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JFK
President John F. Kennedy's assassination is an unforgettable part of Dallas' history.Nearly 54 years later, scholars and enthusiasts alike are still processing details from that fateful drive through Dealey Plaza now that the remaining investigation files have been unsealed. For the 50th anniversary in 2013, KERA produced special stories and reports from the commemoration:The 50th: Remembering John F. Kennedy was KERA's live, two-hour special covering the official commemoration event at Dealey Plaza in Dallas on Nov. 22, 2013. Hosted by Krys Boyd and Shelley Kofler, the special includes reports from KERA reporters before the ceremony begins. Listen to the special here.Bells tolled across the city, and the event featured historian David McCullough, who read from Kennedy’s presidential speeches; Dallas Mayor Mike Rawlings; religious leaders; the U.S. Naval Academy Men’s Glee Club; and a moment of silence. Read highlights from the event from KERA's live blog from that day.Throughout the month, KERA posted an online series called 22 Days In November, which takes a closer look at that fateful day, what it meant to the country and how it affected Dallas.We shared stories and memories in a series called “JFK Voices.” Explore our archives below.

Day Of Service Planned For 50th Anniversary Of JFK Assassination

BJ Austin
/
KERA News

A day of volunteer public service is planned as part of the 50th anniversary of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, killed as his motorcade traveled through downtown Dallas November 22, 1963.  

JFK Day organizer Chart Westcott says volunteering to work on community projects Saturday November 23rd is a positive way to honor the legacy of the fallen president.

“The city of Dallas and the people of Dallas heard President Kennedy’s message ask not what your country can do for you but what you can do for your country.” Westcott said at the North Texas Food Bank.  "And we are honoring his legacy of service.”

Volunteer sign-up began today. Westcott says there are 2500 slots for volunteers so far.  They'll work on projects at a dozen Dallas organizations like the North Texas Food Bank, the SPCA and Special Olympics.

Go toJFKDay.com to register and find out more about the individual community projects.

Former KERA reporter BJ Austin spent more than 25 years in broadcast journalism, anchoring and reporting in Atlanta, New York, New Orleans and Dallas. Along the way, she covered Atlanta City Hall, the Georgia Legislature and the corruption trials of Louisiana Gov. Edwin Edwards.