring to life. It’s also a perfect opportunity to explore how this space might serve you for future events or special occasions.
The following events are not actually happening until June, but it is so early in June, I don’t want you to miss it, so I am including it in this month’s updates. On Friday, June 5th, starting at 8:30 AM the City of Shell Lake property owners can drop off Tires, Electronics, Bulbs and Batteries, the City Shop located at 55 Richie Road. There are limitations to what can be dropped off, and they are: 8 TIRES (can have rims), 6 ELECTRONICS (VCR’s/DVD players/printers/fax machines/computer monitors/computer CPU’s/TV’s etc) BATTERIES (ends must be taped) and FLUORESCENT BULBS (glass bulbs must be boxed) This is a city residential collection ONLY* Then on Saturday, June 6th, the City of Shell Lake will have Curbside pick-up. Republic services will haul the following: Kitchen Furniture, (tables/chairs) Mattresses/Box Springs, Desks/End tables, Couches/Love Seats, Chairs/Recliners, Non-food Household Waste (Toys/Bedding/Dishes). All items must be placed in your usual garbage pickup area by 6:00 AM and Republic Services reserve the right to limit quantities and city crew members will NOT pick-up items left by Republic Services.
As we look ahead to the month of May, it’s also important to pause and reflect on the true meaning of Memorial Day. This day is far more than the unofficial start of summer—it is a solemn reminder of the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. Their sacrifice has secured the freedoms we enjoy every day, and we owe them a debt that can never be fully repaid.
I encourage everyone in and around Shell Lake to take a moment on Memorial Day to honor these heroes, whether by attending a local ceremony, visiting a memorial, or simply taking time for quiet reflection. Let us carry forward their legacy with gratitude, respect, and a renewed commitment to strengthening our community and our nation.
Dates to Remember in May:
1st: May Day
9th: 4th Annual Fundraiser & Gala at Shell Lake Art Center
10th: Mother’s Day
11th : City Council Meeting 7:00 p.m.
22nd: Ribbon Cutting Ceremony 3-5pm at Shell Lake Art Center
25th: Memorial Day, City Office Closed
JUNE 5th and 6th…..City Wide Pick up
Mother’s Day —a time set aside to honor the women who have shaped our lives with their strength, compassion, and unwavering support. Whether we celebrate our mothers, grandmothers, stepmothers, mother figures, or the many women in our community who nurture others in countless ways. May gives us a special opportunity to express our gratitude. It’s a reminder to slow down, reflect, and appreciate the people who have guided and encouraged us. I hope each of us takes a moment this month to reach out to the important women in our lives and let them know how much they mean to us. I have always thought of May as Mother’s Day Month—for me, this month carries a special meaning. My mom had 11 children, 9 of whom are still with us today. I was a young woman when she passed away, and there isn’t a day I don’t think of her. I often wish I could have just one more day—one more chance to tell her how deeply she influenced my life and to thank her for everything she gave us. Many of those sacrifices I didn’t fully understand until I became a mother myself. My world has been a little brighter because of my mom’s love. So, this May, take that extra moment. Call her. Hug her. Kiss her gently. Let her know she is loved more than she could ever imagine. Moms are the miracle of life.
Mayor Rowie Hansberger