All the hocus-pocus political heat of the Nov. 3 election dust is settling down as faithful residents and volunteers pick up the pieces with a sigh of relief -- "Finally, It's over."

Isn't it amazing how a healthy community can recover from hard-fought elections by putting campaign politics behind them as they step forward to support the "People's Choice" elected lawmakers?

That attitude draws positive people to where they want to live.

Frequently, the overlooked distinctiveness of a city is formed and fueled within local service clubs and city-appointed boards and commissions.

November 1st was The Legacy Foundation Annual fund-raising Brunch. To get on next year's mailing list, call Des Moines Activity Center Manager Sue Padden at 206-878-1642.

Des Moines Historical Society invites you to participate in a free program, "Memories and Mementos of Our Country's Wars," Nov. 10, Tuesday, 7 p.m., Odd Fellows Hall, 728 South 225th. Free Refreshments. Call 206-878-7205 for more information.

Don't miss the beautiful new plaque in the marina's south park flower garden honoring all military veterans. Des Moines Garden Club spearheaded this volunteer beauty in cooperation with City of Des Moines staff - just in time for Veteran's Day, Nov. 11th.

The inscription reads; "BLUE STAR - MEMORIAL BY-WAY. A Tribute to the Armed Forces of America."

Some other active organizations include Rotary, Kiwanis and the Masonic Lodge Job's Daughters and DeMolay. There are more--some that serve silently.

The official history book, "One Hundred Years of the Waterland Community," (Editor, Richard T. Kennedy/Associate Editor, Grechen F. Schmidt) reveals local clubs active in the 1800's.

Long before official leaders took city reigns, both the Improvement Club and Commercial Club achieved many community projects such as buying the Field House property.

A local Chamber of Commerce was established that has since merged with Southwest Chamber.

Churches, public schools and human services partnered for the good of all. The United Methodist Church on 223rd was started in a small schoolroom with volunteers.

Are you aware active citizen volunteer boards, committees and commissions that serve now are appointed by City of Des Moines officials?

If you really want to be part of positively influencing this city's future, vacancies are expected in January. They are; The Planning Agency, Human Services Advisory, Senior Services Advisory, Library Board, Arts Commission, and the Civil Service Commission.

People often say what they don't like about government and here is an opportunity to help mold the future of this city. It just might be one of the best time investments you can make.

City administration wrote, "The City of Des Moines has many wonderful volunteers at the Senior Center, Parks and Recreation, City Hall and the Police Department. The contributions of time and expertise of these talented and caring people make a huge difference to all City departments, and in turn to the citizens of our community."

Businesses and individual volunteers are rightfully credited with helping Des Moines save the waterfront Beach Park from private condominium development, creating and supporting a senior/activity center that even now operates with about 130 volunteers.

Volunteers presented over 40-years of the Waterland Festival, sponsored "Christmas in Des Moines, 4th of July Fireworks, and varied parks and recreation programs.

As a committee addressing citizen safety concerns, volunteers work with Des Moines Police Chief Roger Baker, and both fire district chief's, retired Jim Polhamus and present chief, Al Church.

Volunteers Helen Gilmore and Horace Trimble, in 1970, organized Des Moines Food Bank and it continues during today's difficult times.

The election 50 years ago that officially incorporated this city was organized by volunteers. Business, local organizations and individual volunteers have historically cleaned up downtown streets by cutting unsightly shrubbery and removing garbage.

Many of these same businesses are today struggling to survive and need your full community support. As an incentive - picture a city without them!

So let's pick up pieces from testy elections and pursue high goals that help our businesses survive and prosper, schools teach with wisdom, people greet neighbors, and lawmakers make wise decisions.

Consider Nebraska's Boys Town 1941 movie quote, "He ain't heavy, He's my brother." That's why people volunteer and live in your community.

Today's Thought: "If you don't think every day is a good day, just try missing one." (Author unknown)