By this late date the snows had indeed come and no climbing was possible. However, the specific object of their quest, which is in the far reaches of the Ahora Gorge, was studied through a telescope. This author had originally been invited to be a member of the Cummings-Irwin group. In early spring a second thrust apparently became available and the decision was made to propose separate, but complementary, groups. This second group, which was to have been primarily sponsored through ICR, consisted of two Sumerian archaeologists, one Turkish anthropologist-mountain climber who had grown up on Ararat, one professional climber, one professional cinematographer, and this author.
All participants are capable climbers and experts at their designated functions.
Noah's Ark. Unfortunately, Turkish officials became hesitant about sanctioning the ICR group once the president of Turkey had approved the Irwin group. Competition was feared and not knowing of the plans to cooperate and coordinate the two expeditions, the ICR paperwork was held up by Turkish officials until too late. Efforts are under way to insure that a properly planned, prepared, and staffed team of scientists and professionals will have every opportunity for success. As is always the case with such a venture, the financial needs are great. Donations to the project can be sent to ICR designated for the Ararat project.