Funds raised from Shop for a Cause to help two local non-profits
Over $1,000 were distributed to two local non-profits yesterday thanks to Shop for a Cause, a program organized over the holiday shopping period by the Le Mars Chamber of Commerce. From December 1st to December 13th, shoppers could choose to support either the Le Mars Public Library or the Plymouth County Historical Museum for $5, and receive deals at local businesses in exchange.
The Le Mars Public Library received $550 from the program, which director Shirley Taylor says will go towards the summer reading program and the library’s store.
The Plymouth County Historical Museum received $490 from the program, and museum administrator Jennifer Scholten says those funds will help expand their kid’s area.
Maggie Rechtenbaugh of the Chamber of Commerce thanked community members for shopping local during the holiday season.
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Plymouth County Democratic Party to hold caucus next month
The Plymouth County Democratic Party will hold a caucus next month, in conjunction with fellow Democratic parties across the state.
The caucus will start at 7pm on Monday, February 2nd at the Meeting Place in Le Mars; those attending must be in line or already signed in by that time to participate. The Plymouth County Democrats say the purpose of this year’s caucus is to strategize as a county on goals for 2026, elect delegates, alternates, and precinct committee members to the county convention and central committee, and to discuss and adopt proposed resolutions.
All Iowa Democrats are encouraged to attend, with registration available on-site. Iowans who will be 18 on or by November 3, 2026 can register to vote and participate in the caucus. For questions, call Julie Ford at 712-550-9043.
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Le Mars Area YMCA hosting first aid, CPR training
The Le Mars Area YMCA is providing CPR and first aid training classes throughout the winter and spring, with registration open now for in-person sessions.
Certification classes consist of both online courses and one in-person session, provided via the Health & Safety Institute. Training includes how to properly administer CPR, how to use an AED, and learning to recognize cardiac and breathing emergencies. A two-year certification will be awarded after successful completion of the course.
New certifications cost a $65 fee, while re-certifications will cost a $55 fee. Those interested can begin the online portion of the program, and register for the in-person skill sessions, required for completing the course. Held once a month, the next scheduled session is on February 17th at 5:30pm. To register, click here.
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Attorney General says judges should be allowed to carry guns in courtrooms
Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird says she wants to see the Legislature increase the penalties for threats against judges and their loved ones.
Bird says judges and prosecutors should also be allowed to seek a professional permit to carry a gun in a courtroom.
Those issues are part of Bird’s overall legislative priorities for this session.
(Story via KSCJ and Radio Iowa)
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