Port Dover Maple Leaf Y FIFTH C T IF
O
CU NSE TIVE
Volume 15, Number 1
Friday, September 13, 2013
I've been drivin' all night, My hand's wet on the wheel. There's a voice in my head, That drives my heel Radar Love - Golden Earring
F
2
Friday the 13th in Port Dover
September 2013
“Run for the Wall” is American pilgrimage for vets, POWs, MIAs a 2010 Honda Goldwing and said it was the perfect bike for his latest long distance ride. Ray rode to the west coast of California with a friend in May of this year where they joined a large contingent of motorcyclists to ride the “Run for the Wall”, an American pilgrimage for veterans and family members of POWs and MIAs of the Viet Nam War. Leaving Los Angeles May 12, they arrived in Washington DC for the 25th Anniversary of “Rolling Thunder”, an annual Memorial Day event.
They encountered every kind of weather on their 12,000 km journey from east to west and then back. Ray, who was a member of the Canadian Airborne Battalion, said there were about 250,000 participants in this year’s “Rolling Thunder” event. Ray, along with nine fellow 1300 Hour Club members, also did the “Run to the North Wall” this year. There is a Viet Nam Memorial in Assumption Park, Riverside Drive, Windsor, Ontario to commemorate Canadians Killed in Action or Missing in Action in the Viet Nam War.
10,000 km a year
Ray Barrette of Port Dover on his 2010 Honda Goldwing By Donna McMillan Ray Barrette, a resident of Port Dover and also a member of the 1300 Hour Club, is
a young 70-year-old who has been riding for the past 45 years. He’s been from Newfoundland to Vancouver and down south to Florida. He rides
Les Greenlaw lives on the east side of Port Dover. An electrician by trade, he has a custom built Harley that he has owned for the past 13 years. He doesn’t like to drive in rainy weather if he can help it. He chalks up 8 to 10,000 kms per year. Since 1988 Les has been attending Friday the 13th events to meet with friends and like-minded people. By Bob Miles
Friday the 13th in Port Dover
September 2013 3
RIDE TO LIVE, LIVE TO RIDE... BIKERS SHARE THEIR STORIES Doug Taylor Doug Taylor from Scotland joined Marie Lacoste for a ride to Port Dover on his 1995 FLH Harley-Davidson. Taylor has been riding for 32 years. When asked where he enjoys to go for motorcycle rides he said, “Ontario. Wher-
Marie Locoste Marie Lacoste from Scotland, Ontario recently rode to Port Dover on her 1999 Softail with unique customization. Lacoste has been riding for more than 18 years. “The freedom, the fresh air. I love it. It’s
totally my life.” She quickly added “other than Doug” -- see at right. “Like it says on the helmet, ‘ride to live, live to ride.’ Every woman needs a bike, needs to ride. That peace of mind, it’s changed my world. I just get on and forget about the world.” By Joceylnn Blacker
ever the wind blows us. It all depends on the weather and roads.” Taylor’s all time favourite trip was “Ranger Lake. North of Sault Ste. Marie. It’s nice through there, just nice country. All up along Lake Superior is nice, all still ancient.” By Joceylnn Blacker
4
Friday the 13th in Port Dover
September 2013
The legend of Friday the 13th started on November 13, 1981 Port Dover’s Friday the 13th had its beginning in 1981. It began innocent enough in November, 32 years ago. The story goes that Chris Simons suggested to a few motorcycle buddies that they meet for a few beers at the Commer-
Chris Simons looks at bikes during Friday the 13th in December 2002.
cial Hotel (today known as Angelo’s of Dover). Word spread about the get-together so that Friday evening on November 13, 1981 about 25 guys showed up. They had a great time and someone suggested “let’s meet every month when there is a Friday the 13th.” More came to party in Port Dover on the next Friday the 13th. And, as they say, the rest is history. This event in September 2013 marks the 55th event over a span of 32 years since that first casual and friendly meeting in November 1981. It was in 1971 when George Simons gave his son Chris a Rupp minibike that he could never have imagined that gift would be the beginning of a life-long passion for bikes. Since that Rupp machine, Chris Simons has owned many motorcycles. He knows bikes inside out and front to back. At one time he operated a well-known bikeshop in Port Dover called “Bikers’ Delight”. This September, Friday the 13th is the 55th Biker Day in Port Dover. It is followed by the 56th event in December of this year and the 57th event in June 2014.
Sean Schlatman Sean Schlatman of Brantford visited on the long weekend with his 2007 Yamaha Road Star 1700.
“I enjoy the comfort, and the speed,” said Schlatman about what he liked the best about his model of motorcycle. Schlatman is planning on coming Port Dover Friday the 13th, 2013. By Joceylnn Blacker
Contact Alex or Anne Farkas - AMSOIL Direct Dealer
Telephone: 1-855-519-1529 Online Store: www.haldimandsyntheticoil.ca E-mail: haldsynoil@gmail.com
Friday the 13th in Port Dover
September 2013 5
FRIDAY 13TH
BUDWEISER MAIN STAGE ERIE BEACH PARKING LOT MAIN & WALKER STREET
11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
A view of some of the crowd last July along the main street of Port Dover.
Entertainment everywhere! People come to Port Dover’s Friday the 13th to meet friends, look at bikes, have a cold beer and be entertained. A number of beer tents are set up just for the day and all the bars and restaurants in town stock up and bring in extra staff. Port Dover Board of Trade and Port Dover Minor Hockey partner to stage the giant beer garden with live entertainment at the Budweiser Main Stage located on the parking lot at the corner of Main and Walker Streets. Details of entertainment in the ad on this page. Port Dover branch Royal Canadian Legion welcomes everyone to visit their location at 212 Market Street East all day for delicious Peameal Bacon on a Bun; Pickerel and Chips; entertainment by “Hog Wild” and a place to relax. See details on page 23. Port Dover Kinsmen Club have two beer gardens. Their Main Stage and beer garden
5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
3 Coloured Dog
After the Lounge
1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
8 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Purdy Durverts
Wednesday's Engine
3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
will be beside Port Dover Harbour Museum with a Kinsmen Park Stage also operating. Hot food will be available in the park cooked by Port Dover Scouts. Kinsmen also provide camping at Kinsmen Park with a courtesy shuttle to downtown Port Dover. Port Dover Lions Club has its entertainment stage and beer garden set up on Market Street west beside Lighthouse Festival Theatre. The service club also has camping at Silver Lake Park (St. Patrick Street) on Thursday and Friday nights. Restaurants and bars throughout town prepared for the large number of visitors with full staffs and full coolers. Some also expanded outdoors to serve more patrons with tents and entertainment. Fenwick Lions Club is selling raffle tickets on a Harley-Davidson CVO Ultra Classic Electra Glide in support of their community projects. Details in ad below.
Great Music NO COVER
Vagablond
10:30 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.
DRY COUNTY
Port Dover Minor Hockey
Community fundraiser organized by... BOARD OF TRADE
ALL PROCEEDS TOWARDS PORT DOVER MINOR HOCKEY & PORT DOVER BOARD OF TRADE " ... working together for our community"
September 21 , 2013 st
1 Prize: Harley-Davidson® CVO™ Ultra Classic® Electra Glide® st
Proceeds to: Lions Foundation of Canada Alzheimer Society Niagara Foundation Lions Community Projects
6
Friday the 13th in Port Dover
September 2013
Moment of Silence observed for fallen riders so many riders each year. Contributions to the cost of the stone memorial with its inscriptions and the planting of a silver maple beside it were made by Norfolk County and Sleeman Breweries of Guelph. In 2011 the first Dedication Service was attended by the Christian Motorcycle Association, many of whom returned this year for the event. This is a national event held the third Sunday of November each year. Dave Stewart said that while road safety education is constant and ongoing, statistics still show that most motorcyclists are killed by cars turning into their pathway that simply didn’t see them.
Many members of the Christian Motorcycle Association attended a moment of silence at the monument honouring motorcyclists killed on the highway. This is a national event held the third Sunday of November.
A
short dedication service and a moment of silence were held on November 18, 2012 at Kinsmen Park in Port Dover. In 2010 a stone memorial was erected and a silver maple tree was planted in honour of fallen motorcycle riders as a reminder to all that share the roads to practice safe riding and safe driving.
