Once considered a bit of a blight on Calgary's landscape, the emerging East Village is fast becoming a sought-after destination for both residential living and entertainment seekers.

Here's some photos throughout the last few years of it's evolution.

From National Hockey League stars Eric, Jordan and Marc Staal who played on a backyard rink in their Ontario farmyard - not to mention the hundreds, if not thousands, of other professional hockey players - to the youngest of skaters eagerly watching their parents prepare the ice for them, the backyard rink is as Canadian as the game of hockey itself.

Here's some tips on turning your backyard into a icy mecca:

28.7%: In February, condo apartment sales increased 28.7 per cent over January

10: The Provincial government promises 10 new schools for Calgary suburbs

28,017: Net migration to Calgary in 2014, according to the 2014 Civic Census, was 28,017 additional residents

2,242: Auburn Bay saw the most additional residents with 2,242 according to the Civic Census

Making realistic (garden) resolutions for the new year

If you want to build the best garden, grow the best food and raise the best petunias this summer, now is the time to set growing goals in motion.

But whatever you do – don't compare yourself to the neighbours.

"You should see Marinette's garden," my helpful husband points out one day last fall. "It is just beautiful."

Yes, it is – no contest. I've seen pretty pots on her doorstep and I am familiar with her weed-free gardens, but my efforts are not in the same league.

A 'fantastic' year for Calgary businesses despite dropping energy prices

Despite plummeting oil prices, commercial activity in Calgary remained robust throughout 2014, creating what many industry analysts are calling one of the most competitive markets in Canada heading into the new year.

"I think it's been a fantastic year despite the last quarter of the challenging energy prices. We had some great revenue streams that were available for the first three quarters of the year," said Calgary Chamber president and CEO Adam Legge.

"Building projects are strong. You see some of the new towers going up in the downtown. You've got a lot of major infrastructure projects.