More time to register: costume contests at Chapman Park

Hi neighbor,

We're sending this one between issues because October fills up fast, and we want every kid and pet around Chapman Park to have a spot next Saturday. We moved the registration deadline for Paws, Claws & Little Ghosts to Monday, October 19, so you have the whole weekend to settle the big question of what the dog is going to be.

Here's the plan for Saturday, October 24, at Chapman Park, 2515 San Carlos Drive.

8 to 9:30 AM: the pet costume parade. Open to every kind of pet. Dogs and cats, of course, and also birds, turtles, pigs, and yes, snails.

10 to 11:30 AM: the kids' costume contest. Superheroes, storybook characters, little ghosts, and anything built at the kitchen table the night before.

Noon: the winners. Kids and pets compete separately, and each contest has winners for Cutest, Spookiest, and Most Creative. There will be gift bags and refreshments too, while they last.

Registering takes about a minute and tells us how many treats, drinks, and gift bags to bring. If you're coming with a kid and a pet, put both on the form so we save a spot in each contest. Look for us at the recreation center by the climbing wall, on the corner of San Carlos Drive and Santa Ysabel Avenue.

One small thing. Hit reply with your costume idea. We'll keep it a secret until Saturday and cheer extra loud when you walk by.

See you at the park, Amy & Tiffany

P.S. From Tiffany: have your pet wear the costume around the house for a few minutes a day this week. A dog who has met the hat before is a much happier dog in the parade.