Holly Ralph, Director of the Canadian Motorcycle Association stated that the association has been in existence for 66 years now. They are actively involved with all facets of motorcycling (racing, touring, training) while heavily promoting safety and accident prevention. Dave Stewart, spokesperson for the event, said the event came about in 2010
2014 Yamaha Bolt Conquer Road. A new trend is emerging in the motorcycle world, with a "back to basics" approach. Designers and custom builders are stepping back to a time when the mechanical beauty of a motorcycle was highlighted in its styling. The Bolt R-Spec's simple styling, compact layout, V-Twin power and natural riding position combine to offer an incredibly fun riding experience.
DEMO ONE TODAY!
working with Transport Canada in a nationwide awareness program for road safety. It was decided that a “focal point for riders” would be impactful, a specific place where riders from across the country could stop, reflect and re-new their intention to ride responsibly and safely. Port Dover was an obvious first choice due to the Friday 13th event that attracts
Mark Chapman, Woodstock, Bryan Ferwerda, Woodstock, Brian Seeley, Port Rowan, Mahlon Gingerich, Baden, and Harry Schut (kneeling) participated in the Memorial Service for Fallen Riders.
BRASS POLE MOTORCYCLE ACCESSORIES BRASS POLE RIDING GEAR > > > > > >
LADIES' JEANS T-SHIRTS LADIES' BOY SHORTS HOODIES LADIES' POUCHES FAARKEN BIKER STIRRUPS AND BOOT LICKERS
(on Main Street beside Esso Gas Bar)
Stop by on Friday the 13th - Free Coffee & Donuts Hours: Monday-Thursday 8:00a.m.-5:30p.m. • Friday: 8:00a.m.-7:00p.m. • Saturday: 8:00a.m.-3:00p.m. SERVICE DEPARTMENT CLOSED ON SUNDAYS
McKEE SPORT & GARDEN LTD. 950 JAMES STREET, DELHI, ON 519-582-3100 www.McKeeSport.ca
DISTRIBUTORS OF OUR OWN LINE OF QUALITY CORDURA JACKETS AND BELTLESS CHAPS • LOTS OF RHINESTONES • ALCHEMY JEWELLERY • DARKSIDE CLOTHING
tish@brasspolema.com
https://brasspolema.com
Friday the 13th in Port Dover
Welcome to Friday
This is the 55th Friday the 13th
find us at www.facebook.com/ Fridaythe13thPortDover live streaming at www.ustream.tv/channel/ Main-Street-Port-Dover
Upcoming
Friday the 13ths
Hello, and welcome to the first of two Friday the 13th events here in Port Dover in this year of 13. We don’t know what December 13th will bring, but there are sure to be diehards here. The next and only one for 2014 is in June. That should be a great Biker Day too. Many service clubs such as the Port Dover Lions, Port Dover Kinsmen, Port Dover Board of Trade, Port Dover Legion come together to make this day run smoothly and safely for you. Please give generously at the PD13 “By Donation” booth on Main Street. It helps pay for things like washrooms, set-up and clean-up as well as the helpful Rotary Club volunteers assisting with parking. If you have any comments or suggestions please visit and ‘like’ us at www.facebook.com/ Fridaythe13thPortDover. You can also find a link there for a live-streaming camera where you can view Main Street during the day or look at the videos after the day; maybe you’ll see yourself or friends. Have a great day and we will see you in December 2013 for the 56th consecutive Friday the 13th.
Lynn Sonnenberg Publication Co-ordinator
the 13th in Port Dover
Even from the air, it is hard to visualize the number of people and bikes that come to Port Dover on Friday the 13th. This photo looks north with Main Street to the right. The main beach area is seen in the lower left.
Police seek public’s help solving fatal 2011 motor vehicle collision The Ontario Provincial Police, Norfolk County Detachment Crime Unit continues to investigate a fail to remain, fatal motor vehicle collision that occurred on Cockshutt Road just outside of downtown Port Dover following a Friday the 13th event in May 2011. On Saturday, May 14, 2011 at approximately 5:17 a.m., 20-year-old Chad Everets, of Port Hope, Ontario, was struck by an unknown vehicle on Cockshutt Road. The unknown vehicle never stopped and left the scene. The Norfolk County OPP Crime Unit is reminding the public of this investigation and if anyone has any information to con-
~ OVER • FINANCING AVAILABLE •
September 2013 7
tact the Ontario Provincial Police at 1-888310-1122 or their nearest police authority. “The OPP are currently following up on information provided by the public, however someone in the community has knowledge of this collision and we need them to have the courage to come forward.” comments Inspector Zvonko Horvat, Norfolk County OPP Detachment Commander. Anyone with information regarding this incident should immediately contact the Ontario Provincial Police at 1-888-310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, you may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-2228477 (TIPS) or leave an anonymous online message at www.helpsolvecrime.com
100 IN STOCK ~
CANADA'S LARGEST SELECTION OF PRE-OWNED HARLEYS
RobinsonMotorcycle.com
519-825-4222 Wheatley, ON Since1958
8
Friday the 13th in Port Dover
September 2013
Friends get together for early September ride to Port Dover with a good group.” Dee Graves on a Yamaha R6 has been riding motorcycles for one and a half years. This year will be his first Port Dover Friday the 13th. “I’m just interested in seeing other rides. Get some cross reference, see what they’re riding. What they like better, and why. Hear some stories,” said Graves. Graves wishes to make a ride from one end of route 66 to the other, having been inspired by the lore and music surrounding the highway.
James Abbott on his Honda CBR 965RR Three friends James Abbott of Woodstock, Dee Graves of London and Connor Beachan of Ingersoll had visited Port Dover on the long weekend Sunday as a test run for the upcoming Friday the 13th. James Abbott on a 2003 Honda CBR 954 RR has been a riding for the last two years but has been into motorcycles since he was younger. Abbott was first attracted to motorcycling because of the look and speed of the bikes. “I like that you can go anywhere. Being on the road and feeling free. It’s a good turn on and it’s nice to ride
Connor Beacham on his 2010 Kawasaki 2K 14 Connor Beacham rode his 2010 Kawasaki 2K 14. He has been riding for two years. “I saw them on the road and wanted to try it. My dad was into it too. He still rides.” Beacham is planning on attending Friday the 13th. “I’m hoping on meeting new people and going for a good ride. I’m going to see what it’s like and I hope that they have a good turn out.”
Dee Graves on his Yamaha R6
2013 Vulcan® 1700 Vaquero® Kawasaki's first bagger model follows a wide-and-low concept, its design flowing from the front to the rear of the bike. Along with its hard, sporty image, the Vulcan 1700 Vaquero is loaded with high-grade cruising essentials.
Stop by on Friday the 13th - Free Coffee & Donuts Celebrating
39 YEARS
Mc an
K Spee
d Ga Ga rd
en
ort Ltd
.
eeort p cK S en
rd
OF SERVICE
M
d
an
Ga
d.
Lt
McKee Sport
Hours: Monday-Thursday 8:00a.m.-5:30p.m. Friday: 8:00a.m.-7:00p.m. Saturday: 8:00a.m.-3:00p.m. SERVICE DEPARTMENT CLOSED ON SUNDAYS
Let the good times roll™
and Garden Ltd.
