Dear
Friends,
The Japan-America Society of
Dallas/Fort Worth (JASDFW)
originated on February 26, 1970,
with a commitment to fostering
friendship and understanding between
Americans and Japanese in North
Texas. In honor of our 40th
anniversary, we will showcase events
throughout 2010 that reflect the
original vision put forth at our
founding. In addition to regular
events such as Mochitsuki New Year’s
Celebration, Otsukimi Moon Viewing,
and the Sun & Star Legacy Award
Dinner, we will offer new programs
designed to deepen our involvement
with JASDFW members and the North
Texas community.
Thank you for your support and
friendship. We look forward to
celebrating our 40th anniversary
with you.
Sincerely,
David Schnetzer
Celebrating 40 Years – A Look Back
in Time
On January 29, 1970, a small group
of American and Japanese friends met
at the home of Neill and June
McFarland to form a new organization
in Dallas. The evening’s agenda
included the election of the first
officers: H. Neill McFarland,
President; Kenji Sakuma, Vice
President; and Mrs. Gordon
McCullough, Secretary-Treasurer.
Articles of Association were adopted
on February 26th, when the first
program was held at Kirby Hall on
the SMU campus. The guest speaker
was Dr. Sam H. Brock, a Dallas oral
surgeon with a degree in Japanese
Studies from Columbia University,
where he was a classmate of Donald
Keene.
Eighty-three charter members joined
that first year. Membership dues
were $10 per year for one person or
$15 for a married couple.
Thus began the Japan-America Society
of Dallas, later to become the
Japan-America Society of Dallas/Fort
Worth, now celebrating its 40th
anniversary year.
