SAINT PETER’S FIESTA OPENING AND CLOSING NIGHT PHOTOS WITH SEINE BOAT CHAMPION GROUP SHOTS

Snapshots from Fiesta opening and closing night ceremonies Viva!

Don’t miss the Alice Gardner art exhibition at The Bookstore of Gloucester | dozens of Fiesta books already sold!

The Bookstore of Gloucester
hosts
Alice Gardner | St Peter’s Fiesta Gloucester, Massachusetts
A solo exhibition featuring the original illustrations (gouache, pen&ink, some acrylic) for her NEW children’s picture book published ©2017 the 90th Anniversary of Gloucester’s St. Peter’s Fiesta!
Address: 61 Main Street. Gloucester, MA 01930
Exhibition dates: June 3, 2017 – Fiesta and beyond!
Bookstore phone: (978) 281-1548

SAVE THE DATE: Saturday June 17

The first St. Peter’s Fiesta book launch and debut reading will be held at Gloucester Lyceum & Sawyer Free Public Library as a special part of a celebration program for the 90th Anniversary Party of St. Peter’s Fiesta thrown by the library, The Bookstore and Caffe Sicilia on Saturday June 17, 10-11:15AM 

“After coming to Gloucester so much I finally said I have to get a studio so I can spend my days here!”

She did. Alice Gardner maintains a studio in downtown Gloucester, next to the Cape Ann Museum. She has lived on the North Shore for more than 40 years. St. Peter’s Fiesta is a subject Gardner has photographed, chronicled and painted for over a decade.

Gardner says that multiple programs and contacts stemming from the Cape Ann Reads initiative and the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators were critical in getting this new book into production. “Just do it!” was a motivating topic from a Steven Pressfield talk sponsored by the latter. She did. She created an entire new body of some of the Fiesta moments that have touched her most, alive with color and completed in time to coincide with the 2017 90th year Anniversary. Gardner was also inspired by Anita Silvey’s Cape Ann Reads presentations. She said Silvey mentioned “calling all these celebrities for “Everything I need to Know I learned From A Children’s Book.” It made me think that. Why don’t I just call? I wanted to talk to the Mayor. I wanted to talk to many people…This is a Gloucester story. They all grew up with Fiesta. I did not. They became part of creating the book…”  Gardner’s generous acknowledgement narrative is given great attention in the design.

The new paintings on exhibit are not for sale, but you can see a small selection of Gardner’s joyous responses to the spirit of Fiesta in larger, earlier works at The Book Store; or call ahead and visit her studio. “I am inspired by public events that make people happy, they’re doing things where there’s a unique sense of place and culture.” Gardner painted a series inspired by Boston icons– like the Boston Common swan boats– for Massachusetts General Hospital’s Illuminations. She’s also captured the seasonal charm of Manchester by the Sea at Fourth of July.

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Studio next to Cape Ann Museum http://www.alicegardnerstudio.com/

The Bookstore has a substantial children’s book section The Bookstore of Gloucester Facebook link

Alice print exhibit at the books store for Sebastian Junger reading and Fiesta 2016 

Alice photos OF Fiesta featured on GMG

A HEARTFELT THANK YOU TO THE ST. PETER’S FIESTA COMMITTEE PRESIDENT JOE NOVELLO AND TO ALL THE COMMITTEE MEMBERS

Thank you to the Saint Peter’s Fiesta Committee President Joe Novello and to all the Fiesta Committee members for making this year, and every year, a truly beautiful and unique tradition for our fair City. The committee members are as follows, and if you see them around town, please thank them:

Joseph Novello –  President

Michael Linquata – Vice President

Anthony Cusumano  Treasurer

Rose Aiello  – Clerk

Christopher Palazzola – Committee Member

Salvatore Ferrara – Committee Member

Ralph Puopolo –  Committee Member

Carlo Barbara – Committee Member

Rose Aiello – Committee Member

Alphonse Millefoglie – Committee Member

Tom Favazza – Committee Member

Lucia Sheehan – Recording Secretary

We are so blessed to have this extraordinary team working on all our behalves. It is astounding that with all its moving parts, Fiesta comes together so beautifully each year to honor Saint Peter, the patron Saint of fishermen. Viva San Pietro!

