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Prior Lake News Compass
Thursday, July 2, 2026
There is a mix of legacy, leadership and celebration weaving through town this week. We share the deeply moving story of a mother transforming a personal tragedy into a lifelong mission to support others navigating grief. Our local schools just announced this year's top educators and outstanding service winners, and our high school baseball squad wrapped up a historic, barrier-breaking run at the state tournament. Don’t miss out on a favorite patriotic tradition gearing up to take over the water this weekend. Happy Fourth of July!
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Top Story
Following loss of son, woman's mission becomes helping others through grief
It was following the loss of her son that Janet McGee says she found a new purpose in helping others facing similar tragedies. McGee's son, Ted, was a bubbly and happy youngster who was six weeks shy of celebrating his second birthday. It was Valentine's Day of 2016 when she put him down for a nap. She checked on him a short time later only to find him critically injured, lying under a dresser that had fallen on top of him. His face was purple. Her 11-year-old son called 911 to request emergency assistance while she performed cardio-pulmonary resuscitation.
Ted died four hours after arriving at the hospital. McGee barely remembers driving home after being told her son did not survive, or the next few days. It wasn't until a friend said she had read about other children who had died in similar accidents.
News
 | Three promoted within Scott County Sheriff's DepartmentScott County Sheriff Luke Hennen announced three staff promotions this week. |
City
 | City earns national recognition for strong financial planning, managementThe city has received two major recognitions that highlight its strong financial planning and responsible management of public dollars. |
 | Information available for those who have questions about fiber line installationsColorful marker flags are popping up all over the city as new fiber optic lines are being installed in many neighborhoods this summer. |
Schools
 | Top educators, outstanding service award winners announced by PLSASEach year, staff nominations are solicited by Prior Lake-Savage Area Schools to celebrate successes in various categories. |
Sports
 | Lakers' historic 2026 baseball season ended at state tournamentThe 2026 season for the Prior Lake Lakers baseball team came to a close on June 12 at the Minnesota State High School Baseball Tournament, but not before the program reached a milestone no previous Lakers team had accomplished. |
Prior Lake in the Past
This weekly column contains summary excerpts of news items published in the Prior Lake American decades 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.
Prior Lake Police Log
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.
Obituaries
Featured Event
 | July 4 | Boat parade - Prior LakeOne of Prior Lake's most festive — and certainly most patriotic — events will be held on Saturday, July 4, as our nation celebrates 250 years of independence. Area residents are invited to the city's annual July 4 boat parade sponsored by the Prior Lake Association and Knotty Oar Marina. The parade of decorated boats will depart at 1 p.m. that day in front of Charlie's on Prior with judges stationed in the no-wake channel near the Knotty Oar Marina, according to Adam Proehl, commodore of the Prior Lake Association. |
Events
July 9 | Veteran Cafe - Club Prior
Held from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. on the second Thursday of every month, this informal gathering offers coffee, treats and a welcoming space for veterans to connect and share stories.
July 10 | Annual beach party - Sand Point Beach Park
This event includes free activities such as face painting, wacky hair coloring, games and crafts. Expect plenty of live music, entertainment and contests.
July 14-28 | Intro to Pickleball for Adults - Spring Lake Park Pickleball Courts
The course will be held Tuesday evenings from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Join your friends and family who are playing one of the fastest-growing sports.
July 15 | Celebration BBQ - Lakefront Park Pavilion
Join Club Prior friends in honor of the USA turning 250 years old.
July 20 | Wolf discussion with Stan Tekiela - Prior Lake Library
Regional expert on all things outdoors, Stan Tekiela, will share some of the fascinating experiences he has had involving wolves, coyotes and foxes.
July 24 | Prior Lake Windjammers at Music in the Park - Lakefront Park
Grab your lawn chairs, pack a cooler (no glass, please!), and enjoy a free, relaxing evening of live music in the park.
In Case You Missed It
Top clicked stories from last week
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