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Raising the roof for Falkland

Growing up in the small town of Falkland, Matt Mathieson practically lived at the ice rink, especially in the winter.
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Aafje Marie helps decorate for her uncle Matt’s 30th birthday, which he turned into a fundraiser to help the Falkland Community Association put a roof on the ice rink. - Submitted Photo

Growing up in the small town of Falkland, Matt Mathieson practically lived at the ice rink, especially in the winter.

“The rink was where most of us kids would spend our winter days. From the time we got out of school ‘til supper time then right back up after supper,” said Mathieson, who lived in Falkland until he was 17, and his parents are still in the same house he grew up in.

So for his 30th birthday, Mathieson thought what better way to celebrate than to give back to the place that raised him.

“I haven’t lived in Falkland for many years but the town is very close to my heart. It’s where as a kid I could hunt, fish, dirt bike and snowmobile right from my back yard, so as my 30th birthday was approaching I thought it would be nice to try and give back.”

Mathieson turned his birthday bash into a fundraiser for the rink, which is trying to get enough money to put a roof on the rink so people wouldn’t have to shovel in the winter.

With the help of his wife (Alisha), family, friends, the Falkland Community Association and community members, they put together the event and raised $1,150.

“We had about 60 people come out to the hall which I think is incredible for a small community,” said Alisha. “We had a community potluck and local businesses donated silent auction items. Every person donated what they could.

“There were people who came out just to help me decorate and set up food who couldn’t stay for the whole thing. I just feel that speaks so much to how incredibly strong the ties are in this valley.”

Since the community has been fundraising for a few years to put a roof on the rink, everyone would love to see it come to fruition.

“Matt grew up there and we own a house/property there (a rental),” said Alisha, who is looking at doing another fundrasier, possibly a kids carnival. “He speaks of that community like it’s the most important place on earth.”

Mathieson adds: “There are many other people in Falkland that have put hundreds of countless hours into the rink and I’m just glad that we could help in this little way.”

The roof is hoped to be ready for next season and half of the approximately $200,000 needed has been raised so far.



Jennifer Smith

About the Author: Jennifer Smith

Vernon has always been my home, and I've been working at The Morning Star since 2004.
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