Adam Rappaport’s suicide last month in the Albany County jail embodies two nationwide problems for inmates today — drug addiction and self-harm.

ALBANY — John J. “Jack” Helm — who loved working on cars and motorcycles, and helping his friends and family — died unexpectedly at Albany Medical Center Hospital on Saturday, Nov. 8, 2014.  He was 55.

Mr. Helm, who lived in Albany, had worked for many years as an auto body technician.

Before he hanged himself in his jail cell, Adam Rappaport doodled on prison stationery, lightly penciling in one corner, in small capital letters next to a six-point star the word "hope" — only this and nothing more.

ALBANY — Alyssa Gaige, of East Berne earned the Girl Scout Silver Award for her project investigating wheelchair accessibility in Altamont last year.

People in households needing heating assistance can now apply for New York’s Home Energy Assistance Program. Eligible households can receive a one-time benefit of up to $625 this winter from the program, which is federally funded.

To The Editor:

Thank you for reporting the most recent details on the story about my son, Adam Rappaport.  We have been looking, and waiting, for answers about his final days, and appreciate that you were able to offer some clarity about his time "in reception" at the Albany County jail.

LEGAL NOTICE

Notice of formation of 1364 60TH LLC Articles of organization filed with the SSNY on 9/10/2014. Office located in Albany county. SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC to: The LLC, 5310 17th Av. Brooklyn,NY 11204 Purpose: any lawful purpose

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURT – 

Allie Tedeschi, Berne-Knox-Westerlo's front runner, has come out of the shadow of her older sister, now graduated, to set her own pace in the field.