He says the state might end its role in the program, which could halt benefits, if it’s not allowed to prohibit purchases of sugary drinks and candy.
Eric Russell
Staff Writer
Eric Russell has been a general assignment reporter at the Portland Press Herald/Maine Sunday Telegram since 2012 and has been a journalist in Maine since 2004. Because he doesn’t have a specific geographic or topical area to cover, Eric often is free to roam the state in pursuit of the most interesting stories, whether it’s tackling the big topic of the day or chasing ideas that fall just outside the boundaries of everyday news. His favorite assignments are ones where he can leave the office and meet with people in their homes or their workplaces to talk about their struggles and challenges – and sometimes their triumphs. Or to try and answer complicated questions. Eric grew up in Southern Maine, went to college at the University of Maine and worked in Bangor for eight years before joining the Press Herald. He lives in Brunswick with his wife, a school teacher, and two daughters.
Biddeford man to serve five years in prison on drug charges
Anthony Lacomb, 30, led a group of people who imported cocaine and oxycodone from Rhode Island to Maine, according to federal prosecutors.
Portland becomes first community in Maine to raise minimum age to buy tobacco
The City Council votes unanimously to increase the age from 18 to 21.
LePage asks Legislature to convene special session
The Republican governor says lawmakers need to address four bills that were “improperly funded,” but top Democrats say there’s no need for legislators to reconvene.
Incoming Portland superintendent tours schools ahead of July 1 start
Xavier Botana, an administrator in Indiana, was hired last month to lead the city’s public schools. He’ll be the sixth superintendent since 2007.
Maine restaurant owner tells assault rifle supporters: Take your business elsewhere
Anne Verrill, who owns Grace in Portland and Foreside Tavern in Falmouth, stands by her comments in the face of online criticism and unfavorable reviews of her restaurants.
Police say Limington man used machete to kill neighbor
Bruce Akers, 57, is charged with murder in the death of Douglas Flint, whom he had accused of stealing a six-pack of beer in the latest of what police say was a series of run-ins between the men.
Acadia officials ask public’s help in investigating fatal fall of New Jersey man
The death of 68-year-old Mark Simon is believed to be accidental but park officials are looking for any witnesses.
Sen. Collins urges Donald Trump to apologize for remarks about judge
In a CNN interview, Maine’s Republican senator calls out the outspoken candidate for a third straight day and urges him to act more presidential.
Moderate Sen. Collins forced into balancing act on Trump candidacy
Maine’s Republican senator calls out her party’s candidate for offensive remarks but stops short of disavowing him, hoping he’ll change his ways.