Local Officials Inaugurate Rotary WAM with Watermelon Cutting

Pictured are (from left) J.J. Ford, Allison Harbison, Jim Albers, Joyce Johnson and Anna Lee.

John Austin enjoys a slice of the official watermelon cut during opening ceremonies.July 9, 2015 - Shelby County and City of Center officials were on hand at the Center City square under the big tent for the opening of the What-A-Melon Festival on Thursday, July 9, 2015.

Outgoing Rotarian President J.J. Ford, newly sworn in Rotarian President Anna Lee were joined by Allison Harbison, Shelby County Judge; Joyce Johnson, Center City Councilwoman; and Center Police Chief Jim Albers.

Participants gathered for a group photo as they carved the ceremonial melon into slices for those present to partake. The What-A-Melon Festival is now open to the public and the carnival is running until 10pm Thursday-Friday and until 10:30pm Saturday night.