To the editor:

I attended Bristol’s Christmas Festival on Saturday the 9th with three students from the international school at the Naval War College in Newport. One student is from Thailand, another from Taiwan and the third is a naturalized citizen of Thai heritage living in LA who is unfamiliar with the East Coast.

These three international students, who also came to Bristol for Porchfest in October with me, have quickly come to cherish the inclusive and unique celebrations that Bristol is known for.

I was so proud of everyone we encountered on Saturday night. The volunteers represented Bristol in such a positive light and truly made our afternoon a highlight not soon to be forgotten.

Most impressive was Santa‘s House on High Street. The love that went into making the house seems to touch everyone who visits, not to mention the special children with disabilities who are greeted by Santa himself upon entering the house. Being there was the highlight of the season for me.

Thank you Bristol for throwing a community Christmas Festival that overflowed with goodwill and fun at every turn.

Margie McLaughlin
43 Oliver St.