Enjoy a meal, socialization and entertainment at Encore Express during April!

Adults 60+ (and spouses) can make reservations by calling 319-653-3950.
**Must make reservations before 1PM the Tuesday PRIOR to the meal!**

💚World Semicolon Day💚

On World Semicolon Day, we recognize a powerful symbol of hope and resilience. A semicolon (;) is used when an author could have chosen to end a sentence—but didn’t. It represents the choice to keep going.

Today is a reminder that your story isn’t over. 💚

Public Health Reminder:
Mental health is just as important as physical health. Many individuals face challenges such as depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns—but support is available, and help makes a difference.

🧠 Ways to support your mental well-being:
✔️ Talk to someone you trust
✔️ Take time for self-care and rest
✔️ Stay connected with friends, family, or your community
✔️ Reach out for professional support when needed

If you or someone you know is struggling, you are not alone. Resources like the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline are available 24/7—just call or text 988.

Let today be a reminder: your story matters, and it’s okay to keep going. 💚

🦇💚 International Bat Appreciation Day 💚🦇

Bats might be a little misunderstood, but they play a BIG role in keeping our environment healthy! From helping control insect populations to supporting pollination, bats are an important part of a balanced ecosystem.

🌙 Did You Know?
🦟 A single bat can eat thousands of insects in one night—helping reduce pests like mosquitoes
🌼 Some bats help pollinate plants and spread seeds
🌎 Healthy bat populations support healthy ecosystems

Public Health Tips:
✔️ Avoid direct contact with bats or any wild animals
✔️ Never handle a bat with bare hands—even if it appears injured
✔️ If you find a bat in your home, contact local environmental health or animal control for guidance
✔️ Make sure pets are up to date on rabies vaccinations

While bats are beneficial, they can sometimes carry diseases like rabies, so it’s important to admire them from a safe distance.

Let’s appreciate these incredible nighttime helpers and do our part to keep both people and wildlife safe! 🦇🌿

🎈🎉 It’s a birthday celebration! 🎉🎈

Join us in wishing Susie a very happy birthday today!

We hope her day is filled with smiles, good moments, and a little extra celebrating. We’re so grateful for everything she brings to our team and the care she shows every day.

If you see Susie, don’t forget to help her celebrate and wish her a happy birthday! 🎂💐

💚 Stress Awareness Month 💚

April is Stress Awareness Month—a time to recognize how stress can impact our mental and physical health, and to explore ways to manage it in healthy ways.

Stress is a normal part of life, but ongoing or unmanaged stress can increase the risk of health concerns like anxiety, depression, heart disease, and trouble sleeping. Taking small steps each day can make a big difference.

💚 Tips for Managing Stress:
🧠 Take breaks and give yourself time to recharge
🚶‍♀️ Stay active—even a short walk can help clear your mind
😴 Prioritize sleep and aim for a consistent routine
🥗 Eat balanced meals to support your overall health
📞 Talk to someone you trust or reach out for support

Public Health Reminder:
It’s okay to ask for help. If stress becomes overwhelming, consider reaching out to a healthcare provider or mental health professional. If you are in crisis, you can call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for support 24/7.

Taking care of your mental health is an important part of taking care of your overall health. 💚

🌎💚 Earth Day 💚🌎

Today we celebrate Earth Day—a reminder that a healthy planet supports healthy people. The environment around us impacts the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the food we eat. Taking care of our planet is an important part of protecting public health.

🌿 Small Actions, Big Impact:
♻️ Reduce, reuse, and recycle whenever possible
🚰 Use reusable water bottles and bags
🚶‍♀️ Walk or bike when you can
🌳 Plant trees or start a garden
💡 Turn off lights and unplug electronics when not in use

🌎 Public Health Connection:
Cleaner air helps reduce respiratory illnesses
Safe water protects against disease
Green spaces support mental health and physical activity

Every small step adds up to a healthier environment and a healthier community. Let’s work together to care for the place we all call home. 🌱💚

Happy Earth Day!

🧺☀️ National Picnic Day ☀️🧺

It’s the perfect day to head outdoors, enjoy some fresh air, and share a meal with family and friends! National Picnic Day is a great reminder to slow down, connect with others, and take advantage of the health benefits of spending time outside.

🌿 Benefits of Getting Outdoors:
☀️ Boosts mood and reduces stress
🚶‍♀️ Encourages physical activity
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Promotes social connection
🌸 Supports overall mental well-being

🧺 Picnic Safety Tips:
✔️ Keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold to prevent foodborne illness
✔️ Pack hand sanitizer or wipes for easy clean-up
✔️ Wash fruits and vegetables before packing
✔️ Stay hydrated—bring plenty of water
✔️ Use sunscreen and insect repellent as needed

Enjoy the sunshine, good food, and great company—while keeping health and safety in mind! 🌼💚

Happy National Picnic Day!

🌳💚 National Arbor Day 💚🌳

Today we celebrate National Arbor Day—a day dedicated to planting, nurturing, and appreciating trees! Trees do so much more than beautify our communities—they play a vital role in protecting our health and environment.

🌿 Why Trees Matter:
🌬️ Improve air quality by filtering pollutants
🌡️ Provide shade and help reduce heat in our communities
💧 Support clean water by reducing runoff
🧠 Create calming spaces that benefit mental health

🌳 Public Health Tips:
✔️ Plant a tree or support local tree-planting efforts
✔️ Spend time outdoors in green spaces to boost your well-being
✔️ Teach children about the importance of caring for our environment
✔️ Help keep trees healthy by avoiding damage and conserving water

Strong, healthy trees help build strong, healthy communities. Every tree planted today is an investment in a healthier tomorrow! 🌱🌎

Happy National Arbor Day!

🏡💙 There’s No Place Like Home… for Healing!

Home health brings skilled care and personal support right to your door—helping people stay safe, comfortable, and independent.

From nursing care to help with personal cares, we’re proud to support our community at home.