Trick or treat. It’s the day for miniature hobgoblins to beg for a sugar fix. But wait — man’s best friend wants in on the fun.

The Bloomingdale Park District is hosting its first Doggie Trick-or-Treat. The canine costume party is Saturday, Nov. 1, at the Oasis pool at the Johnson Recreation Center, 172 S. Circle Ave.

Small dogs — less than 20 pounds — will party from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Large dogs — more than 20 pounds — are welcome from noon to 1 p.m. Size-appropriate treats will be distributed.

The best-dressed pooches will receive prizes. Dogs must on a leash and have a handler older than 16. Entry is $7 per dog. Visit www.bloomingdaleparks.org for information.

Bloomingdale’s Christine Guth of Northern DuPage County BarkBusters reminds us not to share chocolate Halloween treats with dogs. The sweet treats can be toxic.

Guth also mentions that BarkBusters is sponsoring the Kids ’n Paws Photo Competition. Adorable Fido and junior photos can be submitted before the Monday, Dec. 8, deadline.

“We’re looking for the most clever and entertaining submissions,” she said.

Web visitors will vote for the five finalist photos. First prize-winner is a $100 Bark Busters gift bag and a $500 donation to the winner’s favorite animal-related charity. Details appear at www.BarkBusters.com.

November is . . .

The trail of Halloween candy wrappers leads us to our local polling place. In case you’ve missed the buzz, Tuesday, Nov. 4, is the national election. As citizens of a democratic republic, we’re invited to participate in the process.

Chicago-area voters have an obligation to fulfill a political legacy — vote early and often – whether casting a red or blue ballot.

Although America’s political system isn’t perfect, its fortunate to be a country where every vote counts. Make sure yours counts.

An overwhelming response

Two weeks ago, this column encouraged readers to donate gently used books to Glenbard High School District 87 schools for the Carol Stream Rotary Club Bookworm Angels Project.

“Thousands of students filled the school cafeterias during their lunches and after school to make bookmarks, bookplates and promotional banners,” said district spokesperson Peg Mannion.

The effort was overwhelmingly successful. The schools collected 18,800 books. Kudos to everyone who donated books, collected books and delivered books to Chicago schools.