By GINNY COOPER / Staff Writer

MONTEVALLO—As the days get longer and hotter, the American Village is offering two programs geared towards family fun for the summer.

Veterans Salute Sundays take place every Sunday of the summer, June 1 to Aug. 31, from 1-5 p.m. The program, aimed to celebrate veterans and highlight the recently unveiled National Veterans Shrine and Register of Honor, is free to veterans and active military, $8 for adults and $7 for seniors and youth.

“A lot of people work during the week, and with the new National Veterans Shrine we thought it was important to have this opportunity,” said Melanie Poole, director of marketing and communications for the American Village Citizenship Trust.

During Veterans Salute Sundays, patrons will be able to tour the National Veterans Shrine at their leisure, visit with patriots and experience life in the continental army. In addition, there will be a 20-minute veterans salute every Sunday at 2:30 p.m. in the Colonial Chapel.

“We recognize any veterans with us that day, and recognize family members of the fallen that are with us and express our thanks,” Poole said.

During the week, families can experience “red, white and blue all-American fun” during a special “daycation” program at the American Village.

Celebrate America, which will take place from June 2 to Aug. 29 excluding some holidays, gives families a chance to experience all of the activities offered at the American Village.

“Basically, something new happens every 30 minutes,” Poole said.

Kids can become a spy for Washington’s army, learn about Colonial justice, travel the road to the revolution, watch 18^th century dance and play Colonial games on the lawn.

“You can come stay all day,” Poole said.

As part of the program, the American Village is offering a special family entrance fee of $5 for up to five family members, with $5 for each additional family member.