Community Corner
Target is Packed for National Night Out
The Target on Guinea Road near Burke was overflowing with people determined to celebrate National Night Out
The 28th annual National Night Out event had a major presence in Fairfax County. The Target near Burke on Guinea Road was crammed with people determined to get to know their neighbors and local law enforcement.
While some neighborhoods that participate in this event throw residential block parties, Target hosted a blow-out that was free and open to the public.
“You get to see a lot of people, it’s just a great hang-out night,” said mother Mekdes Tsegaye.
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There were free samples of food from local restaurants like Austin Grill, merchandise on display from stores like Guitar Center, live music playing and plenty of games and activities for the kids.
“This has blown away past events, times 100,” said Target Security Manager and one the event’s coordinators, Derek Ashley.
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Ashley said last year, there were ten or so vendors involved. This year, there were more than 40.
“The reason we do it is Target gives a lot to the community,” Ashley said. “It’s a pretty close knit community. It’s something the people here in Burke really care about.”
National Night Out is all about forming partnerships within your community, but a big part of that is public safety. National Night Out organizers want citizens and members of law enforcement to work together to prevent crime, which sends a message to criminals that the community is a force to be reckoned with. To that end, Target’s event hosted Fairfax County Police, State Police, Sheriff’s officials, fire fighters and representatives from CERT who train regular citizens to respond during disasters.
“That says it’s our store, it’s our community to criminals,” Ashley said.
While Tuesday night’s event featured a lot of traditional activities like face painting and balloon animals for the kids, it also included some edgier options. There were rails and ramps set up for skateboarders, an interactive Tae Kwon Do station, and a few courageous Target employees braved the dunk tank. This year, Ashley’s goal was to beat the streets and involve everyone he could.
“We want it to be all inclusive to everyone,” Ashley said.
