WILTON — Since 2016, thousands of dollars have been given out as scholarships from funds raised by the annual Michael J. Rowe Scholarship fundraiser that is part of the Wilton Fish & Game Michael J. Rowe Memorial Ice Fishing Derby. This year’s event was held Feb. 15 on Wilson Lake and featured four raffles specifically for the scholarship fund.
* A Cabela’s 2 person hub ice shelter (donated by Stuart Allen) won by Travis Hewett. * Moosehead traps and ice skimmer (donated by the Rowe family) won by Lee Walker. * A gift certificate (donated by Colby-Woods Cattle) won by Hadi Smith. * Maple syrup (donated by Shady Lane Sugar Shack) won by Jerry Woodman.
“We are humbled by your support,” said a statement from the Rowe family. “Thank you.”
The family created the annual memorial scholarship after Rowe died in a tragic woods accident Feb. 13, 2014. Michael was a graduate of the forestry program at Mt Blue Foster Tech Center. In June of every year, the family personally awards this non-traditional scholarship to a deserving senior graduating from the Foster Tech Center who is pursuing a career in a technical field.
Thanks to the community’s generous support, the program has awarded $5,000 to date:
* 2016 – $500
* 2017 – $1,000
* 2018 – $1,500
* 2019 – $2,000 (two $1,000 scholarships)
Anyone interested in contributing to the fund can send donations to: Michael J. Rowe Memorial Scholarship c/o Franklin Savings Bank P.O. BOX 520 Wilton, ME 04294.
PHOTO: Charlie Brann pshows off the 2.645-pound togue he caught to win the top youth prize and a boxed set of Max-Traps at the Michael J. Rowe Memorial Ice-Fishing Derby on Wilson Lake Feb. 15. Congratulating him are Deb and Jeff Rowe, parents of Michael J. Rowe. (Submitted photo)
