18 Jul 2026 Hearts for service

Standing on the ferry, I looked across New York Harbor and saw the size and grandeur of Lady Liberty, and my eyes grew misty. On another trip, I witnessed the solemn Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington, Virginia, and felt a deeper appreciation for our military. And at the recent Operation Red, White, and Brave Gala, my patriotism was stirred again as I was reminded that freedom isn’t free.

Happy 250th birthday to my country, the greatest country in the world! What an exciting year to be an American! As Publisher Jeremy Higginbotham and I planned this issue, we were determined to highlight people with a heart for service because we believe that America is great because her people have a heart for others. This is part of our nation’s Christian heritage, and many examples of selfless service were easy to find in Central Arkansas.

In this edition, you will meet Bonnie Laycock, who has led 31 mission trips to Guatemala. Her team builds stoves in homes with dirt floors, and she recalls that families react the same way every time: They cannot believe that Americans who do not know them would come to help.

Back home in the 501, Darlene Millard started her dream job as a 4-H agent in Pulaski County and never left the program. She rose through the ranks to lead Arkansas’ 4-H Youth Development program. Since she retired, Millard has been a volunteer and donor to the program, which affects about 130,000 youth annually.

Our cover features recently retired Little Rock Police Chief Heath Helton, who faithfully served the public for more than 30 years. We’re excited to bring you an exclusive interview with him written by KD Reep.

Photographer Makenzie Evans captured smiles and gorgeous blooms during the Master Gardeners’ (MG) annual conference hosted by the Faulkner County MG (FCMG) program. Our Person of the Month is Robin Trent, who was named FC Master Gardener of the Year, as well as the Arkansas State Master Gardener of the Year. Robin and 3,450 volunteers across Arkansas work in both cold and heat to create beauty enjoyed by their communities.

Our state teems with great people, as does our nation. 501 LIFE Magazine is sharing the good news of Central Arkansas each month, inspiring readers to serve others. May this milestone birthday grow your desire to be active in your corner of the world and to share your time and talents for the betterment of your city, state and country.

Happy 250th, America,

Stefanie Brazile
Editor/Publisher