Police in Washington state have begun enforcing the new distracted driving law following the end of a six-month grace period.

KOMO-TV reported that drivers caught with a cellphone in hand will be issued a $136 ticket. The fine increases to $234 if a driver is caught a second time.

The new law was enacted by state lawmakers last year, and it was initially set to take effect in 2019.

Gov. Jay Inslee pushed for the law to take effect in July 2017, but instructed law enforcement agencies to give drivers a six-month grace period to adapt to the new law.

State Patrol said nearly 7,000 warnings were issued to drivers during the grace period.

Citizen of the Year

SEQUIM — The Sequim-Dungeness Valley Chamber of Commerce is seeking nominations for its annual Citizen of the Year award.

The nomination deadline is Jan. 31.

The award is to honor citizens whose volunteer service falls above, beyond and generally outside his/her regular occupation.

Two people working jointly in a community project or projects may be nominated to receive a joint award; however, groups of more than two will not be considered.

A minimum of two written endorsements — other than from a relative — must be received for the nomination to be considered.

A group of past Citizen of the Year winners helps judge nominees each year.

Applications are available by calling 360-683-6197 or at http://sequim chamber.com/welcome/.

Winter ball tickets

SEQUIM — Tickets for Sequim High School’s Winter Ball go on sale Monday.

Tickets are $10 now. The price will increase to $15 the week of Jan. 15 and will be $20 at the door.

The Winter Ball is set from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 20, in the high school cafeteria, 601 N. Sequim Ave.