First Double click on an album, then click on Slideshow, turn up your volume and enjoy!
- Ed at Chama Gaucha Brazilian Steakhouse.
- Real Men Grow Flowers :)
When I first came home with the Gigantic Flower Pot that is usually seen outside Downtown skyscrapers, Pussanee just shook her head and said,
"That's George". Pussanee has been in flower training under my direction since 2004 and has grown to love it as much as I do.....
Many of you have been to our home and know that because of 3 decks and multiple stone patios we no longer have
any ground for a perennial Garden, so we create an annual container Garden each year. It's a lot of fun and very relaxing watching it come together,
as we shop, transport and plant. Just don't tell any of mountain biker friends that I am a flower lover......wouldn't want to ruin
the reputation:)
Hanging plants are next:)
- Utah Day 5 Bryce Canyon National Park
Well, today I was completely stunned at the overwhelming beauty of Bryce Canyon National Park. This park has countless spires called Hoodoo's that have been carved by water and wind erosion over 60 million years give or take a few million. This is by far the most beautiful place Pussanee and I have ever visited. We were joined by Bill and Karen Schwartz and Kevin Bailey for the day long adventure. We hiked down to the bottom of the Canyon and up along the rim as well. The views change dramatically as you move and also as the Sun moves in and out of the clouds. I did not caption these as I lack the words to describe the beauty and the pics can't bring you the magic............for that you have to come to Utah.
Beer lights the way :)
- Utah Day 4 MTB Gooseberry Mesa
I can't believe that Utah keeps getting better each day! Pussanee, Kevin and I were with our outstanding guide Monte Lutz who took us to Goosberry Mesa which is a slick rock paradise. Steep up and downs on moonscape looking sandstone slick rock with dramatic mountain views in every direction. We rode narrow trails right on the edge of a 1000ft drop.....a bit intimidating......as a foolish mistake would be your last one.
Even though Gooseberry Mesa is World renowned we only saw a few riders, it was a very memorable day for the 3 of us. We ended the day with an 8 mile downhill trail that had us grinning ear to ear......... Beer is the salvation and the light :)
- Utah Day 3 Road Riding in Zion
Wow, Utah is turning out to be one of the most beautiful places we have ever been. Day 3 put us on Road bikes in Zion National Park. Many of you know I am a mountain biker at heart, but there is really nothing like climbing and descending the switchbacks of a beautiful mountain road on a road bike......just exhilarating. Zion is special because it bans passenger vehicles, so you don't have that to worry about........come to Utah......it's tonic for the mind and soul....
Beer is health food for the mind.......George
- Utah Day 2 Mountain Biking at Barrelroll
oday, Kevin, Pussanee and I were out on a great desert mountain bike ride with Monte Lutz from Utah Mountan Biking Aventures. What an awesome day of Mountain Biking we had......some great Single Track, with some very rocky climbs and descents and unbelievable scenery around every turn, and some slick rock too.... This was day full of smiles and fun....the 3 of us were like 12 year olds:)
You can't be out of hope while you still have beer........Mountain Biking......Sanity not required:)
- Utah Day 1 Zion and Snow Canyon
Today was Day 1 of our Utah Trip, and it was a spectacular day. In the morning we headed to Zion National Park and hiked the Trail of Many Pools which was very scenic. Zion has unbelievable views in every direction
In the afternoon we loaded up the bikes and headed up to Snow Canyon for some great road biking led by Bill Schwartz, including a nice climb up Snow Canyon followed by a spectacular descent on a bike path with great views.
Pussanee and I are joined here by Karen and Bill Schwartz, Kevin Bailey and Laurel and Omar Salvaldor.
I forgot the question but Beer is the answer
- Palos 4-7-12
- Larry Gitchell's Fatt Mustard Ride
- Ed Gin's return from Mt..Olympus
- Kuat Rack
- Palos Single Track Ride 3-18-12
- Porcupine Mountain Wilderness XC Skiing 2012
- Sylvania Wilderness XC ski 2012
- Snowshoeing Waterfalls on the Black River 2012
- Wolverine
Wow.....what a great day to ski at Wolverine! Pussanee and I skied 5.5 hours
and covered the whole place . Conditions were very good to excellent, very
nice skiing with plenty of snow
- Beautiful ABR Day 2
Just another beautiful day at ABR, great snow conditions and the
peace and tranquility of the the North Woods.......life is good
and so is the beer
- ABR 2012 Day 1
Has the dreadful warm winter got you feeling blue? Lack of big snowfalls, putting you on edge
and full of angst? Well there is relief from Chicago's worst winter in 76 years.......just 7 hours
north in the U.P. Plenty of Snow here, so get in your car and join George and Sharon Hermach's
annual U.P. Ski trip.......and get relief from the awful lack of snow :)
Beer will Set you free :)
- Palos Back Country Beauty 1-21-2012
- Janet's Arboretum Event 1-15-2012
Kudos to Janet Martin for organizing a nice event at The Morton Arboretum today.
There was a very good turnout for hiking, snowshoeing, XC skiing and biking, though
only Rick was brave enough to bring his bike :) Nice day !
- Back Country ski Palos 1-14-12
Well, I always feel blessed when I get to take 2 lovely ladies out for a 4+ hour Back Country XC ski
in the beautiful backcountry of Palos. Rose and Pussanee were troopers as we negotiated all the
obstacles Palos threw at us.
These tours are not for the faint of heart, but they are great tonic for the mind body and soul.
