WASHINGTON (AP) - The Smithsonian Institution is receiving $700,000 for the inauguration.

The Presidential Inaugural Committee has announced that it is donating the money to fund security, maintenance and special programs at the museum complex on Inauguration Day.

Among other things, the money will allow the National Museum of American History and the Castle building to open at 8 a.m. on Inauguration Day, two hours earlier than normal.

The money also will help the Smithsonian present special programs such as Renewing America's Promise. The history museum's three-day celebration runs from Jan. 17-19. It will feature music, gallery talks, book signings and actors portraying presidents and First Ladies.

___

Information from: The Washington Post,
http://www.washingtonpost.com

Copyright 2009 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

AP-ES-01-07-09 0914EST