Timber!
Though you may get a bit misty-eyed at the thought of taking down your Christmas tree, all live ones must eventually be tossed. The good news is most Colorado communities sponsor free or low-cost recycling programs that turn your timber into garden mulch. Some offer curbside pick-up, while others designate a drop-off site. Before recycling, be sure to read your program’s rules for tree preparation. Remove ornaments, lights, tinsel, nails, wire, garlands and stands. And note, many recyclers can’t accept flocked trees. A good rule of thumb: Leave your tree for recycling in the same condition as you would find it naturally in the forest.
Fare deal
Whether you ring in the New Year at a festive party or head downtown for free fireworks, there’s no reason to get behind the wheel, thanks to two no-cost programs. All RTD services (), including light rail, are free from 7 p.m. on New Year’s Eve until 6 a.m. on Jan. 1. Otherwise, is you’re planning to imbibe, the Sawaya Law Firm offers those who’ve had too much alcohol free cab rides through Jan. 1. It’s simple, just take a cab ride home, pay and get a receipt. They’ll cover the cost up to $35. The deal is good only for a one-way ride to your residence and the trip must be within the metro area. For step-by-step reimbursement instructions, check .
Cheap chirp
Traditional winter bird counts are typically all-day, rigorous events and not suited to young birders. Instead, let the kiddos test their spotting skills at the Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory Christmas Bird Count for Kids on Jan. 3 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Barr Lake State Park in Brighton. Cost is $1 per person, plus the $7 per vehicle State Park entry fee. Children ages 7 to 18 and their families are broken into teams, guided on a 90-minute hike by local birding experts and use a checklist to tally what species they find in the field. Register in advance with Tyler Edmondson at 303-659-4348, ext. 15 or e-mail tyler.edmondson@rmbo.org. Bring a picnic lunch and binoculars (if you have them). RMBO will provide extra binoculars, beverages and snacks.
Each Monday, Laura & Bryan at compile “Cheap Checklist” to help cheapskates find deals, discounts and freebies. Know of a deal? E-mail info@milehighonthecheap.com 10 to 14 days in advance.
