Vienna Bingo Features Challenges In Support Of Businesses

VIENNA, VA — Vienna residents can show support for local businesses through week-long activities to mark Virginia Business Appreciation Month in May.

The Vienna United campaign from May 18 to 22 spotlights town businesses, some of which had to adjust operations after the governor introduced coronavirus-related restrictions. Businesses that had to close or operate in a limited capacity have been preparing for new guidelines under the first phase of reopening, which could start in Northern Virginia as early as May 29. According to a release from the town government, Vienna has over 1,800 independent and small businesses.

"The health crisis has impacted our businesses – many of which have been here for several generations and help make the up the core fabric of Vienna," said Natalie Monkou, Vienna's economic development manager. "More than ever before, we need to show appreciation to our business community as we also consider the next steps toward recovery. This is a small but visual step in showing our support and showcasing the innovation and resiliency that is present in our Town."

For Vienna business owners and customers: Vienna Businesses Open, Closed During Coronavirus Situation

The business appreciation week activities includes Vienna bingo card with business challenges, a business drive-by community challenge, and nominations for virtual business awards. The drive-by challenge encourages customers to make signs of support and drive by their favorite Vienna. Residents can nominate businesses for virtual awards in three categories: entrepreneur of the year, excellence in customer service, and give back award. Nominations are due on May 21.

For Vienna Business Bingo, residents will take on business-related challenges on a bingo card. Each line completed (horizontal, vertical, or diagonal) gets you a chance to win a Vienna Prize Pack. Photos of the completed card as well as photos of the challenge, purchase or receipt can be sent to ianna.alhambra@viennava.gov.

Download a bingo card and see the challenges below:

• Buy a gift card from a local town business
• Visit a locally owned coffee shop
• Order dinner at your favorite eatery
• Pick up groceries from a local grocery
• Order/pick up beer or wine from a local shop
• Like @TownofVienna on Facebook
• Register for Vienna’s 130K Distance Matters Virtual Run
• Visit one of the Town’s 13 parks or trails maintained by Vienna Parks & Recs
• Donate to a small business employee relief fund
• Take an online fitness class from a local studio
• Purchase a gift card or pick up hair care products from a local salon
• Make an appointment for a future routine visit with a medical provider
• Write/post a thank you note to a small business
• Order lunch at your favorite eatery
• Like @ViennaVaFoodies on Facebook
• Like @Vienna Business Association on Facebook
• Purchase a gift card to a spa
• Take a photo selfie on Church Street
• Order flowers or a gift card to a local florist

Residents are encouraged to post photos of the challenges on social media and tag the businesses and #ViennaUnited.