What’s Happening in Shell Lake!!
November 1st, Yup, it’s time to “fall back” and turn our clocks back one hour. We’ll enjoy that valued extra hour of sleep, and our early mornings will become a little brighter, even as the evenings grow darker earlier. There’s been plenty of discussion lately about whether we should make Daylight Saving Time permanent. It seems to be a topic that keeps coming up, with opinions on both sides of the debate. I guess only time will tell what the final decision will be. Stay tuned—there may be more to come!
Of course, one of the biggest things to happen in November is Thanksgiving! The gathering of family and friends, always the last Thursday of November. More of Thanksgiving at the end of this column. Also, in November, we honor Veteran’s Day. We celebrate Veterans Day on November 11 each year to honor all living and deceased men and women who have served honorably in the US Armed Forces during war and peacetime. Why is Veteran’s Day celebrated on November 11th? In 1918, on the 11th day of the 11th month, at the 11th hour, an armistice, known as a temporary cessation of hostilities, was declared between Germany and the Allied nation during World War 1. The following year this day was commemorated throughout various countries as Armistice Day In 1938 As your Mayor, I want to take a moment to reflect on the deep significance of the upcoming Veterans Day. In our close-knit community, this day is not merely a date on the calendar, but a profound opportunity to unite and honor the brave men and women who have answered the call to serve our country. The freedoms we enjoy every day in Shell Lake—from our quiet mornings by the lake to our vibrant community gatherings that are built upon the selflessness and sacrifices of our veterans. Our Veterans have placed service above self, enduring long separations from loved ones and facing unimaginable hardships to protect our way of life. Recognizing Veterans Day is a collective responsibility to ensure their legacy is never forgotten. I encourage every resident to pause, express genuine gratitude, and listen to the stories of the veterans among us. Let us show our local heroes that the City of Shell Lake stands forever grateful for their dedication, courage, and enduring spirit.
Building on what we discussed in last week’s Mayor’s Corner, I am thrilled to share the details of our upcoming Police Department open house. We are incredibly excited to officially welcome two new wonderful additions to our local law enforcement team: our newly hired police officer, Spencer Johnson, and our new Chief of Police, Warren Tuttle. You will also get the opportunity to talk with Makayla Greisen, who has been with us for the last three years, and for those of you who know her already, know what a wonderful Police Officer Mikayla is.
Both Officer Johnson and Chief Tuttle have officially stepped into their roles, and their energy and commitment to keeping Shell Lake safe are truly inspiring. We want everyone in our community to have the chance to introduce themselves and get to know the individuals working hard to protect our neighborhood. Please join us for a meet-and-greet open house on Wednesday, November 18th, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Shell Lake Police Station. We will have refreshments available for everyone. This is a wonderful opportunity to tour the department, ask questions, and meet with Spencer, Mikala, and Warren. They all look forward to meeting the folks in our community, and answering your questions.
We are so fortunate to have them on board, and we look forward to seeing you all there to show them our strong Shell Lake community support!
As you may have already heard or read, the City of Shell Lake will not be providing lifeguards at the City Beach next summer. This decision was discussed and voted on at the most recent City Council meeting, following considerable discussion and debate at the Parks and Recreation Committee meeting. Over the past five years, we have worked diligently to recruit and retain lifeguards for the beach. Unfortunately, filling these positions has become increasingly difficult, making this a very challenging decision. Throughout the summers, there have been many days when we have been unable to provide lifeguard coverage because scheduled lifeguards did not show up for their shifts, or chose to pursue other activities instead. In fact, we have found ourselves without a lifeguard more then 50% of the time. We believe that advertising the beach as having lifeguards, when that coverage cannot be consistently provided, creates a false sense of security for families and the public who may assume their children are swimming at a guarded beach. Since the announcement was made, we have received feedback from members of the public who support the City’s decision and understand the challenges involved.
Open-water lifeguarding is a demanding and serious responsibility. Being responsible for the safety and lives of others in lake waters requires a high level of skill, commitment, and confidence. Unfortunately, we have found it increasingly difficult to recruit teens who are willing to take on this responsibility. Last summer, we even had applicants who were unable to pass the American Red Cross water skills test, as the requirements were more challenging than they had anticipated. This decision was not made lightly. We recognize the importance of water safety and appreciate everyone who has supported our efforts to provide lifeguards at the City Beach over the years. Ultimately, we believe it is important to be transparent with the public about our ability to provide consistent lifeguard coverage so that beachgoers can make informed decisions about their time at the beach.
The Shell Lake Art Center continues to shine! On November 5th, they will be hosting the Middle School Band Festival. I encourage you all, if you are able, to attend this festival that involves 250 kids from 32 school districts throughout Wisconsin! This is FREE to the community, and a chance to come and listen and support these kids. The performance is at 6:00pm. It is amazing what they put together in just a few hours. I went last year, and was blown away by the talent that these kids have. Great FUN, and the place was packed with supporters like you.
Also, don’t forget that the Northern Lights Choir is working on their December concert to be performed on Saturday December 5th at the Shell Lake Art Center at 5:15PM. They are always welcoming new voices, and have weekly practices every Tuesday at the Quam Theater from 1000-1200. If you have not heard them, please feel free to pop in and listen to what they have been singing. Honestly, it will fill your soul.
SHELL LAKE WINE WALK will be held this year on Friday November 20th, from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM hosted by the Shell Lake Chamber of Commerce. It is an evening of fun, prizes, and catching up with friends and neighbors as you stroll through downtown Shell Lake. Please make sure to visit their WEBSITE for more details.
Dates to remember for November:
5th Middle School Band Fest at Shell Lake Art Center
9th City Council Meeting 7:00 PM City Hall
11th Veteran’s Day CITY OFFICE CLOSED
18th OPEN HOUSE: City of Shell Lake Police Department 1:00-3:00
20th Shell Lake Chamber of Commerce WINE WALK
26th HAPPY THANKSGIVING
27th CITY HALL CLOSED
WHEW, a busy month! In closing, I would like to state, as we gather with family and friends this Thanksgiving, let us also remember the importance of coming together as a community. Thanksgiving is more than a holiday; it is a time to reflect on our blessings, appreciate those who make a difference in our lives, and recognize the strength we find in helping one another. I am grateful for the residents, volunteers, local businesses, and city employees who contribute to making Shell Lake a wonderful place to live. May we carry the spirit of gratitude, generosity, and unity beyond the holiday season and into the year ahead. On behalf of the city, I wish you and your loved ones a safe, happy, and meaningful Thanksgiving.
Mayor Rowie Hansberger
