Author

Shandra Martinez

Shandra Martinez is the managing editor of The Lakeshore WM. After a distinguished career in daily journalism, she launched her Holland-based business, Shandra Martinez Communications. A longtime resident of the Lakeshore, she now writes and edits on a variety of platforms for clients in Michigan and across the country. She can be reached at mailto:shandra@thelakeshorewm.com

Shandra Martinez's Latest Articles

Nursing training gives career path to those with disabilities

Certified nursing assistant training is being offered in Kalamazoo and Benton Harbor, giving people with disabilities an opportunity to earn their credentials for free.

Discover Kalamazoo to use state grant to show community’s accessibility to travelers

Kalamazoo will partner with Wheel the World and Disability Network Southwest Michigan to map at least 130 locations across the county to show potential tourists the region’s accessibility. 

Disability Rights Michigan held a two-day COVID vaccination clinic in Grand Rapids.
‘Keep everybody healthy’: How COVID vaccinations are protecting the unhoused

More than 100 people came to a two-day clinic in Grand Rapids to get COVID vaccinations. It’s one of the many ways Disability Rights Michigan is using a grant to protect the health of the state’s most vulnerable populations. 

New website simplifies search for accessible public transportation in Michigan

One of the barriers to accessing COVID vaccinations for the disability community has been transportation. In response, Disability Rights Michigan has unveiled an interactive guide to help users navigate the complex transportation system in the state.

Brewery’s new summer offerings reflect growth of region’s agribusiness

Allegan County-based Saugatuck Brewing Company, which has grown into one of Michigan's largest independently owned craft breweries, is aiming to grow its market share even more with a new Shandy Variety Pack.

Spring Lake’s Central Park ready for a refresh

Residents are invited to suggest ideas for the Central Park Refresh Project. An open house is planned for 6-7:30 p.m. Thursday. 

Ford Airport one of first airports to use sign language boards powered by AI

The Grand Rapids airport is one of the first in the nation to try out new technology powered by AI that is being used successfully at train stations in the United Kingdom. 

‘Making people feel special’ is goal of  honored frontline worker

Denver Sincler, with Allegan's Tantrick Brewing Co., and Marolyn Lopez, with Plascore in Zeeland, are among 10 frontline workers honored for going above and beyond.

Students can use 1 application to apply for over 100 scholarships

Graduating high school seniors, current college students, and adults returning to school can apply for multiple scholarships at once with an easy-access application. The deadline to apply is March 1 at  5 p.m. 

GVSU president talks about university’s future role in Muskegon County

In a Q&A, GVSU President Philly Mantella talks about the West Michigan university’s work in Muskegon County, from cleaning up Muskegon Lake to growing entrepreneurship.

Our Partners

Allegan County Community Foundation logo
Disability Advocates of Kent County logo
On Point Allegan

Common Ground Is Brewing

Support local stories and receive our signature roast straight to your door when you join at the Standard level (or above).

Drink Better, Read Local

Close the CTA

Don't miss out!

Everything West Michigan, in your inbox every week.

Close the CTA

Already a subscriber? Enter your email to hide this popup in the future.