Bicycle backers unite: Dublin could certainly not be described as a cycling-friendly city, yet up to 5,000 cyclists took to the streets in mid-June last year for the Docklands Cycle. This year, the Dublin Cycling Campaign plans to whip up even more enthusiasts for the cycle, starting from Mayor Street in the Irish Financial Services Centre at 8pm on Wednesday, July 19th.
And if you're interested in campaigning to make the capital city - principally its motorists - more friendly towards cyclists, consider joining the Dublin Cycling Campaign, whose next meeting is on Monday at 8pm in the Whitefriars Community Centre, Aungier Street, Dublin 2. See www.connect.ie/dcc for more details. Meanwhile, Dublin's first ever Bicycle Arts Festival goes ahead from July 21st to 23rd. Events will include film, photography, sculpture, painting and performances and workshops - all of which will celebrate bicycle culture. See www.dublinbicyclefestival.org or e-mail dublinbicyclefestival@gmail.com.
Arts and minds of Kinsale
Architecture as an art form, the value placed on art spaces in Ireland and the future challenges for Irish art and architecture and design are just some of the themes that will be discussed at a one-day seminar during Kinsale Arts Week later this month. The seminar, which will be opened by Frank McDonald, Environment Editor of this newspaper, will include sessions chaired by artists, designers, architects and cultural commentators. The final session will look at the issues involved in setting up an arts venue in Kinsale. More details on Art, Architecture and Design, on Thursday, July 20th in the Trident Hotel, Kinsale, Co Cork on 021-4700010. Cost: €50. See also www.kinsaleartsweek.com.
Treasury's Shanghai eco-city
The Dublin-based property group Treasury Holdings is co-developing what has been described as the world's first "eco-city" off the coast of Shanghai in China. Planning permission for the development of the 4.22 million square metre Dontang eco-city on Chonming Island was granted by the Chinese authorities last month. Given that smog frequently surrounds Shanghai, the objective of the Dontang project is to create a sustainable development that will present a clear view of the sky for residents. The scheme will include environment-friendly housing and provision for wind energy. The Chinese state-controlled Shanghai Industrial Investment Company, which owns the property, is the partner in the development.
Uphill battle against arthritis
Arthritis Ireland's countrywide hill-walking event takes place on Saturday next. The aim is to have 50 teams of people simultaneously walking up 50 peaks across Ireland. Arthritis Ireland and the Mountaineering Council of Ireland (MCI) have developed a list of peaks to cater for all levels of experience, from enthusiasts looking for a challenge to those keener on having an easy trek. To participate, contact Arthritis Ireland on 01-6618188 and pick a peak. Funds raised will help the 5,000 children with juvenile arthritis in Ireland. See www.arthritisireland.ie.
