I am sorry to share that Stella Keane of Ketchum, Idaho was killed yesterday in an avalanche while skiing Mushroom ridge off of Gladiator Peak, near Galena Pass, north of Sun Valley. I got to share a few days with Stella backcountry skiing in the Selkirks at SME last spring. She was a remarkable skier and a fascinating woman. Incredibly strong, very bright and fearless. She was among the pioneers of the golden days of speed skiing and now joins her friend, Steve Mckinney, wherever we all go...
For details as they emerge go to:
www.mtexpress.com/vu_breaking_story.php?bid=6849
After reading the news I immediately checked the avalanche forecast for tomorrow in the Cascades. I shall take the high avalanche conditions seriously and avoid danger. I think I'll ski off the lifts with my kids and be thankful for another day on the planet.
Sorry for the bad news. Play safe, smile lots, be good to each other.
Bruce