Many of you know that Pussanee is just 3 weeks out from a 3.5 hour major surgery
so it makes my heart smile to see her doing so well :)
- Snowy Palos Walk 1-13-12
- Swallow Cliff Stairs Walk 01-09-2012
- Morton Arboretum Walk 1-06-12
- Palos Rehab Walk 1-2-12
- Esker Trail Rehab Hike 12-26-2011
- Josiah Riding his bike
- Bears Game 12-18-11
- Sugo......it's all about the meat baby!
- Project Mobility Donation 2011
Today, The Elmhurst Bike Club presented a specially adapted Trike to Josiah and his family. Josiah suffers from Spina Bifida
and requires a specially adapted Trike in order to ride.
The EBC donation of $2500.00 to Hal Honeyman’s Project Mobility has allowed a young challenged cyclist
to start to enjoy all the benefits of cycling.
The presentation was very moving and all EBC members should be proud of their Club today.
- Christmas at The Pastorino's 2011
- Hickory Smoked mud 12-02-11
- Brown County State Park 11-26-2011
- Brown County State Park 11-25-11
- Thanksgiving Hike and Dinner at White Pines State Park 2011
- EBC Bike Swap 11-10-11
- Teason Woods MTB ride with Paula and Barb
- Halloween Ride 10-30-11
- Fox River Canoe Trip 10-15-11
Holy Moly! What a crazy day to be on the water......gusts up to 35 mph made keeping the canoe
straight quite the challenge!
It ended up being a struggle to make the 12 mile trip.......and quite the workout as well.
- Experienced Beginner ride 10-9-11
Wow!! What a great turn out for today’s Experienced Beginner Ride…..we had 11 riders…including 5 guests…..
with a few first time single track riders, all who completed the whole loop which included Cemetery Hill with no
trouble. I always have believed that riding single track on your first MTB is invaluable in your progression
as a single track rider.
A special shout out of Sue Boose who did a great job on the Cemetery Hill climbs with some coaching
from Pussanee
Most heartwarming for The Mountain Bike Coordinator was that we had 7 women and 4 men…….which was unheard
of a few years back when we started the program.
- Grundy County Corn Fest 10-2-11
Wow.....are you kidding me? We had 25 riders show up for today Trail Ride to The Grundy
County Corn Festival......and what a great day it was
We rode 15 easy trail miles on The I and M to The corn Festival which is a pure slice of Americana....
One of the largest Parades you will see anywhere....it runs almost 3 hours, plus the food.....Pork
Chops on a Stick, Corn dipped in Gigantic Vats of Pure Butter, Fried Dough, Grilled Chicken,
Steak......you know......the good stuff.
Thanks to all who came out!!
- Fox River Canoe 10-1-11
- Starved Rock Mega Hike 9-25-11
- Blind Stoker ride 9-17-2011
Today Dr. John Loesch did an outstanding job leading 7 Tandem Captains who were carrying Blind Stokers
on a great ride to Kline Creek Farm in Wheaton.
All the Stokers had a blast and did a great job on the back of the bikes as well. Thanks to all the
Blind Stokers for inspiring the sighted Captains with their great attitude. We were humbled.
Thanks to John Loesch who organizes these rides . Next Ride is Oct.22nd.
Please consider taking a day out of your schedule to Captain a ride and bring the thrill of cycling to a person without sight. Please contact John at drjohnod1@gmail.com if you can fit this into your schedule.
You do not need prior experience, John can teach you. Also, there is a misconception that women cannot Captain for heavier male Stoker....this is not true at all
Julie Kulak captained for the muscular Rudy who weighs much more than her and Pussanee at 97 pounds captained a Blind Stoker that weighed 155 pounds
- Pool Party 9-3-2011
- Bike and Barge Zell-Cochem
- Bike and Barge, Bernkastel Kues-Zell
- Bike and Barge, Saarburg- Trier-Bernkastel-Kues
- Bike and Barge, Metz-Remich-Saar River
- Baltimore's advanced beginner ride 7-30-11
We had a great turnout today for Baltimore’s advanced beginner ride and it really warmed
by heart to see the women outnumber the men 6 to 4 on a single track ride in Hot and humid
conditions………… :) :) :)
Thanks to Baltimore for providing Bagels and cold beverage to the group. Also thanks to Pussanee
and globally acclaimed Astrophysicist Chuck Gentile for assisting as needed.
When you watch the videos below, please turn up your volume listen for the sounds that are there, crickets,
birds and quiet and for the sounds that are not there…..cement trucks, buses and yelling motorists……..this is mountain biking.
George Pastorino
Treasurer
Mountain Bike Coordinator
Photographer
Beer Czar
Chief Cook and Bottle Washer
- Pool Ride Ride and BBQ 7-30-11
- Liver Retractors Modified By George
Here are the before and after pics, along with a finished product pic. The surgeon did not like the raised ends of the Liver retractor,feeling that they proturded into the liver causing undue trauma and stress.
So my task was to cut them off, then refinish and smooth out the instrument to the point that it will look as if it was made that
way and also not have any sharp edeges that could damage the liver.
When you look at the finished product, it should not look like modification, but like it just came from the manufacturer new, I am reasonably sure that I accomplished that. The Liver Transplant Team Leader and Surgeon are very pleased with the result
- Our Escape from the real World
Well, it’s almost August and the Pool is cool and inviting……..you will find Pussanee and I out there
every chance we get. Summer in Chicago is very short……..Labor Day is in 6 weeks………and Winter not
far behind…..why don’t you come and visit us in our escape from the real world……..all are welcome
- XX Palos Ride 7-17-11
Wow, we rode the new XX trail at Palos today and it is a butt kicker, it will make you feel like a 12 year old, take
a look at Peter Gough’s face in the Slideshow………it’s the most fun you can have with your clothes on!!
