The 13 year old girl who died in the avalanche on 1-4-08 while hiking with friends was the daughter of one of my colleagues in the structural engineering field. This is obviously a devastating loss for his family. Please send out your positive vibes to Dave Swanson, his wife Kim, daughter Megan and son Bryan. They need all the vibes they can get. If anyone is feeling generous, the family has requested that memorial donations be made to two organizations that helped in Emily's recovery.

Everett Mountain Rescue Unit
c/o Ken Ohlsen
5506 Old Machias Rd
Snohomish WA 98290

Snohomish County Volunteer Search & Rescue
5506 Old Machias Rd
Snohomish WA 98290

I know it has been said before, but PLEASE be careful out there. It hits harder when it is someone you know. Thanks.