Joe Novello Saint Peter's Fiesta 2016 copyright Kim Smith

St. Peter’s Fiesta Committee President Joe Novello and his adorable grandchildren.

 

NEW FILM: VIVA SAN PIETRO!

Salty language advisory.

Thank you to our beautiful Gloucester community for participating in Viva San Pietro! Thank you to the Greasy Pole Walkers for interviews given during the Sunday rally and especially to Nicky Avelis for help coordinating. A huge thanks to Joe DaSilva for the suggestion to listen to Mike Forgette’s music for the film’s soundtrack and for help in contacting Mike. A tremendous thank you goes to Mike Forgette for granting permission to use his song “Whats the Difference” (link to hear more of Mike Forgette Music).

Viva San Pietro! opens with Joe Novello preparing Gloucester’s Saint Peter’s Square for the formal opening ceremony, to which he is also the master of ceremonies. Highlights from Friday afternoon’s sporting events are followed by the procession of Saint Peter, the patron saint of fishermen, around the American Legion Building (Gloucester’s first City Hall), with the parade ending in a fanfare of confetti and cheers. Mayor Sefatia Romeo Thekan takes to the stage and provides some history about the origins of the Fiesta. Senator Tarr and all officials give praise to the committee for their tireless dedication. Representative Ann Margaret Ferrante and City Councilor Steven LeBlanc rally the crowd with the traditional call and response that is heard throughout the city in the coming days, and Father Jim Achadinha gives his blessing.

Saturday’s Greasy Pole competition is featured with highlights from Joe DaSilva’s winning walk. Due to foul weather, Sunday’s events take place on Monday. The Sunday Greasy Pole Walkers in their zany and colorful costumes tell of past walks and wins at the rally held at the home of Sunday Walker Joe Sanfillipo. After processing through downtown with stops along the way at the Gloucester House Restaurant, House of Mitch, and Saint Peter’s Club, the Walkers head over to Beach Court. Because Sunday’s events had been postponed to Monday and the stage broken down on schedule, the statue of Saint Peter was temporarily moved to Beach Court. After blessings and prayers, the revelers headed back to Saint Peter’s Square to board the ferry to the Greasy Pole.

The men’s seine boat competition does not disappoint, with Lock and Load taking the trophy, followed by an outstanding flag capture by Jake Wagner.

The Walkers hoist Jake upon their shoulders and carry him to the Greasy Pole Hall of Fame Wall. Then it’s back to Beach Court where the closing ceremony is held. Congratulatory speeches are given by the team captains, with much cheering and accolades for all. After the award ceremony, the statue of Saint Peter is processed through the Fort amidst much merriment, joyful singing, and “Me chi samiou tutti mutti? Viva San Pietro!,” which roughly translated means: Are you all mute? (or Why are you not shouting?)—long live Saint Peter!

You’ll see all three Greasy Pole winners Joe DaSilva, Lenny Taormina, and Jake Wagner, Mayor Sefatia Romeo Theken, House Representative Ann Margaret Ferrante, State Senator Bruce Tarr, Sunday Greasy Pole Walker and City Councilor Steven LeBlanc, Peter Black Frontiero, Nicky Avelis, Joe Sanfilippo, Paul Nicastro, Kyle Barry, Mark Allen, Crazy Hat Ladies, sisters Robyn and Amy Clayton, and many, many more. Viva San Pietro!

Joe Novello, Chris Pallazola, and Crew Adding Finishing Touches to Saint Peter’s Square

Joe Novello Saint Peter's Fiesta Gloucester 2015 ©Kim Smith 2015Joe Novello -2 Saint Peter's Fiesta Gloucester 2015 ©Kim Smith 2015

Joe Novello

Saint Peter's Fiesta Gloucester 2015 -2 ©Kim Smith 2015For the most part, the stage is stored in Chris Palazolla’s truck when not in use during Fiesta. Today he and his crew are giving the stage a fresh coat of paint to give it a beautiful crisp look.

Saint Peter's Fiesta Gloucester 2015 -4 ©Kim Smith 2015Murray and the DPW hanging planters. 