www.McKeeSport.ca
950 James St., Delhi 519•582•3100
By Joceylnn Blacker
Friday the 13th in Port Dover
A PERSONAL STORY OF FRIDAY THE 13th
Today marks the first time I am riding to the event “What you get by achieving your goals is not as important as what you become by achieving your goals.” Henry David Thoreau By KimberleeAnna Taplay (aka KAT) of Brantford
I
don’t know if I ever really believed that the day would actually arrive. So much planning and so much preparation! And now that I have her, I’m more than just a little bit intimidated at the thought of how much we have to learn about each other. Full circle. I’ve got my wings. For those who don’t ride a motorcycle, talking about one as if it were an actual person must seem rather odd. Those who do ride? They understand. Although ‘Ruby’ (a 2007 Yamaha VStar 650 Custom) has only been with me since the end of May, her presence has changed my life significantly. She represents a
dream articulated, hard work and dedication undertaken, and a goal achieved. She is a visual reminder – a glorious, ruby-red and chrome reminder – that no dream is too silly, too strange, or too unattainable. The bottom line is that I’m a curvy and ample, shy, blonde single mom of two who doesn’t think of herself in the most adventurous or flattering of terms. Did I honestly think at the beginning of this journey I began in earnest in 2011 would find me possessing a motorcycle licence and owning my very own motorcycle? No. I have had more than a few strange looks and a lot of questions from people (especially the ones who know me) along the way. I’ve even questioned myself when it came to whether or not this was an honest-to-goodness fulfillment of an unspoken bucket-list wish or simply a desire to find a way to fill my time now that I am an almost empty-nester. I’ve come to the conclusion that it’s actually a little bit of both. Nothing wrong with that, is there? I’m no stranger to Friday the Thirteenth celebrations, but today marks the very first time I am riding to the event. Excited beyond reason and scared beyond belief; yep, that just about sums it up as far as today goes. And, if I am to be completely honest, I’d have to admit that I’m also feeling more than just a little bit thankful and in awe of the men and women in this ‘world’ who have (for the most part) been so welcoming, patient, kind, helpful and inclusive. From encouraging me along to educating me about everything from ‘The Code’ to how to make Ruby even more my own, this newly adopted family of mine has been the greatest gift and surprise out of this whole process. There’s an old saying that says your universe expands exponentially with every brave new world you conquer. Yes, there may be the occasional dragon to slay, but there are also kingdoms (and back roads) to explore, chances to take and road trips to plan. It’s the stuff of which fairy tales are made, actually. I’m reading one now. It begins: Once upon a time, there was a KAT with wings… KimberleeAnna Taplay (aka KAT) is a new rider and someone who isn’t too embarrassed to admit that she sneaks out to her garden shed to whisper ‘goodnight’ to a sleeping ‘Ruby’ on occasion. You can reach Kimberlee at kattales@rogers.com If you have a personal story to share in a future publication, please send it to fridaythe13th@portdovermapleleaf.com
September 2013 9
"Refer someone you know to someone you trust"
LINDA RAMAGE
KRISTA KITCHEN
Sales Representative
Sales Representative
519-865-9800
CELL e-mail: linda-ramage@coldwellbanker.ca
519-410-0675
CELL e-mail:krista-kitchen@coldwellbanker.ca
217 MAIN STREET, PORT DOVER, ON N0A 1N0
www.coastlinerealty.ca www.wholesomepickins.ca
We sell fruits, veggies, meat, cheese, and our own baking.
Come Visit Us Today. 500 Church Street E, Delhi, ON • 519-582-1114 We are currently open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. We are picking Raspberries and Fresh Corn daily. As well, we have some of Norfolk's sweetest Ever-Bearing Strawberries. Our bakery is fired up and there is a great selection of items baked fresh daily! If you would like a custom order, please call 519-582-1114.
COME VISIT US TODAY!
101A Queensway E, Simcoe • 519-428-8090 www.bachmannlaw.ca
SPECIALIZING IN CUSTOM MADE
• HAND RAILINGS • GATES • FENCES WE DO POWDER PAINTING 4788 Hwy. #3 R.R. #5 Simcoe, ON N3Y 4K6
519-428-9980
10
Friday the 13th in Port Dover
September 2013
On the Fringe/Destination 13 ready for huge crowds signs this year will highlight “The Tradition Continues” and “In the Wind”, showing the wind turbines that now stand at Port Dover’s Highway 6 entranceway. Elaina also has some designs in sweat> Continued on next page
On The Fringe shop on Main Street in Port Dover is a “must see” for many visitors to Friday the 13th. By Donna McMillan With custom designed Friday 13th tshirts, unique blinging on everything from chaps to jackets, hot new knee chaps and state-of-the-art cordura vests that are
very popular in the U.S. right now, On the Fringe and Destination 13 owner/designer Elaina Pring is ready for the huge crowds she is predicting will be in Port Dover for September’s special day. Early in September at the 225 Main
Street store, staff were busy stocking shelves with Elaina’s custom designed Friday 13th t-shirts, all nine of them. Artwork focuses on everything from the Port Dover Lighthouse and Ghost Rider to Destination 13 and the Eagle. Two new de-
Jacqui Plonka of Port Dover is pictured here with a cordura motorcycle jacket.
Friday the 13th in Port Dover
September 2013 11
‘On the Fringe” is a destination shop for visitors from all over North America
Elaina Pring, owner of On the Fringe and Destination 13, is pictured here with a vest and signature leather chaps which has been decorated with bling by the designer.
> From previous page shirts and of course, the ever popular signature patches will be out front and centre for the Friday 13th event. Elaina has lots of vests and jackets in cordura fabric, which she noted is very big at her Daytona store in the States right now. The twill and denim material, known for its durability and resistance to abrasions, also serves as a great canvas for Elaina’s sequin and rhinestone bling artwork. Leather chaps, bustiers, jackets, hats and purses are also being blinged up for the many Friday 13th visitors. All the blinging is done at the Port Dover shop by Elaina. “I sit for hours and hours doing designs”, she told The Maple Leaf newspaper. “I also had some help from my sister this year”. Leather knee high chaps, which can be combined with jeans or leather shorts, are also popular this year, Elaina told the Maple Leaf. For crotch rocket riders, On the Fringe/ Destination 13 also carries a colourful array of mesh woven Doc’s Motorcycle jackets in orange, green, blue and red. The store, which will be a destination stop for visitors from all over Canada and the U.S., will be open Thursday, September
12 from 9 a.m. – 10 or 11 p.m., Friday, September 13 from 8 a.m. – 10 or 11 p.m. and Saturday, September 14 from 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Jacqui Plonka of Port Dover works at On the Fringe/Destination 13 pictured here with leather shorts and hot new knee chaps that are available in the 225 Main St. store.
SERVICE AND CUSTOMIZING FOR ALL BRANDS
www.theshop.ca
HARLEY-DAVIDSON • SUZUKI • YAMAHA HONDA • KAWASAKI • TRIUMPH • VICTORY CHECK OUT OUR NEW WEBSITE! ALSO, FOLLOW US ON
• V-Star 1100 Remote Oil Filter Kits • Floorboard / Footpeg Extension • Custom Fat Tire Kits • Custom Fabrication • Airbrushing and Custom Paint & Much, Much More
... y b p Authorized Dealer of Dro e Your Ballistic Lithium Motorcycle Batteries Hav ed t s e els T E b i c Multiple Award Winning Custom Shop De or FRE f
Your Source for All Your Motorcycle Needs
427 Speers Rd. Unit 9, Oakville, ON 1-888-842-2123 or 905-842-2123 2240 Long Lake Road, Sudbury, ON
www.MotorcycleEnhancements.com
12
Friday the 13th in Port Dover
September 2013
INSTANT CASH UPON DELIVERY!!
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC!
Ryan Demoor Ryan Demoor from Delhi, Ontario stated that his favourite place to ride is on the race track. He has been racing for three years at the Toronto Motorsports Park and Grand Bend Motorplex. Demoor plans on attending this year’s Friday the 13th on his bike, a 2004 ZX-6R Kawasaki from London Ontario. Last year Demoor competed at the Dunlop Cup and placed 5th. By Joceylnn Blacker
DON’T THROW IT IN THE TRASH, GET PAID CA$H! Aluminum Batteries BBQ’s Bikes Brake Drums Brass Cars/Vehicles Compressors Copper Dryers Duct Parts Eaves Troughs Electric Motors Engines Farm Equipment
Fridges Heater Grates Hot Water Tanks Lawn Chairs Lawn Tractors Radiators Railings Rims Rotors Siding Stainless Steel Stoves Trailers Transmissions Washing Machines
If its metal, we take it!
WE SELL USED
AUTO PARTS CONVENIENT LOCATION WITH FAIR & HONEST PRICES 1071 Concession 11, TWN RD Waterford, Ontario N0E 1Y0 Receiving Scrap: Mon-Fri: 8am-3:45pm 7 7 Saturdays: 8am-11:45am OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
East of Cockshutt Rd., North of Hwy #3 10 Min Northeast of Simcoe Claude Maurice has created this beautiful handcarved wooden piece of art. It was on display at last year’s Friday the 13th and attracted large crowds of admirers. Claude plans to be in the Tim Horton’s parking lot this year to show the new additions to the piece since last year and explain his style and technique.
