COUNTY BRIEFS

Missing backpacker in Olympic found

A Stanford University professor who was backpacking and had been missing since June 7 was found near the Dosewallips River Trail with the assistance of other hikers.

According to a news release, Hunter Fraser was driven to Quilcene where his family, park personnel and medical responders were waiting for him.

Fraser had planned a 40-mile backpacking trip and intended to be back in Seattle on June 7. He was reported overdue by a family member and the search for Fraser began June 8, continuing until park personnel heard he was able to "self-rescue" on Saturday.

The search effort included air support, ground teams and dog teams from different agencies, many of which are volunteers.

About 90 search and rescue personnel were involved in the search.

Candidate forum June 26 in Shelton

The Mason County Republican Central Committee is hosting a candidate forum for Superior Court candidates and one Shelton City Council race at 6 p.m. June 26 at the Shelton Civic Center.

According to a news release, judge candidates Dave Stevens and Cadine Ferguson-Brown will be attending as will the three candidates for Shelton City Council candidates George Blush, Mary Eagleson and Tristen Smith.

The forum for these nonpartisan positions is open to the public. Seating is limited, so come early to meet the candidates.

More information is available at http://www.MasonCountyRepublicans.com or by calling Bob Rogers at 360-490-7010.

Governor candidate coming to Shelton

Republican candidate for governor Semi Bird will be in Shelton at 6 p.m. June 29 at Mason County Christian School at 470 E. Eagle Ridge Drive in Shelton.

The question-and-answer event is sponsored by Take Back Mason County, a political action committee based in Shelton.

For more information or questions, contact Rebecca Bechtolt at tbmc.rebeccabechtolt@gmail.com.

Fish habitat project in Grays Harbor

Travelers in Grays Harbor County will see right-lane closures as crews set up five work zones to remove barriers to fish under U.S. Highway 12 and state Route 8.

According to a state Department of Transportation news release, crews set up three work zones beginning Monday on U.S. 12 between Elma and Montesano followed by two work zones on Route 8 on either side of McCleary.

Travelers will experience reduced speed limits and one lane each direction around the work zones through the end of 2025.

Family fun day at Kneeland Park

The Early Learning Coalition of Mason County is hosting Family Fun Day from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at Kneeland Park in Shelton.

According to the flyer, there is a carnival, take home giveaways, door prizes and a free meal. For more information, email elcmasoncounty@gmail.com.