Did the summer swimsuit season sneak up on you? Well, it's never too late to do something about that unsightly cellulite. The public is invited to Thomson to "Waddle Your Way to Fitness."

The second annual Watermelon Waddle Fun Run/Walk is set for Saturday, August 12. The 2 mile run/ walk starts at the historic Thomson Depot, 111 Railroad Street, and traverses the Thomson historic district all the way to Hickory Hill, the restored mansion of Senator Thomas E. Watson, and then returns to the Depot.

Hickory Hill is the site of the third annual Tom Watson Watermelon Festival later that same day. Registration and check-in for the Watermelon Waddle begins at 7 a.m., the run begins at 7:30 a.m., and the entry fee is $15.

The best finish time in each category will win a prize. Age categories are: youth 5-15 years old; adult 15-55 years; and senior 55+ years. A special prize will be given for the best depiction of watermelon in running attire - a costume is acceptable, but should not impede movement and safety!

All Run/Walk participants will receive a commemorative Watermelon Festival T-shirt. After the run, the Watermelon Festival will feature old-fashioned fun and games. There will be free watermelon for all, said Michele Zupan of the WatsonBrown Foundation and she added that, "the best part is that watermelon is only 25 calories per serving. What's not to love?! So 'Waddle your Way to Health the Watermelon Way!'"

To pre-register for the Watermelon Waddle, contact the WatsonBrown Foundation at 706-595-8886 or via email at mzupan@hickoryhill. org.

The third Annual Tom Watson Watermelon Festival will be held on Saturday, August 12, 2006, from 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. at 502 Hickory Hill Drive in Thomson. The festival is free. Call 706-595-8886 or 706-5957777 for details.