Mt Whitney Zone Forums General Discussion July 7, 2011 hike, beginner questions

A friend and I are looking to hike to the summit of mt. Whitney on July 7th for a day hike. We both are in excellent hiking shape with much experience however neither of us have climbed in ice with crampons. Mt. Whitney permit office said there still will be snow and ice on July 7th. My question is how bad would this ice be to hike through with crampons and ice axe? I figure we all must start somewhere right? Are there any groups or a hiker going that day that might be interested in grouping up together? Any advice is much appreciated!