METAL RECYCLING
The Mayor of Fun!! Visit www.everythingbeanre.com order his book. Or you can find him on Facebook
Call for Directions
519-443-7999
www.jlmrecycling.com
Bean're loves Canada!
He just left the Wharf Rat Rally in Nova Scotia. Let's encourage him to visit Port Dover in June 2014!
Friday the 13th in Port Dover
September 2013 13
Hogtown Cycles in Lucan specializes in pre-owned Harleys By Eric Nixon, Hayter-Walden Publications
W
hen you have a passion for something, you might as well just go for it. That’s definitely the case with Mike Koricina and Teresa Burns, Harley-Davidson lovers and owners of Hogtown, a shop in Lucan that specializes in preowned Harleys, along with chrome parts, accessories, clothing, and just about anything else you might need for your dream bike. Koricina was running a heavy truck/
auto repair business for the past eight years and selling bikes as a sideline. Burns worked full-time in hospital administration. But those “day jobs” just couldn’t compete with their love of Harleys. Eventually, they both decided that opening a storefront location was the best solution. And, so far, it’s paying off very nicely. They’re overwhelmed by the response they’ve received since opening. Customers have come from as far north as Owen Sound and from all over Southwestern Ontario, too. Last Christmas, before the store even
opened, Koricina had already arranged to ship a bike all the way to Cochrane. Burns says they’re located in a perfect location geographically and the feedback they’ve been getting so far has been phenomenal. Since they’re avid riders themselves, Koricina and Burns designed the store to reflect their own interests – and those of fellow bikers. As Koricina says, “We tried to design it like a bike shop we would want to stop at when we’re on our travels. Burns added, “we have the leather couches and we’ve got the bar stools. Just a little more comfortable.” About 95% of the pre-owned bikes that Hogtown stocks are Harleys and they try to keep about 25-30 in stock, although they’re adding more inventory all the time. In addition to sales, Hogtown also takes care of all their customers’ service and parts needs, even for non-Harley bikes. “Plus, we have our own t-shirts, which is pretty big in the biker world,” adds Burns. “A lot of bikers will come by and they want a t-shirt from the dealership.” Their Main Street location in Lucan is also part of what makes Hogtown unique. As Burns notes: “One thing about the building. It’s kind of a unique story coming in here. All the pegboards were already up because it was an old hardware store – for
46 years it was a family-owned hardware store. It’s got character. It’s a landmark.” Working with the Lucan Area Heritage and Donnelly Museum, they’re hoping to acquire 25-30 photos of the building from the old era and put them up around the store, helping to Mike Koriciana preserve the building’s history. If you’re a bike lover, you’ll definitely want to make the trip to Hogtown. With their commitment to customer service and promise to always exceed your expectation. It’s the perfect excuse to check them out. As they say, we love motorcycles, the people who ride them and the places Teresa Burns we see on these machines. “Put something powerful between your legs.” Come see us at Hogtown today.
14
Friday the 13th in Port Dover
September 2013
This panoramic photo by Earl Hartlen (www.earlhartlen.com) shows a portion of the crowd moving along lower Main Street at last July’s Friday the 13th event.
Simcoe 1/2 Mile races today at Norfolk County fairgrounds Friday the 13th brings thousands of bikers to Port Dover and the “Simcoe Half Mile” motorcycle races to the Norfolk County fairgrounds -- just a short ride from Port Dover. This is a new event sponsored by Flat Track Canada. The goal of Flat Track Canada is to promote the sport of flat track motorcycle racing in Canada. As is frequently noted, flat track is the oldest form of motorcycle competition. Flat Track racing was very popular in Canada in the 1960s, 70s and early 80s. It subsequently suffered a slight decline in popularity. Flat Track’s ultimate objective is to reclaim the former glory of the sport. Below is a detailed schedule of events. on Friday, Sept. 13. There is camping available through the weekend. All youths will be racing on the big track. 8:00 AM Registration Open 11:30 AM Riders Meeting 11:45 AM Practice 1:15 PM Youth Heats 1:40 PM Track Prep 2:00 PM Round 1 Heat Races ATV Open Heat 1 Open Amateur Heat 1 Open Expert Heat 1 D2 Speedway D1 Speedway Vet 250cc 3:45 PM Track Prep 4:00 PM Opening Ceremonies 4:15 PM Round 2 Heat Races -- ATV Open Heat 1; Open Amateur Heat 1; Open Expert Heat 1; D2 Speedway; D1 Speedway; Vet; 250cc 5:00 PM Track Prep 5:10 PM Youth Finals -- ATV Youth Final; 50 Chain Final; 50cc Shaft Final; 65cc Final; 85cc Final 5:50 PM LCQ 6:10 PM FINALS Vet; 250cc; ATV Open; Open Amateur; D2 Speedway; D1 Speedway; Open Expert For more information on the races and Flat Track Canada, visit their website at www.flattrackcanada.com
Friday the 13th in Port Dover
September 2013 15
All roads lead to Dover every Friday the 13th
Joan Bowley Joan Bowley from Fort Erie rode in on her 2009 Victory Vision to enjoy the sights and sounds of the Port Dover downtown. Bowley has been riding for over 20 years. “When I was younger I lived in an area that was conductive to great motorcycle rides.” In 1996 Bowley joined the Motor Maids, one of North America’s oldest and longest
run women’s motorcycle associations. The Motor Maids have over 1,200 members and hold annual conventions. Bowley is looking forward to attending the special 2015, 75th anniversary convention being held in Moncton, New Brunswick. “I love the sense of independence, freedom, and empowerment. It’s like flying with all the sensation of being on the planet. The experience in a car, it’s totally different. You’re in a cage, with a car.”
Port Dover has become the “go to” place every Friday the 13th for bikers and everyone who enjoys looking at bikes. To say the event attracts people from everywhere is no exaggeration. The bike at left was seen at the last Friday the 13th event with a message for everyone to read “Victoria BC to Port Dover 4480 km”. Bikes come from all over Ontario and border states of the USA to every event.
By Joceylnn Blacker
Peak Powersports 4325 Harvester Rd., Unit #12 Burlington, ON L7L 5M4 905.681.7270 VICTORYMOTORCYCLES.COM *THIS IS A LIMITED-TIME OFFER THAT IS VALID FOR THE PURCHASE OF SELECTED QUALIFYING MODELS AND IS SUBJECT TO CREDIT-APPROVAL FROM TD AUTO FINANCE® (TDAF) ON QUALIFIED PURCHASES FINANCED DURING THIS PROGRAM. OFFER MAY NOT BE COMBINED WITH CERTAIN OTHER OFFERS, IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE, AND MAY BE EXTENDED OR TERMINATED WITHOUT FURTHER NOTICE. SEE PARTICIPATING RETAILERS FOR COMPLETE DETAILS AND CONDITIONS. MONTHLY PAYMENT AND COST OF BORROWING WILL VARY DEPENDING ON AMOUNT BORROWED AND DOWN PAYMENT/TRADE. MINIMUM AMOUNT TO FINANCE IS $5,000. EXAMPLE: $7,500 FINANCED AT 1.99% OVER 36 MONTHS = 36 MONTHLY PAYMENTS OF $214.79 WITH A COST OF BORROWING OF $232.44 AND A TOTAL OBLIGATION OF $7,732.44. **THE FIVE-YEAR WARRANTY IS AVAILABLE ON NEW 2011 THROUGH 2013 VICTORY® MODELS. OFFER IS VALID ONLY IN THE U.S. AND CANADA AND DOES NOT APPLY TO PRIOR PURCHASES. FIVE-YEAR WARRANTY CONSISTS OF 12 MONTHS’ FACTORY WARRANTY, PLUS 48 MONTHS’ POLARISTAR® POWER PROTECTION ESC. SUBJECT TO $50 DEDUCTIBLE, NO MILEAGE LIMITATION. SEE DEALER FOR DETAILS. REBATES VARY BY MODEL AND MODEL YEAR. VICTORY OR POLARIS® DEALERSHIP EMPLOYEES ARE NOT ELIGIBLE FOR THIS OFFER. MUST PURCHASE A 2011 THROUGH 2014 VICTORY MODEL BETWEEN JULY 30, 2013 AND SEPTEMBER 30, 2013. OFFER MUST BE REDEEMED BY SEPTEMBER 30, 2013. VICTORY AND VICTORY MOTORCYCLES® ARE REGISTERED TRADEMARKS OF POLARIS INDUSTRIES INC. ALWAYS WEAR A HELMET, EYE PROTECTION, AND PROTECTIVE CLOTHING, AND OBEY THE SPEED LIMIT. NEVER RIDE UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF DRUGS OR ALCOHOL. ©2013 POLARIS INDUSTRIES INC.
