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The other night I went for dinner in Downtown Wilkes-Barre.
Admittedly, I haven’t spent much time downtown since COVID-19 hit, so I was due for a night out in that vicinity.
We went for dinner at Café Toscana, and I can’t tell you how happy I was when I bit into my Chicken Verona — a dish filled with spinach, mozzarella and prosciutto.
It brought back many memories of working in the downtown (which I did for more than a decade) and frequenting the location.
Looking around as I walked in and then left, it reminded me, too, of why Downtown Wilkes-Barre can be and is a nice destination for anyone looking to enjoy themselves.
In such a close proximity, there is exquisite dining (Café Toscana and Bank+Vine immediately come to mind) with many beloved watering holes and entertainment venues throughout.
When COVID-19 started, it was rough for businesses of all shapes and sizes. It’s been — and continues to be — especially rough for small businesses like those in our downtown areas.
What I love about small businesses is that owners and management are supportive of community endeavors, hard-working and resilient.
As I was walking, I thought about the many shows and events I attended at the F.M. Kirby Center for the Performing Arts, and how I can’t wait to continue being a part of those.
And just the other night, Dress for Success of Luzerne County held an amazing, diamond-studded fundraiser at the Westmoreland Club, where guests turned out to support the organization that helps women build confidence and prepare for the workforce.
My hope is that as more and more workers return downtown, and people continue getting out and about, that downtown and its many businesses will pick back up.
I was happy to see people leaving establishments on Thursday night, and so glad that I was able to spend some time in a place I hold dear.
Now, many of my friends also live in apartments in the area — from the PNC Bank building to the Citizens Bank building and elsewhere.
When I’m out on the town, I’m often asked how Downtown Wilkes-Barre is doing.
I’m pleased to say it’s coming back and rebounding after COVID.
I know there is still more to do to drive people into the area, but we’re getting there.
When you can, take a minute to consider spending a night downtown.
You won’t regret it.
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Mike McGinley is a Times Leader columnist who is often called a man about town. E-mail him thoughts at mikejmcginley@gmail.com.