Town Manager James Irvin and Assistant Town Manager Matt Hankins (standing) Kylee Robinson. owner of Whole Bean Coffeehouse RT. 40 the street from the Harvester in 2016 when she "couldn't take any more" of working for the federal government. She combines the works of 36 local furniture makers with those of 100 Amish builders to stock her store and says, "The Harvester was absolutely a help" in her prosperous business. "People come in before and after performances and even the artists visit us," she says. The Harvester "has a tremendous impact. Most of us [downtown] have seen an increase of business. ... Some [businesses] wouldn't exist without The Harvester." Hankins bought the building from a couple of old friends "I've known since I was born" and sees that "a lot of people come for shows and visit while they're here. It's a good little hub." Matt Hankins, CEO of the Harvester and Rocky Mount's assistant town manager and Dulcie's husband, says, "Yes, the Harvester plays a vital and central role in the revitalization of downtown. 96 MAY/JUNE 2019 Librarian Christina Arena ROCKY RT. 220 MOUNT TheRoanoker.comhttp://www.TheRoanoker.com