16
Friday the 13th in Port Dover
September 2013
Adventures of the 1300 Club By Jocelynn Blacker
The 1300 Club and friends are Tony Finelli, Mary Finelli, Randy Fleming, Jim Kidd, Joe May, Joyce Dechandt, Rick No, Paul Boulanger, Scott Carr, Ed Squires, Corey Kemp, Sonnie Rose, Mary Lu MacLauglin, Virginia Carr, Marty Forsyth and Roy Purdy. The motorcycles are Jim Kidd’s 2010 Harley-Davidson Wide Glide, Joe May’s Harley-Davidson Street Glide 2006, Corey Kemp’s 2009 V Rod Muscle Harley-Davidson. langer had served in the Canadian Armed Forces, and has many Vietnam veteran friends from the United States. Boulanger
records his journey with receipts from every fuel and rest stop he makes along the > Continued on next page
LOCAL PRODUCTS!! EXCELLENT VALUE!! S
7668 mile journey from Los Angeles, California to Washington, D.C in the veteran’s memorial ride “Run for the Wall.” Bou-
FR
ES H
LI CI OU
Port Dover is very popular with visiting motorcycle enthusiasts, and home to many. Port Dover is known for its welcoming nature toward motorcyclists and for supporting the pastime with various events and venues. The tradition of hospitality and support continues with the addition of a new motorcycle-minded coffee club. The club started as a small number of close friends meeting for coffee with their motorcycles. Over the last three years the number of attendees has grown significantly as friends of friends were welcomed in and also people who just showed an interest. The club now consisting of a small group of regular core members, calls itself the 1300 Club named after the 1:00 p.m. time they meet for coffee. Members meet everyday to discuss motorcycles, local goings on, and most importantly share motorcycle stories. Here are some of the members of the 1300 Club and a few of their stories. Paul Boulanger of Port Dover is wellknown in the 1300 Club and Port Dover motorcycle community for having travelled to the four corners of America, and as Rick No stated “probably has more miles than all of us put together.” Every year Paul Boulanger travels the
DE • • RELAXED
519-426-0068
131 QUEENSWAY WEST SIMCOE
www.BarrelRestaurant.ca
AUTOMOTIVE
GARY KONCIR Owner/Operator
"Where Quality Service Is Yours"
2007 DODGE RAM 1500 ST 4x4
5.7L, automatic, Silver with Grey interior, + 127,105kms. $ tax
15,995.
2008 FORD ESCAPE XLT 4x4
3L, automatic, Cream with Beige interior, + 95,741kms. $ 13,995. tax
GARNET SNIVELY Vehicle Sales
JOSH Service Manager
Friday 13th Specials
SERVICE SPECIAL $ 99
IGNITION TUNE-UPS
rotate tires, inspect brakes.
Parts extra with 10% Discount
39
Starting at Grease, oil, filter, check fluids,
59
$ 99
425 Queensway West, Simcoe • 519-428-1150 • www.koncir.ca
Friday the 13th in Port Dover
September 2013 17
“We went and saw Dawson City, Alaska and went along the coast of the Bering Sea.” langer has made some other remarkable journeys, including his personal favourite. “Riding my motorcycle along the Arctic Circle,” said Boulanger. “We went and saw Dawson City, Alaska and went along the coast of the Bering Sea.” The ride took three years to plan. “It was just different. A lot of people see it as the last frontier that you can do on bikes. It was nice. Rewarding. It was raining a lot in September there. The sun was out until 12 midnight and never really went down. It was just like dusk for an hour and a half then it was up again. In the winter it’s dark all the time.” Another one of Boulanger’s more extensive rides took place in Australia. “It was my first big ride. Sydney, Australia, right back to Sydney again. 7000 miles up through the centre of the Outback then down the Barrier Reef coast.” o o o
Paul Boulanger with his 1980 Harley-Davidson way. “Run for the Wall,” takes place in the USA welcomes all. “A lot of guys do it for the adventure. A lot of Americans and Canadians do that trip. I have even met people from other countries.” In addition to “Run for the Wall,” Bou-
Convert Your Bike into a
at
Marty Forsyth
Marty Forsyth of Port Dover has been riding motorcycles for almost his entire life, and currently rides a 1985 Harley-Davidson Classic that he bought from a friend in Port Dover. Every year Forsyth makes a trip to Tobermory with a friend along Highway 21. This year they were unable to make the trip but Forsyth hopes to make it next year. When he was 18-years-old Forsyth went on a motorcycle ride from Hamilton to New
519-587-5041 Stop by and see us on FRIDAY the 13th in front of NOT JUST DOLLS
Conversion kits available for
Harley, Honda, Victory, Yamaha and Kawasaki
o o o
o o o
> More on the 1300 Club on page 19
CITY FRIDAY THE 13TH SELECT HATS - $13.00
MOTORTRIKE
Len's Auto in Jarvis
Mexico. In addition to being an avid motorcycle enthusiast, Forsyth has been a Port Dover Lions Club member for 20 years. “I enjoy the comradery. I like the whole atmosphere,” said Forsyth. Forsyth will be working at this year’s Friday the 13th events.
Rick No was originally from Toronto and now is a Port Dover resident. “I’ve been coming down here for years. So I sold the business, the house, and moved. Haven’t looked back since. There are great people here.” Rick No doesn’t have a favourite route. “Everyday is my favourite ride. Doesn’t matter where you go. I love to ride. I’ll get on my bike and go to Windsor for coffee.” Rick No has been riding since he was 16-years-old, first having started on old dirt bikes. He currently rides a 2013 Heritage Softail Classic Harley-Davidson. For No the appeal of the motorcycle is the driving experience. “The Freedom. To be able to go where I want, do what I want. I don’t have to answer to anybody. When I go, I just go. There is no place anywhere I can’t go. In a group or alone, it’s the freedom of the road.” No looks forward to this year’s Friday the 13th, and plans to attend. For him the best part of Friday the 13th is “looking at motorcycles, meeting people from all over, plus having fun.” No’s dream ride is to rent a motorcycle and tour Ireland, Wales, Scotland, and England.
For Families on the Grow
TOUQUES - $5.00
700
$
We also carry SUMMIT X3 for the runners: $399.00
CARRIE
$
100
00
TAFFY 00 $
40
HARLEY-DAVIDSON SLIPPERS
$
10
SUBWAY LOW 00 $
20
00
334 MAIN STREET, PORT DOVER • 519-583-1950
18
Friday the 13th in Port Dover
September 2013
Check these Out Directory "Specialist in Hand-Tooled Leather Bike Seats"
Phone: 519-753-2029
Fax: 519-753-6118 www.tomsupholstery.ca
terry@tomsupholstery.ca
Willaert Pharmacy 1-800-309-8881
Located in the Port Dover Medical Centre 807 St. George St, Port Dover 519-583-3335
Select Chiropractic Dr. Lance Willaert (B. App. Sc., M. Clin Chiro, D.C.)
Port Dover Medical Centre 807 St. George Street T: 519-718-8512
Schofields BISTRO 237 Main St., Port Dover 519 583-3400 schofieldsbistro.com
kathy@tomsupholstery.ca
����������������� A division of 1820467 Ontario Ltd.
Mens and Ladies Bike Apparel at Discount Prices!
ED VAN ROSSUM 4179 Hwy #20, St. Anns Ontario L0R 1Y0 (3 kms west of Victoria Avenue) phone: 905.386.0377 email: circleoffriends@computan.com
www.tonsofbikegear.com
Thompson Waters Funeral Home
LTD.
