September 15, 2023 by Thomas Hoffman
Stod Rowley is a generous man.
The Middle Street resident has been a key figure in the annual 50 Flags Program as he and his sons place all the flags along Middle Street, Pleasant Street, Union Street and Common Street. This years program set a record of $37,500 with 418 placements around Hingham. Twenty percent of the revenue was placed in a donation pool to be donated to the various sports teams based upon their respective percentage of placements and removals.
The Rowley’s effort resulted in $500 to be donated and Stod again this year donated the funds to South Shore SNAP. SNAP is in its 10th year of providing athletic programs, a summer program and the I Can Shine learn to ride a bike program for special needs youngsters.
The 50 Flags Program has become a main fundraising source for the 4th of July Parade which does not receive any taxpayer funds. The parade typically costs upwards of $45,000 to $50,000. Private and corporate donations along with the parade button sales and the 50 Flags Program cover those annual costs.