Here’s this week’s edition of news and news for urbanists:

• Redefining Creative Space: Because it provides high-paying jobs and tends to recycle old commercial buildings for creative space, the entertainment industry is among the most desirable economic drivers for cities and states. The article features my friends at Co+Hoots in Phoenix!  (pictured) (Urban Land)

• Why Apple’s ascension to world’s largest company is great for cities: Mobile devices are uniquely suited to the urban environment. They are such powerful connectors of people that they are literally replacing their need and desire for cars. (SmartPlanet)

• The Passionate Minority: As frustration mounts with government, there is a passionate minority aimed not at yelling or leaving, but rather at making change. (Code for America)

• Universal Principles for Creating a Sustainable City: Freiburg, Germany has become a stunning model of sustainability, thanks in part to Wulf Daseking, the city’s Head of Urban Planning since 1984. Sven Eberlein visits Daseking in Freiberg for this interview. (Planetizen)

• Planning for a Range of Housing Options in our Cities:The prolonged economic downturn has had many impacts, but the most jarring for many Americans is the realization they are not as affluent as once thought. The planning profession can play an important part in helping Americans adjust to an age of austerity. (This Big City)