Although there have been grand openings and ribbon cutting ceremonies welcoming new businesses into Whitehall Township in the past, none could match the program for the long awaited opening of the Golden Corral Buffet & Grill.

The grand opening ceremony was marked with the snip of scissors as a bright yellow ribbon was cut to thunderous applause from a crowd of spectators and the owners' family.

The restaurant actually opened at 10:30 a.m. Jan. 10. The ribbon cutting took place late in the afternoon Jan. 9. The crowds gathered on the southeast section of the Lehigh Valley Mall property exceeded projections.

Whitehall Township Mayor Edward D. Hozza Jr. said the township welcomes Golden Corral to "the Golden Strip," a reference to MacArthur Road and the busy commercial corridor.

As mayor, Hozza said he thanks the Patel family for investing in the township. With a capacity of 400 diners, the restaurant employs 212 persons.

Among those present was a delegation from the Whitehall Area Chamber of Commerce led by Executive Director Laura Long. Also attending the ceremony were Northampton Mayor Thomas Reenock, Coplay Mayor Joseph Bundra and Whitehall Commissioners Clair Hunsberger and Thomas Slonaker.

The owners. Hiren Patel and Manish Patel and their family, greeted those who came to the ribbon cutting, after which a family and friends evening was held.

Groundbreaking took place in July. Golden Corral is located on the site of the former Chi Chi's restaurant.

"Outstanding," said one woman to her husband as she filled her plate with an abundant variety of food.