ChloePark

By: Dana Mitchell, Communications & Outreach Intern

 

Sports 4 is a trusted footwear retailer that’s bringing its expertise and community-mindedness to the Glebe. 

 

For over forty years, Sports 4 resided in Ottawa’s downtown core at Bank Street and Slater Street. Along with their second location in College Square, the business is known for its welcoming atmosphere and specialized footwear services.  In 2023, after experiencing a decline in foot traffic, owner Jim Macfarlane made the difficult decision to close their downtown location and move to a new area.  

 

Sports 4 opened in the Glebe in Spring 2023, a transition, Macfarlane says, that has been overwhelmingly positive.  

 

“When I came here for the first time I was really impressed by the space,” says the owner. “I like that we’re on a corner across from one of my favourite Mexican restaurants, Feleena’s. I thought, this is meant to be, this is the perfect location.” 

 

Macfarlane started his career at the age of seventeen, working for a chain of stores in Montreal called Four Seasons. After moving to Ottawa, Macfarlane answered an ad in the Ottawa Citizen for part-time help at a similarly named business: Sports 4. He was told over the phone that the position was already filled; however, as he was hanging up, Macfarlane thought he heard something on the other end.  

 

“They told me to bring in my resume to keep on file for the future,” he says. “So, I brought it in, and I don’t know what I did, but they de-hired the original person and hired me instead. It’s cool because the phone was halfway to the wall and if I hadn’t grabbed it back, my whole life changes.” 

 

Once he graduated university, Macfarlane decided to switch career paths—against his parents’ wishes that he become an accountant—and took on a minority partnership in the business. In 2003, Macfarlane bought out his partner to become the sole owner of Sports 4. 

 

“I always loved the idea of working for myself and seeing the direct results of my efforts,” says Mafarlane. “It’s a very rewarding feeling. The more I put into it, the more satisfaction I get. Forty-one years later and I still love it.” 

 

This passion has contributed to the longevity of Sports 4 in the active-wear industry. The team’s knowledge of foot measurement, sizing, and functionality; along with their substantial catalog of shoe styles, has helped solidify their place as footwear specialists. 

 

“To me, it’s important in business these days to focus on something that you know you do well—that you find a niche,” says Macfarlane. “When you try to be everything to everybody, it’s never going to work. You have to be Sports 4, footwear specialists. That’s what we are.” 

 

While customers can shop online on the Sports 4 website, the business emphasizes the importance of in-person service. For Macfarlane, individualized consultations ensure that customers walk away with proper-fitting footwear, a change that can have countless benefits. 

 

“If you have sore feet, it affects everything: your knees, your back, and just your quality of life,” says the owner. “I know it seems like a small thing, but when you get the right shoe, it makes everything better.” 

 

Over the years, Sports 4 has had to adapt its products and services, especially given the demands of a digital, post-pandemic world. During covid, the store adopted virtual consultations and delivery services to meet changing safety regulations. One rented car and two flat tires later, Macfarlane managed to hand deliver 1,800 pairs of shoes across the city and even included seasonal touches like roses and easter eggs to help lift his customers’ spirits. The business owner says that he was grateful to connect with his community during such an isolating time. 

 

Today, Sports 4 continues this service on a smaller scale, offering next-day delivery for any online or phoned-in purchases. The business also enhances the community by supporting various running groups, charitable events, and the Footwear 4 Kids program, an Ottawa-based organization that donates gently used shoes to children in need. 

 

“That’s what I always tell my staff—yes, we’re a business, but we’re service oriented,” says Macfarlane. “We’re only selling people what they need and we’re hopefully improving their lives. That’s why we’ve been around for so long.” 

 

To learn more, visit the Sports 4 website or drop by their Glebe location at the corner of Bank Street and Second Avenue. 

Summer is the perfect time for kids to explore new interests, build skills, and make lifelong memories. This year, The Glebe is offering an array of fantastic summer camps hosted by local businesses, each designed to engage and inspire children in unique ways. From fashion and acting to art, robotics, and more, there’s a camp for every child’s passion. Here’s a closer look at what’s on offer:

Ottawa Acting Studio: Summer Camp – Summer on Stage!

