Vice Mayor Portrays Ghost of Historic Dunedin Figure

Vice Mayor Ron Barnette's YouTube acting debut was more than appreciated on Sunday.

Barnette portrayed the ghost of Dr. W.S. Blatchley in a Nov. 8 City of Dunedin TV spot promoting the Dunedin Historical Society's release of the historic figure's 1900s-era, limited-edition book of notes on the natural history of the city.

In the 10-minute YouTube video, Dunedin Historical Museum curator Vinnie Luisi, who plays himself, happens upon the ghost of Dr. Blatchley (Barnette in period costume) sitting on a log in front of his home at J.C. Weaver Park.

"I don't like furniture; I like nature," Barnette, as Blatchley, said to Luisi, making sure he was comfortable sitting on a wooden stump.

Barnette, as Blatchley, welcomes Luisi to sit for moment and muses on the making of his home and his book. 

"I like insects and I like fish. And I've written books on both," Barnette, as Blatchley, said in the video. He explained that "My Nature Nook" book contains some of his poetry. 

"It is a diary from my nook," he said.

Barnette said he had a fun time ad libbing the entire conversation.

He was thanked for his acting during a private ceremony on Sunday, Dec. 2.

Blatchley's leather-bound, limited-edition "My Nature Nook" books released Sunday, Dec. 2, during a ceremonial unveiling led by George Nigro, Dunedin Historical Society board member.

Less than 60 copies of the limited edition "My Nature Nook" book remain, according to George Nirgo's latest Local Voices blog. They are on sale for $107. Paperbound editions are available for $27. 

To purchase a book, visit the Dunedin Historical Museum or call 727-736-1176.