We had a great group of 7 riders and everyone had a blast, sheltered from the blazing sun.
XX is not for beginners or the faint of heart (see Pussanee flipped into the brush), but if you have been riding
for a while you will love it.
Beer is the Salvation and the light.
George Pastorino
Treasurer
Mountain Bike Coordinator
Beer Czar
Chief Bottle Washer
Elmhurst Bike Club.
- Dr. Johns' Blind Stoker Tandem Ride7-16-2011
Today Dr. John Loesch did an outstanding job leading 6 Tandem Captains who were carrying Blind Stokers
on a great ride through Fermilab to Batavia.
All the Stokers had a blast and did a great job on the back of the bikes as well. Thanks to all the
Blind Stokers for inspiring the sighted Captains with their great attitude. We were humbled.
No club miles.......lot's of heart felt smiles.........
Thanks to John Loesch who organizes these rides with the help of Jerome Hughes. I have attached the 2011 schedule
to this e-mail, please consider taking a day out of your summer to Captain a ride and bring the thrill of cycling to a person
without sight.
You do not need prior experience, Jerome or John can teach you. Also, there is a misconception that women cannot
Captain for a male blind Stoker....this is not true. Today again Pussanee at 98 pounds captained a Blind Stoker that weighed
160 pounds. You can do it too!
No club miles.......lot's of heart felt smiles.........
Please contact John at drjohnod1@gmail.com or Jerome at jromeh@gmail.com if you can fit one of these dates into your schedule.
Thanks,
George Pastorino
Treasurer
Mountain Bike Coordinator
- Bill Schwartz's Brewery Tour 7/8 to 7/12, 2011
Bill Schwartz is EBC’s most active “Out of State” ride leader. Bill leads EBC rides in Utah, Colorado, Arizona
Wisconsin etc…………and does an amazing job……….with much assistance from Karen. Pussanee and I are veteran’s
of at least 7 of Bill’s Out of State Adventures and have loved every one of them.
Bill’s rides are well organized, fun and a joy to be on and his Joint EBC and NBC Tour of Wisconsin Brewery’s was no exception!
Bill had very detailed maps and Cue sheets for all 5 days of riding, with short and long options where possible.
2 sag vehicles to move luggage to the 5 destinations and a very encouraging attitude. We rode up to 77 miles
per day, arriving at our destinations happy and looking forward to the Tour of the local Brewery and of course
the sampling of the beer!
Thanks to Keith, and Marcia and Lee Nye for the use of their vehicles and to Keith, Marcia. Mary and Bonnie for splitting
the sag duty.
As you look at the pictures, you will see a lot of fun going on……..this is a requirement on a tour with Bill and Karen
Pics not in order………or captioned………..must have been the beer !
George Pastorino
Treasurer
Mountain Bike Coordinator
Board Certified Admirer of Bill and Karen
Beer Czar
- Baltimore's (29er) Beginner's MTB ride 7-02-11
Baltimore Ortega led a group of seven on a beautiful tour of Palos today……we were blessed
with beautiful sunshine, warn temps and gentle breezes. Riding in the woods quiets your
mind and calms your spirit.
We rode on Palos little used East side, which has many lakes and few people, it’s a nature
Lover’s paradise. If you haven’t done one of Baltimore’s beginner and advance beginner rides,
You are missing out on a lot of fun. He does an outstanding job making it all about his riders.
Oh……….did I mention he brings a cooler full of Bagels, Iced Tea and Chocolate Milk for his riders
to enjoy after the ride.
Can’t be out of hope, if you still have beer.
George Pastorino
Mountain Bike Coordinator
Treasurer
Beer Czar
- Criminal Damage to Out n Back & Connector Trail
- Kettle MTB 6-26-11
We had 5 riders today for our first Kettle Trip of the year and what a
great day of single-track it was….Kettle was in great shape and very dry.
Kettle has built a new elevated skills course that is just a blast to ride……makes
You feel like a 12 year old again. We had a new member Paul Moore who just
Joined 4 days ago………Baltimore will be happy to know that Paul only rides Mountain Bikes!
Thanks to Global Oil Magnate Chuck Gentile for helping to lead this ride.
- Pool Party/BBQ/Ride 6-25-11
WOW!!!! What a great day for a Bike ride followed by a pool party and BBQ! We had over 33
riders on 3 rides…..Larry Gitchell led one, Baltimore another and Chuck and I a third.
We had to do road rides because Palos is wet, but that did not dampen the spirit of our group.
Pussanee and I are blessed to have so many friends come and share our home.
Thanks to everyone who brought so much great food, beer and wine….very generous!!!!
If you haven’t been to one of these parties, please consider attending the next one on July 30th.
All club members are welcome.
Beer will set you free!
- Ed Gin's Pentwater Trip 6-2011
The Sovereign Ed Gin really knows how to put on a road biking weekend! What an absolute blast
everyone had. If you know Ed, you know it’s all about the fun and the food. J Speaking of food
we had Ribs, Chicken, Basil Asparagus, Neck Bone Sugo, Tom Yum Soup, 12 pounds of Copper River
Salmon…..mostly consumed raw, Salads, cheeses, gourmet salamis, olives, cases of beer and wine,
Homemade quiches, and pies, ice cream and this is just the highlights…….there was a lot more……
I am going directly to rehab.
