This is no cruel joke. Las Vegas Ski and Snowboard Mountain Patrol has already begun recruitment, because some volunteers will need to complete a 14-week outdoor-emergency class, which starts late this month, way before the snow arrives (typically November). If you think it’s difficult recruiting volunteers during summer, think again. According to Ski Patroller Randall Brody, last year’s crew of 87 was double the size of the previous year’s. He thanks the economy. More people with no jobs means more volunteering, especially when doing so lands you plenty of free skiing … and the opportunity to help others, duh.