Stories and Spirits
Nebraska Stories
Air Date: 02/26/2026
In the small town of Stapleton, Marcia Hora is the driving force keeping her community connected through ink, paper, and a little bit of charm. At her Sandhills publishing company, Creative Printers, local newspapers roll off the press, carrying the stories that bind neighbors to one another. Tucked inside the print shop’s back room, a discreet speakeasy provides a modest but steady stream of support, helping fund the presses that keep the news in print. With vision and determination, Marcia has built a one of a kind enterprise.
The Stapleton Enterprise was founded in 1912 when the town was no more than a tent city.
Newspaper publisher Marcia Hora also operates Herbie’s Speakeasy, which underwrites the paper’s operations.
Herbie's Speakeasy is located in the backroom. Marcia believes they are the only newspaper in the US that also sells alcohol.
The Stapleton Enterprise office in its early days. Today, three papers are published in this small community: The Stapleton Enterprise, the McPherson County News, and the Thomas County Herald.
Paging through a 1913 edition, just one year after The Stapleton Enterprise first rolled off the press.
Papers from long ago when ink and type ruled the backroom.
Newspaper editor Kendra Cutler sits for her interview with Nebraska Public Media.
Producer:
Jolie Peal