A second annual event for families affected by Rett Syndrome will take place at the Capitol building Saturday.

The international Blue Sky Girls event will take place closest to State Street at 10 a.m.  Attendees are asked to wear purple, the Rett Syndrome awareness color, to show support.

City of Madison firefighters will attend the event and assist girls that need assistance climbing to the top.  Madison Fire Department Chief David will also participate.

Governor Scott Walker recently signed a proclamation declaring October to be Rett Syndrome Awareness Month.  Twenty-four states and seven countries will participate in similar ceremonies simultaneously.

Climbing stairs is a symbolic gesture, said a press release, because climbing takes you upward and forward.  The majority of girls and women with Rett Syndrome are unable to walk or climb stairs unassisted, the press release said.

Meriter will be hosting a Halloween Candy Trade-In Party on Saturday, November 3 from 10am-1pm at the Meriter West Washington Pediatric Clinic.  Pediatricians will be collecting Halloween candy from children in exchange for healthy alternatives, like fresh fruit.  Kids attending the event can also enter win great prizes, like a brand new bike.  All donated candy will be send to U.S. Troops through Operation Gratitude. This event is sponsored by Meriter and Physicians Plus.

A Madison mental health center will host a “we’re not bananas” ice cream social Sunday to raise awareness for mental health struggles and break down stereotypes.

Families, friends and staff of the Journey Mental Health Center welcome the community to an open dialogue about mental health and addiction, said a press release.  Activities to promote awareness will be featured at the event.  A brass quintet will play 1890s era music including Scott Joplin rags.  A barbershop quartet will also perform.

The event takes place Sunday from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 14 Proudfit St.  Everyone is invited to enjoy mini-banana splits and assorted beverages.