Our View: A reality worth celebrating

There's a party Saturday. The fun begins at 10 a.m., and will last to 4 p.m. The reason is one of the best we have seen in months - the long-awaited opening of the new Roanoke Canal Museum and Trail.

The museum is a first-class creation honoring our Valley's past and detailing how the Roanoke Canal played a major role in its development.

The museum and the 7.5 mile walking trail that follows the canal's path are monuments to community involvement from the inspiration and dedication of a handful of people who started with the idea and countless others who helped make it a reality.

Among those credited with igniting the vision of a quality museum and family-oriented trail and complex are names that are part of Valley legend and history - Charles ”Poochie“ Fitts, Lloyd Andrews, Sam Oakley and Edwin Akers.

The Roanoke Canal Museum and Trail should be a must see on your list whether you are a longtime Valley resident or a newcomer. Saturday is the prefect chance to get our enjoy the day and learn about our home.