News Briefs

United Way of Mason County dissolves

United Way of Mason County announced Aug. 14 it will dissolve.

“With a heavy heart, United Way of Mason County announces its dissolution. After many years of dedicated service to the community, the organization will cease operations and quit taking pledges effective immediately,” Board of Directors Chair Dani Cook said in a statement.

When Executive Director Ted Jackson resigned June 6, Cook told the Journal United Way was “taking time to evaluate the program,” and would not be immediately seeking a new executive director.

“The decision to dissolve was not made lightly and reflects the culmination of various challenges that the organization faced in recent years,” Cook’s statement says.

“We are grateful to everyone who has supported us over the years. Your contributions have made a significant impact on the lives of many,” Cook said.

United Way of Mason County will work with local groups to “ensure that ongoing initiatives continue to receive support during this transition period,” according to the statement.

United Way is one of the world’s largest privately funded charities and operates in 37 countries and territories, according to its website.

Motorcyclist dies in crash at Ridge

A motorcyclist at Ridge Motorsports Park in Shelton crashed and died from his injuries on Aug. 13.

Snohomish County resident Stephen Nakagawa, 63, died from “multiple blunt force injuries,” Mason County Coroner Jamie Taylor told the Journal.

A 2Fast motorcycle track day was at RMP Aug. 13. 2Fast and RMP did not respond to a request for comment from the Journal about Nakagawa’s death.

“Like some other track day outfits, an ambulance is present at all of our events because it is required by Pacific Raceways, yet 2Fast raises the bar on safety — taking steps that no other organization offers: On-Course Marshals: Team 2Fast has its own team of on-course marshals to help increase rider safety. This experienced group of riders spread themselves throughout the course to watch for aggressive or unsafe passes, ensure riders of a particular skill level are joined by riders of the same skill level, and are available for questions should participants need some advice. They are also our first responders to crash incidents or mechanical breakdowns, helping increase response times and operational efficiencies,” according to the 2Fast website.

Crash snarls SR3 in Shelton

According to a Washington State Patrol news release, 25-year-old Evan Chhun of Tacoma was airlifted to Tacoma General Hospital on Tuesday after his 2017 Dodge Promaster van crossed the centerline and struck a semi truck driven by 57-year-old Howard Dragt of Olympia, on state Route 3 near Vic King Road in Shelton.

The accident, which is under investigation, blocked SR3 for about 4½ hours.