City Of Campbell River Honours Carol Chapman With Freedom Of The City Award

The City of Campbell River celebrated Canada Day by naming Campbell River resident Carol Chapman a Freeman of the City at this year’s Canada Day ceremony at Robert Ostler Park.

Chapman has been organizing Canada Day events in Campbell River for 30 years. In a release, the City explains that Chapman first began organizing the event after hearing budget constraints were going to impact the festivities.

She connected with 24 businesses to raise $24,000 and the show went on.

Three decades later, the popular event continues to bring residents together to celebrate Canada with a dazzling show of community spirit.

“Naming someone a Freeman of the City recognizes individuals for their exemplary community service and contributions,” says Campbell River Mayor Dahl.

“Carol’s name was brought forward by Freemen Mary Ashley and Bill Matthews, and Council and I agreed wholeheartedly that Carol was a deserving recipient. Carol’s work organizing Canada Day events for the past thirty years and long history of community service is an inspiration for members of the community. It was absolutely my privilege to name Carol a Freeman of the City, and I hope you’ll join me in congratulating Carol.”

Chapman’s many community contributions, including organizing the Canada Day celebrations, were recognized in 2008 with a Community Builder award.

She joins an elite group. Just nine Freemen have been named since Campbell River’s incorporation in 1947.

The City says the title is purely an honour, “reflecting the eminence of the person on whom it is conferred or as recognition of significant and valuable services rendered to Campbell River by that person.”

To learn more about Freemen and the Freedom of the City, visit City of Campbell River.