Say Paraskavedekatriaphobia 3 times fast!

Today is Friday the 13th. Spooky!

This is a day feared by many many Americans. Paraskavedekatriaphobia is actually the clinical name for Friday the 13th-phobia. So, why do so many people think Friday the 13th is an unlucky day? Well, actually, it is! According to Wikipedia:

Strangely, there is evidence to suggest that Friday the 13th is actually unlucky for some. Psychologists have found that some people are especially likely to have accidents or fall ill on Friday the 13th. This has been attributed to such people feeling a heightened state of anxiety on that day. The Stress Management Center and Phobia Institute in Asheville, North Carolina estimates that in the United States alone, $800 or $900 million is lost in business each Friday the 13th because some people will not travel or go to work.

The date is also well-known in the motorcycle (biker) community: since 1981, motorcycle enthusiasts and vendors gather every Friday the 13th in Port Dover, Ontario, Canada. This tradition started on November 13, 1981 by Chris Simons as a gathering of approximately 25 friends. The event has grown substantially, with an estimated 100,000 people attending in August 2004, as well as music bands, vendors, a bike show, etc.

So, on this fine Friday the 13th, I wish everyone safe travels. Also, I wish Sharky-poo a HAPPY BIRTHDAY! It couldn't have been better timed. Hope he doesn't have Paraskavedekatriaphobia.