In this week's Westmeath Independent

This week's Westmeath Independent is now on the shelves and features 88 pages of the best local news, sports, features and photography coverage. 

Stories include: 

* Fáilte Ireland funding boost for proposed broadcasting museum and science centre in Athlone

* Green light for major flood defence schemes in Deerpark and Golden Island areas

* Tributes paid to 'much loved' AIT student Jordan Murphy after his death in tragic accident

* Westmeath councillors reject proposed increase in property tax

* Top US diplomat Samantha Power visits Athlone to trace her local roots 

* Cora Staunton to speak at Coosan Family Day this weekend

* New N55 route options to be pared-down new month

* A guide to local events for Culture Night this Friday

* Pub seats on Church Street 'not what we wanted' says local councillor

* FIRST DAYS AT SCHOOL PHOTO SPECIALS: We have photos of junior infants in local schools: Ardkeenan NS, St Brigid's NS Moate, Baylin NS, St Mary's NS in Tang, Athlone Mixed NS, Tubber NS, Tubberclair NS, Streamstown NS, Moyvore NS, Summerhill NS, Camcloon NS. 

* Photos from the Athlone Tri Club triathlon in Coosan Point

* Local swimmer Robbie Powell bound for Argentina after Youth Olympics selection

* Athlone and Garrycastle to battle for semi-final place in Westmeath club championship

All this and more is in this week's edition, out now. An electronic edition can be purchased through the ePaper link above.