Family Owned & Operated
“Serving Our Community” Since 1904 102 First Avenue, Port Dover Tel: 519-583-1530
FUNERAL DIRECTOR: Gary Sywak BUSINESS MANAGER: Carla Sywak
www.thompsonwatersfuneralhome.ca
THE ULTIMATE FAT LOSS BREAKTHROUGH Lose an average of 5” off waist, hip, thigh and arms circumference in 2 weeks FDA Cleared. Non-Invasive. No Downtime
PAINLESSLY MELTING AWAY FAT BECOMES A REALITY!! GUARANTEED Best clinical fat reduction results in the world www.zeronacanada.ca/promotions/brantford
ZERONA CANADA BRANTFORD 519.304.7899
525 Park Road North, Unit 001
CONSULTATIONS ARE CONFIDENTIAL AND COMPLIMENTARY
COMMENTS ABOUT THE DAY ? Send your comments or photos -- fridaythe13th@PortDoverMapleLeaf.com or facebook.com/fridaythe13thportdover
Friday the 13th in Port Dover
September 2013 19
RIDES TO REMEMBER By Donna McMillan Roy Purdy Roy started riding motorcycles 54 years ago in Northern Ireland. The 69-year-old immigrated to Canada in 1960, first living in Hamilton and then moving to nearby Waterford six years ago. Riding a 2000 Harley-Davidson Road King,
he is also a regular attendee of the 1300 Hour Club. His favourite riding areas are along the Great Lakes, enjoying local rides to Turkey Point or to see the submarine at Port Burwell or to riding the shores of Lake Huron and Georgian Bay. He has also enjoyed rides to Washington, Milwaukee and other great destinations.
John K. Smith of Port Dover on his 2008 Harley-Davidson Ultra Classic.
John K. Smith
Roy Purdy of Waterford on his 2000 Harley-Davidson Road King.
John rides a 2008 Anniversary Edition Harley-Davidson Ultra Classic. The 52-year-old has been riding since the age of 20 and particularly enjoys travelling the lakeshore both to the east and to the west of Port Dover. “I love this area”, he said when talking about his favourite rides.
He also enjoys having Niagara-on-theLake as a destination, travelling west to Lake Huron, running the shores of Georgian Bay and exploring such towns in the Muskokas as Huntsville. “A four or five hour drive on highways can turn into nine hours if you are doing back roads by bike”, he explained, enthusiastically enjoying every moment of the exploratory adventure.
#1 CHOICE
FOR MOTORCYCLE INSURANCE
1-800-269-2728 www.manthainsurance.com
20
Friday the 13th in Port Dover
September 2013
Bikers Choice Business Cards PARTS FOR ALL JAPANESE MOTORCYCLES
SALES & SERVICE 50-75% ON USED PARTS LONDON'S LARGEST SUPPLIER OF METZELER TIRES
TRADE-INS • REPAIRS • ACCESSORIES • PARTS • NEW & USED • PLASTIC & ALUMINUM WELDING • FORK & RIM STRAIGHTENING • FREE SATELLITE HOT-LINE SERVICE ACROSS CANADA
SALES & SERVICE
MON.-FRI. 10 A.M.-6 P.M. SAT. 11 A.M.-4 P.M. CLOSED ALL LONG WEEKENDS
"WE BUY & SELL WRECKED BIKES" SHIPPING ACROSS CANADA
2690 Dundas St. E., London, Ontario
519-659-7833
Fax: 519-659-7314 • Email: soniccycle@motionlink.net • www.soniccycle.com
Bob Hampson Financial Security Advisor
Freedom 55 Financial
2201 Plains Road East, Burlington
905-637-6987
www.burlington-cycle.com
Experience the True Service Difference. Kal Tire's Exclusive Customer Care Policy includes:
0
! Free Installation ! Free Rotation ! Free Road Hazard Guarantee ! Free Flat Repairs ! Lifetime Balancing on original assembly ! 30-Day, No-Hassle Replacement Guarantee For personal use passenger and light truck vehicles only.
0
Freeman's Service Centre
33 Woodfield Ave., Townsend, ON N0A 1S0 Office: 519-587-2972 Fax: 519-587-5461 Cell: 519-429-8384 Toll Free: 1-888-868-3226 Ext. 332 bob.hampson@freedom55financial.com Client Service Centre: 1-877-566-5433 0
A division of London Life Insurance Company
609 Norfolk Street N, Simcoe, ON
519-426-2596
fall 4x4 mudfest Sunday, September 15th
Trucks & Jeeps Only
For more info, www.gopherdunes.com
Scott Carr, Roy Purdy, Virginia Carr, Ed Squires
Combining coffee and motorcycles Scott and Virginia Carr are two of the founding members of the 1300 Club. Scott Carr has been a long-time motorcyclist and his first bike was a 1951 AGS Single Cylinder Thumper. His favourite road trip was up to the Tobermory area. He will be at Friday the 13th and looks forward to “checking out the bikes.” Virginia Carr is credited to having had the original idea of combining coffee and motorcycles. Virginia Carr started taking motorcycling lessons in 2005 and her favourite route is to Port Stanley. She plans on joining her husband at this year’s Friday the 13th. “I like the bikes and the atmosphere. It’s really fun.” The 1300 Club meets at 1:00 p.m. near the Port Dover Tim Horton’s. Newcomers are welcome as long they have a motorcycle and a few good stories to share.
4385 HWY. 59 - R.R. #1 COURTLAND, ON 519-842-2781 • info@gopherdunes.com
t r o Sp
Davidson's Authorized Dealers for:
773022 Hwy. 59 SUZUKI Norwich, ON N0J 1P0 MOTORCYCLES QUALITY SALES AND SERVICE TEL: 519-468-6312 FAX: 519-468-2157 www.davidsonssport.ca
Business Directory BE PART OF THIS FEATURE IN THE NEXT PUBLICATION ON FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2013 FOR ADVERTISING PRICES OR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT PORT DOVER MAPLE LEAF NEWSPAPER FridayThe13th@PortDoverMapleLeaf.com or phone 519-583-0113
The equipment you need. The rental price you can afford.
CAPITOL
EQUIPMENT RENTALS
CONSTRUCTION - INDUSTRIAL - HOMEOWNERS
519.587.4571 or 1.800.265.3943 85 Talbot St. E. Hwy #3, Jarvis
• Tug Services • Marine Construction & Equipment Rentals • Dive Boat Services • Salvage & Oil Spill Response
www.nadromarine.ca • E-mail: info@nadromarine.ca
Pick up & delivery. Open Monday to Saturday www.capitolequipmentrentals.com
CAPSTAN FABRICATORS
Loves special needs children and bikes Meet Liane Troyer, a biker for the past three years. For the past 20 years Liane has worked with special needs children. A friend of Liane’s got her interested in motorcycles and it was not long after that she purchased her own bike, a 1994 Honda Shadow 600CC. After work, and on weekends, she just enjoys hopping on her bike, weather permitting of course, and heading out for a relaxing and enjoyable ride. By Bob Miles
Friday the 13th in Port Dover
September 2013 21
PERSONAL STORIES OF FRIDAY THE 13th
Born on “lucky” Friday the 13th last year, Renee’s first birthday party featured motorcycles By Carmen Rose Davis Traditionally, Friday the 13th is believed to be the unluckiest day of the year. This predominantly Western superstition is linked to numerology, where the number twelve is considered the number of completeness: the twelve months of the year, twelve Greek gods of Olympus, twelve disciples of Jesus, twelve hours on the clock, and so forth. In grave comparison, the number thirteen symbolizes irregularity, a transgressor of sorts against its neighbour number twelve. This, combined with the belief that Friday is an unlucky day (mostly due to the crucifixion of Christ) makes Friday the 13th one of the most highlighted dates on the calendar. That being said, not everyone cringes when the thirteenth day of the month lands on a Friday – especially if you are a true Doverite.
