It's sad to think it's just about time to start boxing up those ornaments and taking down the sparkly lights, but people around town will start to tear down their Christmas trees this week.

If you bought a "real" tree this year, then be sure to recycle it. You can drop off your tree at Bicentennial Park until January 6th. Don't forget to take off all lights, ornaments, tinsel, and other decorations.

The trees will be turned into wood chips and made available to the public on January 9 on a first-come, first-served basis. Bring a shovel to scoop up some of the free chips, which are perfect for gardens and flower beds. You can pick up the wood chips at Bicentennial Park.