Collegiate Times

Each summer, Virginia Tech's campus population dwindles, cutting Blacksburg's population nearly in half. Businesses, however, must find ways to carry on.

Mish-Mish owner Steve Miller said his store sees a drop in business during the summer months, but university offerings can help soften the blow.

"We do, and it depends on how many art and design classes are being offered," Miller said.

Miller said Mish-Mish cuts hours of operation and employees to deal with the summer swoon.

"We just kind of cut our hours back and get ready for fall ordering," Miller said.

However, Mike Buchanan, owner of Souvlaki, said this is the only type of business he has ever known.

"You've got your own micro-economy here with Virginia Tech," Buchanan said.

Tech also produces a business pattern.

"There is a decline in business in the summer, because you're basically taking 25,000 students out of town," Buchanan said.

Buchanan said he has not felt as many negative effects of the economy because of Tech's insulating effect. Still, he cuts back on hours during the summer. Souvlaki closes two hours earlier during the summer months.

In the academic year, Mish-Mish closes at 10 p.m. Monday-Thursday, and 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. During the summer, they close at 8 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

Still, peak time periods associated with the university schedule help Miller maintain stability.

"Right now, we try to build up a buffer so we can meet our obligations for summer," Miller said. "Our peaks are the beginning of the semesters and the last weeks before exams are usually good."

Miller said he relies on art and design students to sustain the business, and worries Tech budget cuts may hinder his sales.

"It seems to us like there are fewer offerings in the summer," Miller said. "And that affects us as well."

Mish-Mish employs eight part-time students during the school year, but uses only two during the summer months.

Robert Ruble, owner and operator of Xanadu Gifts, said visitors boost business, making up for the decrease in residents.

"I see an increase in tourism," Ruble said. "July is usually one of my better months."

Buchanan's shot in the arm comes in the form of music.

"The town has concerts every Friday night during the summer," Buchanan said. "So that helps business."