Gilbert Mayor Steve Berman flew to Northern Ireland on Wednesday to serve as a dignitary in the 50th anniversary of the town’s sister city Newtownabbey.
Berman will spend three days in the United Kingdom borough, his second visit to the sister city.
His first visit was Sept. 21, 2001, shortly after the terrorist attacks occurred in the United States.
“When I got there, they had in their town hall a book of condolences for people to sign,” Berman said. “It was pretty heartwarming.”
Newtownabbey Mayor Nigel Hamilton funded the trip through allocated money, and is allowing Berman to stay at his home. The trip has no cost to Gilbert. Hamilton earlier this year visited Gilbert.
While in Newtownabbey, Berman said he will visit schools and other officials. He will return to Gilbert late Monday.
