removing rubber trim around steering column

[Mark B]

How do I remove the rubber trim around the steering column? (The trim that fits into the instrument panel). I see it slides off. Do I need to dismantel the all the switch and shift parts at the top of the column to get the rubber trim off? I don't want to cut it off because I want to clean it up and paint it. I have the steering wheel out and the instrument panel removed right now, and shifter is 3 on the tree.

thanks
Mark