[pct-l] Arriving into USA this Sunday !

[usaphilip at acr.net.au (Philip McHugh)]

I am also flying in from overseas (Australia) to hike the JMT southbound, leaving Yosemite June 21. As I have decided not to attempt to carry any food into the USA, I will need to supply in downtown Los Angeles during the "Sunday" before departing from Union Station for Yosemite Valley. My base pack weight will be around 10 lbs, with a great effort being made to keep the entire pack weight to no more than 25 lbs.  

For my initial supply, which will get me to VVR, could you advise me as to the best place to pick up backpacking foods in Downtown Los Angeles on a Sunday. I usually put together my own dehydrated meals and buy things off the shelf in supermarkets, but this time I might also consider a few freeze dried backpacker meals. Also, as my resupply will have to be made up of whatever I can purchase at VVR, can anyone tell me just what they have available to sustain life until I get to Mt Whitney ?

One last thing. I am aware that the snow melt has come quite early. Is it still necessary / wise to carry an ice axe ? 

Thanks for your assistance

Philip