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[[underlined]]Planning Update[[/underlined]]. Since last September, the proposed design for above-ground development of the Quadrangle site has been significantly enhanced. Following discussions with Mr. David Childs (Chairman, National Capital Planning Commission), the Secretary, and others, Mr. Jean-Paul Carlhian of Shepley, Bulfinch, Richardson and Abbott has prepared a refined master plan that retains below-ground atria lighted by glazed skylights which are carefully concealed within the landscaping. An additional or third atrium has been added alongside the Freer Gallery. The garden wall along Independence Avenue has been reduced in size and detached above-ground from the two pavilions. These refinements have achieved the principal objective of providing pavilions that appear as ornaments in the landscaped garden.'

The Quadrangle design proposal was presented to the Joint Committee on Landmarks for the District Of Columbia on November 20, and again on December 18. The Committee was outspoken in its opinion that the African Art Museum should be located near the Portrait Gallery to enhance the revitalization of downtown Washington. The Committee's negative recommendation is advisory to the National Capital Planning Commission.

The Quadrangle design concept was approved by the National Capital Planning Commission on January 8. This action by the Commission is a major accomplishment and indicates that the planning and design process could be completed successfully and on schedule.

[[underlined]]Fund Raising.[[/underlined]] The Chairman of "Friends of the Smithsonian Institution" in Japan, Mr. Zentaro Kosaka, visited Washington December 8 – 12 with the Foreign Affairs Research Council of the National Democratic Party. He was guest of honor at a dinner December 9 in the Castle Lounge, and visited the