Armageddon averted, life passes by

When did '97 transform into '11?

When did stout petunias, crust on edge and turn to new ones?

When did '97 transform into '11?

When did stout petunias crust on edge and turn to new ones?

When was my beloved beholden to another?
What must I do after I turn 22?

The old corner store has gained another window board.
The boy at the newsstand, wears dreads and a caftan.*
The bosom buddies have moved miles away.
But the bullies, inside now, torment always.

(NOTE: composed 12/21/2012)

*Orthodox Jewish ritual garb. The Author grew up in a neighborhood populated by secular Jews, many of whom later become Baalei Teshuva (returnees to the faith).