Rachel Hauraney Commemorative Bench-- now funded

Another update-- we don't yet have a date from the City, but hope to hear shortly. There was a surplus of a thousand dollars and, after discussion with Rachel's family, we sent donations to the Union Mission for the Ric's Kitchen Programme and the other half to the Shepherds of Good Hope, both dear to her heart. Last Saturday, Rachel's ashes were interred at Hillcrest Cemetery in Smith's Falls in a family service, by the shade of some remarkable trees.

Update as of May 4-- We've reached our goal, and hope to announce in a few weeks when the bench will be up.  Chris and I, and the Hauraney family, and all the friends of Rachel want to thank you for your generosity for this commerative bench.

We're Austin Cooke and Chris Kleinsteuber, friends of the late Rachel Hauraney. Rachel was a radiant part of the life of Ottawa, longtime host of a folk music program on CKCU, and active in the Ottawa Little Theatre. She sadly left this life a few weeks ago.

We've worked with the City of Ottawa Parks to arrange for a commemorative bench at Strathcona Park, overlooking the stage and with a view of the river. Rachel spent many hours reading and reflecting in this park and enjoying performances on the stage there. We hope that the bench will give passersby a chance to rest and enjoy the park. We've consulted with the Hauraney family, who approved this initiative. Should there be any surplus, it will be directed to charities selected by the Hauraney family.