Saint Peter's Fiesta Gloucester 2015 Ferris Wheel ©Kim Smith 2015Despite the new hotel construction project underway at the Fort, the ferris wheel has returned! 

Kent Circle Christmas Tree photos from Joe Novello

Hi Joey
Ringo Tarr and Joe Novello traveled to Nova Scotia to pick up the
Christmas  tree for Kent Circle. these are the photos Joe and Ringo

      Best Anthony Marks

Saint Peter’s Fiesta Friday Opening Ceremony

Saint Peters Fiesta Gloucester -5 Kim Smith 2014 Saint Peters Fiesta Gloucester Sefatia Rosaria ©Kim Smith 2014Saint Peters Fiesta Gloucester Bella ©Kim Smith 2014Beautiful Bella

Friday’s picture perfect summer skies made for an especially festive and at times poignant Saint Peter’s Fiesta grand opening ceremony. Festival-goers gathered at the Saint Peter’s Club and, after everyone who had participated in the day’s earlier sporting events had raced home to change, the procession carrying Saint Peter through the square and around the old city hall (American Legion building) began. Eight fishermen are given the honor of transporting Saint Peter on a specially crafted cart.Saint Peters Fiesta Gloucester -3 ©Kim Smith 2014 Saint Peters Fiesta Gloucester -6 ©Kim Smith 2014The Wagner and Sleepy Pallazola Families were given special commendations by the Fiesta committee Saint Peters Fiesta Gloucester -4 Kim Smith 2014   Saint Peters Fiesta Gloucester -2 ©Kim Smith 2014Rev. James M. Achadinha, the new pastor for Our Lady of Good Voyage and Holy Family, was introduced to the crowd. Saint Peters Fiesta Gloucester ©Kim Smith 2014 -7

Saint Peters Fiesta Gloucester Domenic Nicastro Joe Novello Joe Orlando ©Kim Smith 2014Dominic Nicastro hands the care of Saint Peter to Joe Orlando

Ann Margaret Ferrante Saint Peters Fiesta Gloucester ©Kim Smith 2014 State Representative Ann Margaret Ferrante and Senator Bruce Tarr gave moving speeches and rallying cries for the fishing industry.

Bruce Tarr Saint Peters Fiesta Gloucester ©Kim Smith 2014Gloucester city Council Saint Peters Fiesta Gloucester ©Kim Smith 2014Gloucester City Council

Sefatia Romeo Thekan  Rosaria Saint Peters Fiesta Gloucester -2 ©Kim Smith 2014Sisters Sefatia and Rosario

Our Most Heartfelt Congratulations to the 2014 Gloucester Citizenship Award Winners!!!

UU Citizenship Awards 2014 ©Kim Smith 2014Back row left to right: Martin Klugman, Joe Novello, Jim Flint, Terry Sands, Barry McKay, and John McElhenny

Front row left to right: Maggie Rosa, Linn Parisi, Donna Ardizonni, and Ann Straccia

To receive a Gloucester Citizenship Awards is a very special honor and it is truly only bestowed upon the most deserving. At the award ceremony last night the love and positive energy had by family and friends for these outstanding Gloucester citizens was palpable. Donna Ardizonni and Melissa Cox ©Kim Smith 2014Donna Ardizonni and Melissa Cox ©Kim Smith 2014 -2Melissa Cox presenting Donna’s award, and sharing a funy story about removing dead seagulls from the beach.

Here at GMG we are very proud of all the recipients, but especially, especially proud that our own Donna Ardizonni was nominated for her good work with the One Hour at a Time Gang. John McElhenny ©Kim Smith 2014We are very proud too of our GMG super FOB and friend John McElhenny for his stellar job in spearheading the Burnham’s Field improvements and in turning it into a gorgeous new community playground, garden, and park.

Mike English Terry sands ©Kim Smith 2014Mike English Terry sands ©Kim Smith 2014 -3Mike English Honoring Terry Sands

On a personal note, I am also very proud that a very dear friend, Terry Sands, is one of this year’s honorees, for his extraordinary work directing (along with his co-director Mary Curtis) the fabulous Annisquam Village Players, for the past TWENTY- SEVEN YEARS!

