Mar. 24, 2010

By Lisa Kestenbaum Daily Journal Staff Writer When Kendra Carney heads to the mountains for a weekend, it’s not for the typical relaxing getaway; she is dressed and on the slopes by 7 a.m. However unlike most avid skiers, Carney’s gear includes a red jacket with a white cross, a radio and on some occasions, a toboggan. As a member of the Bear Mountain Volunteer Patrol, Carney tries to go to the mountain at least a couple times a month. "It’s a good balance… you can push yourself intellectually during the week and then physically on the weekends," said Carney, who recently joined Best Best & Krieger’s municipal law practice group in Irvine. This is Carney’s second full season as a volunteer, although she grew up watching her father do the same in Snow Summit. "A lot of people on the patrol have known me since I was a kid. It’s a great family of people," she said. "During the week all the volunteers are doing their jobs, most of which are something very different from being on the mountain. I grew up skiing so I love that. Then being able to help people at the same time is really an exceptional opportunity to volunteer." In 2008 Carney decided to take the volunteer training course that begins with Outdoor Emergency Care lectures twice a week. Next is on-hill training that lasts for about one season. "During that time you have to learn, and then show your proficiency with a number of tasks," Carney explained. "Then, once you meet the qualifications, you get your 'bones', which is what they, call earning the cross," she added. The volunteer program, which is run by the National Ski Patrol, includes different levels of certification. After your rookie year, you can take more specialized courses, such as avalanche training or overnight camping, Carney explained. The volunteers range from 21-year-olds to people in their 60s. “Some are older and not skiing but helping out in the first aid room," she said. "I’m skiing more in a season than I normally would," she added. "It’s definitely a physical challenge each time but I love that."