It has been a long-standing tradition in Port Dover to celebrate this day of unrest by hosting one of North America’s largest congregations of motorcycle enthusiasts. Local schools are closed and vendors from all over pile into our small town as thousands of motorcycles and tourists make their way through the streets of Port Dover. It’s an eye-popping event, which my family has enjoyed for years. Last year however, while the steady stream of engines roared by my house, I was in the delivery room witnessing one of the most extraordinary events of my life – the birth of my niece, Renee. Weighing in at 9 lbs, Renee Rose was born at 6:00 a.m. on Friday, April 13th. That day, I felt like one of the luckiest women alive, not only to be at the other end of the stirrups but also to have witnessed such a miracle. One year later and it was time to celebrate Renee’s first birthday. Unlike most one-year-olds whose par-
Zuber & Company LLP LITIGATION
COUNSEL
ties revolve around zoo animals or cute cartoon characters, my niece’s birthday theme was motorcycles. Dressed in our Friday the 13th t-shirts with matching helmets, we decided to captivate this momentous event by taking a family photo. Even our bichons Lucy and Bijoux came dressed in orange and black biker dog wear. Renee will never remember her first birthday party. She won’t remember me yelling at the dog to look at the camera or telling my son to stop fidgeting. She’ll forget how her mother jumped up and down like a frantic cheerleader trying to get her attention as she played with the buttons on her Papa’s motorcycle. Someday, she may even wonder how her Nana found a shirt small enough with the exact date of her birthday stamped across it. But one thing is for certain, she will never associate Friday the 13th with misfortune because that was the day she was lucky enough to be born into my family.
Last year, Lori Russell brought her 5-week-old son, Luke Peters, for Friday the 13th. On their way out, they were approached by The Canadian Press, who wanted to take pictures of the baby boy. Lori says they will be here again with their son because they always have a fabulous time. Lori says “Luke is an absolute sweetheart! He has a biker vest (see picture) that he will be wearing again! The proud mother writes “he’s got a whole head full of blonde curls now and the bluest eyes, gonna be one of those heart breaker bikers I suspect!” Luke’s dad, Mike Peters, is shown with Lori and Luke in the photo above. The bike is a 1997 Suzuki Intruder.
LEAN, MEAN AND PACKED WITH HIGH-END CUSTOM TOUCHES ...
David A. Zuber, LL.B.
Certified as a Specialist in Civil Litigation
•Free Consultation •Personal Injury •Disability Claims •Medical Malpractice
Tel: 416.362.5005 Fax: 416.362.5289 Email: dzuber@zubco.com Website: www.zubco.com
The New 2013 Kawasaki Vulcan 1700 Vaquero
17,699
$
plus taxes and license
22
Friday the 13th in Port Dover
September 2013
Canada Post issues two motorcycle stamps The Canadian landscape is built for motorcycles. Think of freedom and exploration. Think of where the road meets expansive prairies, jagged mountains and dense boreal forests. Think of riding into the horizon without a windshield coming between you and each new vista. In turn, Canadians have built motorcycles for the landscape. A total of 21 different brands have traveled with riders, carried competitors across finish lines, served alongside police officers and supported soldiers overseas. The first motorcycles, like the Lightweight Motor Cycle built by the Canadian Cycle and Motor Company (CCM), drew inspiration from the freedom afforded by early automobiles. Among the few motorcycles CCM produced, the 1908 model featured on the stamp sported a Swiss-designed engine that could be installed on any conventional bike frame. Four years later, the Indian, represented here by the 1914 model, met with widespread commercial success. Massachusetts-based Hendee Manufacturing Co. – later known as the Indian Motorcycle Company – built the bikes at a factory on Toronto’s Mercer Street. The Indian became the bike of choice
for Canadian racer “Wild Joe” Baribeau, winning him provincial and national racing championships. Impressed by the abilities of the Indian, Canadian police departments began ordering the bike for their own motorcycle corps. Matt Warburton of Emdoubleyu Design drew on his personal passion for motorcycles to design these stamps. “I’ve been a motorcyclist all my life,” explains Warburton. “My Dad got me into motorbikes. It was my Dad’s love of motorcycles that got me interested in them as a young boy. He was incredibly excited and proud about these stamps.” Warburton chose to keep the design simple, focusing on the motorcycle itself. “I wanted to capture the structural beauty of a motorcycle, the design of the bikes, the beauty of the shapes of the engines, body and tanks.” The result is a stamp that highlights two views of the bike. The most prominent is the top view of the rider, the other is of the bike’s profile. The Official First Day Cover shows off even more of the profile, while the background gets up close to the engines. And, as a nod to Port Dover’s place in the Canadian motorcycle history, Canada Post decided The Official First Day Covers would
Port Dover Post Office staff members Jenn and Sharon are seen with some of the motorcycle stamp items. Canada Post Official First Day Covers for these motorcycle stamps were cancelled in Port Dover for collectors across the country. The stamps showcase two motorcycles with a Canadian connection. be cancelled in Port Dover. There’s more to Warburton’s design than just the beauty of the motorcycle. He explains that motorcycles represent a broad range of interests including sports, transportation, recreation and pastime – and he wanted the design to appeal to all of them. “Motorcycles mean different things to differ-
ent people, but the basic elements of an engine and two wheels are what connect every enthusiast,” he says. Canada Post says this issue featuring the 1908 Lightweight Motor Cycle and the 1914 Indian is the first in a series dedicated to Canadian motorcycle manufacturing and design.
Friday the 13th in Port Dover
September 2013 23
As a lakeside community, Port Dover has always been a welcoming place for visitors. As shown in this flashback photo, Port Dover was already a popular tourist destination in the summr of 1914 when Ford automobile owners journeyed to Port Dover for an organized picnic near the beach. The cars were lined on both sides of St. George Street which meant they likely travelled from a wide area to come to Port Dover … just as two-wheel vehicles do on Friday the 13th, 2013 … 99 years after this photograph was taken. Sporting his favourite bike -- a 2009 Yamaha 950 Tourer -- Garry Foster of Brantford plans to attend Friday the 13th. What Foster looks forward to the most this Friday the 13th is “being with all my biker friends.” Foster has been riding motorcycles for 31 years and his favourite aspect of being a motorcyclist is “the fellowship.”
Tim Hantz of Delhi has been riding motorcycles for 20 years and has been attending Port Dover’s Friday the 13th for the last 15 years. Hantz a fan of sports bikes competes at the Grand Bend Motorplex. Last year he placed 3rd in the Dunlop Cup. Hantz is planning to attend this year’s Port Dover Friday the 13th with his 2008 GSXR 1000.
Royal Canadian Legion Port Dover Branch 158 212 Market St. E., 519-583-2001 canadianlegion158@bellnet.ca
See our ads on the Port Dover Lions website: http://pdlc.x10hosting.com/Legion.htm
Thursday, September 12th
Friday, September 13th
featuring
featuring OPEN HOUSE ALL DAY
PICKEREL DINNER - $10.50 5-7 p.m.
"HOG WILD"
live 8 p.m.-12 a.m.
BEEF ON A BUN
$3.00, 8 p.m.-12 a.m.
OPEN HOUSE
12 p.m. to 12 a.m.
• All meals first come, first served •
Serving
PEAMEAL ON A BUN
Only $3.00 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
"HOG WILD" performing 2-6 p.m.
FREE ADMISSION
Donations gratefully accepted
Serving
PICKEREL & CHIPS
$10.00 - 2 to 5 p.m. Wheelchair accessible
24
Friday the 13th in Port Dover
Norfolk County Fair grandstand shows spectacular this October 8-14 Norfolk County Fair & Horse Show has three spectacular concert performances for the Grandstand at this year’s fair. On Friday, October 11th at 8:00 pm, the Eastlink Concert Series presents “Big & Rich Party Like Cowboyz Tour with special guest Cowboy Troy”. General Manager Karen Matthews reports “we couldn’t be more thrilled that ‘Big & Rich’s Party Like Cowboyz Tour with Special Guest Cowboy Troy’ will be in our Grandstand.” Tickets are also on sale for Sail Rock featuring five iconic acts from the 70’s including Christopher Cross, Orleans, John Ford Coley, Player and Gary Wright (one incredible night of all of those favourite hits from the 70’s). They will be at the grandstand on Tuesday, October 8th at 8 p.m. Also, the Eastlink Concert Series’ presents sensation Carly Rae Jepsen on Saturday, October 12 at the grandstand. For more information and to purchase tickets visit norfolkcountyfair.com
September 2013
THAT’S A ‘CHOPPER’ TOO
It seems arriving by ‘chopper’ can mean different things to different people. Michelle Whiting and Mark Dougherty live just east of Port Dover and at last year’s July 2012 Friday the 13th event their friend Bruce arrived at their place with his version of ‘chopper’ -- a helicopter -- to take in all the events of Friday the 13th in Port Dover. Dale VanAcker from Tillsonburg is a fan of sports bikes, and has been riding since he was 18 years old. His current motorcycle a 2006 Suzuki GSX R 750 is his personal favourie. “I like the handling and the ride.” VanAcker says his favourite road trip was to Deals Gap, North Carolina to attend the Tail of the Dragon. He came to Port Dover for a trip on the long weekend with some friends, and plans to be at the 2013 Port Dover Friday the 13th. When asked what he is looking forward to VanAcker said “just to come down and see everything. Just to be here.” --by Jocelynn Blacker
Friday the 13th in Port Dover
September 2013 25
RIDE TO LIVE, LIVE TO RIDE...
