In loving memory of Michael Durand, my first poetry editor, a very dear friend and a music collaborator. This was the last poem he read of mine. He knew I was going to submit it for publication. As a volunteer, I have sat alongside Michael at both Richmond Review and Sunset Beacon tables during these community night markets. He inspired so many writers and musicians in his lifetime of teaching and mentoring. He is sorely missed!

Community Night Markets
A fun time had by all
Community leaders
Retail community
Family residents
Artistic entertainers
Richmond
On Saturday afternoons and evenings
Sunset
On Friday happy hours and nights
Once a month
For several months
Around summer months
Lightest latest months
So close to the ocean
You can smell the fresh water in the breeze
You can watch the clear colorful or foggy hazy sunset
You can feel the slower beach pace vibe of these districts
Vendors selling their goods and services
Tasty, savory cuisines
Knick-knacks, trinkets gifts
Schools, community program enrollments
Entertainers all inclusive
Senior citizen dancers
Chinese marital artists
Musicians of any genre
Various kid activities
Bounce house
Book mobile
Crafting tables
Kids have the most fun

Nancy Jong is a native San Franciscan and long-time resident of the Richmond district. She is a business consultant and a poet. Her work is also published in San Francisco Bards Poetry Anthology, California Bards NorCal Poetry Anthology and Haikuniverse. She can be contacted at nnjng1@gmail.com.