From July 8-12, the Ottawa Acting Studio invites young actors aged 7-10 to join their Summer on Stage camp. Located in the heart of the Glebe, this camp offers a fun, creative, and supportive environment for budding actors. Kids will engage in various acting exercises, such as acting games and improv, which stimulate creativity and spontaneity. They will also work with scripts, developing their skills in preparation for a final performance. The camp culminates in a showcase for family and friends, giving every child a chance to shine. Held at the Ottawa Acting Studio on Bank Street, this camp is perfect for young thespians eager to step into the spotlight.

4Cats Summer Art Camps

At 4Cats Summer Art Camps, children aged 6-12 can immerse themselves in the world of art from 9 AM to 3 PM daily. This drop-off camp encourages independence and creativity. Kids will learn about famous artists and create art inspired by their styles and mediums. Each day features different activities, including painting, sculpture, printmaking, and drawing. Campers will engage in hands-on learning with experienced instructors, making art history come alive. This camp is perfect for young artists eager to explore their creativity and develop new skills.

Models International Management Fashion Camp

For tweens and teens who dream of the runway and the spotlight, the Fashion Camp by Models International Management is the ultimate summer experience. Aimed at ages 8-12 and 13-15, this camp is all about building confidence and discovering inner beauty. Campers will engage in activities such as runway walking and posing for photos to develop self-esteem and stage presence. They will learn about health, fitness, nutrition, makeup, hairstyling, and more, providing a well-rounded introduction to the fashion world. Creative projects like DIY hand scrubs, face masks, jewelry making, and t-shirt design keep the camp lively and interactive. Additionally, a field trip to Viens Moi Boutique offers insights into starting a clothing brand, while lunch at Cantina Gia adds a touch of culinary delight. Instructors provide a supportive environment, ensuring that each participant feels empowered to express themselves and discover their talents.

Summer Camps at GNAG

The Glebe Neighbourhood Activities Group (GNAG) offers a variety of summer camps for different age groups, blending fun, education, and adventure. From July 2^nd to August 30^th, GNAG has 9 weeks of programs located at the Glebe Community Center. Summer camps are filling up fast but there are still spots available in various programs across all 9 weeks. Available programs include Tennis for a variety of ages, Musical Theatre for grades 6-8, Magic Camp for grades 4-6, STEM programs for various ages, and programs that will take your campers on outdoor expeditions. Please check GNAG’s website or call them at  613-233-8713 to inquire about the most up to date availability

Kumon Summer Math and Reading Program

If you are looking for your child to gain an academic edge, consider enrolling them in the Kumon Math and Reading Program. At Kumon, your child will develop their math, reading, and writing skills while also building essential skills like confidence, time management, and independent learning. This program is an excellent way to set your kids up for success this fall and beyond by integrating structured learning into their daily summer routine. To make it even more enticing, enroll between June 1-30, 2024, to waive the Enrollment Fee of up to $80.

Businesses in The Glebe are offering a diverse array of opportunities for kids to explore their interests, build new skills, and make unforgettable memories. Whether your child is passionate about fashion, acting, art, robotics, sports, or academics, there’s a camp that will inspire and engage them this summer. Don’t wait – spots are filling up fast, so register today and give your child the gift of an amazing summer adventure!

In the heart of the Glebe, there’s a tradition that has been capturing the imagination of residents and bringing joy to the community for several years now. During the coldest time of year, a towering figure emerges, constructed entirely from the neighborhood’s snow. This iconic figure, known as Janus, has become a symbol of hope, joy, and community spirit during the winter months.

For Kent Woodall, the mastermind behind Janus and this year’s Snowphy Trophy winner, the journey began in January 2021, amidst the COVID-19 lockdown. “The pandemic was in its tenth month when the city received a significant amount of fluffy snow,” recalls Woodall. “Searching for any excuse to get some exercise, fresh air, and to socialize at a distance, the decision was clear – make a snowman!”

What started as a simple snowman quickly evolved into something extraordinary. Named Janus after the Roman god of abstract dualities, this snowman stands tall with two faces – one wearing a mask, symbolizing the challenges of the pandemic, and the other smiling, representing hope for the future.

