Minnie's tiki statues stolen

MODESTO -- Minnie's Restaurant is missing some of the tiki statues that have graced the Modesto business for decades.

About 10 of the 15 hand-carved wooden statues have been stolen over the past two months, co-owner Peter Mah said Sunday.

The big statues out front, weighing as much as 3,000 pounds, are still there. Not so some of the smaller pieces.

"They're taking the 3-footers," Mah said. "Those things probably weigh 50 to 100 pounds."

The statues were created by various artists over the 57-year history of the business, which is two blocks up McHenry Avenue from downtown. It serves Chinese food and has a Polynesian-themed decor.

Mah said the statues are worth perhaps $500 to $1,000 each.

"As far as I am concerned, they are for the public to enjoy," he said.

Mah reported the theft to the Modesto Police Department and increased his security. He said he hopes someone in the tiki collectibles community will spot the missing goods.

"There are tiki people all over the country who are into this stuff," Mah said.

Bee staff writer John Holland can be reached at jholland@modbee.com or (209) 578-2385.