Miniature exhibition on display at Porter Library throughout September

Westlake resident Lynne Rice, a member of Cleveland Miniaturia Society since 1976, will have a small part of her miniature collection and projects on display at Porter Library beginning Sept. 1 and continuing throughout the month of September.

Since Halloween is a popular theme with miniaturists, and the general public, there will be several of Lynne's "Halloween in Miniature" settings, plus her delightful "Alice in Wonderland" vignette. Cleveland Miniaturia Society member and doll collector Peg Graves will also have on display some of her china dolls, doll accessories and dishes.

While at Porter Library, discover the remarkable miniature replica of Westlake's Clague House, located near the large meeting room. In 1980, Cleveland Miniaturia Society members took on restoration of the Clague House replica for the Westlake Historical Society. Some of the furnishings in the replica were recreated in miniature, exactly as they appear in full size at Clague House. Lynne Rice helped work on this project. Five years ago, Westlake Historical Society moved the Clague House replica from Clague House on Columbia Road to Porter Library, where more could view and enjoy it.

The Cleveland Miniaturia Society Inc. is the oldest miniature club in the country. Dedicated to the enjoyment, education and promotion of the dollhouse miniature hobby, our goal is to share our love of miniatures with others. We give back to the community through programs and displays offered in public settings. Each year, proceeds from the annual show benefit a local nonprofit organization. Proceeds from the October 2010 show will benefit the Cleveland Foodbank.

Currently, CMS members are busy with final preparations for their 39th annual show on Saturday, October 9, entitled "Halloween in Miniature." For information, go to www.clevelandminiaturiasociety.org, or call Lynne Rice at 440-333-3605.

Joyce Waltz-Umerley is a member of The Cleveland Miniaturia Society.