The increased fringe theater activity at Spirit Square and Booth Playhouse is the most obvious dividend NC Blumenthal PAC prez Tom Gabbard has given us with his enlightened, nurturing attitude toward local arts groups. But his efforts behind the scenes may yield a more enduring harvest when a reconfigured Spirit Square emerges. Not only has Gabbard been instrumental in defending Duke Power Theatre from the ignorance and indifference of our County Commission, he is currently working behind the scenes to create a new arts-weighted synergy at 7th and College, one where the Char-Meck Public Library will play a collaborative role similar to its partnership at the pioneering ImaginOn. When they cry “Play Ball!” at a new Uptown Knights Stadium we haven’t scrapped Spirit Square for, Gabbard should be the team player throwing out the first pitch — not our clueless mayor.