[pct-l] Fw: UPDATE

[dsaufley at sprynet.com (Donna Saufley)]

I wanted to pass along a  message dated 6/20 from Pat Radney, who is supporting her husband Walt out on the trail this season(they're the "Happy Trails Couple").  Her reference to being devastated about Neil is some sad news to pass along to folks.  Neil Ball, who came through here in 2000 and was trying again this year, made the tragic choice to take his own life at the White's Motel.  We understood that Neil was approximately 68, and was from Pennsylvania.  No one knows why.  Here's Pat's note:
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Hi you Two, hope all is well with you and that most of us have gone through by  now. 

Wanted to update you on Walts' progress and conditions. I see him in Tuoloume tonight.  Lake Tahoe in 7 days. 

Kennedy Meadows to Horse Shoe was ok, plenty of water.  Mt. Whitney had plenty of snow.  The streams were full but not too dangerous.  Forresters' shoot wasn't great but do able,  Evolutioin Creek was ok in am, but it was better to cross in the Meadow, Mather was icy and snowy, Muir had the most snow.  Everything was ok using poles or ice axes.  Mono Creek after VVR was ok to wade or cross at the log further up.  Silver pass was icy.  All the streams were ok but getting higher. 

Those I know who are through Reds' Meadows:  Pacific Beast, TUTU, Rye Dog, Grahm, Falcort, Walt, Kit, Di, Masa,  Tomo, Floater, Justin, Northern Lights, Bergfish, Happy (and her boyfriend Patrick), DNA,  Mr. T and Nameless Mike. 

Kingston, Ian and HuffNPuff took a week off at Kennedy Meadows, Mother Natures Son and Running Feather went to San Diego for at week from Lone Pine.  We heard about Neil and are just devistated!   

Will give you an update again when we get to Lake Tahoe in 7 days! 

Lots of Love - Pat