Think of Twitter as a social platform designed primarily to reach people across the country, even the world, but businesses that use social media wisely can entertain a large local following with this handy tool. Despite all the viral buzz on Twitter, the breakneck speed of international news sharing, and the human interest, users still want to know what’s going on in their own backyard. We may still be reading the newspaper and watching TV, but Twitter has the potential to reach people in real time. Open a feed window, check the BlackBerry and the news is there.
That said, in Virginia Beach you’ll find a multitude of businesses and organizations using Twitter to relay information to locals and tourists. Whether you want to make a spontaneous sale or promote upcoming events, Twitter gives you an edge with its companion search engine, which comes close to rivaling Google and YouTube as one of the top search platforms on the Internet.
Who in Virginia Beach is on Twitter? Not everyone, but it may seem that way. Locals, restaurants, journalists, government and attractions, if you have an interest in any aspect of the city, someone is tweeting about it. Here are some recommended accounts to follow if you’re looking for news.
@PortFolioWeekly – Virginia Beach’s pulse of arts and entertainment, find updates on local events and interests here
@VisitVirginia – The official Twitter account for Virginia Tourism provides information on local events and organizations
@theskinnydip – A local chain of frozen yogurt shops, The Skinny Dip tweets daily flavor listings for their locations
@CinivaSystems – A local Virginia Beach web design company helping locals use social media in the best way
@WAVY_News – Get the local news right on your Twitter in the moment.
@CityofVaBeach – Government and local concerns related to the city
@VBPD – the Twitter account of the local police department
@gohrt_com – HR Transit Twitter, you’ll find updates on local transit issues here
@kerrydougherty – Kerry Dougherty writes an opinion piece for the Virginian-Pilot and enjoys a huge following on and off the net
@VBGreenDrinks – Social information for eco-minded beach people
@LynhvnFishHouse – Get the daily specials at this popular Chick’s Beach restaurant
@HavanaRedMill – What’s cooking at the Red Mill? Havana gives a touch of Caribbean spice to this growing area
@OldBeachFrmrMkt – Do you like local food? Find out what’s good to eat at our local farmers market
@CROCSWineClub – For you vine lovers, you can find out what’s good to pair with your next meal
@SandlerCenter: The best of Broadway, top concert acts, and dance/drama companies from around the world are regularly announced on Sandler’s tweeted schedule.
@SymphonicityVB – For information on great local concerts
@VaARTSfestival – Everything artsy in Virginia Beach, you’ll find it here
@LiveNationVB – Find out which of the world’s biggest acts are coming to the Verizon Wireless Amphitheater