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Prior Lake News Compass

Prior Lake News Compass

Informed. Engaged. Connected.

Prior Lake News Compass

News

Olson announces DFL candidacy for State Senate District 54

September 3, 2025

Prior Lake resident Rick Olson announced he will will run as a DFL candidate in the race to fill the Senate District 54 seat in the November election. The district lies entirely within Scott County, and includes the cities of Shakopee, Prior Lake...

The Native American Color Guard led the Grand Entry ceremony. (Photo by Cari-Ann Hayer.)

SMSC’s Wacipi celebration draws thousands to annual event

August 20, 2025

The Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community hosted its annual Wacipi on Aug. 15-17, with thousands attending the Native American gathering each day. Wacipi, or powwow, is a celebration of life, pride and honor. Meaning “they dance” in the Dakota language,...

It was slow going for some of the Muddy Buddy Run participants on this obstacle course. (Photos by Jeffrey DeMars, City of Prior Lake)

It was a muddy mess that provided tons of fun for participants

August 20, 2025

It was a great day to play in the mud without parental objections! The Muddy Buddy Run, sponsored by the City of Prior Lake's Parks and Recreation Department, drew 97 youngsters who signed up for the event held last Friday, Aug. 15. They definitely...

Bakeberg announces run for Minnesota Senate District 54

August 20, 2025

Ben Bakeberg, first elected to the Minnesota House of Representatives in 2022, announced last week his candidacy for the Senate District 54 seat. Bakeberg is the only school administrator serving in a state government position and is the current...

Use of e-bikes, dirt bikes and electric scooters has shown a dramatic increase in use during the summer months.

No pedal power needed

Chris Mosley
August 20, 2025

Anyone driving, biking, running or walking in Prior Lake this summer has surely noticed the dramatic increase in the use of electric bicycles and scooters. At the Aug. 12 work session of the Prior Lake City Council, Police Commander Phil Englin presented...

The Capital Improvement Plan for the five-year period ending in 2030 contains major projects throughout the city.

Council approves five-year improvement plan, bonding to cover some big projects

Laurie Hartmann
August 20, 2025

The Prior Lake City Council approved its Capital Improvement Plan for the next five years during its meeting held Aug. 12. The plan outlined major improvements recommended by city staff and addressed estimated project costs, funding sources and tax...

Express bus service to the Minnesota State Fair is being offered from two area transit stations.

Skip the hassle – ride the bus to the State Fair

August 20, 2025

The Minnesota Valley Transit Authority has created a special ride schedule for area residents who wish to travel to and from the Minnesota State Fair. Between Aug. 21 and Aug. 31, express bus service will be offered to the fair each day between 7 a.m....

Madelyn Michels, Rose Beuch-Wollner and Isa Lea display the creations they had for sale at the Youth Art & Craft Market. (Photo provided by PLSAS.)

Young entrepreneurs

August 20, 2025

More than 50 young creators and artists gathered at Twin Oaks Middle School on Aug. 14 for the 10th Annual Youth Art & Craft Market. Talented youngsters displayed and sold a wide assortment of hand-made creations, including jewelry, toys, stuffed...

Two file for PLSAS board seat; some polling places temporarily changed

Two file for PLSAS board seat; some polling places temporarily changed

August 13, 2025

The Prior Lake-Savage Area School Board will have a new member come January who will serve for one year. Two newcomers filed as candidates for the special election that will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 4. Affidavits of candidacy were filed by the 5 p.m....

PLHS Volleyball Coach Mike Dean shares team expectations during recent tryouts.

PLHS athletes begin training for fall sports season

Randy Geister
August 13, 2025

Prior Lake High School fall sports teams started training on Aug. 11. The Laker football, volleyball and soccer teams were on the fields and courts getting ready for the upcoming season. Scrimmages will start as early as Aug. 21 for some sports...

The original bridge built across the waters of Prior Lake in 1898 cost $769 to construct. (From the historical files of Kathy Dawson)

Prior Lake in the Past: August 11 – 17

August 13, 2025

Editor's note: In addition to our typical dive into the Prior Lake American's archives for this week's news from 60, 40 and 20 years ago, we welcome occasional submissions from longtime resident Kathy Dawson, an avid collector of Prior Lake's historical...

The cookie eating contest, a Saturday event during Prior Lake Days, drew many contestants and spectators.

Summer Priority

Jill Kufrin
August 13, 2025

Thousands showed up last weekend to celebrate Prior Lake Days, hosted by the Prior Lake Chamber of Commerce. The event was kicked off with Friday evening's "Sip and Stroll" through which close to 750 ticket-holders could sample a variety of beverages...

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