For the first time, the AVMA Governmental Relations Division will have a home owned by the AVMA, instead of leased. In June, the AVMA finalized purchase of a white brick row house office building in the Central Business District of Washington, D.C. The building cost $2.525 million, money that came from reserves. Remodeling is scheduled to begin in September, and the division will move in this coming January.

AVMA Treasurer James F. Peddie says the building is a wise investment. The Governmental Relations Division will occupy three of the floors, and the fourth will be rented out. At press time, the AVMA was in negotiations with a tenant for the fourth floor.

The AVMA also expects to generate rental income from seven parking spaces that come with the building. The office is located near the Dupont Circle Metro.

Dr. Michael Chaddock, GRD director, says the purchase of the building is not only a clear political statement, but a sound fiscal decision as well.