Chuck Snively, 47, rides a 1999 Suzuki Intruder VL1500LC. He and spouse Suzanne usually go to Port Dover every other weekend. For the past six to seven years Chuck has asked for, and received, time off from work to go to Friday the 13th. They get up early; leave their home in Kitchener and after breakfast head for Port Dover for a full day of enjoyable chatter with bikers, and for Suzanne a little shopping adds to the fun of the day.
The Can-am® Spyder® roadSTerS. Exhilaration starts with confidence. The confidence of an exclusive Y-frame design and a patented ® The Can-am® Spyder roadSTerS. Vehicle Stability System that effortlessly grip the road. And with ABS and a semi-automatic
Exhilaration starts with confidence. The confidence of an exclusive Y-frame design and a patented transmission with reverse, you’ll feel more connected to the road than ever before. Join the tens Vehicle Stability System that effortlessly grip the road. And with ABS and a semi-automatic of thousands of people who’ve already discovered the thrill of riding a roadster at can-am.brp.com. transmission with reverse, you’ll feel more connected to the road than ever before. Join the tens of thousands of people who’ve already discovered the thrill of riding a roadster at can-am.brp.com.
Murray Crozier rides a Triumph Rocket 3 with 2300CC. According to Murray it’s the largest water-cooled production engine built in the world. He started off at the age of 16 with a small 39CC Moped. It had chrome rattrap pedals with a pair of genuine Indian saddlebags. Living in Hamilton, Murray is able to drive to Port Dover every Sunday when the weather is right, and he has been attending every Friday the 13th since 2001. Asked why he attends every Friday the 13th, he thought about it as he puffed on a fat stogie, then said with deep conviction … “it’s the ambience”.
Ernie Gellert, 50, with his spouse Sabrina rides a Custom Ultima he built by hand from the ground up two years ago. He’s had seven motorcycles over the years, both Harley’s and Customs. Sabrina has her own bike, a Harley Sportster that she’s had for the past two years -- her third bike. When coming to Port Dover she prefers to ride with her husband on his bike. They like to arrive the day before the 13th so they can relax and enjoy everything. -- By Bob Miles
Feel how a greater sense oF Feel how a greater sense oF stability leads to a greater stability leads to a greater sense oF exhilaration. sense oF exhilaration.
14 Regional Road 13, Courtland, ON 519-688-3278 Dealer Imprint
www.lockhartsodyssey.ca
GoesImprint Here Dealer Goes Here can-am.brp.com
©2013 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ®, TM and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP or its affiliates. Products are distributed in the USA by BRP USA, Inc. Always ride responsibly and safely and observe applicable laws. Remember that riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix. 610615
can-am.brp.com
©2013 Bombardier Recreational Products Inc. (BRP). All rights reserved. ®, TM and the BRP logo are trademarks of BRP or its affiliates. Products are distributed in the USA by BRP USA, Inc. Always ride responsibly and safely and observe applicable laws. Remember that riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix. 610615
26
Friday the 13th in Port Dover
September 2013
Biker interviews by Bob Miles
Alex and Mary Sinkovits Alex and Mary Sinkovits from Ayr came to Port Dover for the long weekend Sunday on their 1997 Honda Gold Wing. Alex has been riding for 40 years. “We like coming to Dover and Turkey Point. It’s a cool ride. We come down here and have a burger, a coffee, get together with the guys and chat. We are regular customers” said Alex Sinkovits. “We go all over this area. Port Burwell, and along the shore side.”
By Joceylnn Blacker
Jeff Barnes has been biking for five years and owns a 1999 Electra Glide Classic 1550CC. He’s married to April and they live in Dunnville. Jeff works as a sewer and water specialist. They have been coming to Fridays the 13th for five years and enjoy the atmosphere of Port Dover on these occasions.
Fraser Card rides a 2013 Victory Classic, 1738CC motorcycle. At age 16, Fraser was racing Yamaha DTs until 1974 when he got married. For the next 22 years he raised a family. In 1996 Fraser purchased his first Royal Star Heavy Cruiser. He’s gone on several trips and has been to Sturgis, South Dakota a few times. At 63, Fraser is a barber in Tillsonburg, enjoys his bike and likes to travel at night. The different smells at night, the air seems to be calmer, and for him it’s a wonderful time for downloading, saying, “Life is good”.
o o o
P
ARADISE
G
Share your story and photo about the best or most unusual ride you’ve taken. Send to fridaythe13th@PortDoverMapleLeaf.com
ARDENS
HYDROPONICS • Lowest Prices • Quality Equipment • Expert Advice
Don't Get Caught With Your Plants Down! BUY FROM THE EXPERTS -- WE KNOW BEST!
o o o
OHSWEKEN (519) 445-2275 2158 Chiefswood Road Ohsweken, Ontario, Canada p.gardens@hotmail.com
GRAND RIVER
6TH LINE
5TH LINE 4TH LINE
Chiefswood Rd.
Teresa Van der Werf lives and works in London. She owns a 2004 Standard Soft Tail 1450CC. However, she started out with a Virago Yamaha and an assortment of bikes over the years. As a child, Teresa, said she enjoyed horseback riding as it helped clear her mind. Now, she rides her motorcycle to many areas of Ontario and enjoys that same feeling of satisfaction. She comes to Friday the 13th to meet old friends and the joy of getting together with them.
To Caledonia
To Brantford HWY #54
CHIEFSWOOD ROAD #2158
To Hwy #6 OHSWEKEN TOWN CENTER
To Hwy #6
Hours: Mon. to Fri. 10a.m.-6p.m. Saturday Noon-6p.m.
Friday the 13th in Port Dover
September 2013 27
Airbrushing adds custom artistry to bikes to ring. Rob specializes in unique one-of-a-kind designs. His focus is mostly on motorcycles and helmets, but he also can airbrush any type of vehicle, object or wall mural. When he is finessing the most miniscule of details — pores, bones, lines, whatever — he is in a world of his own. “It’s all in how you see things,” Wooki says. Using different shades of the same colour, Rob’s talent enables him to give the bike depth. “There are varying levels to the paint,” Rob says adding, “the details are never-ending, and you find new things every time you look at your work. As an artist you are constantly reviewing and as time goes by you always develop a new approach”. Rob mentioned that using colour corrected lights in the studio is beneficial to
By Kerstein Mallon Airbrush artist Robert Lukasiewicz (Wooki) brings his unique and innovative painting style to customizing bikes. Rob has been creating amazing custom artistry since 1995. It all began when Rob was studying architecture at Humber College. His professor, who was aware of his originality, suggested he attend art school. Due to his inquisitive nature, he welcomed the idea to try something new and when a taxidermist friend gave him an old airbrush, Rob quickly developed his niche in freehand airbrushing. He is self-taught and attributes some of his artistic development to the admiration of other artists such
as Fitto Buchard, Jack Fraser and Dru Blair. Although influenced by these great artists, he is adamant about being authentic. His work is completely his own. Mind you when a client calls, he quickly pulls out the sketch book and designs a bull’s eye illustration of what they want. His business began when a friend who worked at ‘McBrides Motorcycle’ store, asked Rob to paint his helmet. He welcomed the opportunity and from there ‘Just Imagine Studios’ was born. The helmet sat at the desk at the bike store and the phone began
Four Wheels Move the Body. Two Wheels Move the Soul. TFX International Moves Them Both.
TFX International
Specialized Vehicle Transport & Storage
1.888.415.3158
creating real effects. The challenge is always “making something look real.” He has won “best paint” at many shows in the U.S. Rob is currently building a new studio at his home in Toronto. His motto is simply “Be true to yourself ”. He enjoys his artistic journey completely and although he currently has a waiting list, he invites you to visit him online. His web site is www. wookipaints.com