Editor’s note: The weekly “Prior Lake in the Past” 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.
Prior Lake American
Published 60 years ago
July 6, 1965
Car stolen: Harold Noyes, owner of Noyes Suburban Motors in Prior Lake, reported a 1964 Olds convertible was stolen from the front line on the used car lot located on Highway 13. The black and white car had Minnesota plates 3NT156. The Scott County Sheriff’s Department is investigating the theft.
Restaurant promotes tasty lunch options: Hilltop House Restaurant on Highway 13 included these specials in their weekly advertisement: Tuesday, barbecued ribs with golden French fries, $1.40; Wednesday, famous homemade spaghetti, $1; Thursday, southern fried chicken at its best, half chicken, $1.50 and quarter chicken, $1; Friday, your choice, breaded fish steak or shrimp tidbits, $1.
Graduate in electronics: James J. Cikanek, Prior Lake, graduated June 18 from the Northwestern TV and Electronics Institute in Minneapolis after completing the 86-week electronics course. He is entering employment as an electric technician for Univac in St. Paul and is the son of Mr. and Mrs. James Cikanek.
Published 40 years ago
July 8, 1985
Longer service terms considered: The mayor and members of the Prior Lake City Council discussed changing the term a mayor is elected to serve from two years to four years. Gary Johnson, who was currently serving as mayor, requested that the issue be put on the agenda, and favored the change so those who are elected would be better able to see longer-range projects through to fruition. Council members at that time were Ted Schweich, Keith Thorkelson, Carol Scott and Don Busse. The decision was made to put the issue on the next council agenda to solicit input from the public.
New club officers: The Prior Lake Rotary Club elected new officers at its July 1 meeting. Incoming president was Ev Nelson, who was handed the gavel by outgoing president Don Schussler. Other officers of the club included: Bob Barsness, vice-president; Steve Harvey, treasurer; and John Kalton, secretary.
Top teacher honors: Prior Lake’s “Teacher of the Year,” Karen Schmidt, was to compete with 101 other teachers from 93 school districts for the state title. Schmidt taught seventh grade English.
Published 20 years ago
July 9, 2005
School board filings: After serving his first two-year term, Michael Murray was the first to file for one of three seats on the Prior Lake-Savage School board that would become vacant at the end of the year. The terms of Lee Shimek and Dan White would also expire at that time.
Boat parade winners named: Kari Lubansky’s luau-themed boat won “best overall” honors in the Wagon Bridge Boat Float parade held on July 4. The pontoons entered by Mike Keating and Rick Wallace tied for first place in that division, while Bruce Heaney’s boat won the runabout competition.
City’s population shows big gains: The city of Prior Lake was among the suburban communities that experienced the most growth in population between 2003 and 2004. Prior Lake gained 1,209 residents and started 2004 with a population of 21,286. Its neighbor, Shakopee, had the fastest growth rate in that year, gaining 2,506 new residents.
