SJ takes to streets to celebrate AF family Published Oct. 20, 2009 By Tech. Sgt. Tammie Moore 4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. -- The Seymour Johnson community is invited to partake in free food, entertainment and a chance to win part of the $1,000 in door prizes during "Taking it to the Streets" Nov. 7 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in base housing. The free community event, in conjunction with the Year of the Air Force Family, takes place in family housing between Kirkland Drive and Nelson Court. It is open to active duty, retirees and their families. "Taking it to the Streets" brings fun, festivities and information to the heart of where families live, to make it easily accessible, said Arletta Thompson, Integrated Delivery System event coordinator. If it rains the event will move to the Youth Center. Information booths will be set-up by the Airman & Family Readiness Center, family advocacy, mental health, school liaison office, Health and Wellness Center and the sexual assault response office. Everyone who comes is eligible to win a door prize, Ms. Thompson said. The prizes range from CD cases to an all-expense-paid family trip to Fort Fisher. The Youth Center is hosting an essay contest for children of active duty military, Reserves and military retirees. "This is a great opportunity for our youth to showcase their writing and talk about their lives," said Thomas McQuaig, 4th Force Support Squadron youth programs chief. "I hope that many of our youth will participate. How many opportunities do you get to talk about your life as a military family member and have a chance to win a cool prize in doing so?" The two essay contest categories are ages seven to 11 and ages 12-15. The contest topic is "What it means to me to be a member of a military family." The essay should be no longer than one page typed or handwritten. Judges will review submissions based on content. Up to $350 in prizes will go to first, second and third place essay contest winners in each age group, Mr. McQuaig said. Contestants can turn their essay submission into the Youth Center or e-mail it to Thomas.mcquaig@seymourjohnson.af.mil by Oct. 30. Winner announcement is Nov. 7 during "Taking it to the Streets." For more information about the essay contest, call 722-0502.