The 2026 Sunfield Farmers Picnic Committee is gearing up for another fantastic Picnic for you, the third full weekend of August, 14-16, 2026. The first matter of business this year is to seek nominations for the honor of Grand Marshal and then make the tough decision of choosing just one. We are requesting your assistance by asking you to place your nominations with the Board for anyone you feel should be given the title of Grand Marshal. Grand Marshal nominations must be

The St. Patrick's Varsity Girls basketball team traveled to Fulton on Wednesday, and won their District semi-final game against the Pirates, 38-24. The team had excellent distribution and shot well around the arc. Following up shots both offensively and defensively the Shamrocks rebounded well and provided themselves with good opportunities for solid possessions. Macie Leonard led the charge, scoring 16 points and had 2 steals. Gracelyn Rockey scored 7 points and had 9 rebo

The Portland Foundation for Public Education (PFPE) is proud to announce its 2nd Annual Clays for Classrooms fundraising event, set for April 18 at the Capital Area Sportsmen’s League. After a highly successful inaugural year, Clays for Classrooms quickly became one of PFPE’s largest and most impactful fundraisers, bringing together community members, local businesses, and supporters for a fun day of friendly competition — all while raising vital funds for Portland Public S

The Portland Area Service Group, known affectionately in the community as “The Senior Center,” is a community venue open to people of all ages. For director Jan Ridenour, the center is a labor of love. “I am doing my best to carry on the work of my late friend, Julie Ridenour,” said Jan. “Julie did great things for the center and she taught me so much.” The center is recently remodeled with an attractive new paint job. It also features new carpeting, new tables, and three

Michigan’s especially cold winter led to higher heating use, resulting in increased heating bills. To help ease that burden, Consumers Energy is focusing on supporting seniors who may be struggling with the increased cost of staying warm. On March 10 and March 12, the company will call customers 65 years or older whose accounts are $200 or more to review their accounts and enroll them in a payment assistance program. As an additional outreach, customer emails and postcards

PFCU Credit Union is pleased to announce the opening of the 2026 spring grant application cycle, providing funding opportunities aimed at fostering growth and innovation in education, agriculture, arts, and wellness. Applications will be accepted from March 1, 2026 through April 30, 2026. Eligible applicants are encouraged to submit applications for projects, initiatives or scholarships that align with the PFCU Foundation’s mission. The Foundation strives to enrich the li

Portland High School senior Allie Sutberry recently signed to continue her volleyball career at St. Clair County Community College (SC4) next year. While attending PHS, Sutberry played four years of varsity volleyball and was named All Conference 2023, All Conference 2025, All Area 2023, and All Area 2025. When asked about her choice to attend SC4, Sutberry told the Beacon, “I chose to attend St. Clair County Community College because I liked the team and coaches along w

Pauline E. Kelly of Portland, passed away on February 25, 2026 at the age of 82. Arrangements are entrusted to Lehman Funeral Homes. Online condolences may be made at www.lehmanfuneralhomes .

Portland, Michigan — situated at the confluence of the Grand River and the Looking Glass River — owes its existence to the very waterways that now pose periodic threats. The proximity of homes and historic downtown buildings to the riverbanks is no accident; it reflects the economic realities and settlement patterns of the 19th century, when rivers were integral to survival for growing communities. Why Early Builders Chose the Riverbanks In the mid-1800s, rivers functioned as

Last week we told you about Portland native Allie Hickling advancing to the Top 20 in the Ms. Health & Fitness Competition. You can find that story HERE . Hickling has now reached the top 5 in the contest. The current round of voting ends Thursday, March 5 th at 10:00 PM EST. The winner of this round will be named as the contest winner. You can learn more about Hickling and cast your vote at https://mshealthandfit.com/2026/allie-hickling .