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

Centennial Park highlights why Holland earned gold status from Michigan Green Communities for its innovative, collaborative sustainability efforts.
Holland earns gold status for leading community-wide sustainability efforts

The city of Holland is recognized for its innovative, collaborative sustainability work, earning gold status from Michigan Green Communities.

A new grant program in Muskegon Heights is helping commercial property owners upgrade storefronts and revitalize the city’s core.
Facade grant program launches to boost Muskegon Heights downtown renewal

New grant supports storefront upgrades in Muskegon Heights’ core, encouraging private investment alongside public revitalization efforts.

A couple stands in the dining area of a staged CLT home at 2080 Union, highlighting the space.
Dwelling Place expands affordable homeownership through Community Land Trust

Dwelling Place’s Community Land Trust program creates lasting affordable homeownership opportunities across West Michigan for working families and single-income households.

KCAD design students explore inclusive design by navigating kitchen activities from a wheelchair user's perspective.
KCAD students redesign kitchens to promote inclusive, user-informed housing solutions

Design students at KCAD partner with Disability Advocates of Kent County to create hands-on, accessible kitchen displays that challenge industry standards and expectations.

Ashley Cramer received the 2025 Gentex Foundation’s Amanda Clark Scholarship.
Gentex scholarship helps Zeeland grad pursue STEM degree at Kettering

Ashley Cramer earns Gentex Foundation’s Amanda Clark Scholarship, receiving $20,000 to study computer science at Kettering University.

The Healthy Housing Workgroup, part of CHIP, tackles basic home repairs such as plumbing, blight removal, insulation, and energy efficiency.
Allegan County organizations unite to make homes safer and healthier

Government and nonprofits team up to fix housing issues, improve health, and support families through repairs, training, and shared resources.

Leah Broomfield
Deaf mentor’s journey shows strength of inclusive hiring and support services

Leah Broomfield’s new role as a deaf mentor highlights how inclusive hiring and community collaboration open doors for deaf professionals.

Ryan Kilpatrick, lead consultant for Housing Next, leads a panel discussion.
Report: Ottawa County housing progress continues, but gaps remain for many

Leaders share updated housing data, highlighting strides made and ongoing efforts to expand access for households with low, moderate, and middle incomes.

An attendee is wrapped in a Pride flag at at Allegan, Speak Up event.
Pride Fund expands LGBTQIA+ support across Allegan County communities

Seven organizations receive grants to improve LGBTQIA+ mental health, visibility, and belonging; highlights include Out On the Lakeshore’s new initiative.

Families could see aviation technology in action with several flyovers during Aviation Day at West Michigan Regional Airport.
WMU grad returns home to lead West Michigan Regional Airport

Matthew Neyens brings Denver expertise and deep Michigan roots to WMRA, with a focus on expanding aviation access, driving economic growth, and strengthening community partnerships.

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