Poem/Tribute to Alka

[Guest guest]

Hi folks,

As some of you know, Alka Chanda is enroute to Virginia where she is

taking up her new job as campaign manager for PeTA. Woohoo Alka! There

was a wonderful going away dinner at Golden Era on Sunday in honor of

Alka where over 30 folks attended. I wrote a poem for Alka, as I wanted

to express my gratitude for everything she represented to me--as a great

activist of the SF Bay Area, motivator, and tireless campaigner for the

animals. I presented the poem to Alka during the dinner, and a few folks

have asked me to post it here. So here goes....

 

A TRIBUTE TO ALKA

By Lori Patotzka

October 27, 2002

 

Alka, Alka, what can I say?

To make you not leave, to get you to stay?

 

The animals are calling, this much is clear

They know Alka’s coming, she soon will be near.

 

A leader to us, of this there’s no doubt

Cow costumes and such, you’re always about.

 

You’re one of my heroes, that goes without saying

Demo’s and emails, you’re never just playing.

 

Animal rights, that is your schtick

You’re now off to PETA, it’s all happened so quick!

 

To get you to stay, there’s really no use

Activist extraordinaire, you’ll be there with Bruce.

 

Walk-a-thons and Shameway, you’re sure tireless

As compassionate cook, simply just FABULOUS!

 

From parties to potlucks, at Golden Era we meet

You cook up a storm, Chocolate Midnight a treat!

 

Alka, you’ve motivated me, so articulate and sure

TIME letters were great, now only a blur.

 

So full of ideas, started up VVBs

We must keep them going, they surely can’t cease

 

Your confidence unending, we heeded your call,

You got me to cheerlead, and oh, what a ball!

 

Just two years I’ve known you, such dedication you show,

For Food & Social Justice, you never say no!

 

From DC to LA, you’re near and you’re far,

You led us with Murder King, for that you’re a star!

 

We’ll miss you so much, can’t hold back the tears

Must think of pom poms, and shout out those cheers!

 

You’ll never step back, you well know their plight

For the animals can’t talk, with us you will fight.

 

I’m so glad I met you, Alka, I hope you can see

How bright your star shines on the animals and me.