The Wonderful World of Nutcrackers has moved locations in the Great Lakes Mall, but the goal of the holiday display remains the same. It is all about showcasing the recognizable character from the famous Christmas ballet while entertaining shoppers and most importantly raising money for a worthy cha rity. In its third year, the display has moved to a location in the main concourse of the Mentor mall. It was previously located in the wing where pictures are taken with Santa Claus. More than 1,300 items are on display at The Wonderful World of Nutcrackers at the Great Lakes Mall in Mentor. (William Tilton - News-Herald) Barry Sneed’s collection has surpassed 1,300 nutcrackers, ranging from classic to sports to TV and movie-themed items and everything imaginable in between. While the display is free to view, they are asking for donations for Little Annie’s Hope Train, a nonprofit organization, run by Sneed’s friend Annie Felice-Kline, helping the homeless in Cuyahoga and Lake counties. The Wonderful World of Nutcrackers showcases more than 1,300 items at the Great Lakes Mall in Mentor. (William Tilton - News-Herald) “We’ve raised $2,700 over the last two years for Little Annie’s Hope Train and are excited to be able to do this again this year,” Sneed said. “We also have a box for canned and dry foods, socks, gloves, winter coats, etc., for the charity, as well.” The Lake Humane Society is coming Dec. 13 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. with dogs for adoption. They are collecting dog and cat foods and treats, blankets and towels as well as cash donations for the society. For Sneed, a former teacher in the Perry District, it started out as innocently as receiving a gift early in life and seeing a show he enjoyed. The Wonderful World of Nutcrackers at the Great Lakes Mall features Barry Sneed's collection of over 1,300 items. (William Tilton - News-Herald) Now he gets to share his extensive collection with shoppers throughout the holiday season. “Customer comments I have heard like ‘I had no idea there were all these different kinds of nutcrackers!’ or ‘Thank you for doing this. We were amazed!’ or  ‘We’re going to tell all of our friends to come see this!'” Sneed recalled. Sneed recalled one family said that they saw it last year and drove from Akron to see it again. Sneed co-owns Del Monti’s Italian Treats Cafe along with Anthony Del Monti. The collection is stored there until the holidays. There are a few items for sale, but mostly the display is just for shoppers to view and enjoy during the Christmas season. “For 30-plus years the nutcracker collection was on display at Perry Schools, and it got so popular some kids thought there was actually a Nutcracker Day,” Sneed said. “I think it started when I got a gift or something and it went from there. I love the story and I have seen the ballet, and the collection has just grown.” ...read more read less