Author: hpalece

On Friday, May 29, York County 4-H and the City of York welcomed families from across the community to York Place for the 2026 Summer Kick Off Event. What began as an idea to bring families together for an evening of affordable summer fun turned into an incredible community celebration, with 205 vehicles and more than 700 attendees joining us throughout the evening.

The event featured a wide variety of activities for all ages, including face painting by Mandy’s Professional Face Painting, Pep’s Party Animals petting zoo, giant inflatables and movie equipment provided by Morton’s Amusements, line dancing, a playground area, and a movie in the field to close out the night.

One of the highlights of the evening was the opportunity for families to connect with local organizations and resources. Community information booths were provided by:

• York County 4-H
• Yorkville Agricultural & Education Society
• Keystone
• York County Arts Council
• York Soil & Water Conservation District

Attendees also enjoyed exploring emergency response and public safety vehicles, including displays from:

• York County SWAT Team
• City of York Fire Department
• City of York Police Department.

A special thank you goes to Lifeway Church and The Church of the Good Shepherd for providing a free hotdog dinner for attendees. Their generosity helped ensure that families could enjoy a meal together while participating in the evening’s activities.

One of the most meaningful outcomes of the Summer Kick Off Event was the opportunity for Clemson Extension’s York County 4-H program to connect with new families throughout the community. The event provided a unique platform to introduce families to the wide variety of youth development opportunities available through 4-H, including leadership, agriculture, STEM, healthy living, and civic engagement programs. Many attendees were unfamiliar with the scope of 4-H beyond traditional livestock projects, and the event allowed staff and volunteers to share how 4-H serves youth from all backgrounds and interests. By building relationships, answering questions, and engaging families in a fun and welcoming environment, the Summer Kick Off Event helped expand awareness of 4-H’s impact and created new opportunities to reach and inspire the next generation of York County youth.

This event would not have been possible without the support of our community partners, volunteers, vendors, sponsors, and local organizations who came together to create a welcoming and memorable experience for families across York County.

The overwhelming turnout demonstrated the value of community events that bring people together, connect families with local resources, and create opportunities for neighbors to build relationships. We are grateful to everyone who attended and helped make the 2026 Summer Kick Off Event such a tremendous success.

We look forward to continuing this tradition and welcoming even more families to York Place in the years to come.

Interested in learning more about York County 4-H? We invite families, volunteers, and community members to connect with us and discover the many opportunities available through Clemson Extension’s 4-H Youth Development Program.

Kristin Kunde

York County 4-H Agent 
Cooperative Extension
Clemson University

120 N. Congress St.

York, SC 29745

w 803-639-9102

York County 4-H had an exciting start to summer programming this week, offering opportunities for youth of all ages to learn new skills, build friendships, and explore their interests through hands-on activities.

From Tuesday through Thursday, youth ages 9–13 participated in Cooking Camp at Winthrop University. Campers spent each day preparing breakfast and lunch while learning valuable life skills such as kitchen and food safety, proper knife skills, and the importance of local agriculture through farm-to-table activities. Youth gained confidence in the kitchen while working together to create delicious meals from start to finish.

A special thank you goes to our four teen camp counselors who helped make Cooking Camp an engaging and memorable experience for all participants. Their leadership, encouragement, and willingness to assist campers played a key role in the camp’s success.

While Cooking Camp was underway, youth ages 7–11 enjoyed CloverBUG Camp on Wednesday and Thursday. Campers participated in hands-on activities, games, and educational experiences designed to spark curiosity and creativity while building friendships and having fun.

Thursday evening marked the first meeting of our summer Teen Lead Lines Club. Teens had the opportunity to hear from Lt. Ramsey of the York County Sheriff’s Department, who shared valuable insights on servant leadership and the positive impact young people can have within their communities. Participants left inspired to develop their leadership skills and find ways to serve others.

