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Sports and Culture in the Valley
Does Car Dependency Make Phoenix-Living Less Satisfying?
A car-dependent city, like Phoenix or Houston, is designed mainly for driving with wide, fast roads, spread-out buildings and few safe or convenient places to walk, and people rely on owning a car to get around, according to Saadaoui’s research paper, “Does Car Dependence Make People Unsatisfied With Life? Evidence From a U.S. National Survey.”
Jenna Sturgeon
Dec 13, 20255 min read
“Benches, Block Parties, and Better Futures: Inside Phoenix’s Grassroots Push Against Neighborhood Crime
Phoenix residents Carman Arias, Dolores Rios-Herrera, and coach Dion Black use Block Watch grants to fight crime by building community. From benches to block cleanups to youth sports, each leader works to engage neighbors despite low participation. Their efforts aim to deter gang activity, strengthen trust, and give local kids safer paths forward.
Natalia Velador Carrillo
Dec 12, 20254 min read
Beyond the Green Label, a Distraction from Sustainability
After learning her school was secretly trashing its recycling, ASU student Olivia Moran lost faith in sustainability efforts an experience echoing nationwide concerns as greenwashing rises in the U.S. While Phoenix officials stress education and transparency, experts argue that misleading “green” claims distract from deeper problems of resource use and environmental injustice. Still, students and advocates say small, informed actions can drive real change.
Macie Logan
Dec 5, 20255 min read
Chandler Employers Open New Paths to Stable Jobs
As Chandler works to connect residents with stable jobs, The Doughnut Peddler Bakery has become an unexpected workforce engine offering hundreds of entry-level positions and promoting employees from within. With local employers in logistics and hospitality also expanding hiring, workforce advocates say culture, training, and access are shaping the region’s job landscape as cities push to help workers find long-term, sustainable employment.
Arzo Yousofzai
Dec 5, 20253 min read
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