Over 100 Times Square visitors have deposited bad memories in a portable shredder to prepare for 2016 as workers build stages to prepare for Thursday's end-of-year festivities.
The ninth annual "Good Riddance Day" enabled people symbolically to toss away their worst fears Monday.
Among dozens who lined up outdoors was Maureen Dexter of Wenatchee, Washington. She shredded pictures of herself before she lost 75 pounds.
While some people got rid of documents, others smashed such items as a laptop and a pill bottle.
Nearby, people were encouraged to write wishes for the new year on confetti to be dropped over crowds at midnight Thursday.
Those making deposits in the "New Year's Eve Wishing Well" varied widely in their desires.
Some sought love, others fortune and some world peace.