The week concluded on Friday with our first Cloverbud Day for youth ages 5–8. The STEM-themed event encouraged our youngest members to explore science, technology, engineering, and math through creative, hands-on activities. Cloverbuds built and decorated birdhouses, experimented with LEGO building challenges, and worked together to complete a Forest Fort Challenge.

We are proud of all the youth who participated this week and grateful to the volunteers, teen leaders, partners, and families who helped make these programs possible. We look forward to many more exciting learning adventures throughout the summer with York County 4-H!

The inaugural Winter Dairy Weekend marked an exciting new opportunity for youth and families interested in the dairy industry. Designed as an informative and fun two-day educational experience, the weekend focused on building practical skills, confidence, and enthusiasm preparing youth for success in agriculture, careers, and life.

A total of 28 youth participated, with 24 youth owning their own heifers and 4 youth borrowing heifers for the event. One of the primary goals of Winter Dairy Weekend was to provide hands-on dairy learning that would spark interest and build readiness for future opportunities. For youth who borrowed heifers, the weekend served as an introduction to dairy ownership with the hope that they will be inspired to participate in the Dairy Heifer Project or invest in their own heifers to raise and show. In addition, we hope the 24 youth who already owned their heifers gained valuable skills and confidence to help them prepare for the upcoming show season. Through expert instruction and hands-on practice, youth refined their daily care routines, strengthened their showmanship skills, and deepened their understanding of animal presentation. Our goal is that each participant leaves better prepared, more confident, and ready to be the very best version of themselves—both in and out of the show ring, reflecting the Beyond Ready focus on personal growth and readiness.

Throughout the weekend, youth participated in hands-on instruction covering all aspects of preparing and caring for a dairy heifer. Educational sessions included:

• Washing and daily care
• Feeding and nutrition
• Halter breaking and proper halter fit
• Judging dairy cattle
• Fitting and clipping techniques
• Showmanship skills and ring presence

Participants learned what to look for when selecting a quality heifer, how to properly fit halters, which clippers to use and why, and practical techniques to help make their heifers look their very best in the show ring. Special emphasis was placed on attention to detail, confidence, and communication—skills that extend far beyond the show ring!

Beyond technical skills, Winter Dairy Weekend provided a space for youth to build friendships, work as a team, and connect with peers and mentors. These experiences reinforced that dairy projects are about more than cattle; they develop responsibility, leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving. Which are critical life skills that prepare youth for future challenges.

As the very first Winter Dairy Weekend, the event established a strong foundation for future programming. We hope this experience benefited both youth and parents and sparked continued interest in dairy projects while supporting long-term youth development through hands-on learning and leadership opportunities.

More information contact: Tina Horn

Officials with the Clemson University Department of Plant Industry (DPI) discovered an invasive yellow-legged hornet nest in York County on December 8, 2025 after a local beekeeper reported seeing a hornet preying on honey bees. This was the first detection of a yellow-legged hornet or nest in South Carolina outside the Lowcountry.

To protect York County (and surrounding areas) pollinators, natural resources, and agricultural economy from the potential impacts of this invasive species, Clemson University’s public service units have mobilized to provide education, assist with identification, and coordinate eradication efforts.

Clemson Extension’s York County office, located in downtown York, is on the front-line of this effort by providing outreach education and serving as a trap site to help DPI identify where these hornets might be establishing nests so they can be located and eradicated.

DPI staff will be placing hundreds of traps, like the one in the picture above, throughout York County and surrounding areas to monitor potential sightings. The public is encouraged to NOT disturb these traps, as they are being monitored by Clemson University DPI staff.

The yellow-legged hornet, which is not the same as the northern giant hornet, has the potential to be more aggressive towards humans, especially in the early stages of nest development. Humans are more likely to come in contact with these hornets as they are more apt to build nests on homes and manmade structures.

The most serious concern with the yellow-legged hornet is its potential to damage the already embattled U.S. beekeeping industry. Yellow-legged hornets are a principal pest of honey bees, having caused increased colony losses in western Europe since their detection in 2004. Their establishment and spread in the U.S. is alarming for beekeepers, who are already reeling from a year in which the nation’s colony loss rate was greater than 60 percent.

