Take an early evening drive (after 7-8 p.m.) on Marine View Drive or 7th Avenue through the City of Des Moines and count the moving cars.
Sometimes it seems as eerily inactive as most roads into a cemetery.

It doesn't take a "Rocket Economist" to recognize this isn't business as usual with folks commuting to and from work, stopping to shop locally or heading to a dandy restaurant for dinner.

Nope - without big bucks to spend it's likely another night at home with chores, a simple meal with family and TV for entertainment. And what's wrong with that destiny? Nothing.

In fact, good can come from not hitting the freeway everyday with little time at home to share with each other. Count the times in trying moments when enduring love inspired good reason to carry on.

Rather challenges are personal or revenue-generating businesses - teamwork pays off. Ask a farmer how their crop grows so tall and perfect and they'll likely say, "With tender care and good helpers."

A persuasive seed was planted recently regarding Des Moines growth development opportunities by Mayor, Robert (Bob) Sheckler speaking in China to prospective billionaire investors in a roomful of 500 of "Around the World" investment leaders.

He was in Changchun City, China at the 2010 World Emerging Industries Summit as a guest speaking about Investment Opportunities in Des Moines, WA-USA.

City staff prepared remarkable "Think Des Moines First" information packets that were passed out showcasing local investment possibilities.

Councilwoman Carmen Scott's award-winning photographs brought colorful natural beauty to the eyes of the world.

Mayor Sheckler promoted possible development of 89-acres, (a size/location rarely available) of Port of Seattle buy-out property on 216th, north of the U.S. Post Office. Easy access to Sea-Tac Airport and local shipping transportation are strong persuaders.

Development appeared of high interest to these 500 investors, particularly small business manufacturing such as medications. Shipping approved designer drugs, specifically for serious and unusual health issues, must move swiftly, because within 18 hours some become non-effective.

Manufacturing brings jobs, income brings spending, spending begets profit - and it all wraps up into more people employed, spending money, and driving more cars in Des Moines.

While it's kinda nice to have a whole city street of blocks to myself and a peaceful drive - sometimes that's too peaceful - even for a seasoned citizen.

While no deal was sealed at the conference, growth seeds were planted. Des Moines City Council demonstrated their far-sighted approach in Mayor Sheckler, who said, "Introducing seeds of Des Moines identity at this worldwide conference made me feel humble, and proud of our city." Will that open doors to world investors who possess immeasurable financial foresight in investments?

Consider that in November 2009, Mayor Sheckler made a personal trip to China that unexpectedly resulted in meeting two Chinese investors who have contracted with Tacoma architects regarding a possible 330-room hotel with three restaurants at 224th and Pacific Highway South. The city hopes to see permit application by the end of the year.

In a previous column I wrote: "Is this the beginning of better times? Think how this project could attract new development and public revenue."

Well, here we are, one year later, and city officials say they're immediately prepared to work with new developers.

Meeting the needs and future planning for their cities - especially in financially stressed times - is decision makers challenge. Facing stiff competition in revenue-generating prospects requires bold moves to access development resources. And that brings jobs to help tax-paying citizens stay here.

In today's public and private sectors, workers must re-invent primary skills and resumes to catch job attention - and public officials must expand resources to prosper.

If Des Moines develops 89 acres of Port property for long-term business park visions from an influential seed planted in China, residents may welcome economic growth and jobs.

"From a tiny seed the mighty Chestnut tree grew." Who knew? And the people said, "Amen."

Today's Thought: "Where would men be without women? Scarce, mighty scarce!" Mark Twain