Public, base invited to Air Force birthday bash slated for Sept. 26 Published Sept. 8, 2009 By Tanya Haggard AEDC/PA Arnold Air Force Base, Tenn. -- Arnold Air Force Base will host the annual Air Force Birthday Bash Sept. 26 at the Recreation Beach and Gossick Leadership Center area. The carnival-type event is open to the public and will begin at noon and close with a fireworks display at dusk. This event is free for all ages and will include numerous inflatables and midway games. There will also be a rock climbing wall and a Wii gaming station. A bingo tent will be open all day with prizes. There will also be relay races to include sack races, three-legged races and a water balloon toss. Pucker Powder, which is a craft and snack in one and involves different flavors and colors mixed up into a sweet tart sugar tube snack, will be available along with cotton candy, popcorn, an Air Force Birthday cake and other foods. Various food booths will offer selections for purchase and the Arnold Lakeside Center will operate a beer booth. Anyone wishing to purchase beer must provide proof of age and will be issued a wristband. No coolers or other alcoholic beverages are allowed on the site. Also, a build-a-boat contest will be held during which contestants construct a sailing vessel using only cardboard and duct tape. All materials will be provided to include cutting utensils and may be picked up in advance. Teams may consist of eight members, 16 years of age or older, with two of those serving as captain and first mate to sail the boat along a designated route. Boats may be decorated and prior to racing each team will perform a team cheer and introduce their boat. Several categories of awards will be presented. All vessels will be inspected prior to the sail off at 4:30 p.m. Call 454-3350 to sign up for this event and arrange pick up of materials. The Fitness Center will host a four-on-four volleyball tournament. Sign up in advance at the Fitness Center, 454-6440, or before 1 p.m. the day of the event. Type of play will be determined based on number of teams participating. Entertainment will be provided all day beginning with a D.J., from noon to 3 p.m. Then the American Pie band will take the stage and play from 3-7 p.m. The Car and Motorcycle Show returns with check in at 11 a.m. Any and all who wish to show off their rides, from classic to current, can register to compete for 20 show awards, director's choice best in show and commander's choice trophy. The entry fee is $25 and all registrants will receive an event T-shirt and dash plaque. Registration forms are available at www.arnold.af.mil/services.asp or call 454-3098 for further information. Awards will be presented at 4 p.m. If a group would like to have a food booth, contact the Services Marketing office at 454-3128. These are taken on a first come first served basis as to not have duplicate items.