The Fred Stewart Shangri-La Award was created in 2001 in honor the memory of Fred Stewart, founder of Mountain Patrol Inc., for the many years that he committed to the safety and well-being of the Lake Rabun community.
The Award periodically recognizes individuals who have performed extraordinary and selfless acts to benefit and protect the well-being of the Lake Rabun community. The award is given to members of the Lake Rabun community whose service goes beyond the call of duty and who have demonstrated their willingness to give of themselves for the benefit of others.
Recipients are recognized at one of the LRA semiannual General Membership meetings. Their names are added to a podium constructed by LRA member Buz Stone and used during member meetings to honor Fred Stewart.
2017 FRED STEWART SHANGRI-LA AWARD RECIPIENTS
JACK DICKENS, BILL DAVIS, ANNE MARIE HOFFMAN, JOHN POLHILL
Four LRA members were recognized as recipients of the Fred Stewart Award in 2017.
Jack Dickens selflessly climbed down a steep embankment to rescue the young driver of an Athens Y Camp van that had tumbled off the side of the road. After freeing the driver who was hanging by her seat belt after the van overturned, Jack carried her up the embankment to safety.
Bill Davis retrieved his home AED and delivered it to the scene where Anne Fleming had collapsed in cardiac arrest during the Rabun Ramble race. Anne Marie Hoffman and Dr. John Polhill administered care at the site prior to arrival of Rabun County Emergency Services. These three individuals made a significant impact that led to a miraculous recovery.
PAST RECIPIENTS
| Year | Recipient |
|---|---|
| 2017 | Jack Dickens, Bill Davis, Anne Marie Hoffman, John Polhill |
| 2016 | Michael Crowe |
| 2015 | Ben McCracken |
| 2009 | The Bill Davis Family |
| 2001 | Dr. Joesph P. Mims |
