Hello Mister President - From a Neighborhood Child

“HELLO, MR. PRESIDENT!” We had all been issued small American flags on sticks. Jack was on probation, as was I, but we were, reluctantly by Mrs. Mengin, finally Let into the mix. “Now boys and girls when the big black car with American flags comes by We will all stand at attention salute with the right hand wave our flags with the right And say ‘Hello Mr. President.’” “HELLO, MR. PRESIDENT!” “Good! Let’s rise and form a single line No talking! Jack! I’m not going to put up with it! Stay out of the street folks!” (what’s this? Hadn’t noticed Hadn’t been listening all morning – the excited whispering all around) Sudden shuffle Giggles………………………………………………… Downstairs Outdoors………………………………………………. “The President is coming!” “Down 14th Street!” “Boys and girls! Stay back from the curb Against the fence! Don’t forget what we all say Remember to stand straight” “Do you think he well really come by this dumpy old school?” “HELLO, MR. PRESIDENT!” “Shut up, Earl…………..and it aint no joke!” ………………………………………………………………………………….? “Is he coming Mrs. Mengin? He should oughta be here by now” “I…………..I can’t see him……..yet………? I wonder?............. Oh dear!” A half-hour passed The futility of waiting began to be realized “HELLO, MR. PRESIDENT!” Jack laughs “That aint him Jack that’s an old lady….HAW HAW!” “HAW HAW………………………HAW HAW!” “HELLO, MR. PRESIDENT!.....HAW HAW! Punishing Jack was put off because of the moment’s frustration “Alright! Boys and girls let’s go back inside Hurry! Back to work!” Mr. Roosevelt had gone down 17th Street instead