SHORT TAKES : 2 Comics Cling to Friendly Ghost

RICHMOND, Va. — Comedians Chevy Chase and Steve Martin took turns holding down a giant Casper the Friendly Ghost balloon as the pair helped singer Paul Simon make a new music video.

The 4 1/2-minute video filmed Saturday will feature the comics clowning amid the floats and baton twirlers in the Jaycees Christmas parade. The video will accompany a single from Simon’s latest album, “Rhythm of the Saints.”

Martin signed just one autograph, for Carrie Cheeley, an 8-year-old baton twirler.

“This certifies that you have had a personal encounter with me and that you found me warm, polite, intelligent and funny,” Martin wrote.

The trio marched a few blocks through downtown with the Shriners’ Acca Temple Oriental Band, then rode a float the remainder of the parade.