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16 THE BUZZ AROUND WAYNE COUNTY OCTOBER 2026 Celebrating Agriculture By Jennifer Johnson Every fall, the Wayne Regional Agricultur- al Fair brings our community together to celebrate the people and practices that keep Wayne County agriculture strong. While many visitors come for the rides and food, agriculture remains the heart of the fair. Local farm families, youth and volunteers showcase livestock, crops, crafts and edu- cational exhibits that highlight the diversity of our county's agricultural work. For many residents, this is one of the few opportunities each year to see agriculture up close and learn how local farms support our economy and food system. Youth involvement continues to be a standout feature. 4-H and FFA members prepare an- imals and projects that demonstrate respon- sibility, leadership and hands-on learning. Their efforts represent the next generation of Wayne County agriculture. The fair also provides a platform for com- munity education. From crop displays to conservation exhibits, visitors can learn about modern farming practices, local commodities, and the role agriculture plays in Wayne Coun- ty's economy. The fair is an essential bridge between producers and the public. As fair season arrives, we recognize the ded- ication of everyone who helps keep agricul- ture front and center. Their work ensures the Wayne Regional Agricultural Fair remains a meaningful tradition for our community. A New Leaf Turns at Peace By Pastor Bob McCanless "History is replete with turning points, Lieutenant. You must have faith." - Captain Spock to Lt. Valeris, Star Trek VI- The Undiscovered Country, Act III, Scene III - Captain Spock is hardly the paragon of Christian faith, but his point is valid; life is full of turning points,& so we reach an- other here @ Peace LCMS, 1002 Gardner Manor Drive. A new pastorate begins, even as fall steadily approaches, Come the end of November, the Advent of a new church year will be here as well.. Life changes constantly, Pastors come & go; only Jesus Christ remain the same, yesterday, today & forever (Heb.13:8). Perhaps your life is at a turning point, but seems rudderless & without anchor – we invite you to come meet the unchanging Savior with us, in Word & Sacrament, right where He's always promised to meet us. 9am for our study hour and 10am Divine Service this & every Sunday. He'd love to meet you & strengthen your faith here with us for all life's journeys, even as I look forward to meeting & learning Goldsboro.as our new Pastor. Dorethea M. Branch: Dorethea M. Branch: A Beautiful Century of Grace, Service, Faith and Aggie Pride! At 100 years young, Mrs. Dorethea M. Branch re- mains a treasured icon in the La Grange community—a woman whose life has been defined by faith, service, education, grace and an abiding love for people. She is admired and loved by many, and her legacy continues to inspire generations. She was born on July 5, 1926, in Dudley, North Carolina. Her commitment to education began when she graduated from Carver High School in Mount Olive in 1944. She continued and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from the historical North Carolina A&T State University in 1960. She loves her Alma Mater. She and her siblings began lifelong connections with the Aggie family, and her love remains strong even today. For nearly three decades, Mrs. Branch served in Social Services, beginning as a social worker at Dobbs School in Kinston. She later became Director of Dobbs School and then Division Director at the O'Berry Center in Goldsboro, serving until her retirement in 1988. Throughout her career, she was known for her compassion, leadership, and a genuine concern for people. Her community service continued long after retirement. She made history as the first Afri- can American woman to serve on the Board of Trustees of UNC-Lenoir Hospital and served on numerous civic boards and commissions. Her contributions earned her numerous honors,including the Town of La Grange's Citizen of the Year and the 2024 Eugene "Jim" Shaw Legacy Award. Faith has always been central to her life. An active member of Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church in La Grange, North Carolina; she has served as an Emerita Member and on the Board of Mothers. She has served as the Chairlady for the Lela Moore Home Mission Circle and the Daughters of Ebenezer for many years. She shared 55 years of marriage with her late husband, Ira D. Branch Jr., and is the proud mother of Dennis K. Branch. To honor her 100-year blessed milestone, members of the Goldsboro-Wayne Alumni Chapter of NC A&T SU paid a special visit to her on Sunday, August 29, 2026, showering her with beautiful gifts and love. The University (NC A&T SU) also joined them in cele- brating her lifelong dedication and Aggie Pride by sending gifts and expressing words of gratitude.