Plymouth County Sheriff’s Office, Iowa State Patrol conducting traffic safety project tonight
The Plymouth County Sheriff’s Office and the Iowa State Patrol are conducting a traffic safety project tonight relating to Iowa’s hands-free cell phone law.
Deputies and troopers will be patrolling roads in the county from 8pm until midnight enforcing the law, which has been in effect since July 1st of last year. The hands-free law prohibits drivers from using electronic devices while driving unless the device is in a hands-free setting. This means drivers cannot hold their phone, type, scroll, enter GPS coordinates, stream video, view content, or make calls unless voice activated. Violating the law results in a fine of $100, which could increase up to $1,000 and a suspended license if the violation results in serious injury or death.
The Sheriff’s Office says drivers can use several options to stay hands-free, including phone mounts, auxiliary cables, speakerphone features, Bluetooth, and other voice command systems. The project is funded in part by the Iowa Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau.
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Submissions needed for Antique Equipment Photo Display during Plymouth County Fair
The Le Mars Chamber of Commerce Agriculture Committee is seeking photo submissions for its Antique Equipment Photo Display in the iconic Round Barn exhibit at the Plymouth County Fair, with selected photos to be featured during the 2026 and 2027 fairs in the barn.
Submissions may include vintage tractors, implements, or any notable farm equipment. People may also appear in the photos, and original photos can also be submitted. Organizers request that digital photos be submitted without cropping or enhancement, to ensure the best professional display quality. The cost to participate is $60 per photo, which covers professional photo preparation and supports agricultural education in the Round Barn.
If you would like to submit a photo, please contact the Le Mars Chamber of Commerce at 712-546-8821 or visit their office for submission instructions. All images will be professionally printed, mounted with grommets, and proudly displayed in the Round Barn — a fairground landmark celebrating agricultural heritage and community stories.
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Iowa Attorney General warns of storm repair scams
Severe storms have caused property damage all around the tri-state area recently, and many residents have been looking to hire people to make repairs to their homes and property. Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird reminds people to try to do business with people and firms you are familiar with.
The Attorney General says a lower price doesn’t always mean quality work will be completed, especially if you don’t know the person or company.
Bird says her staff in the Consumer Protection division of her office is ready to help those who have had repair issues.
If you’ve been affected by storm repair scams, visit the Attorney General’s website or call 888-777-4590 toll free.
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