Prior Lake News Compass

Thursday, August 7, 2025

Good morning! We’re in the final month of summer vacation for the kiddos and the options are many for things to do. Prior Lake Days is always a good choice for family-friendly activities on Saturday.

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Top Story

The Prior Lake Association’s Family Fishing Event was a big hit with youngsters last Sunday, especially those who went home with a trophy for their fishing efforts.

Reeling in the big (and little) ones!

Young participants in PL Association's annual event return with fish tails and tales

The excitement grew on the docks leading up to Charlie's on Prior as 2 p.m. last Sunday drew near. The noise level grew, as did the chatter and excitement as children carrying coolers, pails and plastic bags filled with lake water and fish headed toward the official weigh-in station.

That was the setting as the deadline neared for the Prior Lake Association's annual Family Fishing Event. In its 25th year of hosting, it was a picture perfect day for the 56 kids who participated, along with cheering family members watching as each catch was weighed.

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News

Annual Wacipi hosted by SMSC scheduled for Aug. 15-17

The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community will host its annual Wacipi celebration Aug. 15-17. Wacipi, or powwow, is a traditional Native American gathering, a celebration of life, pride, and honor. Meaning “they dance” in the Dakota language, the event brings together people from all over the country for three days of celebrating rich heritage. The public is welcome and admission is free.

Bakeberg named 2025 'Legislator of Distinction' by MSBA

The Minnesota School Boards Association (MSBA) has honored State Representative Ben Bakeberg (R–Jordan) with its 2025 Legislative Achievement Award, naming him one of their Legislators of Distinction for his work during the 2025 legislative session.

City

Avid supporter of PL baseball inducted into American Legion’s Hall of Fame

Taylor Smith, a longtime member of the Prior Lake baseball community, has been inducted into the Minnesota American Legion Baseball Hall of Fame. The honor highlights his years of service, leadership, and impact on the sport and the lives of young athletes across the state.

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 22 - 29

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.

Schools

PLSAS to host 'Back to School Celebration' on Aug. 18

The 2nd annual "Back to School Celebration" is being planned by Prior Lake-Savage Area Schools for Monday, Aug. 18, 5 to 7 p.m., in the lower level parking lot of Prior Lake High School. The free community event is open to all residents of all ages. Food trucks, face painting, bounce houses, games and prizes will be part of the celebration, along with the opportunity to meet school principals and staff.

Events

Spotlight: Chamber’s ‘Prior Lake Days’ being held this weekend

Aug. 8-9 | Downtown Prior Lake

Prior Lake Days, the annual event celebrating summer in the city, will be held this weekend. Friday will feature a “Sip and Stroll” for adults, while Saturday will focus on family friendly events and activities.

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 14 | Tip a Cop, supporting Special Olympics - Charlie’s on Prior
Members of the Prior Lake Police Department and Scott County Sheriff’s Office will be serving patrons at Charlie’s on Prior with tips collected donated to Special Olympics Minnesota.
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 21 | PL Garden Club tour - Two Twin Cities locations
All are welcome to join the Prior Lake Garden Club for two free garden tours that are planned for the evening of Thursday, Aug. 21.The tour will include the gardens located in Eden Prairie and Bloomington.
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.

Prior Lake News Compass is grateful for the financial
support received from these Founding Donors:

  • Albrecht Poss Foundation

  • Bob and Lisa Conzemius

  • Den and Sandy Gardner

  • Pat and Norma Klein

  • Lakefront Music Fest

  • McKnight Foundation

  • Prior Lake Lions Club

  • Prior Lake Optimist Club

  • Prior Lake Rotary Club

  • Prior Lake Rotary Foundation

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Prior Lake News Compass is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation that depends on donations from our readers. Please consider making a financial contribution to help us with our ongoing expenses.