Sue Drzal is the administrative director for the Downtown Merchants of Blacksburg. She can be e-mailed or phoned at 951-0454. If there is a topic you would like to see, e-mail us at newriver@roanoke.com.

'Tis the season -- summer in Blacksburg is often recognized by residents as a time to reconnect with the downtown community (you know, as many students are enjoying their summer experience elsewhere).

However, it's also a time when the streets are filled with Virginia Tech summer conference attendees, incoming freshmen and their families, and, of course, the thousands who will gather in the downtown streets Aug. 7 and 8 for the annual Steppin' Out Festival.

What better time to show that we're not only the "largest town in Virginia," we're also the friendliest?

I recently observed a waitress at Sharkey's providing visiting Tech freshman parents with extensive directions and information. It was busy in the restaurant, but she took the time to make sure they felt welcome in our community.

This is not an isolated example. We can take pride in all downtown business owners who provide not only outstanding customer service, but a genuine knowledge of their merchandise and services.

They also share insight into all that Blacksburg has to offer -- they know and love their community and serve as goodwill ambassadors.

Visitors remember these courtesies and become regular patrons. They tell their friends. In short, it's good business and sincere commitment.

These may be the lazy, hazy days of summer, but let's take this opportunity to remind ourselves that all Blacksburg residents, not only the merchants, can be advocates for our community and help bring more business to Blacksburg.

Share a smile and offer help when you see a look of bewilderment. Brag about your community and let visitors know that we welcome them to Blacksburg.

No community voice is louder than that of its residents. You never know -- that person you encounter on the street may be seeking a business opportunity in a unique, friendly town in Southwest Virginia.