At the January delegate meeting of the German-American League, the delegates overwhelmingly approved a grant of $3,000 to the Los Angeles Soccer Club to help it maintain and expand its soccer program. The approval of the grant had been recommended by the GAL Board. The LASC, which maintains a clubhouse in North Hollywood and includes sports activities for younger and older adults, provides the opportunity for members to compete in organized league soccer games. The grant will be used to maintain the LASC clubhouse, cover operating expenses, and help the LASC remain viable as it rebuilds its membership base and improves its operations. George Teer, president of the LASC, thanked the League for its support and pledged to keep the spirit and tradition of the LASC alive. Mr. Teer is a recipient of the Distinguished Service Cross of the Federal Republic of Germany, awarded for his work with the LASC and the German community.

The LASC, a member organization of the German-American League which last year celebrated its 60th Anniversary, has a long tradition of involvement in the German community in Los Angeles extending well beyond those 60 years. Coming from a legacy of German supported soccer teams and clubs from the early days of organized soccer in Los Angeles, it has a long standing as the premier soccer organization in the German community and the region. Its members, while most of them still of German heritage, also reflect a number of other ethnicities and cultures - but all enjoy playing and participating in soccer, as well as meeting for various social activities. The support of the German League for the LASC was made to help keep this important social and sport organization an asset for the community. Read more about the history of the LASC by clicking here, including pictures of early clubs (taken from the 50th Anniversary souvenir program booklet), or visit the website of the LASC at www.lasoccerclub.com

Karneval (also known as Fasching in parts of Germany) is a German celebration similar to Mardi Gras. The Karneval season began on 11/11/11 at 11:11 am and continues until Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent (which in 2012 is on Feb. 22). It’s often referred to as Germany’s "Fifth Season" and includes many celebrations and events. You’re invited to join in the fun of Karneval at one of our many club celebrations being held between now and Ash Wednesday. Don’t miss out on some of the best parties in So. California! Check our Calendar to find a Karneval party near you!

The German American Mardi Gras Association (GAMGA), a member of the German-American League, recently celebrated its grand Karneval Gala at the Texas Station Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. The celebration brought hundreds of revelers from around the country together to take part in a number of events that take place over a festive weekend. The GAMGA Karneval is modelled after its German counterpart and includes merry-making, satire, music, dancing, entertainment, and great food & drinks. To see more great pictures of the GAMGA Gala, visit the GAMGA Facebook Page.

The 2012 Hans Schmelzer Music Award, is being sponsored by the German-American League as part of the efforts of the Alemannia Music Foundation to promote the study and appreciation of German music.  The award will be made in recognition of music programs that help students to develop their appreciation of music that has its roots in the German speaking regions of Central and Eastern Europe.  The award includes a $600 grant to be used by schools for their music programs and a $400 scholarship for an individual student.

Last year’s recipient, the Don Bosco Technical Institute Concert Band (Rosemead, California), was selected as the Ensemble Component awardee based on the band′s performance of the Academic Festival Overture by Johannes Brahms. In a letter to Daniel Almanza, Bosco Tech Director of Bands, the selection committee stated, “We know that by studying and performing such music, your students will have a greater appreciation for the origins all genres of modern music and will have a broader awareness of the rich spectrum of music from around the world.”

Schools and students are urged to apply for the award. Additional information and application forms are available at the award website.

Actual Size: 1.25 x 1.5 in.

A special edition German Pride & Unity pin is now available. This collectable pin features the coat of arms of the Federal Republic of Germany surrounded by the coat of arms of each of the German states or Bundesländer – all reproduced in exquisite detail. The design represents the unity of the various regions and states of Germany and it can be worn with pride in recognition of Germany's many accomplishments. Featuring a premium single-post fastener, it is beautifully crafted and finished. The pin is available by contacting Ellen Neu for only $6.50, plus postage (with proceeds benefiting the German South Bay Club). Be proud to be German. Order your pin today! (Special pricing available for quantity purchases.)