From staff reports

For teens with the summertime blues, an event that aims to “rock out” their boredom has been set for July 11.

“We thought it would be a fun way to do something in Vicksburg,” said Nicole Bilbo, a prevention specialist for Warren Yazoo Mental Health Service and a member of the Make a Promise Coalition.

The event, called “Rock Band” tournament, is planned to give teens an opportunity to participate in drug and alcohol-free activities and is hosted by the What Up Wit Dat? Teen Coalition for a Drug-Free Warren County. It will be held along with a July 12 Youth Leadership Conference.

“Rock Band,” a video game that allows players to sing and play guitar, bass and drums for points, can be played with up to four players per band. To play in the tournament, each band member must pay $5. Spectator admission is $2. Teens can form a band with friends or register as an individual and be matched with a band, Bilbo said.

If you goThe “Rock Band” tournament will be from 6 until 9 p.m. July 11 at the Wisconsin-Manor Business Complex, 3527 Manor Drive. Early registration fees are $5 per band member and $2 for spectators. At the door, fees are $10 per band member and $5 for spectators. The Youth Leadership Conference will be from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. July 12, also at the Wisconsin-Manor Business Complex. Admission is free. Call 601-630-6603 to register for both events.

In addition to advance tickets, which can be purchased by calling 601-630-6603, tickets will be sold at the door for $10 per band member and $5 for spectators. Members of the teen coalition are also selling tickets.

The tournament will begin at 6 p.m. and will last until 9 p.m. at the Wisconsin-Manor Business Complex. The proceeds will help send members of the teen coalition to the Enforcement of Underage Drinking Laws and Leadership Conference in Nashville in August.

The Youth Leadership Conference workshops are free and will last from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. July 12. Registration begins at 9 a.m. at the Wisconsin-Manor Business Complex.

The workshops will feature presentations on bullying, the use of prescription drugs, tobacco and alcohol, Internet safety and teen driving.

Lunch will be provided for conference participants.