Frank, by the 6th or 7th, the switchbacks may be more accessible. Keep checking in at whitneyzone to see what others are reporting. I'm glad I acclimated, simply because I'm not sure what the effect would have been if I didn't. It seems that all the experts recommend it and claim it makes a big difference. If you have the time, definitely plan on it!
Regarding glissading, it depends on the conditions of the ice. If it's cold and the ice is frozen, you will slide very easily and therefore your speed arresting skills (ie, ice axe) will be required. If it's slushy, the snow will bunch up underneath you and keep you slow. Make sure to have some waterproof pants to make sure you don't get wet.
The varmints are not scared of people. I heard others talking that they were coming up right next to them and stealing stuff right in front of them. We left our packs out (without any food) with no problem, but I was told of a case of a pack that had a tiny piece of food in it, the varmints smelled it and ate through the pack. So long as your food doesn't cross-contaminate and smell up your pack, you should be ok leaving it out or in the tent.
Good luck!
