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April 2025 Newsletter

Van Buren Housing Authority Community News April 2025

Reminders:

  • Office hours are Monday - Thursday from 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM
  • For AFTER-HOURS EMERGENCIES call 479.474.6901 (follow the prompts)

Upcoming Events:

  • Easter Egg Hunt - Thursday 4/17/25 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM at the VBHA Community Center
  • Bingo! - Every Monday 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM at the VBHA Community Center

Like us on Facebook and keep updated on current VBHA Events!
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Letter From the Director

Dear Residents,

Yay, it's Spring! The warmer weather and longer days are finally here, bringing new energy to our community. As we welcome the season, I want to share a few reminders and updates.

Being a Good Neighbor
Let's all do our part to keep our community looking great! Please remember to keep your yard neat and tidy and store toys or other personal items at the rear of your unit. A well-kept neighborhood benefits everyone and makes our community a more enjoyable place to live.

Exciting Updates to Common Areas
We are working on some fun improvements for our common areas! Stay tuned for more details as we enhance shared spaces for everyone to enjoy.

Stay connected at the Community Center
Don't forget to take advantage of the resources available at our Community Center. It's a great place to connect with neighbors, access helpful programs, and be part of the wonderful VBHA community.

Thank you for making VBHA a great place to live. If you have any questions or suggestions, feel free to reach out to us.

Sincerely,

Dayna Cochran
Executive Director

Fun Facts About Spring!

Spring is finally here! Warmer weather, blooming flowers, and longer days make this season a favorite for many. Here are some fun facts about spring to brighten your day:

  • Spring Fever is Real! - When the days get longer, our bodies produce more serotonin (the "happiness" hormone), which boosts our mood and energy levels.
  • Birds Get Chatty - Many birds return from migration in the spring and start singing more frequently. It's their way of attracting mates and marking territory!
  • Earth Day Began in 1070 - Every April 22, millions of people around the world celebrate Earth Day by planting trees, cleaning up litter, and promoting eco-friendly habits.
  • April Showers Bring May Flowers - There's truth to this old saying! The increased rainfall in early spring helps flowers and plants grow stronger and more vibrant.
  • Baby Animal Season - Many animals, from bunnies to deer, give birth in the spring when food is more abundant, making it the best time to spot adorable wildlife.
  • Daylight Savings Time Begins - Spring brings longer days, which means more sunshine in the evening. While we lose an hour of sleep in March, we gain more daylight for outdoor fun!
  • Cherry Blossoms Are a Symbol of Renewal - These beautiful trees bloom for only a short time each spring, symbolizing the fleeting beauty of life. Washington, D.C.'s famous cherry blossoms attract thousands of visitors each year!

What's your favorite part about spring?

Love Your Lease: Exterior Housekeeping Standards

"The tenant agrees to comply with the rules and regulations for tenants and with the following conditions of occupancy:

  • The tenant shall keep only outside furniture on the outside of the unit. All inside furniture will be kept inside. Tenant agrees to keep bicycles, toys, grills and all other outside items stored in the back of the unit or in the storage building in order to keep the appearance of the neighborhood clean and sanitary."

Lease Agreement - Section I Tenant Obligations - Tenant shall be obligated:

10. "To dispose of all garbage, rubbish, and other household waste in a sanitary and safe manner only in containers approved or provided by the PHA. To refrain from, and cause members of Tenant's household or guest to refrain from, littering or leaving trash in common areas."

We appreciate everyone's efforts in maintaining a clean and welcoming neighborhood! As a reminder, all residents agreed to follow community guidelines outlined in the Welcome Packet and Lease Agreement.

  • Outdoor Storage: Only outdoor furniture is allowed outside. Items like bicycles, toys, and grills must be stored in the back of your unit or in your storage building.
  • Garbage Disposal: All household waste must be placed in approved containers and disposed of properly. Please do not leave trash or litter in common areas.
  • Garbage Can Storage: Garbage cans should always be stored at the back of your unit when not in use.

Following these guidelines helps keep our community clean, safe, and enjoyable for everyone. Thank you for doing your part!

April is Stress Awareness Month

April - Stress Awareness Month.

Here are some quick and simple stress-reducing tips:

  1. Take Deep Breaths - Inhale deeply through your nose, hold for a few seconds, then exhale slowly.
  2. Stretch It Out - A quick stretch can relieve tension in your body.
  3. Go for a Walk - A short walk, even for five minutes, can clear your mind.
  4. Listen to Music - Soothing or upbeat tunes can shift your mood.
  5. Laugh a Little - Watch a funny video or talk to a friend who makes you smile.
  6. Drink Water - Staying hydrated helps your body manage stress better.
  7. Limit Caffeine and Sugar - Too much can make you feel jittery or anxious.
  8. Declutter Your Space - Step away from work or screens to reset your mind.
  9. Take Breaks - Step away from work or screens to reset your mind.
  10. Practice Gratitude - Think of three things you're grateful for today.

Look for the bits of beauty in every day. That is where the magic happens.