Burnie the Beaver is the mascot of the new Ashburn Recreation & Community Center that opened in late July. Kraig Troxell with the Department of Parks, Recreation & Community Services, answered our questions.
WHY A BEAVER?
“A beaver feature in the center’s leisure pool was designed by the architects of the building and quickly became a favorite of the staff. Having a beaver as a mascot, especially with Beaverdam Reservoir nearby, was a natural fit.”
WHY THE NAME BURNIE?
“The staff quickly chose Burnie’s name based on the center’s name and location, keeping the YOU in Ashburn.”
[Editor’s Note: Get it? Burnie is short for Ashburn. Instead of spelling it the typical way – Bernie – they went with Burnie to keep the “U” in Ashburn.]
WHAT WILL BURNIE’S ROLE BE?
“Burnie has already played a significant part in the marketing of the center. In the days leading up to the ribbon-cutting and grand opening [in late July], Burnie was featured as part of a social media campaign called ‘Burnie Tested. Burnie Approved.’ Burnie was observed testing out the center’s equipment and amenities, including the fitness area and sensory room.”
HOW HAS THE COMMUNITY REACTED TO BURNIE?
“[Burnie] generated a lot of excitement with residents asking when they could bring their kids to meet him. Because of this interest, Burnie meet-and-greet sessions were added to the schedule of events for the opening weekend, and Burnie will continue to make appearances on social media and at the center’s future events.”