Archive for April, 2009
Are cities like China?
Tuesday, April 28th, 2009Many world economics specialists insist that the Chinese economy needs to grow at rates nearing 8% in order for the country to generate enough jobs to keep unrest at bay and to continue pulling its citizens out of poverty. Indeed, in China some say growth in the 6% range — as has occurred the past […]
Mega city pollution and swine flu
Sunday, April 26th, 2009The outbreak of “swine flu” in North America is puzzling epidemiologists. For many young Mexican adults, it’s proving to be a severe illness that may have killed 86 people, primarily in Mexico City. Meanwhile those in the US and Canada who have confirmed cases are generally only showing signs of a mild respiratory illness or […]
Will economic patriotism improve cities
Friday, April 24th, 2009In the United States there is notable talk about how people should be buying American, with some trying to have this enshrined in official policy. Economix this week pondered whether this economic patriotism was uniquely American (I doubt it).
Meanwhile, Richard Florida comments on a “home base” effect that certain brands have. Starbucks peforms best in […]
Enough doomsday talk, focus on livability
Tuesday, April 21st, 2009Almost everyday in the newspaper or the blogosphere some group attempts to make headlines forecasting what we could call “eco-doom” for cities. Whether the prediction is rising sea levels, fires, plagues of locusts (or killer bees) the result is misplaced attention.
Here’s an example via Planetizen: Sea Levels are Rising: It’s Time to Decide Which Cities […]
Celebrate Cities with Jane’s Walk - May 2/3
Sunday, April 12th, 2009Last year 141 different walks took place in eleven Canadian cities — as well as a couple of American ones — to celebrate the life and work of Jane Jacobs. Depending upon the volunteer leader’s interest and expertise, participants learn about local history, took in street-level charm, were exposed to challenges such as homelessness, and/or […]