A handful of organizations representing minority ethnic groups and the Lansing Human Relations and Community Services Department are spearheading the effort. BCFI, Cristo Rey Community Center, Mid-Michigan Asian Pacific Association, the Islamic Center of East Lansing, and Dumex Charity Organization, an organization of Africans living in mid-Michigan are current primary sponsors.

"With the recent influx of immigrants from throughout the world, particularly Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe and Africa, the racial and ethnic make up of the tri-county area has changed tremendously.

"When we think of ethnic activities, we tend to forget that there are many former immigrant populations in the area that are now seen as part of the dominant culture yet maintain strong cultural ties to their homelands. People of Polish, Italian, Greek and German descent, to name a few, have maintained a strong sense of ethnic community. They all add spice to our community life," Boone said.

"We really want Summerfest to be a celebration that highlights all the cultures that make up our community. It should be a time of fun for families and friends from throughout the community."

While the primary sponsors are moving forward with festival plans, there is still time for interested individuals and organizations to join in the effort. In addition to volunteers to participate in the planning, the groups are seeking food and merchandise venders to sell their wares at the event.

The festival will provide an opportunity for community exposure to the traditional clothing, food, music; dance, jewelry, and artifacts of the various cultures that enrich the tri-county area.