The new Hooters Casino and Restaurant in South Park opens its doors Thursday, Sept. 24.

Wednesday featured a ceremonial opening for the press and a dry run for the employees. Guests sat outside the entrance in folding chairs and were treated to two musicians singing and playing grand pianos while Hooters employees entertained the crowd with smiles and cheers.

Speeches were made by Ed Pilarz, president of Altium Development, parent company of the local Hooters franchises, Kim Best, Hooters South Park general manager, and Robert Nunnenkamp, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation representative . A portion of Hooters proceeds will be donated to that organization.

"This area needs something like this - fun and vibrant," said Karina Calderon, a "Hooters Girl" and White Center resident. Prior to this position, she worked in a daycare at Holy Family Catholic School on Roxbury.

According to its press release, Hooters is still hiring.

Hooters is located at 9635 Des Moines Memorial Blvd. at Southwest 96th Street and Highway 99. For more information, (206) 762-4000.

Another new Hooters is scheduled to open in Renton.