Boys & Girls Clubs of Conejo/Las Virgenes is providing fifth through eighthgraders with a way to beat the winter doldrums.

Through March 6, members and nonmembers can immerse themselves in sign language, junior crime scene investigation, color guard, comedy improvisation, wrestling and dozens of other workshops at clubs on the campuses of Los Cerritos, Colina, Redwood and Sequoia middle schools.

Through the winter enrichment program, the local clubs have balanced academic offerings with more offbeat learning experiences, according to vice president of operations Wendy Brenner. Financial assistance is also available, she said.

Color guard instructor Debra Seeley is excited about teaching participants the same principles she provided to the color guard contingent that performed in this year's Tournament of Roses Parade. Unlike the military version that's stiff and formal, Seeley said, "We do dance and flagspinning moves that are colorful and fluid, and we design the flags and costumes to go with a musical theme."

Los Cerritos branch director Karen Anthony cites two main benefits of the club's enrichment classes. "Not only do they expand on the variety of programs offered to middle school students, they also provide a way for fifth-graders to make new friends before they enter middle school. This makes the transition into sixth grade a lot easier for them."

Boys & Girls Clubs of Conejo/ Las Virgenes are open before and after school, during lunch and all day during school vacations and the summer. For more information about supervised programs, enrichment classes and activities, to volunteer or to make a donation, call (818) 706-0905 or visit www.bgcconejo.org.