To the editor:

I want to share my story about Aidan Graham, who played a pivotal role in bringing joy to our community during challenging times.

Five years ago, Aidan's retail space, located at the corner of Hope and State Streets, had been recently vacated by Dunkin’ Donuts. There were numerous speculations about what would replace the old Duff's Newsstand, and this was when I approached Aidan with an idea I had been mulling over for quite some time.

I shared with him my vision of a whimsical living window display featuring Santa's workshop behind the glass. This was during the start of the COVID pandemic, and I believed that this display could offer a safe and magical experience for children, allowing them to drop off letters with their Christmas wishes and interact with Santa from the other side of the window.

Aidan was immediately taken by the idea, and he not only supported it but also encouraged us to make it even grander. Our community wholeheartedly embraced this unique experience, and on some days, the line to catch a glimpse of Santa Claus in his enchanted workshop stretched for three blocks.

The success of the living window display in 2020 provided me with all the validation I needed to launch the Bristol Santa House. While I was 100% convinced of its success, it was Aidan who helped the community envision what the Santa House could truly become.

I want to express my deepest gratitude to Aidan for his unwavering support and encouragement. May God bless you, Aidan, and Nollaig Shona to all!

Michael Rielly
21 Sandy Lane