Calvary Chapel plans Oct. 31 bash

Calvary Chapel of Downey has grandiose plans for Halloween night but first it needs approval from the Planning Commission.The church, with approximately 8,000 congregation members, is planning a special event Oct. 31 from 5-10 p.m. to include an ESPN zone, dunk tank, half-court basketball tournament, 40-foot long obstacle course, carnival booths, jumpers, bungee runs, and "human foosball." Up to 400 people are expected to attend the festival, which will be held in the church's north parking lot at Imperial Highway and Woodruff Avenue. The event is intended as an alternative to trick-or-treating. City planners have recommended the event's approval on the condition that a roving patrol of volunteers pick-up litter from the church and adjoining sidewalk throughout the festival. To alleviate noise concerns - particularly from amplified music - the church was asked to point its speakers away from nearby homes. Downey Police can also order the music be turned off if it receives "excessive" complaints. The parking lot will be cleared of equipment by midnight, church officials said in its permit application. The Planning Commission will take up the matter Wednesday. According to its website, Calvary Chapel of Downey is the 12th largest church in the country. Its history traces back to 1973, when congregation members worshiped at Furman Park.