Back-to-School Tips: Making the First Week Fun, Safe, and Family-Focused

Setting a positive tone for your kids’ return to routine is essential as the new school year kicks off. Here are some quick tips to make the first week fun, safe, and focused on family involvement.

1. Create a Fun Morning Routine

Start the day with music, a fun breakfast tradition, or a quick family check-in to boost everyone’s mood.

2. Safety First

Review traffic and pedestrian safety, and make sure kids know their route to school. Keep emergency contacts in their backpack for younger children.

3. Get Involved

Join school activities, volunteer, or attend events to stay connected with your child’s school community.

4. Set Up a Homework Zone

Designate a cozy, organized spot for homework, stocked with all necessary supplies.

5. Plan Family Fun Nights

Balance the back-to-school rush with a weekly family activity like game or movie nights.

6. Build Healthy Habits

Ensure kids get enough sleep, eat balanced meals, and stay hydrated to fuel their learning.

7. Stay Positive

Keep communication open and offer support, especially if they’re feeling overwhelmed by the new routine.

By focusing on these simple tips, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable start to the school year for the whole family!

Celebrating Black Business Month from the Heart of Ypsilanti

We are deeply committed to celebrating and supporting Black-owned businesses, not just in August during Black Business Month, but year-round. This month gives us a special opportunity to highlight the immense contributions, creativity, and resilience of Black entrepreneurs in our community and across the nation.

Why Support Black-Owned Businesses?

Black-owned businesses are vital to the economic empowerment and growth of our communities. They bring diversity, innovation, and much-needed services to our neighborhoods. However, despite their crucial impact, Black entrepreneurs often face disproportionate barriers, including limited access to capital, resources, and networks. Supporting these businesses means actively contributing to the dismantling of systemic obstacles while fostering economic equity.

Personal Commitment

As a Black business, we understand the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship. That's why we’re dedicated to using Hinton Real Estate not just as a platform for real estate transactions but also as a community catalyst that uplifts and promotes Black businesses. Our commitment is unwavering, whether through partnerships, collaborations, or simply providing a spotlight.

How Can We All Help?

1. Shop Local: Make a conscious decision to shop at Black-owned businesses. Whether it’s restaurants, boutiques, or service providers, every purchase makes a difference.

2. Spread the Word: Share your positive experiences with Black-owned businesses. Social media is a powerful tool for promotion and recommendation. A simple post or review can boost visibility and attract new customers.

3. Engage in Community Initiatives: Participate in or sponsor events that support Black entrepreneurship. Whether it's a local market, a business workshop, or a networking event, get involved.

4. Educate Yourself and Others: Understanding the historical and ongoing barriers Black entrepreneurs face is crucial. Educate yourself and others to foster a more supportive and inclusive business environment.

Highlighting Local Success

Throughout Black Business Month, I will highlight various Black-owned businesses in Ypsilanti. We’ll explore their stories, their incredible work, and how they contribute to the vibrancy and growth of our community. Stay tuned to our blog and social media channels for these features.

This Black Business Month, let's reaffirm our commitment to supporting and advocating for Black-owned businesses. It’s more than just a month of recognition—it’s about making a lasting impact. Let's work together to create a thriving business environment where diversity is celebrated and encouraged.

Celebrating Freedom in Ypsi this Juneteenth

Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day, commemorates a pivotal moment in American history: June 19, 1865, the day when the last enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, were informed of their freedom, two and a half years after President Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation.

Today, Juneteenth is a celebration of African American freedom and achievements and a reminder of the ongoing struggle for equality. It's a day marked by community gatherings, rich cultural expressions, and educational events that honor the enduring resilience and contributions of the African American community.

This year, join us from June 21-23, 2024, for Ypsilanti's 4th Annual Juneteenth Celebration, sponsored by Hinton Real Estate and Home Loans. This event promises to unite the community with a vibrant lineup of activities that celebrate this significant historical event right in the heart of downtown Ypsilanti.

Location: South Huron Parking Lot (behind Puffer Reds), Downtown Ypsilanti.

Event Lineup:

June 21 (6-10 PM) - NPHC / Divine 9 & Black Organizations Night

  • What to Wear: Showcase your Greek letters and organization colors.

  • Activities: An opportunity to mingle, network, and learn about various fraternities and sororities.

  • Entertainment: Enjoy an evening filled with food trucks, a DJ spinning tracks, a raffle, and fellowship.

  • Emcees: Cherisa Allen (Delta Sigma Theta) and Taryn Willis (Zeta Phi Beta).

June 22 (11 AM - 8:30 PM) - A Day of Live Music and Local Flavors

  • Performances: Featuring local talents Kid Jay, Nikki Gio from Weebone Entertainment, Larry Lee's Back in the Day Band, and special guest headliner Dwele.

  • Features: Explore various local vendors, indulge in delicious food, and enjoy captivating performances.

  • Emcees: Lisa Jones and The Real Black Coffee.

June 23 (11:30 AM - 7 PM) - Sunday Reflection and More Live Music

  • Performances: Join us for inspirational performances by Minister David Whitfield & Whitfield Productions, with more exciting acts to be announced.

  • Enjoy Another enriching day of music, local vendors, and more food to savor.

This Juneteenth, Hinton Real Estate and Home Loans is proud to support an event that celebrates freedom and fosters community solidarity and cultural appreciation. We invite everyone in and around Ypsilanti to join us for a weekend filled with empowerment, reflection, and entertainment.

Let's honor the spirit of Juneteenth together: a celebration of freedom, a recognition of history, and a community united.