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
November 30, 1965
Twins star visits Prior Lake: Rich Rollins of the Minnesota Twins made a quick visit to Prior Lake and autographed baseballs for eager youngsters in attendance. Jim O’Keefe, son of Mr. and Mrs. Francis O’Keefe, was one of the lucky ones to get a ball signed, the third he added to add to his collection of Twins autographs.
Hundreds show up for Santa visit: More than 400 Prior Lake youngsters braved cold weather to greet Santa Claus at the Village community room in the downtown area. His appearance was part of a two-day grand opening Chrismas event sponsored by downtown merchants. Santa provided each child with a bag of treats donated by the Business and Professional Club.
Church groundbreaking ceremony held: Groundbreaking for Holy Trinity United Methodist Church of Prior Lake was planned for Sunday, Dec. 5, following morning worship. The brief service was to be held on Highway 13, north of the village, beginning at 11:30 a.m. Rev. Obert Voll and Rev. Robert Bedford, pastors at Holy Trinity, were to lead the groundbreaking services.
Published 40 years ago
December 2, 1985
Voting machines introduced by county: Scott County voters were invited to the office of Scott County Auditor Tom Hennen to inspect the new electronic voting machines that were to be used in the future. Scott County was to be among the first counties in the state to use the new system that was touted for its accuracy and simplicity to use.
City hosts first Thanksgiving dinner: Ruth Horn was one of the organizers of the first community Thanksgiving dinner that was open to all at Holy Trinity United Methodist Church, and said many attendees expressed great appreciation for the efforts put forth by volunteers. Approximately 100 people showed up for the dinner, which was a lower number than originally anticipated. Approximately 300 pounds of leftovers were taken to various agencies that served people in need in the Twin Cities area.
Porter honored by Boy Scouts: Prior Lake resident Verne Porter was presented with the “Silver Beaver Award,” the highest honor given by the Indianhead Council of Boy Scouts of America. He was a strong supporter of the Boy Scout camping program, had served as an assistant Scoutmaster and Scoutmaster for Prior Lake Troop 331.
Published 20 years ago
December 3, 2005
City hires new director: Paul Snook was hired by the City of Prior Lake as its new economic development director. He previously served the City of Shakopee in the same capacity from 1997 to 2004.
Opening of new jail delayed: Scott County officials expected to open its new jail to house prisoners in September, but had to push the grand opening date to December, which created $100,000 to $150,000 in unanticipated costs for boarding prisoners at other jails outside of the county. The county attorney’s office was looking into whether costs could be recouped from contractors who were notified about concerns for the delays and additional costs incurred.
Girls’ hockey team skates to victory: The Laker girls’ hockey team cruised to a 5-1 win over Missota Conference rival Shakopee. It brought their winning streak to three after previously beating Orono and Lakeville South. Goaltender Kari Hunter had 24 saves in the Shakopee game.
