Author

Layla McMurtrie

Layla McMurtrie is a Detroit-based journalist covering arts, culture, and community. Her work highlights local creatives, nonprofits, and grassroots initiatives shaping the city. Aside from writing, she is the co-founder of The Vision Detroit, an arts nonprofit that provides young local artists with accessible creative events and opportunities. She also hosts Tell A Vision, a podcast for The Vision Detroit that spotlights Detroit artists. Her work has appeared in Metro Times, Between the Lines/Pride Source, Detroit Free Press, the Nonprofit Journal Project, and other Michigan publications.

Layla McMurtrie's Latest Articles

Thumb Art Spark initiative connects artists, communities, and businesses ahead of 2027 public art celebration

Planned for September 2027, the Thumb Art Spark Celebration will bring communities across the region to highlight existing public art, showcase new projects, and give residents and visitors new ways to explore the places where they live.

Thumb Art Spark initiative connects artists, communities, and businesses ahead of 2027 public art celebration

Planned for September 2027, the Thumb Art Spark Celebration will bring communities across the region to highlight existing public art, showcase new projects, and give residents and visitors new ways to explore the places where they live.

Yale’s Heart & Soul Project puts residents at the center of community planning

For the past year, volunteers in Yale have been collecting stories and ideas from residents that organizers hope will eventually shape future community priorities.

Kinzer Family Farm offers a quiet, inclusive getaway in Yale

This family-owned farm is a place where families, especially those who may not feel comfortable in public spaces, can spend time outdoors on their own terms.

New Mobile Crisis Unit Van creates safer space for St. Clair County residents

Unveiled last week in Port Huron, the Mobile Crisis Unit van creates a confidential space where trained clinicians can meet with individuals experiencing a crisis.

More Than a Gym: Lift Land Fitness builds community in Yale

Located in the small rural community of Yale, Lift Land Fitness offers a wide range of classes. But the owner says the goal has always been more than exercise.

A Seat at My Table: Where Black family history lives in the present

This month at the Port Huron Museum, the third installment in a community-rooted exhibit series invited local Black families to share their history, genealogy, and heritage through personal installations.

Native Blend brings indigenous medicine to modern healing

An Indigenous and veteran-owned herbal company based in Port Huron, Native Blend focuses on the philosophy that medicine should serve the community.

Port Huron Historian turns family roots into community action

For more than a decade, David Brooks, president of Friends of the Fort Gratiot Light has helped preserve one of St. Clair County’s most iconic landmarks through volunteer work, fundraising, and hands-on restoration.

How these women-owned businesses strengthen St. Clair County communities

Port Huron Yoga, the Yale Bakery, and Dot’s Candy Store are three women-owned businesses whose work strengthens community connection, resilience, and local economic growth during the holiday season.

Our Partners

Don't miss out!

Everything Port Huron, in your inbox every week.

Close the CTA

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