Oh, btw…..we did a few great rides as well J
Thanks to Ed Gin for putting this incredible weekend together…..what a host!
- Blind Stoker Tandem Ride 6.04-2011
Today, Tom Preston did an outstanding job leading 6 Tandem Captains who were carrying Blind Stokers
on a great ride to the Wheaton Festival. Captains were Roland Porter, Chuck Gentile, Mary Ann Brown,
Pussanee Pastorino, Tom Preston and myself.
We had a nice pleasant ride to the Festival and got to enjoy the fest for about 90 minute before heading back.
We got caught in a Thunderstorm on the way back and had to seek shelter at The Glen Ellyn Library.
All the Stokers had a blast and did a great job on the back of the bikes as well. Thanks to Monica, Ron, Sue,
Rudy, Tim, Joesph for inspiring the sighted Captains with their great attitude. We were humbled.
Thanks to John Loesch who organizes these rides with the help of Jerome Hughes. I have attached the 2011 schedule
to this e-mail, please consider taking a day to Captain a ride and bring the thrill of cycling to a person without sight.
You do not need prior experience, Jerome or John can teach you. Also, there is a misconception that women cannot
Captain for a male blind Stoker....this is not true. Today, Pussanee at 98 pounds captained a Blind Stoker that weighed
160 pounds. You can do it too!
Please contact John at drjohnod1@gmail.com or Jerome at jromeh@gmail.com if you can fit one of these dates into your schedule.
- Horsey Hundred 2011
We had 2 perfect days of weather, warm temps and low humidity for the Horsey Hundred 2011. Many thanks to Ron, Ann
Marty, Ruth, Kevin and Michal for joining Pussanee and I in Bluegrass riding heaven down in Kentucky.
The route changes every few years, but it is always spectacular, with rolling hills, few cars and the unbelievable
beauty of the Bluegrass Horse Farms, filled with Kentucky Thoroughbreds. A few steep climbs to make sure
your pain requirements are adequately satisfied. Oh….and a blast on a Tandem!
There was a great Post Ride party in a cool little town called Midway, with bands, beers and lots of food to choose
from. Turns out Ruth is quite the dancer J A must say, these Kentucky folk do pick interesting names for their State
Parks…see first Pic in Slideshow.
Beer is the salvation…….
- Palos 5-11-2011
- Ed Gin's Kenosha Century 5-8-11
Wow, what a fantastic day to ride 102 miles! Warmer temps, light breezes and a beautiful course
from Chicago up to Kenosha. All this made possible by the incomparable Ed Gin, who designs great
rider friendly courses through beautiful wind sheltered neighborhoods.
Our destination today was The Boathouse on the harbor in Kenosha. It is truly good for the soul to
watch the happiness of Ed Gin as he consumes 17 Pork Sausages and about a pound of Prime Rib
along with an Omelet for his mid ride lunch!
If you haven’t taken the Ed Gin plunge…..you are missing out on a fun filled day that just flies by.
- Palos Trail Damage 4-17-20100
- Esker Trail Hike 4-10-2011
- NBBC/EBC Windy Century 3/26/11
Well, we completed this crazy windy Century today (105 miles) that was a tale of 2 rides. One flying out
with a 25 mph tail wind and having a ball. The other was a suffer fest into a 25 to 30 mph block headwind.
We could not get much past 12 mph into the head wind…..oh did I mention that the high for the day
was 33 and the wind chill down in the teens.?
Thanks to Rick Cosaro for putting this route together and for all his pulls into the headwind.
Chuck Gentile has gone home to sleep for a week.
Beer is the salvation……Thanks…….George
- Beginner Cycling Seminar
- Ed Gin's 102 miler 3-19-2011
Really, is it ever too early to start doing Century’s? Not according to the sovereign Ed Gin who attracted a nice
group of EBC riders to his 102 mile early season jaunt from Chicago to Kenosha……..via the beautiful North Shore.
Ride started at 32 degrees and as it was all near the lake the temp never cracked the low 40’s, but Ed’s rides have
so much fun and laughter…..the temps and stiff wind off the Lake hardly mattered.
All riders finished strong and we had a blast with the beautiful North Shore Route, nice Diner for lunch and a stop
at The Lake Forest McDonalds which has overstuffed leather Chairs, a fireplace. 52 “ Plasma T.V.s and a fresh Omelet bar.
If you haven’t yet done one of Ed’s ride, please come out and have some fun, you will love it…. plus if I attract 1 more
rider to one of Ed’s rides….I qualify for a free toaster.
EBC Early Season Century Riders…….Bad to the Bone.
You can’t be out of hope while you still have beer.
- Ed Gin's Royal Buffet Ride 3-16-11
Leave it to the transcendent Ed Gin to lead a great ride followed by the best Chinese Buffet imaginable!
We had a great 2 hour ride followed by a feast that has to be seen to be believed. Royal Buffet at
75th and Lemont Road in Downers Grove has every Chinese delicacy you could want, incredible Seafood
and all the standards as well. And what a deal for about $8.50!
If you want to lead a Ride to eat event, this is hot new EBC destination, best taken at the
end of the ride. Thanks to Ed Gin, Gary Toy, George and Sharon Hermach, Bill and Karen
Schwartz and Pussanee for making it a thoroughly enjoyable time.
George Pastorino
President and CEO
Ed Gin Fan Club
- Ed's Gin's March 13th 80 miler
You know, it would seem difficult to get 9 riders to come out for a 81 mile ride on March 13th, especially with a chilly
Start time temp of 28 degrees. However, once you find out that the singular Ed Gin was leading the ride, it all makes
perfect sense.
