Get Dolled Up For Big Show

The 14th biennial Doll and Toy Show and Sale opens today at the Spokane Ag Trade Center with a plethora of antique and collectible dolls and toys, as well as bears and accessories. The event is sponsored by the Inland Empire Doll Collectors Association.

“Dolls For All Seasons,” which runs through Saturday, benefits the “Lub Dub” stuffed bear program at Sacred Heart Medical Center’s pediatric intensive care unit.

Children having open heart surgery get stuffed bears to go through the surgical process with them.

“It’s very helpful in that you have something to show the family what it’s going to look like,” says Sharon Snyder, assistant nurse manager of the pediatric ICU. When the kids go home, the bear goes with them.

The Doll and Toy Show runs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. today and Saturday; admission is $3, $1 for children ages 6-12, free for kids 5 and younger.

The Doll Club meets the second Thursday of each month and is open to anyone interested in dolls.