Don't miss your chance for free fun! In addition to the Park District's display of festive, whimsical scarecrows, they're adding the World Wide Day of Play. Both are free events with lots of family activities -- inflatables, games, face painting, balloon artists, splashpad and a climbing wall. It's a great event for the whole family.

You're invited to submit a scarecrow for free in the contest. Local businesses can also have a table for just $20, if they enter a scarecrow in the contest.

Making a scarecrow is easier than you might think! We will have hay bales available for just $4 on Sept. 14-- a week before the event. Plus, we'll provide a stake at your site, and another hay bale to add to your display. If you win the contest, you'll get even more exposure.

For more information, visit www.heparks.org.