Huckabee to headline Emerson picnic

Former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee speaks during a campaign stop Thursday, Jan. 3, 2008, at Pzazz Convention and Event Center in Burlington, Iowa. (AP Photo/Matt Ryerson) [Click to enlarge]

Former Republican presidential candidate Mike Huckabee will headline U.S. Rep. Jo Ann Emerson's annual Old Fashioned Family Picnic on Aug. 9, according to a news release sent out this morning by Emerson's office.

Huckabee, who has worked to support U.S. Sen. John McCain's presidential bid since exiting the race earlier this year, will be the keynote speaker at Emerson's picnic, to be held at the A.C. Brase Arena Building.

Doors will open at 4:30 p.m. Aug. 9, with the program beginning at 5:30 p.m. Adult tickets are $15. Children 10 and under eat free.

Huckabee will be joined by Republican gubernatorial candidates U.S. Rep. Kenny Hulshof and State Treasurer Sarah Steelman and Lt. Gov. Peter Kinder, who is seeking re-election this year.

Local elected officials and candidates will also be in attendance. For tickets call 335-0033 or visit www.joannemerson.com.