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Local businesses contributing to Wilkes-Barre's Christmas spirit

Newswatch 16's Emily Kress tells us how some Latino business owners are helping to spread holiday cheer to the downtown.

WILKES-BARRE, Pa. — It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas here on Public Square in Wilkes-Barre. Staff from public works spent the day putting up lights and other decorations. A group of business owners in the city wanted to add an extra special touch to the square.

"Looking at other cities getting their lights up, we thought about it, and all of the Spanish businesses, the city, and Mayor Brown, they all came to the conclusion that we could bring some lights to the city," Paulino Nunez said.

All of the decorating is ahead of the city's Christmas parade and tree lighting this Saturday.

Paulino Nunez owns D & N Furniture on South Main Street. He got a handful of Latino-owned businesses on board to chip in to buy the decorations.

"It's giving something back to the community who gives a lot to us, and we feel so happy and thankful to do that," said Miguel Perdono from Casa Blanca Restaurant.

They hope the extra holiday cheer will bring families out this weekend to support area businesses and spend quality time with loved ones.

"I want to see families enjoy," Perdono said. "I want to see families feel like no matter what country you are from or what state you are from, you feel family. That is what we are looking forward to."

"The community will be able to enjoy, see the new lights and get pictures, come together on the square with their kids, and have some memories," Paulino added.

The city of Wilkes-Barre's Christmas parade steps off Saturday at 3 p.m.

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