STATE CHAMPS

YORK COUNTY, S.C.- Every February, communities across the nation recognize Black History Month, a time dedicated to honoring the history, culture, and achievements of Black Americans. In York County, that history is deeply rooted in the land, schools, churches, and historic sites that continue to tell powerful stories of resilience and contribution. Historic Brattonsville This important historical location is in McConnells, S.C. This living history site features a dedicated African American interpretation, which focuses on the history and experiences of enslaved people. The site also includes original slave quarters and the Enslaved Ancestral Burial Ground, where 481 people of African descent are buried. Throughout February, visitors can attend a special Saturday program titled “By Way of the Back Door: The Life and Times of Molly,” which explores African American life through the perspective of a woman who lived at Brattonsville from 1780 to 1865. Roosevelt School Black history is also closely tied to the Roosevelt School in Clover. During segregation, the school served as an all-Black K–12 school and was originally known as the first Clover Colored School. Although the building was destroyed during integration in the mid-1960s, its legacy remains strong. The school once served as the hub for Black education in Clover before segregation ended. Today, a historical marker stands at the former site, which now includes three baseball fields, a playground, a basketball court, and picnic tables. Green Pond United Methodist Church This church has been a very important part of Black history in the area, serving as one of the earliest and longest-lasting places of worship for African-American residents. At that time, Green Pond was widely the only church serving African-Americans in the Clover area and has remained an all-Black church, continuing to serve as a main gathering place for worship, fellowship, and mutual aid in the community. Stellie J. Jackson served as the pastor of Green Pond Church, giving spiritual leadership and guidance to the congregation. Under his leadership, the church continued its mission of strengthening faith while also supporting the social and educational growth of the community. For generations, the church has been a religious home. It has also served as a symbol of resilience, community unity, and the struggle for dignity and recognition. Green Pond Church Cemetery Another significant site is Green Pond Church Cemetery, the first cemetery for Black residents in Clover. The cemetery holds the remains of many formerly enslaved individuals. African Americans lived and worked in the Clover community before the Civil War, first as enslaved people and later as sharecroppers, farmers, laborers, and skilled workers who helped build the local economy. Even during the hardships of slavery and the Civil War, African Americans played an important role in shaping the region. Following the Emancipation Proclamation, formerly enslaved individuals in the Clover area began building independent lives. Many worked as sharecroppers or tenant farmers while striving to reunite families separated by slavery. During this time, African Americans established their own churches, schools, and neighborhoods, laying the foundation for strong Black communities that would continue for generations. Black History Month serves as a reminder not only of the struggles Black Americans have faced but also of their strength, perseverance, and lasting contributions. York County’s historic sites stand as meaningful landmarks for future generations.

YORK, S.C. - An invasive species known as the yellow-legged hornet has been confirmed in York County, raising concerns among state officials, beekeepers and environmental experts. The hornets, which are native to Southeast Asia, pose a serious threat to honeybee populations and local ecosystems. Officials with the Clemson University Department of Plant Industry confirmed a yellow-legged hornet nest in McConnells, located in York County, in early December 2025. The discovery marked the first confirmed detection of the invasive species in South Carolina. Yellow-legged hornets typically range in size from .07 of an inch ro an inch in length. The head is mostly black, with some front-facing yellow or orange and black eyes. The thorax is black or dark brown. It also has alternating bands of dark brown/black and yellow/orange on the abdomen. The most distinctive feature are the black-brown legs that become yellow on the ends. The yellow-legged hornet was first identified in the United States in November 2023, when it was discovered near Savannah, Georgia. Since then, the species has spread to other areas in the Southeast, prompting increased monitoring and response efforts from state and federal agencies. While the hornets are not considered highly dangerous to humans, officials say their presence poses a significant risk to honeybees. Yellow-legged hornets are known to prey on bees by hovering near beehives and attacking returning workers. Over time, repeated attacks can weaken or destroy entire colonies. Bees play a critical role in pollination, which is essential for the growth of many crops, gardens and native plants. A decline in bee populations can have widespread consequences, including reduced agricultural yields and disruptions to local ecosystems. “When bee populations decrease, the effects ripple throughout the environment,” officials said. Reduced pollination can impact farmers, home gardeners and natural plant life, potentially leading to long-term ecological and economic consequences. The discovery of the hornets in York County has prompted concern among local officials and agricultural track and contain the species. Clemson officials are encouraging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspected sightings, particularly near wooded areas or beehives. Experts advise residents not to approach hornet nests, as the insects can become aggressive if disturbed. Instead, sightings should be reported to local agricultural authorities or Clemson University’s Department of Plant Industry for proper identification and removal. Officials say early detection is critical in preventing the hornet from becoming established in South Carolina. Continued monitoring and public awareness will play a key role in limiting the spread of the invasive species and protecting the region’s bee populations. As efforts continue, state agencies emphasize the importance of cooperation between residents, beekeepers and environmental officials to address the growing threat posed by the yellow-legged hornet. To learn more about this species, including making traps and reporting sightings, visit https://blogs.clemson.edu/regulatory/december-2025-yellow-legged-hornet-update-movement-of-ylh-beyond-lowcountry-confirmed/

YORK COUNTY - York County Council approved an impact fee for Clover School District on Dec. 15, setting the amount at $8,000 for single-family homes.

The Impact Fee Ordinance is up for its third and final reading on Dec. 15, 2025, after passing its second reading unanimously on Nov. 17. However, it only applies to the Urban Service Boundary.

York County Council listens to D2 residents: Approves impact fees 

The Cattle Car

LAKE WYLIE, S.C. - At Girl Scout Troop 888, the motto “make the world a better place” is more than just a slogan-it’s a guiding principle. With 87 members ranging from Kindergarten to 7th grade, Troop 888 is making a big impact in the Lake Wylie and Clover communities. Under the leadership of Lucinda Woodard, a lifetime Girl Scout with nearly 28 years of experience, the troop is dedicated to teaching young girls the importance of service and giving back.

CLOVER, SC - Dr. Francine Marz encountered both of these dishes on a trip to Ireland. She found them unique and wanted to share them with our readers.

Welcome to the Kindness Corner, where we celebrate acts of kindness that make a real difference in our community. Each month, we’ll highlight heartwarming stories of generosity and showcase ways you can get involved in spreading kindness too.