By: Lana Teal

Being a resident of Windsor, you are well aware of the lack of activities available to the younger generation. Since the closure of Windsor Water Works, the summers have been long and dull, leaving nothing to do in town. The Thursday Night market has been around for about 10 years in the Town Green, but has just recently brought together a large range of locals who partake in th event.

Up until two years ago, I didn't even know what the Thursday Night Markert was. I was attending the Santa Rosa Farmer's Market every Wednesday. I found it ironic for a town, that had nothing to offer for its young inhabitants, to try and bring us together. Personally, the closing of the water park gave me a reason to try and find something to occupy my summers with. I'd rather not have to drive down to santa rosa everyday just to have something to do. I live in here in Windsor and have to try and make the best of what's in town. Last summer I attended the market only a few times, but liked the atmosphere that it had compared to Santa Rosa's.

We have the entire Town Green for the event. With the food and other merchandise in one area, it is unlike Fourth St. which is crammed with people already in a small area, making the walking space even smaller.

This summer though, I made a point to try and go to the market every Thursday. It gave me an opportunity to hang out with my friends outside of the Safeway/Taco Bell area, and to see people I normally don't see outside of school; a change of scenery is always nice. It even brought my family closer because we would all check out the car show together, or sit at our spot on the grass and listen to the live band that was playing.            

This summer I discovered one thing that Windsor offers that appeals to all generations. The Thursday Night Market allows people to connect with their town, as well as others in the community. That connection can't be found in most towns, but Windsor takes advantage of its small size to be able to make it work. But sadly, the event only takes place during the summer. So when it ends,   we're all back with being stuck, trying to find something to occupy our wintaer days that sometimes seem endless.