Listen, Dec. 8 really isn't that far away. Dec. 8 is when Mountain Creek plans to launch a mighty busy 2007-2008 season. The weather gods seem to be giving their approval for that date so far. Vernon Base is the traditional first-opener, and it's slated to do it again this year. Opening day at South Base is on the sked for Dec. 15. Celebrity guests arrive Dec. 20 through Dec. 25. Then, you'll be riding with the Big Man. No, Jerseyites, not THAT Big Man. Clarence Clemons is on tour with Springsteen. Riding at Mountain Creek will be Santa Claus, though I'll wager he may have something else to do on the night of Dec. 24.