Owner-operator Brittney Brown confirmed Thursday evening that the Hope Sonic was indeed serving customers earlier in the day.  "We did an unannounced soft opening to learn our new equipment, new system, and work out any kinks," she said. "We will continue a soft opening with limited hours until further notice."

Brown said that since the fire of October 15th 2003, "It took literal blood, sweat, and tears to get us to opening. We were able to move up opening by a month and a half."

All in all, Brown was pleased with the way Sonic fans in town responded. "Hope showed up and showed out for Sonic today, and we are so incredibly thankful for their patience and business today," she said.

(Photo by Ethan Houk)