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

Lashae Simmons II
Muskegon leader sparks regional movement to empower Black entrepreneurs

Lashae Simmons II and Black Wall Street Muskegon lead a growing coalition that has been awarded state funding to strengthen West Michigan’s Black business ecosystem.

A student and her parents following a dental checkup at the Cincinnati Health Department.
Cincinnati’s school dental clinics bring relief to thousands

Serving 24,000 patients annually, the Cincinnati Health Department dental program brings year-round care to students and community patients through an innovative public-private partnership.

Beyond Basics partners with Muskegon schools, providing one-on-one tutoring to close literacy gaps through a state-funded pilot program.
Tips to help kids beat the summer slide at home

Beyond Basics CEO shares simple, affordable strategies to keep kids learning all summer, such as reading together daily and turning errands into lessons.

Human connection, not code: West Michigan CEOs say right-brain leadership is the future of work

Two West Michigan CEOs unveil a book on neuroscience-based leadership intended to help organizations scale culture, foster connection, and unlock team potential.

Julia Child exhibition brings culinary icon to life in Muskegon

The Muskegon Museum of Art is presenting an interactive Julia Child exhibit, blending cooking history, community partnerships, and engaging events through Sept. 1.

The Juneteenth Freedom Festival includes musical performances.
Juneteenth Festival celebrates freedom, youth leadership, and unity

I AM Academy’s fifth annual Juneteenth Festival celebrates freedom, youth leadership, and unity with music, vendors, and family activities.

On June 20, a world record will be attempted with a synchronized light show featuring 500 drones and 200 electric vehicles over Muskegon Lake.
Veteran’s drone and EV show over Muskegon Lake to honor service, aims at world record

A Fruitport veteran’s drone and EV light show over Muskegon Lake plans to honor the military and connect veterans with life-changing community resources.

Gentex employees volunteer at the company's annual electronics recycling event.
Gentex recycling event boosts community engagement with sustainability

Gentex’s annual electronics recycling event empowers employees, families, and friends to reduce e-waste and support environmental responsibility.

Old Heart: A Dutch American story told from the lakeshore

A drama filmed in West Michigan about wartime love, aging, and resilience, Old Heart connects Dutch history to local storytelling.

Tara McCrackin honored with inaugural ICON Award for industry leadership

KCAD President Tara McCrackin receives IIDA Michigan’s first ICON Award for her leadership, advocacy, and dedication to interior design.  

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