By By LYDIA GRIMES Features writer
The first holiday launching the summer season is quickly approaching. With the heat index already breaking a yearly record and record high gas prices quickly deteriorating, AAA Alabama predicts this Memorial Day weekend could set a travel record.
Gas prices have already dropped 13 cents a gallon in the last month. Gas prices in Alabama are averaging $2.03, which is eight cents per gallon more expensive than last year's Memorial Day.
However, AAA Alabama expects to see a 2.2 percent increase in holiday travel. This means 31.1 million Americans will take a driving trip.
While Memorial Day may mean travel to some and cooking out, it means something a little bit more deep to others.
Jamey Halford, a lawyer in Brewton said, "It just means that we should be thankful for everyone who fought and died for our country."
Charlotte Alverson, who works in the tax collector office, has a close tie with what Memorial Day means to her.
Jim Hildreth, a tax assessor knows that the true meaning of Memorial Day is to think about those who have served and fought for the United States.
For Larry Fleming, Memorial Day is to pay tribute and honor those who have served our country.