Sponsors save W-B Christmas parade

WILKES-BARRE – The annual Christmas parade in the downtown next month was in jeopardy, but the city said sponsors will cover the cost.

The city faces a $2 million revenue shortfall this year and Mayor Tom Leighton has been searching for ways to make up the loss.

The 2012 budget contained $1,000 for the tree lighting on Public Square as part of the festivities surrounding the Nov. 17 parade.

Drew McLaughlin, administrative coordinator for the city, said Thursday the city has always solicited sponsorships for the parade.

We've seen a better response from businesses given the city's position, he said. The mayor definitely was not going to proceed with a parade that would cost the city money.

McLaughlin estimated the cost of the parade at less than $10,000.

The parade proceeds from South Street to Public Square and is the highlight of an afternoon of events in the downtown including caroling, musical performances and the arrival of Santa Claus. The festivities end with the lighting of the city's Christmas tree on the square.