Residents are urged to use this reporting tool website to document any potential sighting of these hornets. You can learn more about the yellow-legged hornet here and the life-cycle of yellow-legged hornet nests can be seen below:

Related links used for this blog post:

Yellow-legged hornet nest located in York County; residents urged to report sightings

Plant Industry – Trapping Yellow-Legged Hornet

Blog post editor and photographer: Ben Boyles, Agribusiness Agent, York County Coordinator

Last Thursday, February 19th, York County 4-H’ers stitched together history, hands-on learning, and heart for their community during our 4-H Sewing Workshop — and it was a day to remember.

A Field Trip into Textile History and Innovation

Our day began with a unique field trip experience that connected the past, present, and future of the textile industry right here in York County.

At the Baxter Mill Archive, youth explored an extraordinary collection that began with a passion for preserving historical textile prints. What started as a focused archive has grown into more than 1.5 million sketches, swatches, garments, painted boards, antique books, and fabrics. Participants learned how the Archive has evolved from a physical design center serving creatives to a modern digital destination offering print-on-demand fabric and wallpaper — making its vast design resources more accessible than ever before.

Next door, youth had the opportunity to see textiles being created in real time at Springs Creative. With roots dating back to 1887 and now led by the 5th and 6th generations of the Springs-Close family, Springs Creative blends tradition with innovation. Students observed how state-of-the-art digital printing technology is used to produce high-quality fabrics and wallpaper right here in South Carolina.

Together, these experiences gave our 4-H’ers a powerful look at how textiles connect history, artistry, technology, entrepreneurship, and environmental responsibility. What began as a simple sewing workshop quickly expanded into a deeper understanding of an industry that continues to shape our region — and the many career pathways available within it.

Sewing for a Purpose

After returning to the York County Extension Office, it was time to put their skills into action.

Youth worked together to create zipper pouches — practicing measuring, cutting, pinning, and sewing with purpose. For some, this was a chance to refine skills they’ve been developing. For others, it was a brand-new experience navigating a sewing machine. Regardless of skill level, every participant showed patience, focus, and determination.

But these weren’t just practice projects.

Each zipper pouch will be filled with hygiene items and donated to a local shelter, providing practical support to individuals in need within our community. The sewing workshop became more than a skill-building event — it became an opportunity for service and compassion.

Building Skills That Matter

This workshop beautifully reflected what 4-H is all about:

• Learning by doing
• Exploring career pathways
• Developing life skills
• Giving back to the community

Youth left not only with improved sewing abilities, but also with a deeper understanding of York County’s textile history and the impact they can make through service.

We are so proud of these young leaders for their hard work, teamwork, and willingness to use their talents to serve others. Events like this remind us that when we combine education with heart, incredible things happen.

Here’s to more stitching, more learning, and more opportunities to make a difference — one zipper at a time.

Kristin Kunde 
York County 4-H Agent 
Cooperative Extension
Clemson University
120 N. Congress St.
York, SC 29745
w 803-639-9102
kkunde@clemson.edu
Civil Rights Statement

At Hickory Grove–Sharon Elementary School, 4-H is creating meaningful, hands-on learning experiences for students in grades 3–6 — made possible through strong school and community partnerships and the dedication of club leader Julie Parris.

Hands-On Learning That Builds Life Skills

This fall, all 3rd–6th grade clubs participated in the 4-H Pie Project, where students worked together to make no-bake pumpkin pies. With support from parent and teacher volunteers, students completed every step themselves, building confidence, teamwork, and practical skills.

Students have also explored agriculture in real and engaging ways — from learning how farms operate to discovering how wool becomes yarn through creative, hands-on activities.

Community Partners Making a Difference

Local community members play a key role in the club’s success. Beth Black of Blacks Peaches visited with 5th–6th graders to share what it’s like to run a farm and the responsibility behind agricultural careers. In December, Robin Currence and her team at Lincoln Road Farms welcomed students into their kitchen to learn how to bake the “4-H way.” Students proudly shared their homemade cookies and biscuits with teachers as a holiday thank-you, reinforcing service and gratitude.