Kay Ellis Linn Parisi ©Kim Smith 2014Kay Ellis Honoring Linn Parisi for her work with Discover Gloucester

Each winner was honored by a friend or colleague and it was wonderful to learn about the roles they have played in making our beautiful community all the more beautiful. Gloucester is  a very special place to call home and it is people like this year’s 2014 Citizenship Award recipients that make our city profoundly unique and, simply awesome! Our most heartfelt congratulations to the 2014 Citizenship Award winners!!!

Jim Flint ©Kim Smith 2014Jim Flint for his work with the Lanesville Community Center

Martin Krugman ©Kim Smith 2014Marty Krugman for the Schooner Adventure

Joe Novello ©Kim Smith 2014Joe Novello for the Saint Peter’s Fiesta

Barry Mckay ©Kim Smith 2014Barry McKay for the Rose Baker Senior Center

Maggie Rosa ©Kim Smith 2014Maggie Rosa for City Hall Restoration and the Gloucester Educational Foundation

Ellie's beagle ©Kim Smith 2014Anne Straccia’s Rescue Beagle Ellie

McElhenny Famiky ©Kim Smith 2014McElhenny Family

AVP Family ©Kim smith 2014AVP Family

Ann Margaret and Sefatia ©Kim Smith 2014Sefatia Romeo Thekan and Ann Margaret Ferrante

Sefatia ©Kim Smith 2014Sefatia for Terry!

Donna and Rick ©Kim Smith 2014Donna and Rick and Family

Sefatia and terry sands ©Kim Smith 2014JPGSefatia and Terry

McElhenny Family AVP Family ©Kim Smith 2014McElhenny Family and AVP Family

Tonight! The 2014 Citizenship Award Winners Including Some Of Our Own!!! WOOT WOOT! CONGRATS!!!!

CHURCH TO HONOR TEN RESIDENTS FOR VOLUNTEER SERVICE

On Sunday, May 4, the Gloucester Unitarian Universalist Church will present Citizenship Awards to ten dedicated citizens (and one dog) for their selfless volunteer efforts on behalf of our city.

This year’s awardees will be Donna Ardizzoni, for her One Hour at a Time weekly cleanup efforts; Jim Flint, for spearheading the renovation and renewal of the Lanesville Community Center; Martin Krugman, for leading the restoration of the schooner Adventure; John McElhenny, for improvements to Burnham’s Field; Barry McKay, for his volunteer work at the Rose Baker Senior Center; Joe Novello, for helming the annual St. Peter’s Fiesta and keeping other traditions alive; Linn Parisi, for attracting tourism through Discover Gloucester; Maggie Rosa, for her work with the Gloucester Education Foundation and the preservation of City Hall; Terry Sands, for 23 years of musical theater productions at the Annisquam Village Players; and Ann Straccia and her rescue beagle, Ellie, for providing support and companionship to homeless people at the Grace Center.

The winners were nominated not just by members of the church but by individuals and organizations throughout the city. The final decision was made by the church’s Social Justice Committee. Many winners have no idea who nominated them and will not find out until they arrive at the ceremony.

The ceremony, which is informal, begins at 4 p.m. in the church sanctuary at the corner of Church and Middle Streets, with a reception downstairs in the church vestry to follow. Both floors are handicapped accessible. The event is open to all free of charge; freewill donations will be gratefully accepted. Sponsors of the program include Rockport National Bank, Cape Ann Savings Bank, Santander Bank, Jim’s Bagel & Bake Shop, The Dress Code, MAC Fitness, BankGloucester, and Dunkin’ Donuts.

