Where Does Phoenix Stand?

A recent Arizona Republic editorial bemoans Phoenix's deficiencies in quality and worldclass stature. It says big is not better, better is better. That is a good point.
 
After reading the article, it makes me wonder what Greater Phoenix leaders really want to accomplish over the next decade. I look at the region and see many successes in the past decade, despite the growing dissatisfactions about wanting more.
 
I would be interested in seeing a more "appreciative" assessment of the regon's assets and accomplishments. I suspect some very good things are being overlooked in this quest to become the biggest and the best.
 
More here.