Youth Leading the Way

This winter, students are researching South Carolina agricultural commodities and preparing presentations for a schoolwide 4-H Day in May. Their plans include hands-on activities and “make-and-takes” for younger students — giving them the opportunity to lead, teach, and inspire others.

Music, Culture, and Connection

The HGSE Pickers, a 4-H strings group, practice weekly and are preparing for an upcoming bluegrass festival. Many of these students also participate in grade-level 4-H clubs, showing how 4-H connects academics, arts, and culture.

A Strong Model of Community Impact

Through dedicated leadership, supportive schools, and invested community partners, Hickory Grove–Sharon Elementary’s 4-H program is helping youth develop skills that last a lifetime — while showing just how impactful and fun 4-H can be.

Kristin Kunde 
York County 4-H Agent 
Cooperative Extension
Clemson University
120 N. Congress St.
York, SC 29745
w 803-639-9102
kkunde@clemson.edu
Civil Rights Statement

A True York County 4-H Success Story

McKenna’s roots in 4-H run deep. From her earliest days showing horses to becoming an active teen leader, she embraced every opportunity to challenge herself and strengthen her skills. Her passion for agriculture, youth development, and community leadership continued to grow throughout her 4-H career — ultimately shaping her path long after aging out of the program.

Clemson Graduate & Emerging Youth Development Professional

In May 2025, McKenna graduated from Clemson University, bringing with her an academic foundation that pairs perfectly with the hands-on experience she gained through 4-H. During college, she continued her commitment to youth programming and agriculture through internships that prepared her for this role in extraordinary ways:

• York County 4-H Summer Intern (2024) – where she supported club events, summer camps, and community outreach.
• South Carolina 4-H State Office Intern (Aug 2024 – May 2025) – gaining statewide perspective and experience that she will now bring back home to our county.

These experiences, combined with her lifelong involvement as a 4-H’er, make her uniquely equipped to connect with youth, support volunteers, and strengthen the programs that make York County 4-H one of the strongest in the state.

Growing Up in the Saddle

McKenna grew up riding horses, a passion that helped shape her into the confident, hardworking leader she is today. Her love for the equestrian world continues to influence her commitment to agriculture and to helping young people discover their own passions through 4-H.

Building the Future of York County 4-H

As Program Assistant, McKenna will help support club operations, school programming, community engagement, special events, and the continued growth of our county’s expanding 4-H community. Her energy, creativity, and deep love for York County make her the perfect addition to our team.

We could not be more excited to have her back — not as a member this time, but as a leader, mentor, and role model for hundreds of youth who will walk the same path she once did.

Please join us in giving McKenna the warmest York County 4-H welcome!

Kristin Kunde 
York County 4-H Agent 
Cooperative Extension
Clemson University
120 N. Congress St.
York, SC 29745
w 803-639-9102
kkunde@clemson.edu
Civil Rights Statement

July marked the exciting start of the 51st South Carolina 4-H Dairy Heifer Project! This long-standing tradition continues to provide opportunities for youth to learn about dairying and the dairy industry. The Dairy Heifer Project began in 1974 and was designed to provide boys and girls in South Carolina an opportunity to raise a dairy heifer and experience the dairy industry and then sell their heifer at the South Carolina 4-H Bred Dairy Heifer Sale before she begins milking. The project is a long-term project. This year, 24 participants from all corners of South Carolina received heifers. Youth received a dairy calf of one of four breeds: Holstein, Jersey, Guernsey, or Brown Swiss. Over the next 20 months, these young people will raise and care for their heifers, gaining invaluable skills in animal husbandry, responsibility, and showmanship. The journey culminates in the spring of 2027, when the now-bred dairy heifers will be marketed and sold to dairymen across the country through an online auction. The SC Dairy Bred Heifer Sale serves as an excellent source of herd replacements for South Carolina dairymen. In past years, heifers raised in South Carolina have gone on to begin their careers as milk producers in as many as eight different states! 

