FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Port Dover - July 13, 2024
FURDAY THE THIRTEENTH has launched in Haldimand-Norfolk.
The line of Friday The Thirteenth-themed pet wear and accessories started operations on Saturday, July 13th – two months before one of North America’s largest motorcycle rallies hits Port Dover.
The Furday The Thirteenth product line is the brainchild of Port Dover Resident Phil Gillies.
“All sorts of Friday The Thirteenth merchandise is for sale at stores and booths on the big day”, said Gillies, “so why not bring the fun to our pet population”. “Now our dogs and cats can be decked out in Furday gear. Not just at the time of the rally, but all year round.”
Furday The Thirteenth gear includes dog and cat jerseys, matching ‘human’ t-shirts, bandanas, canvas tote bags, food and water bowls and dog tags.
“I had the idea last fall”, said Gillies. “My friend Dave Tank has had a booth on Walker Street for his Friday The Thirteenth merchandise. It’s been there for many years. Dave offered me the space next to his booth to come up with something geared to the festival. The idea of pet wear just came to me. I worked through the winter to develop the concept, and start producing the merchandise.”
The dog and cat logos were developed by Port Dover graphic designer Katie Sinkowski. The jerseys are custom manufactured by Carmina Design in London. The other products were sourced and printed by G & L Printing in Ingersoll and Jailbird in Strathroy.
The merchandise is available now online at www.furdaythethirteenth.ca
It will also be available in the following local retailers:
Pets Delight – both Port Dover and Delhi stores
Live Right Pet Supplies – Simcoe
Doerksen Country Store – Port Rowan
Hagersville Pet Supply
Gillies said that other outlets may be added in Jarvis, Waterford and Brantford.
Brantford native Phil Gillies is a public relations professional who retired to Port Dover two years ago.
“This is not the way I pictured my retirement”, said Gillies. “I’m as busy now as I was when I was working full-time. But I’m loving the community and loving getting a little venture going here.”
Gillies noted that donations from Furday The Thirteenth proceeds will be made to area pet rescues.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION – Phil Gillies – 647-385-8474
