04 Nov 2025 Thankfully home in the 501

The benefits of being editor of 501 LIFE magazine are many, and I try to notice them each day. As a “good news publication,” we receive numerous suggestions about people who are worthy of an article. Learning about incredible people, programs and businesses each day helps to counterbalance the bad news that is available 24/7. 

Another benefit of producing a magazine is the opportunity to attend interesting conferences and events. I was pleased to attend the 15th Annual Governor’s Award for Excellence in Global Trade Luncheon on Oct. 17 with Paulette Higginbotham. Hosted by the Arkansas District Export Council at Robinson Center in Little Rock, speakers touted the increasing growth of exports and how it benefits Arkansas businesses and employees.

I have discovered that being a fly on the wall at photoshoots is also a perk. It’s interesting to see our professional photographers at work, and I have great respect for the art of producing excellent photos. They are rarely taken by accident. I was fortunate to attend our cover shoot in Maumelle and to meet a fantastic cook who recently won ^$10,000 on Food Network’s “Family Recipe Showdown.” Legenia Spiller-Bearden and her aunt competed in the episode “Cast Iron Secrets” and made Arkansas proud! While the experience was a dream come true, Gena lost her father only three days before learning she had been cast on the show. Discover how she handled her grief with faith and grace in an article by Rita Thomas.

Each month, 501 LIFE introduces readers to several charities that are a lifeline to those they serve, and their clients are grateful. Our Couple of the Month founded Immerse Arkansas, which supports young adults as they age out of the foster system. In the agriculture feature, you’ll meet a couple from White County who founded a chapter of Hope Outdoors. They assist disabled youth who want to hunt — making the impossible possible. We also highlight Spark Community, which provides therapies and services to disabled children and adults in five counties.

Our “Giving Thanks” issue has so many inspiring stories that you can read about an amazing Arkansan each day as we head towards Thanksgiving.

With thanks to our advertisers and readers,

Stefanie Brazile
Editor