This year is especially exciting, as we welcomed 10 new families into the program—proof that the spirit of agriculture is alive and growing. The 4-H Dairy Heifer Committee is thrilled to see so many youth eager to step into the world of agriculture, many for the very first time.

With the 4-H motto being “learn by doing”, we believe one of the best ways to learn… is with an animal in hand.

The Clemson Extension South Carolina New and Beginning Farmer Program (SCNBFP) proudly celebrated the graduation of its Class of 2025, marking a milestone in the program’s 15-year history of empowering the next generation of South Carolina producers. This year’s cohort included 50 graduates who successfully completed the Certificate program and an additional 13 participants enrolled in the Audit track. Together, they represented a diverse cross section of South Carolina agriculture—from aspiring farmers launching their first enterprises to those expanding existing operations across a wide range of commodities and regions.

Throughout the five-month program, participants engaged in ten full-day workshops focused on essential agribusiness management and production topics. Sessions covered business planning, financial and risk management, marketing, legal and regulatory considerations, soil health, and integrated pest management. Participants also connected with Clemson Extension Agribusiness professionals, industry partners, and fellow farmers, gaining access to valuable resources and building relationships that will continue to support their success long after graduation.

A highlight of this year’s program was the introduction of a Business Plan Pitch Contest, sponsored by SC Farm Credit, which provided cash prizes to support the growth and development of participants’ farm operations. The competition showcased the entrepreneurial spirit and innovation of South Carolina’s beginning farmers. Congratulations to this year’s winners: 1st Place – Amy Sudbeck; 2nd Place – Mercedes Bouyer; 3rd Place – Jacob Towe; and 4th Place – Denese Tyler.

With more than 650 program alumni to date, the SCNBFP continues to serve as a vital resource for new and beginning farmers across the state. By providing the tools, knowledge, and confidence needed to build viable, sustainable farm businesses, the program is strengthening rural communities, expanding access to locally produced food, and ensuring that agriculture remains a cornerstone of South Carolina’s economy for generations to come.

The stage was set. All summer long, York County 4-H’ers had been tending to their tomato plants—watering, staking, pruning, and hoping for the perfect harvest. They all started the same way, with six small tomato plants—this year’s chosen varieties were Celebrity and Sun Gold—handed out at the start of summer. Each young grower transplanted their plants into a garden or container, then spent weeks battling weather, pests, and the unknowns of plant growth.

Yesterday, it all came down to one thing: the York County Tomato Judging Contest. Six titles were up for grabs. Ribbons, bragging rights, and a summer’s worth of work were on the line. The York County Master Gardeners stepped in as judges, inspecting each tomato with care, weighing entries to the gram, and debating over shapes, colors, and, yes… even the “worst” looking fruit.

Finally, the results were in:

2025 Winners

• Heaviest Open – Caroline Huffstetler – 355 g
• Heaviest Project – Morgan Webbie – 319 g
• Best Tomato – Natalie Estes
• Best Plate of 3 – Katelyn Huffstettler
• Worst Looking Tomato – Evie Martell
• Green Tomato – Raelynn Harris

Some tomatoes impressed with size, others with perfect form—and some, well, made everyone laugh. But every entry told a story of patience, learning, and determination.

This project isn’t just about who grows the biggest or the prettiest tomato. It’s about watching something you’ve nurtured from seedling to harvest, learning through trial and error, and discovering that sometimes the journey is just as rewarding as the ribbon.

A huge thank-you to the York County Master Gardeners for judging this year’s contest, and to the families and volunteers who made the Tomato Project possible. We can’t wait to see what grows in 2026!

Kristin Kunde 
York County 4-H Agent 
Cooperative Extension
Clemson University
120 N. Congress St.
York, SC 29745
w 803-639-9102
kkunde@clemson.edu
Civil Rights Statement