Woodall’s dedication to Janus didn’t stop with its creation. For the past 5 years, he has carefully preserved a part of the snowman, his “heart,” to be used in the construction of the next year’s Janus. This tradition not only keeps Janus alive but also symbolizes the continuity of community spirit and resilience.

Janus quickly became a local celebrity, attracting visitors from far and wide. With its hat adorned with solar lights, Janus has been featured in news stories, including a notable appearance in the online edition of the New York Times.

Woodall’s commitment to Janus has not gone unnoticed. Nominated for the prestigious Snowphy Trophy by his neighbors Bob and Susan, Woodall was surprised and humbled by the recognition. “The nomination and award came as a complete surprise, and the recognition is humbling,” he says.

But for Woodall, the true reward lies in the joy and happiness that Janus brings to the community. “Most rewarding personally are all the interesting people who stop to talk and share a story about what Janus means to them personally – and the joy they get from seeing him,” he adds. “I had no idea something as simple as a snowman would have such a positive impact on so many individuals and the community.”

As the 2024 Snowphy Trophy winner, Kent Woodall’s dedication to building Janus embodies the spirit of the Glebe. His commitment to spreading joy, fostering community connections, and symbolizing hope during challenging times is truly commendable. And as Janus continues to stand tall year after year, he serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength of the Glebe community.

In addition to the Snowphy Trophy, Kent Woodall was awarded 4 tickets to watch the PWHL Ottawa and a $100 gift card to a Glebe business of his choice. He chose Capital Home Hardware to purchase supplies to help him build next year’s snowman.

In the words of Woodall himself, “Janus has become an icon in the Glebe, bringing joy to all who encounter him. And for me, personally, the experience of building such an iconic snowman year after year is truly rewarding.”

Submission Deadline: Monday, March 25, 2024, at 12 p.m.

Contact: chloepark@intheglebe.ca

The Glebe BIA is seeking a new mural submission for the 2024 mural installation. Artist and artist teams are invited to propose mural projects that will enrich the on-street experience in the neighbourhood.

The Glebe BIA has seen the installation of over 20 murals in the Glebe over the years and the goal this year is to support local artists, celebrate diversity and inclusion, deter graffiti, add vibrancy to our streetscape, and pay homage the Glebe.

Requirements & Guidelines:

• A Letter of Interest no more than two pages, explaining the artist’s or artist’s teams’ interest in the project, experience working on comparable projects, and a statement of artistic approach.
• A Resume no more than two pages, including artist training, professional experience, and public art commissions. If submitting as a team, a separate resume for each artist is required.
• One to three work samples (including title, year, location, and image) of your past or current art projects.
• A project name with a design concept sketch.
• An approximate budget for the project (note that commission is to be determined based on project scope once the location of the mural installation has been chosen).
• A maintenance plan for the project.
• Contact information.

Eligibility:

Designs with wording, advertisements or promotion for a business, product or viewpoint will not be chosen. Designs may not include any breach of intellectual property, trademarks, brands, or images of illegal activity.

Commission:

To be determined based on project scope once the location of the mural installation has been chosen.

Application:

Applications must be submitted by noon on Monday, March 25, 2024.

How to Submit:

Please email submissions and/or questions to Glebe BIA Programming & Events Manager, Chloe Park, at chloepark@intheglebe.ca.

In a community like the Glebe, where local businesses thrive and residents cherish their neighborhood, being part of events like Glebe Spree isn’t just about winning prizes—it’s about celebrating community spirit and supporting local commerce. Lisa Weinberger has emerged as the early-bird winner of Glebe Spree 2023. With a rich history as a Glebe resident, Lisa’s win serves as a testament to the enduring bond between residents and local businesses in this vibrant neighborhood.

A resident of the Glebe for 38 years until 2023, Lisa Weinberger has been deeply ingrained in the fabric of this vibrant neighborhood. When asked about her feelings upon learning of her early-bird win, Lisa expressed both joy and sentimentality. Moving out of the neighborhood last year after residing there for nearly four decades, winning the Glebe Spree felt like a heartfelt parting gift—a fitting farewell to a place she called home for so long.