Ed’s ride are not only safe and well thought out, they are an Absolute Blast!!!! If you are still haven’t had the pleasures
of the Ed Gin experience……..come on out and join the group!
A big shout out to the ageless Sam Gunda who did a great job on this early season 80 miler!
Beer is the Salvation.
George Pastorino
President and CEO
Ed Gin Fan Club
- Lama Glenn Mullin 03-07-2011
- ABR XC ski 2-27-11
Pussanee and I headed up to ABR to celebrate our wedding Anniversary by XC skiing.
We are happy to report the ABR lived up to the advance billing. We have skied all over the Midwest and rank
ABR right at the top, even above the very excellent Winter Park. You have 60k of meticulously groomed trails,
varied terrain and beautiful scenery. That coupled with the friendly owners, Eric Anderson and Angela Santini make
ABR our new favorite Midwest ski destination. Plenty of trail for both Skate and Classic skiers, plus decidedly less
crowded than other ski areas.
Since we only had 2 days, we skied 6 hours each day which led to increased beer consumption for recovery.
- Ed Gin's Food Stuffs ride 2-19-11
How do you get 10 EBC riders to come out for a 55 mile ride in February with a start temp of 28 degrees? That's an easy question to answer,
just have nonpareil Ed Gin lead the ride!
Ed has developed an outstanding reputation for leading terrific rides through scenic, wind sheltered North Shore communities. His rides
are well thought out, safe and most of all fun. Ed makes it about his riders rather than about himself and is a role model for EBC Ride
Leaders. His rides draw riders like bees to Honey. Did I mention that he stops at great places to eat?
Still haven't taken the Ed Gin plunge? Come join the collective....resistance is futile
- Ed Gin's Road Ride 2-13-11
A big thanks the incomparable Ed Gin who led Elizabeth Collins, Pussanee and myself on a great 50 mile road ride through Chicago,
Skokie, Evanston, Wilmette, Winnetka, Kenilworth, Glencoe, Highland Park and Lake Forest. We had lunch at the great
What a great day to be out on the road, warm temps and 2 feet of snow piled up on the side of the streets, we had a blast... which is always
the case when we ride with Ed. If you still haven’t ventured out on a ride with Ed, you are missing out.
Ed leads safe road rides, through beautiful neighborhoods sheltered from the wind and he takes great care of his riders. Most amazing thing
is that he leads these long winding routes with many turns without the benefit of a map, cue sheets, a GPS unit or even a basic bike odometer.
It's all in his brain.
Thanks Ed!
- Palos Backcountry 02-12-2011
Pussanee and I were so happy to have our good friends Karen and Bill Schwartz join us
for a 4+ hour Backcountry ski at Palos Today. We were also joined by our constant
partner in crime Chuck Gentile.
Pretty good conditions to ski in considering the very unfortunate warm up we are in.
I forgot the question……… but beer is the Answer……be outside……George Pastorino
- X-C ski Swallow Cliff 2-9-11
- Palos Backcountry ski 2-5-11
Don Wiedman, Davis Johnson, Chuck Gentile, Pussanee and I spent 4 and ½ hours backcountry skiing
at Palos Forest Preserve today and just had a ball. Conditions were idyllic for backcountry skiing with
20 inches of dry powdery snow and little wind…..we couldn’t have asked for a better day.
As an added benefit, we only saw 2 other skiers on the trail all day, so the peace and quiet was very
meditative and tranquil. If you haven’t tried Backcountry skiing, you are missing a great outdoor
experience…….please consider coming out to play in the woods.
Be Outside and remember……..you can’t be out of hope……..if you still have beer
- Backcountry skiing 2-4-11
- Blizzard 2-2-2011
- Greenbush 1-29-2010
Wow, what a unbelievable day of skiing at Greenbush Ski Area in The Kettle Moraine State Forest, Northern Unit. They got six inches of fresh powder Friday
and they groomed it meticulously overnight. What a great job the Folks at Kettle do all the way around.
Marty Feipel and Maureen Williams joined Pussanee and I for about 12 miles of skiing and we just had a blast, very nice heated shelter and changing rooms,
trail side restrooms, and a very well groomed and marked system. All this within an easy day trip from Chicago, no hotel needed.
A female friend called me last night and asked: “isn’t that too far too drive for a day trip?” I said only if you have to push the car!!
So grab a friend and head to Greenbush, you will be happy you did. Sorry no beer pics today, Camera battery died as we were headed into
a small town Wisconsin bar, but I did get a good photo of the Bar Marquee which was quite the blast at Bears fans….very funny.
RU outside?
- Our Bears House
- XC Ski Scuppernong
- Bears beat Seahawks 1-16-2011
- Winter MTB ride 01-08-10
- Ed Gin's New Year's Day Ride 1-1-2011
- Ted's Tour 12-28-2010
- Bullies in the snow X-MAS 2010
- Bears v Patriots 12-12-10
- Elmhurst Bike Club Project Mobility Donation 12-9-10
Project Mobility was recommended by club member Susan Sperl. This is a non-profit organization founded by Hal Honeyman from the Bike Rack (one of our sponsors) located in St. Charles, IL.. John Park and George Pastorino presented to a young boy named Caleb (11yrs old) an Adapted Versa Trike. Caleb has a rare genetic disorder called Ring 18 syndrome.
Total cost for the bike was $2410. EBC donated $1800 to the cost of the bike. Pussanee and I were blessed to be able to donate the difference of $610 to make the purchase of this bike possible.
