Contributed Photo Richie Havens

Final wishes: Ashes to be scattered at Bethel

Story by Dan Hust
BETHEL — July 9, 2013 — Richie Havens’ heart never left Bethel. Now his ashes will be scattered about its most famous site.
Havens was – and is – arguably the performer most closely identified with the 1969 Woodstock festival.
On Sunday, August 18, his ashes will be gently released across the field where he improvised his iconic “Freedom” song 44 years ago.
It’s exactly what he wanted, and it’s a fitting tribute to a man who returned to Bethel many times over the course of his storied life – always happy to speak about that life, mingle with fans, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
The Bethel Woods Center for the Arts event is free and open to the public but requires admission tickets. Approximately 1,000 tickets will be available, though there will be a limit of two per request.
Tickets can be obtained through Bethel Woods starting today at 10 a.m. (either at www.bethelwoodscenter.org or at the box office on Hurd Road).