“When I applied, I met Dr. Jimmy Freeman (the program’s former site coordinator), who introduced me to the Leadership Institute. This event brought together cohorts to understand what it truly means to be a MISTER. This motivated me to work hard to become the best mentor I can be,” he said.
“This experience has been revolutionary. It taught me how to be a servant leader for future generations, and how to thrive in a female-dominated career. It’s helped me be the best version of myself, share my story, advocate for others my age, and be an inspiration to older and younger generations.”
One of Damontae’s standout memories is the time he spent bonding with other cohorts on a retreat to Asheville, NC. They explored a record shop, visited a science museum, and went white water rafting.
How to get in
Call Me Mister prioritizes admitting students from underserved + socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds who may face challenges entering education careers. The program accepts students majoring in elementary, early childhood, music, physical education, middle school, special education, and secondary education.
Participants must also commit to teaching in a South Carolina public school for each year they receive funding after graduating.
Financial benefits
Despite the program’s competitiveness, it pays off — here’s a breakdown of the scholarships + stipends it awards to help with college costs per semester:
Which of the following qualifies a student for Call Me Mister?
A. Major in mathematics, literature, chemistry, or biology B. Major in elementary, early childhood, music, physical education, middle level education, special education, or secondary education
Free Kids Ice Cream Social in the Park | Friday, July 12 | 3-5 p.m. | St. Julian Devine, 1 Cooper St., Charleston | Free | Friends, family, and neighbors are invited for an afternoon of fun — RSVP is recommended but does not guarantee ice cream, arrive early.
Reggae Nights Concert | Friday, July 12 | 7:30-11 p.m. | James Island County Park, 871 Riverland Dr., Charleston | $0-$30 | This event features traditional old-school roots reggae with a new-school attitude — don’t forget your chairs or blanket.
Saturday, July 13
Yoga at Waterfront Park | Saturday, July 13 | 9:30-10:15 a.m. | The Waterfront Park on Daniel Island, 1 River Landing Dr., Daniel Island | Free | Come out and enjoy the relaxing effects of participating in yoga outdoors along the beautiful Wando River.
Sweetgrass Basket Weaving Workshop | Saturday, July 13 | 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. | The Charleston Museum, 360 Meeting St., Charleston | $75-$105 | Join local artisan Sarah Edwards-Hammond for a class on an integral part of the Lowcountry’s Gullah Geechee community since the 17th century.
12th Annual Charleston Natural Hair Expo | Saturday, July 13 | 11 a.m.-5 p.m. | Trident Technical College Conference Center (920 building), 7000 Rivers Ave., North Charleston | $10-$45 | The multicultural experience celebrates those who embrace the various textures of their hair through workshops, panel discussions, and more.
Sunset Sessions at The Backyard | Saturday, July 13 | 4-7 p.m. | The Backyard at Little Palm, 237 Meeting St., Charleston | Price of purchase | Let the music carry you away as you enjoy tropical-inspired cocktails and fresh grill delights.
Book and Beer Market | Saturday, July 13 | 5-8 p.m. | The Garden by Charles Towne Fermentory, 1331 Ashley River Rd., Charleston | Free | This hangout features a book sale, art prints, raffles, music, local authors, and food trucks.
Sunday, July 14
The Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art’s Family Day! | Sunday, July 14 | 10 a.m.-2 p.m. | The Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art, 161 Calhoun St., Charleston | Free | Bring the family for guided tours, art activities that explore the two current exhibitions, and snacks.
Second Sunday | Sunday, July 14 | 12-5 p.m. | King Street, Charleston | Price of purchase | King Street closes to through traffic for local art, shopping, food, and fashion.
Dried Floral Gold Hoop Workshop | Sunday, July 14 | 1:30-2:30 p.m. | PlantHouse - Charleston, 832 Coleman Blvd., Mount Pleasant | $20-$30 | Craft a wreath by designing with gold hoops and dried blooms.
Celebrate summer with dishes from this new seasonal menu
Celebrate summer with dishes from Five Loaves Cafe’s new seasonal menu
Presented by a CHStoday partner
From soups and shareables to entrees, you don’t want to miss these summer specials at Five Loaves Cafe. | Photo provided by Five Loaves Cafe
Looking to try something new for dinner? Channel summer vibes with dinner on the patio at Five Loaves Cafe featuring their new menu and rotating specials.
