The Londonderry Chamber of Commerce in Partnership with Derry City Council, Ilex, and the Strategic Investment Board are calling the business community to action on Monday 6^th September 2010 in the Waterfoot Hotel at 4.45 p.m. – 7.00 p.m.

They are hoping to facilitate and examine opportunities of “Maximising the Economic potential of the City of Culture 2013.”  They are seeking a constructive input from the private sector on exploring opportunities in terms of investment, upskilling, physical infrastructure, and the building of new audiences and the attraction of new visitors.

The anticipated outputs include an increase of 2,900 jobs over the lifetime of the Regeneration Plan to 2020 with 1,300 in place by 2013.  It will lead to a doubling in tourism income and performance.  It creates a significant peak in construction activity over the next two years and sustained growth in employment sectors in terms of creative cultural jobs and business services.

 The keynote address will be delivered by US Economic Envoy, Declan Kelly who will lead a panel of experts in giving an update on the City of Culture: what next and how and where we go from here.

 To book a place contact Christina McCallion on 02871 262379 or email christina@londonderrychamber.co.uk .

I believe there is a real, palpable buzz about the city of Derry right now, with the cultural programme being strengthened on a weekly basis. A good source informs me that there was a fantastic vibe about the city on Saturday afternoon past, as part of the Walled Towns Day events (21st & 22^nd August) at the Seafood Festival and music outside the City of Culture offices provided by up and coming local band John Deery and the Heads.

On Sunday past the Playlist Festival played host again to more talented local bands including Pure Fresh and Balkan Alien Sound.

Indeed, only last week was it announced that Derry will become part of the Clipper 11-12 Round the World Yacht Race in July 2012 with a showcase festival to conclude the transatlantic stage of the 40,000 mile race to the finish – exposing Derry to a huge global audience.

A big thumbs-up to the city’s many culture providers. With this in mind, it is timely that a new website is being launched by Derry City Council giving details of a comprehensive ‘What’s On’ guide for the city, with the latest on festivals and events in the city from the arts/culture and business sectors to food & drink.

 Sound Communications wishes the website all the best in becoming a useful tool for a city with a growing event schedule. Further details on the website can be found at: www.whatsonderrylondonderry.com

Eibhlin Boydell