How Did You Spend Friday the 13th?

This past Friday was Friday the 13th.  Though some, especially those with friggatriskaidekaphobia, think of it only as a day for black cats and bad luck, for many it means a trip to Port Dover.
 
Since 1981 bikers have been gathering in this small picturesque town on the banks of Lake Erie.  For the past 5 years, so has my friend and photographer Renee Navarro.

Though she, like many other photogs, earns her living shooting portraits, weddings and live events, it was a trip to her parents’ that sparked her creativity and led to publishing her first book.

“My folks randomly moved out to Port Dover 5 or 6 years ago. The first year they were out there, I managed to catch the October Friday the 13th and I was absolutely hooked. And to be honest, I love shiny things and loud motorcycles. And Friday 13th totally caters to both.”

Says Renee “The people who ride out to Dover are from all walks of life. You’ll have the dentists and doctors and you’ll have the big burly guys who could kill you with a look. Those are my favourite guys. The guy in the attached photo was so proud to have me take his photo and talk about how he rebuilt his bike on his own. Talking to people like that, makes attending Friday 13th worthwile.”
 
So what’s the repeated appeal?

“Every Friday 13th is vastly different from the last. And so is the crowd!  People come out regardless of the season that Friday 13th falls. I’ve been in flash snowstorms in October, and it’s still been busy.”

You’ll have to wait till January, 2012 to get your next taste of the biker gathering.  Till then, check out Renee’s pictures.

Still, if you happen to be near Port Dover, stop by the Arbour for fries, perch and a “Golden Glow”, then check out the Lighthouse Festival Theatre where my friends Diana Coatsworth and Geoffrey Tyler are starring in the world premier of Norm Foster & Leslie Arden’s new musical “Ned Durango”.