Mayor's Newsletter - March 2024

Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month

March is recognized as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, an annual observance established by President Ronald Reagan in 1987. The month is dedicated to celebrating the achievements of individuals with developmental disabilities and advocating for their rights and inclusion in society.

• City Support: The City of Altoona supports this cause through inclusive planning, such as the new all-abilities park in the Garden Heights area.
• Resources: Residents can learn more at www. nacdd. org/ddam1, www. paddc. org, or the CDC website.

Black Balloon Day

On March 6th, Families United for Change (FUFC) will observe Black Balloon Day to remember and celebrate lives lost to overdose.

• Observance: Black balloons will be displayed throughout Altoona.
• Narcan Availability: Narcan (Naloxone) is available free of charge at Blair Drug and Alcohol Partnerships. Bystanders are legally permitted to administer it to someone experiencing an overdose.
• Organization: FUFC is a grassroots group focused on erasing the stigma surrounding drug and alcohol abuse.

Garden Heights Park

A new all-abilities playground and park is opening in the spring of 2024 in the Garden Heights neighborhood. The site, formerly a basketball and tennis court, was developed following overwhelming community support.

• Features: The park includes play boosters for ages 2-5 and 5-12, a swing set, benches, a drum circle, sensory dome, shadow flower, and a 20 x 28 picnic shelter with four tables.
• Support: The project was supported by the Booker T. Washington Revitalization Corporation and other partners.

Alto Model Train Show

The Alto Model Train Museum Association (AMTMA) is hosting a Toy Train Swap Meet.

• Date: Sunday, March 24, 2024
• Time: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
• Location: Blair County Convention Center
• Details: The event features displays, railroad artifacts, and model trains for sale. Tickets are $5 and available at the door.

CONTACT Altoona Spring Training

CONTACT Altoona is recruiting volunteers for their 2024 Spring Training. Volunteers staff the hotline and the 211 helpline, helping callers identify problems or providing companionship.

• Training Schedule: April 8–10, April 15–16 (Mondays and Tuesdays).
• Time: 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
• Location: CONTACT Altoona office at 2729 8th Avenue, Altoona.
• Registration: Visit www. contactaltoona. com/volunteer or call 814-946-0531.

Comprehensive Plan Feedback

The City of Altoona has completed a full draft of the "All Together Altoona Comprehensive Plan," which guides future physical development.

• Action Required: Residents are encouraged to review the plan and provide feedback.
• Deadline: Comments must be submitted by April 1st, 2024.
• How to View: The draft is available on the Library page of the All Together Altoona website.

Greek American Heritage Month

March is Greek American Heritage Month, highlighting the history of Greek immigrants in Altoona.

• History: Immigration began in 1891, peaking in the early 1920s. Many worked in steel and coal industries or started businesses like restaurants.
• Current Status: While the local population is small, Greek heritage remains significant in Western PA. The city is home to several Greek Orthodox congregations and The Athenian Café.
• Notable Figures: Tina Fey, John Stamos, Hank Azara, Telly Savalas, Betty White, and Jennifer Aniston are of Greek heritage.