The city’s Opportunity Clean Sweep has made a remarkable difference in some parts of our community. It has also sparked a handful of complaints and some whining.

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A few people believe they should be allowed to let their property fall into shambles or live in any manner they choose regardless of what their neighbors or community believe.

For others it is a matter of need or lack of funds placing them in conflict with “community standards” and their neighbors’ aesthetic values.

We have also heard from a much larger group asking the question — Why just a few neighborhoods? Why not the entire city? The county? The Roanoke Valley?

We add our voice to this chorus — Why not the Roanoke Valley?

We believe the Roanoke Valley is one of the most beautiful places on our planet. However, parts of our “Eden” are scarred with the marks of human indifference — piles of trash, discarded appliances, furniture and vehicles, and homes allowed to slowly disintegrate into piles of rubble.

Numerous community organizations and families have joined forces to clean up some areas and along some highways. We applaud their efforts and encourage the entire community to join in the campaign to restore our Valley’s luster.

We take pride in our community, our heritage and our future.

We need to show that pride and safeguard our inheritance. We need to clean up our Valley.

We suggest the business community, schools, churches and local civic groups come together in a united campaign for a Valley cleanup week and a program, which would provide a year-round endeavor to always “have on our Sunday best.” And remember, “Together, we can succeed.”