Russell Bean, Amy Freudenberg Dover, Julie Freudenberg, Earl Freudenberg, Judge Clarence Shattuck and CBA President Mark Litchford
photo by Russell Bean
Judge Russell Bean, CBA Executive Director Lynda Hood, Earl Freudenberg, Judge Clarence Shattuck and CBA President Mark Litchford
photo by Russell Bean
Freudenbergs and East Ridge Judge Tracy Cox
photo by Russell Bean
Longtime local broadcaster Earl Freudenberg was honored on Wednesday as the recipient of this year's Liberty Bell Award presented at the annual Chattanooga Bar Association Law Day Celebration. The event was held at the Marriott at the Convention Center.
Lynda Minks Hood, CBA executive director, said, "Each year, the Chattanooga Bar Association honors an outstanding citizen in the Chattanooga area with the prestigious award for public service. The purpose of the “Liberty Bell Award” is to recognize community service that has strengthened the America system of freedom under law. In selecting the recipient of this award, the Chattanooga Bar Association considers such service as including activities which (1) promotes better understanding of our Constitution and the Bill of Rights; (2) encourage a greater respect for the law and the courts; (3) stimulates a deeper sense of individual responsibility so that citizens recognize their duties as well as their rights; (4) contribute to the effective functioning of our institutions of government; and (5) foster a better understanding and appreciation of the rule of law. Lawyers and judges are not eligible for the award; however, all other fields of endeavor are intended for the inclusion, namely education, business, sciences, communications, labor, government, religion, professions and youth organizations.
"Earl Freudenberg, a longtime Chattanooga radio news director and talk show host, has been honored with the highest civic award given to outstanding citizens across the United States, in recognition of his extraordinary service to the Chattanooga community.
"Mr. Freudenberg began his broadcasting career at the age of 18 on WDOD-AM, Chattanooga’s first radio station. From 1971 to 1974, he served as a broadcaster for the American Forces Network Europe, bringing news to American service members abroad. Upon returning to Chattanooga in 1974, he resumed his work at WDOD, where he would go on to serve as news director and talk show host for over three decades. During the 1980s, he also held the position of television news director at WDEF Channel 12.
"A respected historian of Chattanooga news and civic life, Mr. Freudenberg is often referred to as the city's “go-to guy” for historical context on local government and influential figures. His deep knowledge and dedication to preserving the city’s heritage have made him a trusted voice in the community.
"In addition to his media career, Freudenberg has been a long-standing supporter of Chattanooga’s Armed Forces Day Parade, serving not only as a key organizer but also as emcee for many years.
"Earl Freudenberg's lifelong commitment to informing and uplifting his community has left a lasting impact on Chattanooga and serves as a shining example of civic dedication."
Mr. Freudenberg said, "I'm normally the one posting community pictures about the accomplishments of our friends but this has to be the surprise of my life when retired General Sessions Court Judge Clarence Shattuck presented me with the "Liberty Bell Award," one of the top civic awards in the United States.
"I'm humbled to even be considered. There were several involved in the selection so I say a big thank you. Special thanks to Lynda Minks Hood, Judge Shattuck, Judge Russell Bean, Ben Cagle and the others that I don't know about.
"When I look at the past recipients of this prestigious award, I accept this honor with humility. A few of the past recipients are Lee Anderson, Ruth Holmberg, Dr. J. Fred Johnson, Do nut Williams, Joe Decosimo Rabbi Ken Kantor, James Mapp, Senator Bob Corker, General B.B. Bell and my first grade classmate, General Bill Raines. It is an honor roll of Chattanoogans who have worked to improve our quality of life. I'm so thankful I was born, raised and have lived in our beautiful city 77 years.
"To God Be the Glory" for our great community and its citizens. I'm honored to receive this award. Thank you again Chattanooga Bar Association."
Click here for video by Ben Cagle.