[pct-l] Kick Off thoughts of a Mad Man

[montedodge at msn.com (Monte Dodge)]

Kick Off thoughts???? My take?? This is " The Event" of the west coast for 
sure!! Where else can you share a cup of coffee and a pancake ( from 2003's 
village encampment) and rub shoulders with some folks like Scott Williamson, 
Flyin Brian,Yogi or old school hikers like Ned Tibbits class of 1974 and buy 
the newest ,lightest tents/packs all in one place!!  THe KO may be getting 
larger , but like Disneyland, crowds don't seem to stop the smile on 
people's faces. You have the best of both worlds and all the history wrapped 
in one,, old guard folks like Meadow Ed, Strider, Pete Fish can share with 
you facts /figures and only happy to answe questions ( esp. from new budding 
thru-hikers of the future). Carl did a " Super Human " job himself keeping 
all the registrations ,counts, etc. and for zero pay and only his love for 
the trail . " Commander" Bob Reiss with his motor homan hauled more food 
than most " Everest Expeditions" and remains unplaceable. THe KO spririt is 
still alive , though larger , and is still the same vision as Strider, 
Charlie Jones, Tom Reynolds, Paul Hacker, started seven years ago . I think 
the 650ish hikers, well wishers, family members that came to the event ( 
some coming from miles away) would agree..GREAT JOB,, PCT Family!!!!  Enjoy 
the trail  2005. This year will only add to the " Lore" of the 
PCT..............