Winter in Michigan, especially the one we just experienced, leaves quite an impression. While beautiful outside, it tends to encourage a bit of hibernation in us as well, a yin to summer's yang. It influences who we are and what we do, creating a particular rhythm in the Midwestern way of life, a common bond among us. LaFontsee Galleries took note and decided to organize an exhibition around this very theme.

Black Eagle Press, a local screen-printing operation, has made itself at home on Jefferson Avenue with the opening of Black Eagle Trading Post. The eclectic store features locally handcrafted goods, an impressive collection of antiques, custom clothing reminiscent of a traditional "Sailor Jerry" style, and a screen-printing station in the back.

• Grand Rapids
• Black Eagle Trading Post

Back when crop tops were going through their first wave of cool and rollerblades were the rage, a lounge singer became a nun. Not a real-life lounge singer, but Sister Act's Deloris, who discovered that a wimple is a slammin' good witness protection disguise.

A quote by Emily Fisher Landau provides a little insight into the mind and motivation of one of the preeminent collectors of post-war American art in the United States: "Never stop learning. Never stop looking. Art is the greatest teacher."

It's no secret that children are wizards capable of transforming even the most mundane objects into portals of extraordinary adventure. Building on this idea, the Peter Pan prequel, Peter and the Starcatcher, uses a minimalistic collection of everyday objects to transport audiences to a land where children and make-believe never grow old.

A peculiar opportunity can sometimes find a perfect fit at smaller arts organizations in West Michigan. Just such an opportunity arose recently at Saugatuck Center for the Arts (SCA), according to Executive Director Kristin Jass Armstrong.

It’s been more than a month since Typhoon Haiyan made landfall in the Philippines, claiming the lives of more than 5,600 people and displacing an estimated 4.4 million.

This week, Barbara the web minion is focusing in on all the great theater action going on around West Michigan. Whether you want to get into the Christmas spirit, or just enjoy some classical performances, she has you covered.

The Grand Rapids Public Museum will be opening a new exhibit on March 1, 2014, called Dream it, Build it: A LEGO Certified Professional Exhibit.

Suppose your ex suddenly shows up at your door. Suppose there's a good chance this ex could be your child's father. Now suppose it's not just one possible baby daddy at your door, but three. Oh—one more minor detail here—suppose these men arrive just in time for your daughter's wedding.