- Ed Gin's Winter Road Ride 12-08-10
The great thing about cycling in EBC is that there is no off season. We has 5 riders join Ed Gin on a 21 mile winter fun road ride. Wind Chills on the bike were well below zero, but who's counting when you are having fun.
Thanks to Ed for committing to leading rides all winter, along with Dave's SMFR and our mountain bike rides.....EBC is really a year round cycling Club. Nancy Shack, Gary Toy, Art Frigo, Ed, myself and Pussanee all had a blast.
RU Outside?......try it...it's tonic for the soul
- Winter MTB ride 12-05-2010
Riding season never ends! At 8am.... 5 inches of snow on the trails, 19 degrees and good N.W. wind made for simply idyllic riding conditions at Palos. We had a great turnout of 10 mountain bikers for a 2 hour 100% single track ride that was just a blast.
The woods are even more peaceful and beautiful covered in white, like riding in a winter postcard. Winter riding season is just getting started so come out and ride...it's tonic for the soul. To reflect the peaceful feeling in the woods, I have put Pachelbel's Canon in D to the slideshow.
Can't be out of hope, if you still have beer.
- Brown County State Park 11-2010
Just some fun pics from our trip to Brown County State Park.
Mostly pics of us fooling around, and a few mountain biking.
Lots of Beer, Wine, Food, Chocolate, friends and fun....you know the
good stuff!!
- Palos 27 mile Single-track ride
We had a great group show up for today's 27 mile single track ride and Rex was sporting a Brand New Mountain Bike Toy. 29 degrees at ride time made for idyllic riding conditions at Palos.
We had a blast riding just about every trail out there. EBC Mountain Biking......Sanity not required.
Beer is the Salvation.
Start slideshow and turn up your volume to a little Bob Seger in honor of Ace.
- Halloween Ride 2010
We had a great turn out for the Halloween Ride today, lots of fun at Palos and some great food and fun afterward at Irish Legends.
Can't be out of Hope while you still have beer!!!!
- Palos Ride 10-29-10
The EBC Mountain Bike Leadership team ( George, Pussanee and Chuck) hit the trails to check them out in advance to tomorrows ride.
We cleared some debris that fell in this weeks storms, but other than that the trails are in great shape.
We rode some interesting back country stuff, most of which will be on tomorrows route, if these pics look like fun you will love Saturdays ride!
Chuck even got a pic of Pussanee and I at the spot I proposed to her on bended knee back in 2005.......well where else was I going to do it? We are mountain bikers!!!!
EBC Mountain Biking....Sense of humor helpful......sanity not so much.
George Pastorino
Mountain Bike Coordinator
- Caucus Halloween Party 10-23-10
A big thanks to Roy and Elizabeth for throwing a great Halloween Party.
We were having so much fun, that I didn't take many pictures, but here is what I have.
Caucus Heads Rock!!!
- All day Palos Ride 10-22-10
It's 2 weeks today. since Pussanee's last surgery, so we had to celebrate somehow......this was perfect.
The EBC Mountain Bike Leadership team (George, Pussanee and Chuck) spent over 6 hours today exploring Palos hidden trails. This was like a vacation ride, no time limits, no rules.... just having a blast riding single track, exploring hidden gems and bouncing off the ground a few times for good measure.
EBC Mountain Biking........Sense of humor helpful......Sanity not required.
I forgot the question, but beer is the answer!
- Palos Fall Color Ride 10-17-10
Palos is showing her Autumn beauty, we had a great Fall color ride today with lots of quiet peaceful trails and the silence that comes from riding in the woods.
We also stopped by a couple of historical markers.
Click in the link above and when you get to our website, click on start slideshow and turn up your sound.
- Michigan Game with Jos
Pussanee and I were fortunate enough to attend the Michigan game with Jos and his family this afternoon at The Big House in Ann Arbor. Jos's son Perry Doorestein #79) is the starting right tackle for Michigan and is a svelte 6'7" and 320 pounds
If you never have to be to a game in The Big House, it's quite the experience, with 113,000 screaming maniacs....just a blast...and that Michigan band is a knockout! .
Michigan lost a very exciting game that was awesome to watch live.
- Morton Arboretum Ride
Pussanee was back on her bike today, just seven days after bi-lateral breast reconstruction. We rode and walked at The Morton Arboretum and we can highly recommend it for a nice fall afternoon. They have the Scarecrow walking trail with scarecrows built by local school kids.
It's a beautiful place all year round but especially nice this time of year.
- Herrick Lake 10-11-2010
Pussanee and I started her return to wellness fitness program today with a 2 and a half hour walk at Herrick Lake. (OK, we actually walked for a hour on Esker Trail yesterday, but don't tell anyone.)
Herrick Lake was really quite beautiful and we would recommend it for anyone that is looking for a nice easy walk or ride. Many thanks to the Club members who recommended it.
- Palos 10-06-2010
Pussanee and I went out for a nice single track ride today, Palos is in awesome condition and the colors are just starting to change.
This will our last ride for a while as she will have surgical re-construction on both breasts on Friday morning, I will send out an update after surgery.
Get out and enjoy Baltimore's Mountain Bike Weekend as this is perfect weather to ride.
- Experienced Beginner MTB ride 9-25-210
We had a terrific turn out on the beginner's mountain bike ride today.
We rode most of Palos easy single-track, and everyone had a great time which is not surprising as single-track is the soul of mountain biking.
Thanks to Baltimore, Chuck and Pussanee for helping on this ride and offering instruction.
