Becky Mazary and fiancé Kevin Frankenburger, who are both legally blind, take advantage of MTA's extended Dial-a-Ride service. Between them is Shauna Hollow, driver and the recipient of a "thank you" basket. Until recently, the county's Dial-a-Ride bus only operated until 7 p.m., which put a serious crimp in the couple's social calendar. Since August 2, Dial-a-Ride is running until 8:30, meaning more time at church, more concerts in the park and more eating out for this couple. To celebrate they had dinner at Travaglione's in Shelton on the first night of the new schedule. The new service will cost about $85,000 in a budget just over $2 million. For information on Dial-a-Ride service, call 427-5033 in Shelton or 1-800-374-3747.

Winners of the first Red Hat Society hat contest at the Mason County Fair and Rodeo are, from left: Betty Freeman, of Dana's Darlings, who took first place; Barbara Anne Veil of Red Hats on a Roll, who won best of show; Bonnie Littlefield, of Mad, Madd Hatters, as first runner-up; and Mitzi Kilker of Really Interesting People, in third. They are all of local Red Hat Society chapters.