Mayor's Newsletter - May 2026

Mental Health Awareness Month

May is designated as Mental Health Awareness Month, with the theme "More Good Days, Together. " The city highlights that approximately 20% of U. S. adults live with a mental health disorder, emphasizing the need for accessible care.

City Initiatives:

• Lighting: City Hall lights will be green throughout the month.
• Events: On May 21st, the Altoona Curve will host a Mental Health Awareness Night featuring over 25 agencies.
• Training: "Lunch and Learn" trainings will be offered throughout the month. To register, call 814-693-3023 or email cjames@blaircountypa. gov.
• Resources: Residents are encouraged to volunteer, reach out to those struggling, or call/text 988 for the National Suicide and Crisis Hotline.

Community Events

Several key events are scheduled for May 2026:

• Blair Creators Festival: Held on Saturday, May 2nd (11:00 AM – 7:00 PM) at Heritage Plaza. This family-friendly festival features local artisans, food trucks, and musical performances by artists including Wanderlost and Jimmy Mowery.
• SAMA Art For Your Heart 5K Run/Walk: Taking place on Saturday, May 23rd. The race begins at 9:00 AM at SAMA Altoona, with awards following at Heritage Plaza. Pre-registration is $25 (ends May 22nd); day-of registration is $35.
• Blair Go Red For Women: An event benefiting the American Heart Association held on Thursday, May 21st (5:00 PM – 9:00 PM) at the Blair County Convention Center.

Local Markets

• Altoona Farmers Market: The market opens for the season on Thursday, May 14th. It runs weekly from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM at Heritage Plaza through October 15th. Vendors will offer produce, meats, flowers, and prepared foods.

Public Safety & Services

• Altoona Fire Department (AFD): The newsletter highlights the AFD's mission, noting they responded to over 3,000 incidents in 2025. They also provide fire safety education to nearly 2,500 students and 2,000 adults annually. The department has recently enhanced security at fire stations and replaced two engines.
• Deb Stitt Memorial Golf Outing: Organized by the Blair Emergency Services Chaplain Platoon (BESCP), this event honors police officer Deb Stitt. It is scheduled for July 24th, 2026, at King Valley Golf Course. Registration is $400 per team or $100 per golfer. Proceeds fund support services for first responders.

Mayor's Message

The newsletter is issued by Mayor Matthew A. Pacifico of Altoona, PA.