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

Holland Aquatic Center staff teaches more than 5,000 children and adults how to swim annually.  (HAC)
Holland Aquatic Center to be part of ‘world’s largest swim lesson’

Holland Aquatic Center will serve as a host site for the 14th annual World’s Largest Swim Lesson on Thursday, June 22 at 12:30 p.m. The event is free.

Jim Brooks speaks during the 10th anniversary celebration of Project Clarity. (ODC)
Project Clarity celebrates a decade of impact within Macatawa watershed

In the last decade, dozens of stakeholders have collaborated on cleaning up Lake Macatawa. The water clarity and water quality of the Macatawa Watershed are the best in recorded history.

A rendering of the Next Center, which will be built in downtown Holland.
West Michigan technology and innovation hub ‘Next Center’ planned

Lakeshore Advantage plans to open a $15.3 million, three-story downtown Holland office building that will be a center for business incubation, economic development, and community collaboration. 

A youngster learns to extinguish a fire at the City of Holland's Fire Department booth while attending the I AM Academy's Juneteenth Freedom Festival in Kollen Park in Holland, Michigan, June 18, 2022.
I Am Academy hosting 3rd annual Juneteenth Freedom Festival

West Michigan’s largest Juneteenth celebration runs from June 11-19 in Holland.

Absolutely Accessible Kent looks at making ‘disabled’ buildings extinct

On June 14, from 1–4 p.m. at DeVos Place in downtown Grand Rapids, Absolutely Accessible Kent will explore how universal design goes beyond ADA to future-proof space.  

Demolition of Holland BPW’s retired James De Young power plant is underway.
Holland coal plant comes down to make way for waterfront development

Demolition of Holland BPW’s retired James De Young power plant is underway. The project is the first step in preparing the waterfront site for redevelopment.

New CFHZ board members Rogen McLean, Micki Janssen and Rogen McLean. (CFHZ)
CFHZ adds three new board members, nonprofit campaign raises $1.7M

During its Annual Luncheon, the CFHZ welcomes new president/CEO, celebrates the success of its Strengthening the Nonprofit Sector campaign, and introduces three new board members.  

Tuesday Forum Series participants share their ideas.
Tuesday Forum Series wraps with plans to move ideas forward

Organizers say the six-part series, which brought the North Ottawa County community together to hear experts envision the region’s future, exceeded expectations.  

LEDA
This year’s Summit on Race and Inclusion focuses on ‘Power of Belonging!’

The Summit on Race and Inclusion is returning for its 18th year on June 7. The all-day event will be held in person at Hope College and virtually. 

Howard Behm
Why community matters when it comes to engagement

Engagement is key to building community, says author Christine Porath, who joined the 2023 Tuesday Forum Series to discuss why the priority should be building connections with others. 

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