It Sounded So Good
by Robert L. FitzPatrick

Freedom Park was sold to corporate "sponsors." Officials praised them as generous.

They made it sound so good -- new money, no taxes! The citizens were not even curious.

Who can argue with lower taxes, most thought?

Only Friends of Freedom Park were outraged and distraught.

They said the park is public! It can't be sold or bought!

The Park is not for commerce, but for urban spirits to renew.

For heaven's sake, it's dedicated to veterans of World War II!

But in Charlotte, commercialism is a faith and from veterans no profits accrue.

So logos, lights and banners were constructed and jingles played aloud.

Free samples, loud music and discounts attracted the crowd.

Children begged their parents for advertised specials each day.

Sponsored events were held on weekends, open to all that could pay.

Strangely, taxes still went up and up, even though parks got less and less.

And when the sponsors found better markets, the parks were left a mess.