Mike, great news for you.
RE the impeller "frying", if it is only for a short time remember the pump is still wet and below the waterline so it would take some time to fry. However starting a dry pump impeller is bad news. I started my beastie with the water off for many years (20+) and no problem. I changed the impeller 3 times and not due to failure in those years. The original pumps housing became worn and was replaced as it did not pump well.
Dave Neptune