Once Upon a Time

Once upon a time, many years ago
the cities of Bell and Maywood
were quiet southern Califorina suburbs
of unknown fame
where neighborhood kids
rode their bikes, played at the park
and went to a Saturday matinee
at the Alcazar Theater.
No dissension or marches
in the streets, foreign flags
raised, or anti-American speech
Middle class moms and dads
worked at banks, and newspapers
and hamburger stands
provided their families a
sense of security
 with   love of God and
country and fellow man.