Think of Twitter as a social platform primarily designed to reach people across the country, even the world, but companies that use social media wisely can entertain a large local following with this handy tool. For all the viral interest on Twitter, the breakneck speed of international news sharing, and 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 being said, in Virginia Beach you will find a multitude of businesses and organizations using Twitter to relay information to locals and tourists. Whether you want to make a spur-of-the-moment sale or promote upcoming events, Twitter gives you an edge with its companion search engine, which is close to rivaling Google and YouTube as one of the top Internet search platforms.
Who in Virginia Beach is on Twitter? Not everyone, but it may seem that way. Venues, 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 make the most of social media
@WAVY_News – Get local news straight to 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, find updates on local transit issues here
@kerrydougherty – Kerry Dougherty writes an op-ed for the Virginian-Pilot and enjoys a huge following online and offline
@VBGreenDrinks – Social info for eco-minded beach people
@LynhvnFishHouse – Get the daily specials at this popular Chick’s Beach restaurant
@HavanaRedMill – What’s going on at Red Mill? Havana gives a touch of Caribbean spiciness to this growing area
@OldBeachFrmrMkt – Do you like local food? Find out what’s good to eat at our local farmers market
@CROCSWineClub – For the vine lovers, you can find out what’s good to pair with your next meal
@SandlerCenter: The best of Broadway, top concert shows, and dance/drama companies from around the world are regularly announced on Sandler’s tweeted calendar.
@SymphonicityVB – For information on great local concerts
@VaARTSfestival – Everything artistic 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