By CRAIG FREILICH

In recent weeks, a former Olympic sprinter who admitted to doping and was found dead of an overdose, the death ruled a suicide; a New York City teen struggling with domestic issues stepped in front of a train and died; and several gay teens from different spots around the country have ended their own lives.

There is nothing new about suicide, and no prospect of halting suicide in our society, but therapist Daniel Hernandez, as one who counsels people on death, dying and bereavement, wants people to understand suicide better.

GOUVERNEUR -- Assembly candidate Ken Blankenbush, Republican of Black River, met recently with residents from the 122nd Assembly District at a town hall meeting.

Blankenbush, who says decision to run was largely inspired by his grandchildren, says his priority in this race is supporting North Country families. He says state policy “should support and not fight with the district’s values and needs”

PIERREPONT – The Pierrepont Ladies Auxiliary is sponsoring their annual Election Day Chicken and Biscuit Dinner on Tuesday, Nov. 2, from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Pierrepont Fire Hall.

Dinner includes: chicken, biscuits, gravy, mashed potatoes, coleslaw, vegetables, and homemade pies.

Prices: adults - $7, senior citizens ages 62 and up - $6.50, children ages 6-12 - $3.50, children ages 5 and under are free.

CANTON – An Election Day all-you-can-eat chicken and biscuit dinner at the Canton First Presbyterian Church will be held Tuesday, Nov. 2, from 5 to 7 p.m.

The menu includes chicken and biscuits, coleslaw, homemade dessert and beverage.

The cost is $7 for adults, $6.50 for seniors, $5 for children 5 and over, and free under 5.

Geneva, NY - Alex Benway (Queensbury, NY) continued his outstanding season for the Clarkson University Cross Country team as the junior once again paced the Golden Knights runners at the Liberty League Championships, held at Seneca Lake State Park.

Potsdam, NY – Although the first eight games of the season were a disappointment for the Clarkson University Women’s Hockey team, the opening dates of ECAC Hockey play started just fine for the Golden Knights, as the Green and Gold opened the season with a four-point weekend, finishing with a 2-1 victory over Rensselaer Saturday afternoon in front of 153 fans at Cheel Arena.