Donna Ardizzoni

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John McElhenny

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Joe Novello

Joe Novello - credit Sharon Lowe

Ann Straccia

Straccia 2 lo-res

Martin Krugman

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Jim Flint

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Terry Sands

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Maggie Rosa

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Linn Parisi

GloucesterCast With Lowell Peabody, Kim Smith and Host Joey Ciaramitaro Taped 4/22/14

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GloucesterCast With Lowell Peabody, Kim Smith and Host Joey Ciaramitaro Taped 4/22/14

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Topics Include: Gloucester MA, 01930, Happy Earth Day, Lowell Peabody, Kim Smith, 2014 UU Church Citizenship Award Winners- Donna Ardizzoni, Jim Flint, Martin Krugman, John McElhenny, Barry McKay, Joe Novello, Linn Parisi, Maggie Rosa, Terry Sands, Ann Straccia and her rescue beagle Ellie, Gloucester Strong Day At The Hive, Patti Amaral, Rose LoPiccolo, Dog Off Leash Article In GDT, James Niedzinski, Pot Farm In Essex, Arianna MacNeill, Over/Under Time Before Pot Farm Gets Approved, Over/Under Time Before Pot Dispensary Gets Opened, Phantom Illness, iPad vs iPad mini, Monoprice IPS Monitor A Tremendous Value, Petit Robert, The Franklin Lamb Chops, Grilled Brussel Sprouts, La casa de Luis, Montreal Spicy Steak Seasoning, Kim Smith PSwallowtail Movie In Lowell Eco Movie Festival, Palazolas Sporting Goods Baseball Cap Collection, Kim’s Daughter Liv Fair Weather Bostonian, Kim Does Not Know What Year Her Daughter Graduated, Liv’s New Blog,

Subscribe to The GloucesterCast Podcast by Email Free

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Kent Circle Christmas Tree photos from Anthony Marks

Hi Joey
It’s that time of year. Ringo Tarr and crew set up the Kent Circle Christmas tree Friday November 15th.  Ringo Tarr and Joe Novello traveled to Nova Scotia to pick up the tree.
The Santa parade a part of the tree lighting will step off about 3:00 pm Sunday December 1st from the state fish pier in Gloucester.
The parade route is Parker street to Main street to Western ave. and ends at Kent Circle for the annual Christmas tree lighting with Santa and Mrs. Clause.
Hope to see you and the girls there.
Best Anthony

Dory Prep Day- Under 32 Degrees But These Great Community Folks Got ‘Er Done!

Thanks To Laurel and Jimmy T For Getting Us The Photos-

The Dorys don’t just maintain themselves.  It takes a group effort to keep these boats in racing shape.  The email was sent out last week to all the members of the International Dory Race organization and I’m sure when they sent out the invitation to join in and sand, powerwash and paint the dorys that no one imagined that it was going to be under 32 degrees at the end of March. But that’s what mother nature dealt.

I remember that morning wondering if they were going to cancel and reschedule but as you can see from the following photos- the work took place.  Those who showed up should be applauded for their efforts! Photos and captions from Laurel Tarantino-

Nice Stern Gina!-  Gina Lampassi

dory 007

Marge Robertson & Patti Page

dory 015 (2)

Joe Novello & Keith Palazzola, Volunteering isn’t all work!  It’s smiles and friendly bantering.

dory 017

Laurel

dory 020dory 021

Bottoms Up!  Leo LaRosa on Roller, Jeff Muise on Cutting

dory 026

Ray D’Amico caught Working!

dory 028

Erik Dombrowski sands the bottom

dory 016

Laurel added in a new email-

We only got the bottoms painted on Saturday, as the temperatures were too low for anything other than that.  Boats are all sanded and ready for “Dory Buff” which we hope to slap on tomorrow.  Hopefully we’ll get it done, because we want to launch them asap.

and another Report From Jimmy-

Once again we were pleasantly surprised by the strong showing on Boat Prep Day. Unfortunately, it was too damn cold to paint the boats! So…. we’re going to do that *tomorrow at 4 p.m.* Anyone who can spare an hour or two, we’ll be at the Eastern Avenue Storge facility from 4 to 6 p.m.. *Come on down and lend a hand.*
All the hard work got done, thanks to Erik Dombrowski and Damon Cummings bringing all the tools and supplies we got all the boats scraped, sanded and bottom painted.  Now all we have to do is slap a little paint/linseed oil on the decks and roll the buff on the outsides. Should have it done tomorrow and ready to launch this weekend!

Thank you all! Joe Novello, Kieth Pallazola, Marge Robertson, Laurel Tarantino, Patti Page, Leo LaRosa, Jeff Muise, Gina Lampassi, Nancy Dudley, Mike Harmon and Ray D’Amico. Forgive me if I left anyone out. All the elbow grease and good MoJo is appreciated.

