Many years ago, I had the pleasure of working for the city of Kennesaw, GA (USA).  A personal mentor of mine, Bill Thrash, was someone who guided me through every step of the way.  He was an active man in the city as a councilman and mentor to youth all over the city.  He facilitated the construction of a new, huge park in the city, as well as a community centre.  I’ve been climbing for several years now, and Bill Thrash recently lost his battle to cancer.  Bill is the second person close to me that I’ve lost to cancer this year, and my next climb will be dedicated to him.  He has been an inspiration to thousands of people, and students, over the years, and a personal inspiration to me, a climber.  His life has become a model for mine, and something I will always carry with me.