Mayor's Newsletter - May 2025
Mental Health Awareness Month
Mayor Matt Pacifico highlights May as Mental Health Awareness Month, noting its observance since 1949. The newsletter emphasizes the importance of reducing stigma and seeking treatment, citing that 1 in 5 U. S. adults live with a mental health disorder.
- Challenges: There is a significant shortage of mental health professionals, particularly in rural and low-income areas.
- Call to Action: Residents are encouraged to volunteer, support fundraising events, and check in on loved ones.
- Resources: The National Suicide and Crisis Hotline is available by dialing or texting 988.
- City Initiative: Altoona City Hall’s exterior will be lit in green to support the cause.
Children's Mental Health Awareness Day
The newsletter marks the 20th anniversary of Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day (May 7, 2025). It highlights that 8% of teens suffer from anxiety disorders and notes the high rates of sadness among high school students.
- Support Strategies: Parents are advised to check in with teens, encourage open communication about feelings, and monitor for behavioral changes.
- Self-Care: Recommendations include getting enough sleep, taking breaks from screens, and engaging in enjoyable activities.
SAMA Art For Your Heart 5K Run / Walk
The Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art (SAMA) is hosting a 5K Run/Walk to support the arts.
- Date & Time: Saturday, May 24, 2025, at 9:00 AM.
- Location: Starts at SAMA Altoona (1210 11th Avenue) and ends at Heritage Plaza.
- Registration:
- Pre-registration is available through May 23 for $25 (T-shirts guaranteed if registered by May 3).
- Day-of registration is $35.
- Awards: Medals will be awarded to the top three male and female winners in each age group (14 and under through 60+) and overall.
Altoona Farmers Market
The weekly market returns to Heritage Plaza in downtown Altoona.
- Schedule: Every Thursday from 11 AM – 2 PM.
- Season: May 15, 2025 – October 16, 2025.
- Vendors: Features local vegetables, fruits, meats, flowers, honey, soaps, and more.
- Contact: For vendor information, contact chersmear@gmail. com or visit their Facebook page.
Deb Stitt Memorial Golf Outing
Proceeds support counseling and suicide awareness programs for first responders.
- Date & Time: May 26, 2025, at King Valley Golf Course in Imler, PA. Starts at 8:00 AM.
- Cost:
- Advance registration: $400 per team or $100 per golfer.
- Same-day registration: $125 per golfer.
- Inclusions: 18 holes of golf, a cart, and lunch.
May Calendar Highlights
The newsletter lists several national observances for the month:
- May 1: National School Principal’s Day
- May 4: National Star Wars Day
- May 6: National Nurses Day AND National Teacher Appreciation Day
- May 10: National Train Day
- May 15: National Peace Officer Memorial Day
- May 20: National Rescue Dog Day
- May 28: National Hamburger Day