Who would steal a statue of Virgin Mary?
DUNEDIN — It was a heavenly image. Surrounded by blooming azaleas, mums and daisies, a statue of the Virgin Mary stood in the front yard of Ed and Gladys Madonia’s Dunedin home. “It sort of became a neighborhood shrine,” said Gladys Madonia, noting that strangers would stop by to catch a glimpse of the figure. “I’m sure they stood and prayed,” the 72-year-old added. But now Mary is gone. The statue was carted off in the middle of the night more than a week ago. The Madonias say they feel violated and confused. “What would make someone steal something like that, and what value would it be for them?” asked Ed Madonia, 74, his voice shaky with anger. “If they would have asked me for it, I would have gone out and bought one for them.” The 3-foot statue is hand-painted and made of concrete. It was given to the Madonias as a gift two years ago. On the night of Sept. 26, Ed Madonia returned to his home at 1278 Overcash Drive from church and gave his usual wave to the Mary statue as he turned
