August 6th, 2009 marks the death of Ricardo Cassin...100 years old!  This was one of the greatest mountaineers of the 20th century. He was intelligent in his choice of lines and he was able to observe.  These skills allowed him to open the North face of Piz Badile, the North face of the Grandes Jorasses, McKinley, Gasherbrum IV, etc...Every mountaineer dreams of being able to climb one of his routes one day, hoping to discover the personality and soul of Mr. Cassin himself.  Thank you for these beautiful lines that you have left us...

Conditions are stable, not a cloud in the sky.  The Peakpowder update is behind schedule because we are flat out, climbing mountain routes back to back.  Just back from the Oisans region, and it is a reality that the global warming is putting these glaciers into a miserable state!  Soon, it will be possible to reach various routes with "approach type" shoes.  Don't give up on the cause for saving the planet...this planet needs us and we need it, as much as the polar bears need it!  In the meantime, cool yourselves down in the icy waters around us, and not insome air-conditioned room!!!