Mac’s Creek Winery and Brewery in Lexington, Nebraska is a family business in more ways than one.

The business has grown from the seed of an idea conjured up by Max and Theresa McFarland over twenty years ago to a thriving business, brewery, winery, event space, and source of community pride.

Today, the family, including sons Barry and Seth and daughter Abby, all support the business in their own ways. Barry can be found hosting community lunches and coordinating events. Seth is the mastermind behind the beer and wine. 

As sounds of city traffic fill the air, an obscure vacant lot at a busy intersection in uptown Butte is showing signs of life.

Newly excavated foundation preparations dot the landscape. Water and sewer pipes emerge from the ground, signaling the coming of a neighborhood where 12 hard working Montana families soon will have a place to call home.

The “sugar makers” of Virginia’s Highland County have been perfecting their art for hundreds of years with some families continuing to produce maple syrup into the sixth and seventh generations. Lauren and Christoph Herby of Tonoloway Farm are putting their own stamp on that proud heritage by tapping a different tree entirely.

Edmund and Mildred “Lorrie” Smith, at 80 years old found they urgently needed modifications to their bathroom as Edmund’s health worsened. 

The couple, married for 62 years and the proud parents of three children, four grandchildren and three great grandchildren found themselves in a difficult spot.  Following several health scares, the Smiths found it more and more difficult getting in and out of their tub. As Edmund’s health declined, they were in dire need of a walk-in-shower.

But how could they get it done and how could they afford it?