Carol Chapman named Freeman of the City on Canada Day, July 1, 2024.

The City of Campbell River (the City) celebrated Canada Day by naming Campbell River resident Carol Chapman a Freeman of the City at this year’s Canada Day ceremony at Campbell River’s Robert Ostler Park on July 1, 2024.

It was a fitting tribute, as Chapman has been organizing Canada Day events for the benefit and enjoyment of Campbell River residents for 30 years. Chapman first began organizing the event after hearing one year that budget constraints were going to impact the festivities. Chapman 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.

Mayor Kermit Dahl named Chapman a Freeman of the City at Monday’s Canada Day ceremony.

“Naming someone a Freeman of the City recognizes individuals for their exemplary community service and contributions,” says 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. Since then, Chapman’s community-mindedness and commitment to helping others has continued.

Chapman joins an elite group. Nine Freemen have been named since Campbell River’s incorporation in 1947:

• Oscar Thulin (1965)
• Tom Barnett (1982)
• Robert Ostler (1991)
• Mary Ashley (1994)
• Dot Andrews (2004)
• Bill Harrison (2004)
• James Lornie (2004)
• Rod Brind’Amour (2006)
• Bill Matthews (2006)

Freemen’s names are added to the top of the voters’ list and they are included in the City’s social events. 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 www.campbellriver.ca/your-city-hall/city-honours/freemen-of-the-city.

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Contact: Sheila Girvin, Director of Corporate Service | 250-286-5731 | info@campbellriver.ca