Manhasset's first-ever Christmas Tree Recycling day, organized by the SCA's Planet Manhasset eco-committee, exceeded all expectations, with a whopping 130-plus trees brought in for recycling in just 3 hours.

The morning was crisp and the spirits were high as young and older banded together to work side by side in this important neighborhood event.

They came strapped, wrapped, tied, held and dragged - but come they did, in a wonderful show of community spirit. Tree givers left with bags of fresh, pine-scented mulch for their gardens, or donated it to the Congregational Church.

This community endeavor was made possible by the generous volunteer efforts of many, including Planet Manhasset committee members and their families, Hefferin Tree Service, the Congregational Church of Manhasset, Whole Foods Market, Manhasset middle and high school students and Chaminade students.

For questions regarding Planet Manhasset, please email PlanetManhasset@yahoo.com; for more information on Planet Manhasset and other SCA committees, news and events, visit www.manhassetsca.org.