Fiesta Sports Fundraiser next Saturday

Sharon Lowe photo

From Joe Novello-

St. Peter’s Club
7:00pm

The event will feature the work of several  photographers (David, Jay, me, and others —Sharon) displaying their collections of many Fiesta events, including Greasy Pole Walkers, Seine Boat Races,
Kid’s Games, Parade, Mass etc.
Individual photos and  CD’s will be available to purchase from the photographers.
A percentage of the sales or photos(as raffle prizes) will be donated by the photographers to the event.
There will also be a multitude of other prizes included in the raffle.

All proceeds will be used to support Fiesta Sports.
This year we plan to  purchase new oars for the Seine Boat events and
make the necessary repairs to the Greasy Pole Platform.

If you are interested in helping in any way, please let us know.

Tickets will be available soon.
$10ea. / 3 for $20

It is our goal to gather as many prizes as possible and make this a worthwhile and memorable event.
If you know of any individual or business that may be willing to donate a prize for the raffle, let us know.
PLEASE  send this e-mail to all Rowers and Pole Walkers.
Thanks,Joe
joe.novello@vsea.com

List of prizes received to date.

Latitude 43-Gift Certificate
Charlies Place- Gift Certificate
Family Car Care–Oil and Lube
Family Car care- Tire Rotation and Balance
Railroad Ave. Liquors- 2 bottles of Wine
P&L Associates- Binoculars
P&L Associates-Car Vacuum
Sunbanque–32 Points for Tanning Sessions
Manchester Athletic Club- 6 week membership
Red Sox Game tickets
Salon One -Gift Certificate
Cape Ann Marina- 6 month pool membership

Fiesta Sports Fundraiser Saturday, April 24, 2010 St. Peter’s Club

Click The Picture For a Good Morning Gloucester Fiesta Slide Show Featuring Pics From David Cox and Joey Ciaramitaro-

click picture for Fiesta Slide Show

From Joe Novello-

St. Peter’s Club
7:00pm

The event will feature the work of several  photographers displaying their collections of many Fiesta events, including Greasy Pole Walkers, Seine Boat Races,
Kid’s Games, Parade, Mass etc.
Individual photos and  CD’s will be available to purchase from the photographers.
A percentage of the sales or photos(as raffle prizes) will be donated by the photographers to the event.
There will also be a multitude of other Prizes included in the raffle.
I
All proceeds will be used to support Fiesta Sports.
This year we plan to  purchase new oars for the Seine Boat events and
make the necessary repairs to the Greasy Pole Platform.

If you are interested in helping in any way, please let us know.

Tickets will be available soon.
$10ea. / 3 for $20

It is our goal to gather as many prizes as possible and make this a worthwhile and memorable event.
If you know of any individual or business that may be willing to donate a prize for the raffle, let us know.
PLEASE  send this e-mail to all Rowers and Pole Walkers.
Thanks,Joe
joe.novello@vsea.com

List of prizes received to date.

Latitude 43-Gift Certificate
Charlies Place- Gift Certificate
Family Car Care–Oil and Lube
Family Car care- Tire Rotation and Balance
Railroad Ave. Liquors- 2 bottles of Wine
P&L Associates- Binoculars
P&L Associates-Car Vacuum
Sunbanque–32 Points for Tanning Sessions
Manchester Athletic Club- 6 week membership
Red Sox Game tickets
Salon One -Gift Certificate
Cape Ann Marina- 6 month pool membership

Sunday Scenes From Pavillion Beach

Sunday Greasy Pole Scene, originally uploaded by captjoe06.

Joe Novello 09 Sr Seine Boat Champ KAOS
Joe Novello 09 Sr Seine Boat Champ KAOS moments after victory

In Loving Memory
In Loving Memory

Timmy Oaks Relentless-Jr Seine Boat Race Champs 09
Timmy Oaks Relentless-Jr Seine Boat Race Champs 09 Sr Seine Boat Champ KAOS

Lone Gull Gets Into The Fiesta Spirit
Lone Gull Gets Into The Fiesta Spirit