RIVERFEST IS PLANNING SOME MISSISSIPPI MAGIC

Trumpeting the event as the official beginning of summer, organizers have put a little of everything into Riverfest '96, Friday and Saturday in downtown Cape Girardeau.

Riverfest is funded solely by sponsorships, so there's no admission or concert fee charged to visitors. And while there, families can enjoy a variety of music, rides and shows.

Headlining on Friday evening will be Papa Aborigine, a local band featuring new rock with an alternative slant. Turner Up, a rock 'n' roll group, and Manitou, a country and variety band, also will perform Friday night.

On Saturday, Lonestar, one of country's hottest new acts, will take the main stage at 9:15 p.m. The Allstar Blues Band and Teresa Morrill will warm up the audience for Lonestar, and Kernel Mustard, which combines rock, reggae, funk and disco, will play from 7-11 p.m. in the beer garden.

Other scheduled events include a visit from the American Queen riverboat, fairy tales performed by the River City Players and a bicycle stunt show.

A fireworks display will conclude the festivities at 10:30 p.m. Saturday.