Charity alive and well
While there is much talk about the weakness of the euro, the cost of living and the economic crisis, it's clear that people in this locality are prepared to put that behind them as they work on behalf of those less fortunate than themselves.
The charitable spirit is certainly alive and well in Westmeath and Roscommon, as can be evidenced by the countless number of fundraisers being held lately, most notably a number of charity cycles due to take place in the coming weeks, from the 200km cycle being undertaken by 27 local cyclists this weekend from Athlone to Waterford in aid of the South Westmeath Hospice, to the cycle from Mullingar to Drumraney on August 7 in aid of St Hilda's Summer Camp and of course the Clann na nGael cycle from Croke Park to Athlone on August 6 in aid of the Irish Motor Neurons Disease Association.
It is heartening to see so many people giving up their spare time to raise much needed funds for such organisations. It is this level of commitment and this ethos of working together for those less fortunate that will see us out of this recession. With so much negative news surrounding the economy and world events it would be easy for people to just join in the doom and gloom and forget that there are people who are less fortunate, but this has not been the case in Westmeath and Roscommon and those people who put in countless hours preparing for these events, whether it be training for lengthy cycles or in the organisation of the fundraisers, should be commended. Yes, charity and community spirit are most definitely alive and well in these parts.
Improvements in outdoor amenities
It's great to see that Athlone Town Council and Westmeath County Council are working together to improve the offering of outdoor amenities in the area.
We have a fantastic facility in Portlick and it's fantastic to see that Westmeath County Council is finalising the design for a new amenity area in the woodlands location on the banks of Lough Ree.
The new facility will encompass two new walking loops, a horse track around the perimeter, a horse exercise area and a playground, among other new facilities in the area, it was revealed recently.
The council must be commended for improving our outdoor amenities and encouraging people to make greater use of the facilities on our doorstep.
Athlone Town Council, too, should come in for praise for taking a step towards introducing a comprehensive cycling route in the town and for the joint effort of both councils to turn the disused Athlone to Mullingar rail line into a cycle track until such a time as it can be reopened as a railway line.
Not only will the improvement of our outdoor amenities help to attract tourists to the area, the facilities will be a welcome addition to the locality, encouraging locals to get out for some fresh air and exercise and of course to encourage us all to do our bit for the environment by perhaps taking the bike on occasion rather than the car.
