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

Rich Campbell
Personal life guide shares strategies for breaking through self-doubt

A Q&A with Rich Campbell, who uses experience in military intelligence in his work as a personal life guide to help people break through their self-doubt and reach their true goals.

Herrick District Library will host a series of holiday-themed events this December. From family films to fierce gingerbread competitions, events are available for every age.
5 free things to do at the library in December

Herrick District Library will host a series of holiday-themed events in December. From family films to fierce gingerbread competitions, events are available for every age. Registration is required for some events, but all are free.

In honor of its centennial, MAM is planning a Worship Celebration Service on Dec. 11, led by the congregation’s new pastor, Winfred Burns ll. 
Maple Avenue Ministries celebrates its centennial

Over its 100 years, Maple Avenue Ministries has been groundbreaking in many ways. The Holland church is inviting the community to celebrate its centennial during a special Worship Celebration Service on Dec. 11.

Customized Workplace English instruction helping to fill the manufacturing talent gap

MillerKnoll collaborated with the Literacy Center of West Michigan to create an onsite Customized Workplace English program at the global design leader’s facility in Zeeland. 

Gail Hall
Why holiday stress can trigger eating issues

There can be emotional triggers during the holidays that can lead to eating issues. Gail Hall, a certified eating disorder specialist, explains the psychology of food and holiday traditions.  

GRCC music student Tyler Zahnke (GRCC)
How Tyler Zahnke, a musician who is blind, is turning passion into a career

Grand Rapids singer Tyler Zahnke was one of 10 music students who are blind selected to attend the SongSight event with Scott MacIntyre, of “American Idol” fame.

Justine Bryant is an affiliate assistant professor of ASL at GRCC. (GRCC)
ASL interpreter sees a growing need in the field, helps develop a career pathway

According to the most recent study, by the Michigan Department of Civil Rights, 733,356 Michiganders — about 7.4% of the state population — identify as deaf, deaf-blind, or hard of hearing. In West Michigan, 8% of residents identify as members of that community.  

Charles Lepper
Next GRCC president is Utah community college officer

Trustees select selected Salt Lake City Community College leader Charles Lepper to be new GRCC president.

Marjri Weller (GRCC)
GRCC partners with state to connect students with resources

A new partnership between Grand Rapids Community College and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services can help connect students with outside resources to help them be successful.

GRCC is adding lecture classes for the Secchia Institute for Culinary Education to the growing GRCC Lakeshore Campus. (GRCC/Andrew Schmidt)
Secchia Institute culinary classes added to GRCC Lakeshore Campus menu

Grand Rapids Community College’s Secchia Institute for Culinary Education is planning culinary classes for the GRCC Lakeshore Campus during the winter semester to meet growing demand.

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