The public is invited to celebrate Labor Day with food, face painting, music, speakers and U-2 concert ticket opportunities at a picnic hosted by Cleveland County Democrats 5 to 8 p.m. Monday in the stone shelter in Abe Andrews Park, between Acres and Daws streets on Webster Avenue, north of the Norman Public Library.

Speakers include longtime political writer and publisher Frosty Troy, Lt. Gov. Jari Askins, Oklahoma Attorney General Drew Edmondson, Labor Commissioner Lloyd Fields, Sen. Kenneth Corn, Sen. John Sparks and Rep. Wallace Collins.

Mike Black will play '50s and '60's rock 'n' roll with a touch of country during the picnic.

Tickets for a meal of fried chicken, three side dishes, desert and iced tea, catered by Finley's are $10 per individual or $25 for an entire family.

Donations of $20 will be taken at the picnic and also will be accepted at the Democratic Party Headquarters, 402 W. Main St., 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. through Friday. Donations go toward a drawing for U-2 tickets to be held after Frosty Troy's remarks. You must be present to win.

A 20-year tradition in Cleveland County, the picnic is a reminder of parades, picnics and fireworks that became annual events to demand and later celebrate better working conditions for men, women and children. Prior to labor reforms, people worked 12-hour days, six days a week in factories in the northeastern United States during the Industrial Revolution.

Suzette McDowell suggested Cleveland County residents visit www.ccdp.cc for updates and links to current information on candidates and events or call Cleveland County Democratic Party headquarters 447-3366. Ticket purchases may be arranged by calling McDowell, 364-2617.

CCDP reminds everyone that smoking in the park has been banned by the Norman City Council. Smoking in nearby parking lots is allowed.