According to a report by Kern County that documents the systemic disparities in the region contributing to high unemployment rates, concentrated impoverished areas, and inadequate access to healthcare services, neighborhood transformation is possible through grassroots community initiatives. The non-profit group River Sage Revival is stepping up to meet this challenge by hosting Lake Isabella Saturday Night Market at Tank Park on May 17, a first-of-its-kind rural empowerment initiative designed to uplift a community plagued by racial and socio-economic inequities.
Free, open to the public, and held the third Saturday of every month from 4-8 pm at 4776 Lake Isabella Blvd, Saturday Night Market will feature a safe, fun way for residents, visitors, and businesses to connect, explore, and celebrate the wonderments of rural living, showcasing local artisans, crafters and food services rooted in the Kern River Valley (KRV) or neighboring countryside communities.
“This market was built from the ground up by local folks, for local folks. We’re answering the call for something real—an event supporting rural life, rural vendors, and our rural neighbors,” said River Sage Revival CEO/President April Turner. “Even if you don’t spend a dime, there’ll be games and free activities.”
Turner has spent much of her adult life as a KRV and Bishop/Lone Pine area resident, so she has a realistic understanding of what’s needed to strengthen unincorporated communities. According to Turner, rural neighborhoods are often “treated like the red-headed stepchild,” adding that the lack of jobs, human services, and social connections continues to exacerbate the mental health and addiction crisis that is increasingly visible. “It’s up to us to transform our community,” she explained.
According to Turner, people have been excited to participate, volunteering or registering as vendors from the neighboring areas of Porterville, Shafter, Ridgecrest. “We couldn’t have done this without our behind-the-scenes volunteers—the rural underdogs who showed up with their hands, hearts, and time,” she said. “They turned a good old country daydream into the reality of a vibrant, monthly gathering attuned to the community’s needs.”
To advance its mission of rural revitalization, the non-profit group has organized a “take-back-our-park clean-up activity” from 4-5 pm before the event. “We are reclaiming our park from illicit drug and criminal activity and will be picking up any loose needles/paraphernalia.” Organizers will provide personnel protective equipment to volunteers who want to participate..
KRV area residents live in a geographically isolated mountainous region, so accessibility to diverse cuisine and cultures can be limited. The event series removes those barriers, offering unique foods, entertainment, including eclectic music, games for all ages, and hands-on arts & crafts. Featured vendors for May 17th include Poke Express. Future events will include Who Loves Bacon, Golden Bamboo, Frenchies Mini Donuts, Lil Hernandez Boutique, Western Woodland Espresso & Lemonade, Lumpia Lady, Soulfully Sweet, Krazy Dazey, Lots of Knots, Avivalove, Just Bead It, Chillin at Home Candle Co.
“It’s a win-win because locals can enjoy unique food normally not offered in the KRV, while we promote economic development for rural, struggling small businesses seeking to expand their customer base,” Turner said.
