LIVONIA — Another of a series of local Arab American summer festivals attracted hundreds last weekend at the Basilica of St. Mary’s Orthodox Church in Livonia. The first annual “Sahara Fest” featured live Arab and American musical performances, a carnival, a video arcade tent, vendors of authentic imported goods and fresh Middle Eastern food. Proceeds were to contribute to the development of the Mariam Center, a 30,000 square-foot family and youth enrichment center set to be built nearby the church by 2011. St. Mary’s church was founded in 1972 and is comprised of members of the Detroit-area’s Syrian, Palestinian, Jordanian and Lebanese American communities.

The string of summer Arab American festivals hasn’t ended yet. Lebfest is set for this weekend in Downtown Birmingham. See page 20 for a schedule. Photos: Khalil AlHajal