Sonic of Jasper, located on U.S. 78, reopened its doors for business Monday morning following a nearly two-month absence due to a fire that resulted in the store's temporary closure.

In the early morning hours of Sept. 18, a fire broke out inside the store, destroying most of the interior and causing damage to the roof and air conditioning system.

While the exterior of the building remained largely undamaged, the store's management and owners felt it would be Thanksgiving before they would be able to return to business, in lieu of the reconstruction.

Rebuilding proceeded at a quick pace and the store resumed operations slightly ahead of schedule on Monday.

Sonic general manager Erika Willis and supervisor Chip Luke expressed their joy at the return of business and hopes to see their customers -- old and new -- return to the store for their favorite food and treats.

"We are very glad to be back open," Willis said. "We're going to work very hard to provide good service and take care of all of our customers as we return to business."

"We're happy to be able to get everyone back to work," Luke said. "We were able to bring back all of our employees and even hire a few new ones. It's good to be back serving the people of Jasper."

Customers are also happy to see Sonic reopened as well. Gina Smith, who frequents the store many times each week, said she missed Sonic's service and her favorite treat -- tater tots.

"I always come by to grab some tater tots on the way home from work," Smith said. "Now that they're open again, I'll probably be here every day for a while."