Ruth Ann “Ruthie” (Lanning) Gillis, 84, of Portland, Michigan, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by the love of her family, on July 4, 2026. Born on July 31, 1941, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, to Marland and Anna Lanning, Ruthie graduated from Rockford High School. She dedicated her life to serving her family, friends, and community. On June 28, 1984, she married John “Jack” Gillis, and together they shared more than 42 years of love, laughter, companionship, and u

Portland The Point has entered an exciting new chapter under the ownership of Mike Taylor, who, together with his family, is dedicated to serving Portland and surrounding communities with great food and warm hospitality. Before becoming a restaurant owner, Mike spent many years in restaurant operations within multiple global companies. While his experience in the restaurant industry is extensive, The Point represents his first venture as an owner. “I have a passion for re

Consumers Energy and Confluence Hydro today provided an important update to the sale of Consumers Energy’s 13 hydroelectric dams. Consumers Energy is offering a new $270 million Hydro Safety Fund to protect Michigan communities in case of unforeseen safety issues after Confluence Hydro takes ownership, and Confluence Hydro is providing other significant commitments. The proposed fund supplements other existing measures that will enable continued safe operations of the dam

This summer, 63 young people are building lifelong skills, discovering their creativity, and making lasting friendships through the Portland Community Theater Summer Youth Program. "I'm very favorably impressed by the talent I see in these young people," said program director Devann Hattis, one of the three adult directors. "We have talented participants from both Portland school systems, as well as from Ionia and Pewamo-Westphalia." The program begins by giving participa

Joseph A. Stotz of Muir passed away on June 25, 2026 at the age of 46. Arrangements are entrusted to Lehman Funeral Homes. Online condolences may be made at www.lehmanfuneralhomes.com.

Vickie L. Huhn of Portland passed away on June 29, 2026, at age 73. A generous person, she was a life member and former president of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary. Vickie was obsessed with shoes and perfume, and she especially enjoyed playing the lottery. She was preceded in death by her parents, Fred and Marlys Proctor; her brother, Fred Proctor Jr.; and her infant son, Steven Fandel. Vickie was especially proud of her family. She is survived by her husband of 44 years, Kenneth;

Melvin was born August 28, 1949 in Cass City, MI to William and Lovina Trescott. Mel (as he was affectionately known) graduated from Belding High School with the Class of 1967. He worked for the State of Michigan until his retirement in October of 2002. Mel loved the outdoors, riding motorcycles, snowmobiles and he especially loved boating. If you couldn’t find him in the summer months it was because he was in his boat on the Great Lakes. Mel also became interested in the His

Carla Marie Hansen, aged 72, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 27th, 2026. Born in Lansing, MI, Carla dedicated her life to helping others, working as a paraprofessional with special education students. Carla was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She shared 50 wonderful years of marriage with her beloved husband, William Hansen. She was a loving mother to her son, Robert Birman, and a caring stepmother to Lisa Byers. Carla took great pride in

The National High School Athletic Coaches Association (NHSACA), in conjunction with the Michigan High School Coaches Association (MHSCA), is proud to announce that MHSCA Executive Secretary Mark F. Holdren will be formally recognized with the National Distinguished Service Award. This prestigious honor will be celebrated at the upcoming MHSCA program scheduled for September 27, 2026. The National Distinguished Service Award is given annually to recognize individuals who hav

Portland Township recycling will take place on Saturday, June 27th and Sunday, June 28th (always the 4th Saturday) from 9:00 am - 5:00 pm or until the bins are full. Please break down all cardboard boxes. Recycling is located at 1 Industrial Drive, next to Municipal Supply, and is open only to Portland Township residents.