Imagine living in a community larger than most cities in Alberta, yet retains the vibe of a down-home neighbourhood. That's Mill Woods in the southeastern part of Edmonton, which at 80,000 people, ranks as the third largest community in the province.

Originating as a major urban development in the 1970s, Mill Woods has blossomed into a major residential area that prides itself on its ethnic diversity and self-contained status. The Mill Woods Town Centre mall serves as the comunity's hub, while the Millbourne Shopping Centre and an assortment of plazas scattered throughout the area fulfil the shopping needs of local residents.

Recreation buffs take in the beauty of Mill Creek, numerous parkland areas and an assortment of artifical lakes in various districts, while golfers hit the links at the Mill Woods Golf Course and fitness fans flock to the Mill Woods Recreation Centre-featuring a unique wave pool.

Other amenities in the area include more than 40 schools-public and Catholic-a handful of movie theatres and multiplexes, the Grey Nuns Hospital, a neighbourhood campus of Grant MacEwan College and a public library.