Newtown finds a way to dispose of victim mementos

NEWTOWN, Conn. (AP) — Newtown officials have found a way to dispose of countless mementos paying tribute to the 20 children and six adults killed in an elementary school rampage.

Thousands of flowers, letters, signs, photos, candles, teddy bears and other items at sites around town will be turned into soil and blocks to be used at a future memorial.

The News Times reports that biodegradable materials such as flowers will be composted into soil. Non-biodegradable materials will be ground up and combined with a cement slurry to make blocks.

First Selectman Patricia Llodra said the future memorial will hold the messages and symbols from mourners since the Dec. 14 rampage at the Sandy Hook Elementary School.

The mementos will stay up until after the New Year as Newtown residents and visitors pay their respects.