Prior Lake News Compass

Thursday, July 31, 2025

July 31, 2025 • Estimated Reading Time: 9 minutes

There’s something for everyone in this week’s edition of the PL News Compass. Thank you to all who continue to send us news tips, story ideas and information on upcoming events. We want to be your source for LOCAL news!

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Top Story

Prior Lake Days, hosted annually by the Chamber of Commerce, will be held Aug. 8-9. Friday’s big event is “Sip & Stroll.” Saturday’s line-up will focus on family-friendly activities.

Celebrating summer, local business

Chamber's Prior Lake Days will fill the streets of downtown with food and fun Aug. 8-9

Prior Lake Days, the annual event celebrating summer in the city, is scheduled for Aug. 8-9.

Friday will feature a “Sip and Stroll” for adults, while Saturday will be focused on family friendly events and activities.

The event is put on by the Prior Lake Chamber of Commerce, with support from local sponsors and business members.

“Prior Lake Days is a weekend of fun with something for everyone,” Prior Lake Chamber of Commerce President Rebecca Scholz said. “It’s affordable, inclusive fun that supports local businesses, and is the perfect way to celebrate summer.”

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News

Fire, police leaders provide activity numbers, updates on technology uses

Leaders of the Prior Lake fire and police departments updated councilmembers July 22 on activity levels and changes that have transpired in the first six months of 2025. While there were no major surprises, each talked about how technology continues to change their respective departments.

Pratt launches campaign seeking Second District congressional seat

Eric Pratt, state senator serving Prior Lake and several surrounding communities and townships, announced last week he will seek the Republican nomination for Congress in Minnesota's second district.

More News

Driver of ATV killed in New Market Township accident

City

Prior Lake Rotary Club releases annual charitable giving report

The Rotary Club of Prior Lake released its charitable giving report for the Rotary year 2024-2025, following the conclusion of the organization’s largest fundraiser, Lakefront Music Fest. In total, the charitable giving for the 2024-25 Rotary year was $647,309.

Nominations being accepted for city’s 'Spirit of Prior Lake Award'

Nominations are being sought for the 2025 Cora McQuestion Spirit of Prior Lake Award. The annual award is presented by the City of Prior Lake to honor a business, nonprofit organization or individual whose actions have made a significant and positive impact on the community.

More City News

Prior Lake in the Past

This weekly column contains summary excerpts of news items published in the Prior Lake American during the same week 60, 40 and 20 years ago. We hope our readers enjoy remembering those who are mentioned from years past, and this feature provides historical perspective about how much the community has changed over the decades.

Police Log: July 15 - 22

This weekly report is based on information submitted by the Prior Lake Police Department for responses. All calls for service may not be included; all subjects arrested and named are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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Schools

PLSAS hires new leadership team member

Prior Lake-Savage Area Schools Superintendent Michael Thomas announced on July 29 the hiring of Rob Cothern as the district’s next Executive Director of Administrative Services, pending school board approval.

Sports

Jays, Mudcats, Legion all saw action in past week

Obituaries

Lawrence P. Zielke

Larry Theis

Events

Get to know your neighbors at ‘Night to Unite’ gatherings planned for next week

Aug. 5 | Neighborhoods throughout Prior Lake

Many neighborhood block parties are planned for the annual event. City leaders, police officers and firefighters will stop by some neighborhoods that have registered and requested a visit.

August 1-3 | ‘Prince of Egypt’ - Shepherd of the Lake Church, Prior Lake
Journey through the wonders of ancient Egypt as two young men find themselves divided by a secret past. Tickets for the musical are free.

August 14 | Youth Art & Craft Market - Twin Oaks Middle School
The Prior Lake-Savage Area Schools Community Education Department will host a Youth Art & Craft Market on Thursday, Aug. 14, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Twin Oaks Middle School.

August 14 | Lakeside Big Band - Prior Lake VFW Club
Lakeside Big Band will be back playing at the Prior Lake VFW from 7 to 9 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 14. The free concert will feature swing tunes from the pre-1950 era.

August 15 | Muddy Buddy Run - Lakefront Park Baseball Field
The Muddy Buddy Run will be one event in which children ages 5 through 12 will be encouraged to get muddy and wet. The City of Prior Lake's Parks and Recreation Department will prepare an obstacle course for the fun and memorable challenge.

August 26 | Golf fundraiser for ‘Choose Not to Use’ - Legends Golf Club
The Scott County Public Safety Foundation will host its annual golf tournament fundraiser scheduled for Aug. 26 at Legends Golf Club in Prior Lake to support the "Choose Not to Use" program.