The Selma Times-Journal

Black Friday is on the way.

Local retailers are preparing for the rush that will begin at midnight Nov. 23 across the country.

At Hibbett Sports in the Selma Mall, Valencia Washington of Selma, who has worked since summer, said she’s ready for the holiday crowds.

Hibbett is hiring two additional staff members and will be open longer hours beginning the day after Thanksgiving.

In addition, the store will offer coupons and run sales and promotions weekly until Christmas day.

Store registry members will have coupons mailed to them for the duration of the season.

Washington said the store sees a high volume of sales during the holiday shopping season. &8220;It’s so crazy. You wouldn’t think people would buy that many shoes. But they do.&8221;

Washington said the two biggest days are the day after Thanksgiving and the day after Christmas. &8220;Those two are pretty hectic,&8221; she said.

At Belk, floor manager Sabrina Andrews said they are currently in the process of putting out Christmas items, but are ready for next week.

Ximenos Scott Xarami of Studio 2 Accessories said his store will be open longer hours during the holiday season. &8220;We really kick in the sales the day after Thanksgiving,&8221; he said.

Belinda Garrett, manager of Simply Fashions, said her store is waiting for corporate word before gearing up for the holidays.

Over

at JCPenney’s, the staff is excited and waiting. &8220;We’re ready,&8221; Janice Matchell, a supervisor at the store said. &8220;We’re looking forward to it. Next week is our biggest day. We’re ready for everyone to come in and enjoy their shopping experience and our friendly staff.&8221;