This column is sponsored by
BizLaunch, a division of Arlington Economic Development.
June is LGBTQ+ Pride Month. While this year’s Pride may look a little different than previous years with many local events taking place virtually, there are still elements that many will recognize, including a Colorful Pride Mobile Parade happening this Saturday.
Many local businesses in Arlington have already started showing their support by updating their social media profiles with a rainbow flag, a symbol of LGBTQ+ Pride. (We see you, Toby’s Homemade Ice Cream & Coffee!) For our Small Business Focus, we wanted to take an opportunity to highlight some events and initiatives local businesses are hosting for Pride Month.
This column is sponsored by
BizLaunch, a division of Arlington Economic Development.
By Alex Held, Small Business Manager
So much has changed since March 2020. Our world has shifted, and many say we are now facing a “New Normal.”
It’s hard to imagine, but today marks one year of COVID-19 restrictions in Virginia. Since then, restaurants changed their operations to comply with the state limitations and to keep their customers and employees safe. However, there is no doubt the restrictions have negatively impacted many restaurants’ bottom line.
When the Columbia Pike Revitalization Organization (CPRO) approached us to support their innovative Buy a Nurse Lunch program this week, we were thrilled to take part. With donations, the program purchases meals from local restaurants, which are then sent to frontline workers at Arlington Free Clinic, Arlington Pediatric Center, Mary Marshall Assisted Living and Virginia Hospital Center.