SALINAS, Calif. -- Stores, like Sears, Target and Toys R Us, are opening their doors earlier than ever for the holiday season.
But not everyone is happy about the early shopping buzz.
One group of workers on Change.org is petitioning against what is being called "Black Thursday."
On Monday evening, there were more than 170,000 people who signed the petition.
Target worker "C Renee" said she doesn't think it's right she has to work on Thanksgiving when it's one of only three days she gets off a year to spend with family.
Many shoppers told Central Coast News they won't be taking advantage of the early shopping.
"I probably won't because I enjoy spending time with my family," said shopper Kathy Ballesteros.
"I don't think I would come on actual Thanksgiving," said shopper Erica McLane.
Big-time shoppers said while hot deals might hit Target stores as early as Thanksgiving day, they won't be there.
"I think it's ridiculous, because people from out of town want to spend time with you, instead of going shopping. For what? We can do that when they leave. They should be closed. Who's going to go shopping? I'm not," said Hue Boerner, shopper.
Instead of waiting for Black Friday, big-box stores, like Target, want shoppers to ditch the turkey and break out their wallets early.
Target released this statement to Central Coast News: "Target's opening time was carefully evaluated with our guests, team and the business in mind. Across the country, team member preferences were considered in creating our store staffing schedules. Thanksgiving weekend is one of the busiest of the year, and we appreciate our Target team's flexibility on this weekend and throughout the holiday season."
Shoppers on our Central Coast News Facebook page sounded off about a potential "Black Thursday."
Esther Malkin wrote: "...this is un-American in my opinion after a 30-year career in various aspects of retail. How much shopping can we need to do?"
Still, Target is banking on those who can't let a deal go by.
Shopper Melissa Castro said she'll likely be there.
"I think that's a good idea that they'll be open that day," she said.
