Dick's is open

Though the grand opening isn’t until this weekend, Dick’s Sporting Goods at the Cullman Shopping Center is already open for business. The company is enjoying a “soft” opening before the grand opening events kick off in earnest on Friday.

Dick’s Sporting Goods is planning a three-day grand opening for its Cullman store, beginning Sept. 11, with former University of Alabama football start Bobby Humphrey set to make an appearance at the opening.

Dick’s three-day grand opening celebration will run through Sunday, Sept.13. The store will open at 8 a.m. Friday and Saturday and 9 a.m. Sunday. On Friday, the first 100 people in line will be eligible for a free Reebok Play Dry T-Shirt. Guests who are in line at 7:45 a.m. Friday will get a chance to open the Dick’s Sporting Goods Gift Locker.

Dick’s is one of the major national retailers set to open at Cullman Shopping Center after an extensive renovation at the location on U.S. 31. The Cullman location will be the company’s 14th store in Alabama and 628th nationwide.

Former college and pro running back Humphrey will make an in-store appearance from 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday. Shoppers will need to have an issued wristband for the autograph session with Humphrey. Wristbands will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis on the day of event only, with a one per person limit.

Throughout the weekend, customers can get tips from professional anglers at the 4,000 gallon Dick’s bass tank.

“We’re excited to be joining Cullman with the opening of our newest location,” said Lauren Hobart, senior vice president and chief marketing officer of Dick’s. “We look forward to offering the finest quality products and highest level of customer service to the community.”