Please remember that drinking beer after a ride will improve all aspects of your riding, and all aspects of your life in general.
- Levis Mound Mountain Biking 9-12-2010
Pussanee and I were at Levis Mound in Hatfield, Wisconsin and while there are lots of cliff hanging trails, bridges and stunts,,,there is also a lot of very nice, sweet single-track that is moderate in nature. It's a bit sandy for our taste.....but as you can see from the pics.....it's beautiful as well.
We were there from 9am to 5pm.....just like an office job!!
Beer is the answer to your question.
- Black River Canoeing 9-11-2010
- Sweet Woods 9-5-2010
- MTB ride/Pool Party Sept. 4th, 2010
- EBC Picnic via Ed Gin's Ride
Ed Gin lead another great ride to the EBC Picnic, where there was a great turn out of EBC members enjoying Beef, Chicken and 2 tables of great food.
Thanks to Joanne DeZur and her band of volunteers for putting this together........another great EBC event,
Sorry for the pics being a little blurred, thats what happens when you try to take pictures after eating fried chicken!
I forgot the question......... but beer is the answer.
- Fox River Canoe 8-22-2010
Bill, Liam and Emma Ficsher, Tom and Libby Clarke, joined Pussanee and I for a peaceful 12 mile canoe trip down the lower Fox River out of Wedron. This is a very peaceful stretch of river with no powerboats, but lots of Blue Heron's and Egrets. Good for the soul.
Remember, you can't be out of hope.....while you still have beer.
In honor of our photographer, Tom Clarke....I've put some Bob Seger to the Slideshow
- Pussanee's Return to Single-track 08-11-2010
Can the sound of 2 pieces of metal snapping together make the human heart smile? For me the answer is yes, as mine broke out in a huge smile at sound of Pussanee snapping into her clips for her first single- track ride since her battle with breast Cancer began.
Just 2 months after her 3rd surgery, she was flying through the woods like the wind. It was particularly heart warming for me as not only did I meet Pussanee at Palos (I was leading a beginner ride for Cambr , she showed up and I kept her) I also proposed to her on a ride there.
Chuck, Pussanee and I saw Brooks and Dunn Sunday night so I have put one of their songs on the slideshow.
- Justice National Night Out
On Tuesday, August 3rd, 2010 from 5pm-9pm, the Justice Police Department sponsored National Night Out at Commissioners Park. This event was coordinated by members of the police department with assistance from the Justice Park District and the Roberts Park Fire Department. The annual event is designed to strengthen our communities by encouraging neighborhoods to engage in stronger relationships with each other and with their local law enforcement partners. The goal is to heighten crime-prevention awareness, build support and participation in local anti-crime programs, and most importantly, send a message that our neighborhoods are organized and fighting back. It’s also the perfect opportunity to get to know your neighbors even better.
This year’s event featured a disc jockey, face painting, clowns, a balloon sculptor, numerous inflatables, a petting zoo, caricature artist, reptile show, canine demonstration, and a neighborhood barbecue. Best of all, everything was free of charge!
- Ed Gin's Kenosha Century
- Fort Custer 7-2010
- Ed Gin's Velodrome ride
- MTB Ride/Pool Party 6-26-10
- HHH 2010
- Pink Ride 2010
- Justice Memorial Day Service 2010
- Blackhawks Game 5-23-2010
- Quadrupedal 2010
- Easy Mountain Bike ride
- Saw Wee Kee Walk Thru
- Moderate March Century
- Catalina State Park MTB
- Saguaro Single-track 3-16-2010
- Tucson Road Ride 3-15-2010
- Tucson Single-track 3-14-2010
- Chuck and George's Excellent Epic
- Winter Park 2-20-2010
Maureen and Marty joined Pussanee and I for a weekend of X-C skiing at Winter Park in Minocqua, Wisconsin.
Tons of snow and unbelievable grooming made for a great time and the hills! Some of these pics may look
more like downhill than x-c skiing.
Be Outside.....and remember beer will help you recover
George Pastorino
- X-C Backcountry ski 2-13-2010
- X-C Esker Trail
- Chuck and George's Snowy Sunday 2-7-10
- Scuppernong 2-06-2010
- X-C skiing Scuppernong 1-31-2010
- Palos Ride 1-30-2010
- Palos Ride 1-29-2010
- Sucppernong X-C ski 1-23-2010
- X-C ski Kettle 1-17-2010
- X-C Ski Palos 1-10-10
- X-C ski Palos 1-910
- X-C SKI Palos 1-8-2010
- Palos 1-02-2010
- X-C Ski 01-01-2010
- Palos Winter Ride 12-27-2009
- Bulldogs at Palos 12-26-2009
- Winter Single Track 12-11-2009
- Palos Ride 12-05-2009
- Brown County 11-09
- White Pines 2009
- NBBC Mountain Bike Ride
- Brown County 10-2009
- Hilly 2009
- Palos Fall Colors 2009
- Corn Fest 09
- Imagination Glen
- Palos Single track ride 9-20-2009
- NBC New Glarus ride 9-2009
- Kettle Mountain Bike Ride 9-05-09
- MTB Ride/BBQ 8-29-09
- Bike Psychos 124 mile 2009
- N.C. Dupont 2
- Kayaking Green River Gorge
- Single track and Waterfalls
- Grandfather Mountain 2009
- MTB ride/50th Surprise Birthday Party
- Insane Terrain Challenge 2009
- MTB Pool Party 6-27-2009
- Horribly Hilly 2009
- Roger's Sunday Ride
- Kettle May 2009
- Horsey Hundred 2009
- Quadrupedal 2009
- Earth Day clean up 2009
- Hiking 3-29-09
- Tucson Mountain Bike 3-09
- Tucson Road 3-09
- Kris's birthday party
- X-C ski 02-22-09
- Palos Ride 02-21-09
- Starved Rock 02-15-09
- X-C ski Palos 2-4-09
- X-C ski Kettle Moraine 02-01-09
- Esker Trail
- Kettle Morraine
- Swallow Cliff Skiing
- Dog Sledding at Palos?
