WEST WARWICK, R.I. (AP) -- Workers on Thursday began removing teddy bears, cards, flowers and other mementos left at the site of the nightclub fire that killed 99 people.
The items left by victims' friends and family will be kept in storage until a permanent memorial is developed, said Town Manager Wolfgang Bauer. He said the items were being removed to protect them from the elements.
Also Thursday, state officials announced plans for an April 22 benefit concert for victims and survivors of the fire.
The Providence Performing Arts Center offered its venue free of charge and at least 15 acts, ranging from church groups to rock bands, have volunteered to play.
The Feb. 20 fire started as pyrotechnics shot up during the first set of the band Great White at The Station nightclub in West Warwick. Ninety-nine people died and nearly 190 others were injured.
