Editor:
Re: Frustration for family of late shop owner, June 24.
The rampant lawlessness, the callous disregard for a family’s property and possessions – especially so soon after a death in the family – is very disturbing.
Good for the police for catching five suspects. But are they doing enough to stop other looters? Should the family really be on the hook for 24-hour security?
I get the impression the City of Surrey was inviting trouble the moment they ordered the building to be boarded up. It seems to me they should have warned the family that a boarded-up home or business would attract thieves and possibly squatters.
The family can’t remove their possessions until the will is settled. Meanwhile they’re victimized by callous criminals and, possibly, ineffective police and thoughtless bureaucracy.
Greg Klein, Vancouver
Historical significance
I have been visiting the Old Curio Shop for five decades. I knew Mrs. Cohen in the early ’70s, and she had a great influence on my antique collecting.
Whether it was Victorian cranberry glass, ginger jars, Dresden figurines, Waterford crystal, sets of china or large silver trays, I purchased only from the Old Curio Shop.
Mrs. Cohen was a great lady with a wealth of knowledge.
In the early ’90s, upon my return from Winnipeg, I again visited the Old Curio Shop. It had changed somewhat but was still a delightful place to find real treasures. I would always take our visitors to the shop, so they, too, could enjoy this unusual place. I saw many unusual items. The thought of finding another treasure always drew me back.
Mrs. Cohen’s son, Barrie, took over the store in the later years, along with his sister, Stephanie. They still had a selection of unusual items, both new and old. They were delightful to visit with, whether I made a purchase or not.
What people don’t realize is that Barrie helped a lot of folks who needed money for food and other types of assistance. He never talked about it, he just did it.
I miss my visits to the store, and I miss my friendship with Barrie and Stephanie.
Rita Enns, White Rock
