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- Prior Lake News Compass
Prior Lake News Compass
Thursday, July 9, 2026
Summer is in full swing, and our community is absolutely buzzing with energy this week! Prior Lake put on a spectacular red, white and blue show as crowds lined the shores to celebrate a historic July 4 holiday. The energy keeps rolling right into the weekend as the highly anticipated Lakefront Music Fest takes over the park, promising great tunes and a massive turnout. Grab a cool drink, get comfortable and catch up on everything happening right in your backyard.
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"Jaws Legacy," reminiscent of the 1970s classic, was chosen as the top parade entry.
Boat parade, fireworks bring crowds to celebrate July 4 and nation's 250th
Prior Lake put on its red, white and blue last Saturday when celebrating the July 4 holiday and 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
The shoreline was filled with spectators, as was Prior Lake. A total of 17 themed crafts were entered in the Prior Lake Association's annual boat parade that started near Charlie's on Prior and headed toward Reed's Island. The parade included everything from a Statue of Liberty, zombies and, yes, even a shark's fin could be seen rising from the lake as it followed one of the entries.
Adam Proehl, Commodore and board member of the Prior Lake Association, said the organization received many positive comments about this year's parade.
City
 | Rotary's Lakefront Music Fest continues to be big drawPrior Lake Rotary's Lakefront Music Fest will be held in Lakefront Park this Friday and Saturday, July 10 and 11, which will bring additional traffic to the city. |
 | Primary Election Day is Aug. 11; early voting now openPrimary Election Day is Tuesday, Aug. 11, but early voting is now open for eligible voters at specified locations. |
 | Start planning your neighborhood's 'Night to Unite' gatheringPrior Lake and other communities throughout the state and country will celebrate the annual "Night to Unite" on Tuesday, Aug. 4. |
Schools
 | PLSAS communications leader accepts position with Hopkins School DistrictAs the director of communications for Prior Lake-Savage Area Schools, Kristi Mussman has spent over two decades leading the district's public relations and stakeholder engagement efforts. |
 | 2026 inductees into Laker Hall of Fame to be honored Sept. 18-19The Laker Hall of Fame induction committee has chosen the incoming Class of 2026, and honorees will be celebrated the weekend of Sept. 18-19. |
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
Events
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 12 | Paddleboard and Pilates - Cleary Lake Regional Park
Instructors from the outdoor recreational school will teach attendees the basics of getting on and off their board, efficient paddle strokes, turning and staying steady on the water.
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.
Aug. 5 | Cook Book Club - Prior Lake Library
The theme for the August event is "summer picnic." Those who attend can select any recipe, prepare it and bring the completed dish to the meeting, along with serving utensils and a copy of the recipe to share with the group.
In Case You Missed It
Top clicked stories from last week
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