The Hardee’s restaurant off Alabama Highway (Ga. 151) in Ringgold reopened Thursday, Jan. 5, after closing in April following a tornado that ripped through the city.

Hardee’s general manager Marion Salvador said a large sign in front of the restaurant was picked up by the storm and slammed down onto the restaurant’s roof. Windows and doors were damaged and the restaurant’s supply shed was leveled, Salvador said.

Salvador welcomed guests to the rebuilt restaurant, receiving hugs and expressions of congratulations from some regulars.

“It was really busy for lunch,” she said. “A lot of people didn’t know we were open so they didn’t come for breakfast.”

The fast-food restaurant opened for business at 5 a.m., Salvador said. The local Hardee’s franchise is owned by Julia Scoggins of Cleveland, Tenn., according to Salvador.

Hardee’s first opened in Ringgold in June 1981. Scoggins has been general manager there for seven years. She’s been employed by Hardee’s for 19 years.

The 97-seat restaurant is still accepting employment applications, Salvador said.