(https://groups.google.com/forum/message ... ux1M5HLZ8J)In the Summer of 1987, Roy Bruce organized a Richmond, Virginia anime club as a chapter of the Cartoon/Fantasy Organization, called C/FO-CVA (Cartoon/Fantasy Organization of Central Virginia). During the breakup of the C/FO in early 1988, the C/FO-CVA became the Japanese Animation Network (JAN). Over the next year, the JAN worked to gain IRS acceptance as a non-profit organization under US Tax codes.
In late 1988, the JAN became registered with the IRS as a non-profit, tax-exempt, charitable organization as listed under sections 501(c)3 and 502(a)9 of the US Federal tax code. In doing so, it became the first anime organization in US history to achieve this status.
From 1987 through 1993, the Japanese Animation Network published a fanzine which became semi-pro in 1992, known first as "Anime No Shimbun" and then as "Animation News Service". In these publications, the JAN was able to find a forum for amatuer and professional art, synopses, reviews, news, fiction, and items of cultural interest.
In 1993, Roy and Cathy Bruce (his wife) placed the JAN on inactive hiatus due to the fatal illness of his mother and for other personal and professional reasons.
In 1994, the JAN changed its registered name from the Japanese Animation Network to the International Animation Sodality (a sodality, FYI is an educational organization with charitable goals) [IntAS]. Upgrades in hardware and software were made in preparation for a resumption of services in 1995. These upgrades included finally being able to access the internet.
In June, 1995, IntAS tried to resume publication in a new newsletter, "IntAS Presents: P.o.V: Persistence of Vision". From difficulties with the printers, the raised cost of postage, and other business related problems, it became apparent that the printing of fanzines and newsletters was no longer cost-efficient or competitive. At the same time, for unrelated reasons, Roy suffered a mild heart attack from which he is still recovering. Currently, IntAS has been put back on inactive hiatus status.
Also worth noting that the Animation News Service was distinct from Jonah Morgan's 1998 Anime News Service. (^_^) Not sure if the club or publication survived beyond Roy Bruce's death in 2003.