- X-C ski 1-16-09
- Bullies in a Blizzard
We took the Bullies for a walk at Palos after a major snowfall, it was
hard them to keep their head above the snow but they loved it!
- X-C skiing Country Lane
- Skiing at Waterfall 1-10-2009
- Palos Winter Ride 01-08-09
- HDN Winter Party Dec 2008
- Palos -41 ride 12-21-2008
Ride time actual temp of -6 coupled with a roaring 35mph northwest wind have us a windchill of -41 at least. This coupled with the blowing snow and lack of human activity gave Pussanee and I just idyllic winter riding conditions at Palos Forest Preserve.
The overnight chill froze the crust just hard enough to give us good traction, and we had an absolute blast for over 90 minutes.
Of course the weather was also perfect for the Outdoor Hot tub! Beer conquers all. R U outside?
- Bears Game 12-11-08
- MTB 12-07-08
- Palos Snow Ride 12-06-08
- Palos 12-05-08
- 11-22-08 MTB ride
- Brown County 11-2008
- Fall Color Ride 11-08
- Swallow Cliff Fall Colors
- Brown County 10-2008
- Hilly 2008
- Canoe Trip 10-2008
- Palos Epic Ride
- Sox Tie Breaker
- Corn Fest 2008
- John Park's Mansion Ride 2008
- Fox river Trip
- Mtb Ride/Pool party 8/30/08
- Colorado, 2008
- Teason Woods
- mtb ride 8-3-08
- MTB ride/Pool Party
- Baltimore's beginner MTB ride
- 6/28 MTB/Pool Party
- Horribly Hilly 2008
- Tracy's TOMRV 2008 photos
- TOMRV 2008
- Horsey 2008
- Spring Green 2008
- Peter's MTB ride
- Quadrupedal
- Baltimore's MTB ride
- EBC Trail Clean up
About 20 EBC members get their hands dirty cleaning up The Great Western Trail.
Thanks to all you came and gave a hand, the Trail looks great now!
- Punta Cana 2008
Pussanee and I were in the Punta Cana region of the Dominican Republic for a week and managed to get in some cycling, sometimes we could even get a helmet!
- Winter MTB ride 1-19-2008
- Bulldogs at Palos 1-1-08
- Bears Game 12-30-07
- Winter MTB Ride 01-19-08
- Winter MTB RIDE 12-8-07
- Bears Game 12-2-07
- Brown County
- White Pines Thanksgiving 2007
- Palos MTB Ride 11-18007
- Roll the Tollway
- Brown County State Park
- Palos Fall Color Ride 10-27-207
- Hilly 2007
- EBC Palos Ride 10-6-07
- 2007 Corn Fest
- Palos in Fall
- Elmhurst Labor Day MTB Ride
- Bike Psycho
- Palos Single Track
- EBC Mountain Bike Ride
- Elmhurst Waterford 2007
Elmhurst Waterford Ride 2007
- Elmhurst Mountain Bike Ride
Elmhurst Mountain Bike Ride June 30th 2007
- TOMRV 2007
Pussanee and I rode TOMRV day 1 with Steve Joesphs and Bill and Karen Schwartz.
It was the best 108 mile day ever! Perfect weather, great route and a great group to ride with.
Big Bill made it easy for the rest of us by pulling the first 60 miles. Thanks Bill!
We ran into many Club Members along the route, it was great to see so many doing the ride.
After the ride we had a blast in the Beer Garden, followed by the incredible TOMRV Banquet.
The Band played this song as we had our recovery drinks in the Beer Garden, so
turn up your volume and get a taste of TOMRV 2007!
Click on start slideshow to start, then view Fullscreen.
- Horsey 2007
Here's some photos to give you a flavor of The Horsey Hundred 2007, It's the best weekend we ride we have ever done!
Click on start slideshow, turn up your volume and enjoy!
- Gunflint Lodge 2007
Cross Country Skiing, hiking and Dogsledding in February of 2007
- Hilly Hundred 2006
- Crested Butte
Pussanee and I rode in Crested Butte, Colorado and loved it!
Try to get there when you can. Until then click on Slideshow, turn
up your volume and watch a Singletrack dream
- Horsey and Cave Run- May 2006
Horsey Hundred Road ride and Mountain Biking at Cave Run Lake in May 2006
- Steve's Party
- Kauai 2006
Pussanee and I were married on Kauai in
January 2006, it is a paradise, so click
Slideshow, turn up your volume and take
a 2 minute tropical vacation
- Our Wedding Photos
- Hilly Hundred 2005
Hilly Hundred in Brown County Indiana
- Chequamegon 2005
- Pisgah July 2005
Mountain and Road Riding In North Carolina, July 2005
- Porcupine Mountain Feb 2005
We head up to Porcupine for Cross Contry Skiing, Snowmobling, and Downhill Skiing.
- Pisgah
- Arizona 2004
- AIBR ride 2004
- Lake Tahoe
- Crestted Butte 2003