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After 14 years of fits and starts, the downtown civil rights museum appears certain to open on Feb. 1, 2010, the 50th anniversary of the historic sit-ins that inspired it.

But that's not all.

Two new developments give the project even more momentum as construction crews convert the old Woolworth's five-and-dime on South Elm into what officially will be called the International Civil Rights Center and Museum.

The museum has officially extended an invitation to the leader of the free world to be on hand for the ribbon- cutting next year. Or for either of two other events that will lead up to the grand opening: a banquet on Jan. 30 and a religious service on Jan. 31.

We hope the White House eventually will say, yes it can.

Now, anyone can issue such an invitation. And no doubt lots of people do. But museum officials say the White House has responded positively, although without a firm commitment.

President Obama's schedule is set only for no more than 90 days at a time. Even then, it is subject to change, given the economy, health care, Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, North Korea and the Middle East, among other items that typically cram his considerable to-do list.

But attendance of the first African American president at the museum would hold special significance for the city, the state and the entire nation. The whole state should back the invitation, as should both U.S. senators and all of North Carolina's congressional delegation. Event organizers already have contacted Sen. Kay Hagan's office. Her colleague, Richard Burr, should be getting a call as well, as should Gov. Bev Perdue.

That 50 years after four students from N.C. A&T politely demanded service at a whites-only Woolworth's lunch counter, having the first black president on hand to honor their accomplishment would be extraordinary. And inspirational.

Speaking of inspirational, the museum leaders also have confirmed that High Point University President Nido Qubein will be chairman of the museum banquet. That, too, is highly significant for several reasons.

Qubein's compelling story as an immigrant turned millionaire is another American dream come true. So, too, are his exceptional achievements at High Point University, whose fundraising, enrollment and academic reputation have soared even in an uncertain economy.

Qubein also is a High Pointer. His involvement in the museum efforts underscores its importance to all of Guilford County. It belongs to all of us.

We should all support and celebrate what it represents.