Here are our top picks to try:
BBQ Spice Pork Tenderloin: Served alongside elote creamed corn, grilled zucchini, and rum spiced pineapple jam
Flounder Piccata: Panko breaded flounder served with garlic whipped potatoes, piccata sauce with tomatoes, capers + spinach and cream
Spiced Salmon: Flavorful salmon served with cauliflower and sweet pea “rice-otto,” and basil-kale pistou
Tahini Coconut Tofu: Chilled sesame, alkaline noodles and roasted veggies
Rain, rain, go away. Due to a tropical disturbance off our coast that has a low risk of developing (forecasters gives the system a 10% chance of formation through 48 hours), there is an increased chance of rain in the Lowcountry throughout the weekend. Try one of these activities to stay dry. (WCBD)
Outdoors
Open season, well at least for a day. NOAA is opening the waters off the SC coast, today, July 12, for recreational red snapper fishing. In federal waters, recreational fishermen can keep one fish per person (any size), and in SC waters, fishermen can keep two fish per person (minimum size of 20 in.). (WCIV)
Kids
Safety first. The Summerville Fire-Rescue will host a free car seat check-up today, July 12 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Kohl’s in the Azalea Shopping Center. (WCBD)
Drink
Charleston Summer Wine Festival announced tickets are now available for its upcoming Summer Wine Festival on Saturday, Aug. 24. Attendees can listen to live music and explore 50+ wine selections, mimosas, and beers, which is all included in the ticket pricing. Food will be available for purchase.
Sports
To kick off football season, 12 schools will compete in the third annual Dave Spurlock Charleston County School District Football Jamboree. Games will start Friday, Aug. 16 at Robert E. Hayes Field in Mount Pleasant. Tickets are available beginning Friday, Aug. 2. See the schedule.
Seasonal
Magnolia Plantation has new special summer hours. Every Tuesday from 1 to 8 p.m., visitors can explore the various activities offered on location like guided tours. These extended operating hours will run until the end of August. (WCIV)
Festival
Holy Smokes BBQ Fest is returning for its fourth year at Riverfront Park on Saturday, Nov. 9. The festival features over 50 pit masters + chefs from around the country. Pre-sale tickets are now available through Sunday. Here’s how to snag them.
Trending
Spotted in the Lowcountry. Olympic gold medalist and gymnast Shawn Johnson East recently vacationed with her family in Charleston. See the pictures.
Show
Millennials stand up. Soulja Boy will perform at Music Farm on Sunday, Sept. 8. There will be opportunities to do a meet and greet after the show. Tickets go on sale today, July 12 at 10 a.m.
Plan Ahead
The 2024 Shriners Children’s Charleston Classic, an annual men’s college basketball tournament, will be held at TD Arena on Nov. 21, 22 + 24. ESPN Events announced eight teams will play. The full schedule and tickets will be announced later. But those interested can sign up for the pre-sale. (Holy City Sinner)
Eat
If you’re like us, you’re always on the go. Pro tip: This tasty sandwich alternative is perfect for the beach, the pool, or the park.*
Wellness
Feeling lost in a sea of generic health advice? Lumen analyzes your unique metabolism with a single breath in the morning — and we scored you 15% off.*
Try This
🍿 Movie magic in the park
Grab your blanket for a free movie night in Hampton Park
Movie night in Hampton Park, sign us up. | Photo by @ryanserio
It’s movie time. The Charleston Police Department is hosting a free Movie in the Park this evening, July 12, at Hampton Park (30 Mary Murray Dr.).
Gates open at 7:30 p.m., and “WALL-E” will begin playing at 8:30 p.m. Bonus: There’s free popcorn too.
Bring your own blankets and chairs to enjoy a movie under the stars.
The Buy
The Buy 7.12.24 (Affiliate)
A portable handheld fan. The battery-operated mini fan is compact enough to throw in a purse or tote, making it your new best friend for sports events, beach days, and outdoor festivals this summer.
Happy Friday, CHS. Do you like boba tea? Let us know where is the best place to get some in the Holy City. I like to order from Riso Noodle House in West Ashley.
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