Gilbert Sister Cities visits N. Ireland

GILBERT, Ariz. - Oct. 16, 2017 - PRLog -- Gilbert Sister Cities (GSC) recently conducted a relationship-building and economic development visit to their Sister City, Antrim and Newtownabbey, Northern Ireland.  Opportunities included discussions with:  Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council, N. Ireland Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Lord Mayor of Belfast, Invest Northern Ireland, Ulster University, arts and culture of the area and schools at other levels.

In addition, Mr. Greg Tilque, long-term president and founding member of the Gilbert Sister Cities program, was designated by the Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council as their first Honorary Citizen. Mr. Tilque said, "This event and honor is the culmination of many years of a successful relationship with Antrim and Newtownabbey that has brought a number of economic opportunities for both Antrim and Newtownabbey and Gilbert.  And, of course, it was a great honor to receive the recognition of the many years we worked together for the success we enjoy today."

Included in the fourteen members of the delegation to Antrim and Newtownabbey were Directors of the GSC Board.  Mr. Rich Vandermolen, Vice President of GSC was among those who traveled and says, "This was a highly impactful trip where Best Practices on many levels were shared between the communities and its elected, business, and education leaders. We look forward to additional opportunities as we continue to grow this relationship."

The delegation was also joined by Gilbert Councilmember Brigette Peterson, Gilbert Mayor's Chief of Staff, Heather Wilkey, and Gilbert's Chamber of Commerce CEO, Kathy Tilque.

Gilbert Sister Cities is a community supported, non-profit, volunteer organization dedicated to promoting cultural understanding and stimulating economic development opportunities for the youth, adults, businesses and organizations of the Town of Gilbert through mutually beneficial international partnerships. http://www.gilbertsistercities.com