A BLUE wristband is the latest weapon Southend schools are using to kick drugs out of schools.

The wristband and a new anti-drugs charter were launched this week by the council which acts as the town’s education authority.

Words on the wristband read “my school is drug free” and the charter sets out exactly where Southend’s schools stand on all aspects of drugs.

Roger Hadley, the executive councillor for children and learning watched the launch inside the Civic Centre in Victoria Avenue.

He said: “It is vital to present a united front on drugs and we are delighted to have developed this charter with our partners in the fight against drugs.

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Despite bad weather and a change in location this year’s American Cancer Society Relay for Life raised more than $67,500 in Tazewell County.

There were 14 teams registered for the relay and 11 of them set up camp despite the rain and wind. The weather did bring the event to an early closing as what started out to be an all night affair wrapped up around 11:30 p.m. June 14.

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Livestrong bracelets will go down as a fundraising phenomenon, generating millions of dollars for the Lance Armstrong Foundation (LAF), but also for nonprofits around the nation.

Four years ago last month, the bright yellow silicone bracelets debuted with a goal of selling 5 million units. By summer’s end, LAF surpassed the goal and bracelets could be found around the wrists of millions of people. Assorted nonprofits capitalized on their popularity, selling different colors to represent their specific causes.

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By registering your child as a Westfield Kid, you’ll both enjoy lots of benefits. Registered parents receive special offers and kids entertainment information before everyone else.

We’ll also save you the hassle of searching for things to do with the kids, information, facilities or kids services.

And what’s in it for kids? It’s a great program, making them feel part of a bigger community and allowing them to participate in fun events and activities. They will also receive a gift bag, a letter form Santa and a birthday card!Registering your child is easy – simply fill in a registration form at one of our Concierge Desks – located opposite ANZ Bank, outside Kmart and in the Parkland Pavilion opposite Starbucks.

Sign up to the Kids Club in June and receive a free Handband! Hurry, stocks are limited! Visit the Concierge Desk today!

For further information click here.

GROVELAND — After all he has been through, no one could question Ryan Reardon’s courage.

When the 8-year-old cancer patient from Groveland visited New York City, the heart of Yankees territory, he didn’t hesitate to wear both his Red Sox cap and T-shirt.

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