ALEXANDRIA, LA.- News Channel 5's Rachael Penton introduces us to a CenLa Sonic crew that's now up for the title of the nation's 'Best Drive-In Restaurant.'
You may not know it, but if you've been to the Sonic on MacArthur Drive lately, you've been served by one of the top 12 Sonics in the country.
And now employees at store number 1501 are heading to San Antonio in September to compete for the title of 'Best Sonic Drive-in in the Country' at the 2012 Dr. Pepper Sonic Games.
"A lot of tears, joy, happiness. everybody was excited. We were screaming and crying," says General Manager and team member Nicole Gregory.
"I said Nicole we made it! It was very exciting," adds team member Jasmine Franklin.
The competition began back in January with 2500 teams. This Sonic and those others were mystery shopped, took online quizzes, had store inspections and competed in quiz bowls.
A when the results were tallied, this store was in the top 12. That means they'll now head to nationals to compete with the other top Sonics.
District Manager Lance Moresi has been trying to take a team to nationals for nine years, but none have made it this far. He says it's an honor for this year's team to finally get the chance to represent CenLa.
"We're representing Alexandria. We've had so many guests give us good wishes. Hey, do it for Alexandria. Bring home the gold!"
And that's what they intend to do--with a lot of hard work.
"You don't just study one time. You have to study everyday. You have to keep practicing everyday so it's a lot to it," says team member Tracey Boyd.
"Just see how far we can go, like as a team. Make a name for ourselves, because everybody sees us as the underdog," says Franklin.
"Go All-Americans!"
The crew needs your help to bring home another honor. To help them win the Sonic 'Fan Favorite' award just search for "Sonic Drive-In of Central Louisiana" on Facebook and follow the link to cast your vote for them. The contest ends September 9.