Lisa’s winning ballot was drawn at Free Form Fitness, where she has trained with her personal trainer, Patrick, for several years. Daniel Moses, the manager at Free Form Fitness, shared insights into the essence of the Glebe and the significance of supporting local businesses. “The vibe in the Glebe is like no other community” he states, “It’s a small town in a large city. Everyone knows each other, says hi and is genuinely happy living/working there. They either walk or ride their bikes into our studio ready to conquer their workout and take on the rest of their lives. It’s been a joy to witness the growth in the community and being a staple here.”

For Lisa, ‘supporting local’ means “supporting businesses that support the community.” She understands the symbiotic relationship between residents and businesses, recognizing that supporting local enterprises ultimately strengthens the community as a whole.

As for her plans with the $2,500 shopping spree prize, Lisa remains open-minded. With her frequent visits to the neighbourhood, she knows she’ll have ample opportunities to explore and invest in local businesses, ensuring that her winnings benefit the community she holds dear.

Reflecting on Lisa’s win, it’s evident that her story encapsulates the essence of Glebe Spree—a celebration of community, support for local businesses, and the joy of belonging to a neighborhood that feels like home.

Many thanks again to our title sponsor of Glebe Spree, McKeen Metro Glebe. We’d also like to thank all our participating merchants, our Any Day Prize participants, and every single member of the Glebe and beyond who play along every season and make Glebe Spree a continued success year after year.

After much anticipation, The Glebe BIA is thrilled to introduce the 2023 Glebe Spree Winners! Long-time Glebe residents Andrew Balfour and Barbara Steele are set to embark on a spectacular $10,000 shopping spree in the heart of The Glebe. As dedicated supporters of local businesses, the couple is very excited and grateful for this unexpected win, “It’s a great community initiative and a wonderful surprise to win. Thank you to all the merchants and the BIA” says Andrew.

Glebe Spree has become a holiday staple in the community, encouraging Ottawans to support local businesses during the month of December. For every $150 spent in the Glebe, participants can submit one ballot. In 2022, Glebe Spree saw 23,000 ballot entries, an equivalent of $3.4 million spent at Glebe businesses! Although the official ballot count for 2023 is not yet available, The Glebe BIA Programs and Events Manager, Chloe Park, expects the numbers to be even bigger this year. “We love seeing such high participation levels in Glebe Spree through the ballot entries, as it shows an engagement of not only Ottawa residents but also of our beloved local businesses,” says Park. “It really creates a sense of community within the Glebe.”

This year’s winning ballot was drawn at The Glebe Meat Market, a business Andrew and Barbara have been patronizing for decades. Andrew expressed his admiration for the personal service and high-quality, locally sourced meat provided by Steph and the staff. “When we host family or friends for dinner, the meat is always a highlight,” he added.

The Glebe, often described as a small town within a big city, holds a special place in the couple’s hearts. They know many of their neighbours just as well as the merchants in the area. From Dan at Metro Music to Tori at The Rowan, Caren at Von’s Bistro to Nabil at PC Perfect, Andrew and Barbara have established connections with the local businesses that make The Glebe a true community. “There are so many great shops and services in The Glebe” Andrew remarks, “really, everything we need and want is pretty much here.”

For Andrew, the winnings mean more opportunities to enjoy barbecues with quality meat from Glebe Meat Market, and perhaps some extra shopping at Glebe Trotters, Top of the World, or Stomping Ground. Barbara, on the other hand, has her eye on new glasses from Eyes in The Glebe and, of course, groceries to accompany the anticipated barbecues.

Darrell Cox, the Glebe BIA Executive Director, highlighted the significant impact of Glebe Spree on the local business community. “Since its inception in 2011, the Glebe Spree has generated over $43M in total spending, providing a huge economic boost to our retailers and restaurants,” he stated. The local couple’s win exemplifies the contest’s success in fostering community engagement and supporting local businesses. As Andrew and Barbara embark on their $10,000 shopping spree adventure, The Glebe community eagerly anticipates the positive impact their winnings will bring to local businesses. Glebe Spree continues to shine as a beacon of community spirit, encouraging residents to support and celebrate the unique charm of The Glebe.

Many thanks again to our title sponsor of Glebe Spree, McKeen Metro Glebe. We’d also like to thank all our participating merchants, our Any Day Prize participants, and every single member of the Glebe and beyond who play along every season and make Glebe Spree a continued success year after year.