Calgary youths taking the initiative to create more eco-friendly communities could receive funding up to $1,000 through The Jack Leslie Youth Environmental Grant now accepting applications.

The grant is named for former Calgary Mayor Jack Leslie, for the positive impact he had both on the city itself as well as the environment, and is awarded to those whose projects are located in Calgary; directly benefit the local environment and are planned and implemented by youth.

A report by Altus Group suggests, while the apartment sector will be driving most of the overall moderation in starts in 2013, Calgary is the only market expected to escape a downturn.

Calgary apartment starts are expected to reach 4,100 in 2013 compared to 4,000 in 2012, the only increase in major centres covered by the Altus Group report. By 2014, however, that number is expected to drop to 3,600.

Single-detached starts in Calgary for January increased 31 per cent compared to January 2012 said the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) in its Housing Now report.

"New single-detached construction in Calgary remains robust as new inventories and active listings in the competing resale market have declined and rental vacancies remain relatively low," stated the report.

With a population that has more than doubled since 2001, the Town of Okotoks with its rolling foothills and mountain views is a great place to call home.

"Growing up in Okotoks was great. It was amazing to see the way the town has changed in the last two decades, not only in population but (also) in terms of amenities," said Katie Turner, who called Okotoks home for 17 years.

As the first quarter of 2013 rolls along, Calgary's condominium market is thriving.

"With less selection in the singlefamily market, particularly at the lower price ranges, more consumers are turning to the condominium market," said Ann-Marie Lurie, CREB® chief economist.

Since the age of three when she'd question her parents on when the garden carrots would be ready to eat, Donna Balzer has been passionate about how things grow. Authour, award winning journalist, columnist with CBC radio and the Calgary Herald and blogger (GardenGuru.net); Balzer took some time out of her busy schedule to share her love of gardening including which plant she wishes she could grow here in Calgary.