GRAND FORKS (AP) - City Council members are defending the spending of up to $146,000 for events marking the 10th anniversary of the Red River flood disaster.

Of the total, $121,000 would go toward a free barbecue ribs banquet and a Los Lobos concert.

Council member Mike McNamara wondered if that was an appropriate way to remember a disaster that swamped the area in 1997, forcing many people out of their homes.

"There's a lot of pain out there," McNamara told his colleagues Monday night.

Council President Hal Gershman said the event will celebrate recovery.

"This community has so much to be thankful for. There's nothing wrong with celebrating our recovery," Gershman said.

"This is a terrific opportunity for the city of Grand Forks to showcase itself," he said.

The city spent about $7,000 to produce media kits that include a booklet telling the story of the flood and a DVD from city officials.