Special to the Times/News

For 58 years, since 1947, our Chamber of Commerce has worked together with local businesses and residents for the community's good.

But by year's end, the Greater Des Moines Chamber of Commerce as we have known it may close their office doors for the last time.

We're positioning ourselves to access more resources for future business growth and economic development here," Chamber President Jane Ipsen declared last week.

The Chamber's board of directors has begun discussions with the Southwest King County Chamber of Commerce (SWKCC).

Chamber members learned at their September 12 luncheon the board of directors decided this change is necessary.

Inquiring minds may wonder how our chamber can close its office doors and still promote businesses in Des Moines.

SWKCC President Nancy Damon explained, however, that the regional chamber has committees that coordinate functions with businesses in member cities.

It's way too early for me to understand the mechanics of this transition. One thing we do know. Folks in Des Moines love their community.

Even now, growth and change is happening. And once downtown development progresses from the construction permitting process to "gittin' er done," you can bet your bottom dollar this little town will be bustling.

In fact, good things are happening.

Des Moines Creek Restaurant's new owners, Ron and Mitzy Sullivan, continue traditions that make "The Creek" a favorite meeting- and eating-place.

Menu favorites have not changed and new items have been added. Sunday Brunch and fresh homemade pies continue to draw raves and make happy tummies. It was a smart move to keep those wonderful employees who've become an important reason why customers like to be there.

In the Marina, catch changes made to the former Breakers restaurant by new owners Sal and Norma Milluzzo. Not only are they open seven-days a week, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., for breakfast, lunch and dinner, they"ve redecorated the interior to a darn-near-elegant status.

Renamed "Milluzzo's By The Water," Sal and Norma put respective cooking and artistic talents to good use.

Hamburgers and fish and chips are still great; however, Sal is introducing his preferred item, Italian Grinders, an East Coast specialty.

Loaded with choices of meatballs, sausage, ham, pepperoni, or turkey topped with cheese, lettuce and tomato, toasted to perfection on fresh bread from local Daniel's Bakery, these grinders are a mouthful of yummy.

Lasagna and spaghetti are another area of Sal's expertise.

An amazing artist, Norma's eye-catching artwork graces freshly painted walls, creating a bit of Italy and a touch of Vienna.

Their Grand Opening celebration started September 18 and ends Saturday the 24th, with all the spaghetti you can eat and a wine tasting.

Live entertainment will feature the marina's own Joey Jewell, who impersonates Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin so realistically you'll swear those good old boys are singing.

Reservations are recommended: 206-878-7719 .

And there's an event for the bosses of our households, too - our pets!

The first-ever Pet Festival will be held Sunday, Oct. 2, from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Des Moines Field House at South 220th Street and 10th Avenue South.

"Meet the Veterinarians," watch dogs play fly ball in teams in a relay-race-type competition, enjoy a dog drill team - and hear a howling contest for cats.

Cats will be indoors, dogs outside.

There'll be awards for King and Queen of the Pet Festival, Best Trick, Best Costume, Ugliest Pet and Owner-Pet Look-alike.

Chairman David Goretski, owner of Soggy Doggy, said, "Des Moines Boosters and City Parks Department recognize how much people enjoy their pets. We want to help enrich that experience with an annual Pet Festival."

So it is that Chamber leaders made a bold choice to move. Time will testify to its wisdom.

Author Jim Rohn wrote, "Leadership is the challenge to be something more than average."

With Port of Seattle and city leaders cooperating to develop Port properties on South 216th, together with anticipated growth on Pacific Highway and downtown Des Moines, this community needs supportive systems in place.

Perhaps with the chamber able to access more resources, this city's future will meet that challenge.