Kathy Siokos/Flood Recovery
Donation protected
Most everyone knows Kathy Siokos in the Columbia area, if not by name, then by her love of music and her dedication over the years of exposing, and bring to us the incredible talent of local musicians within our community. As the owner of Utopia, Kathy's vision years ago was to create a place where people could visit possessing a relaxed laid back ambience. All the while experiencing good food, good music, and most importantly, good times.
Kathy and Utopia created memories for many over the years. The name of her place, Utopia, speaks volumes as to the type of person she is. Peace, love, and friendship to all she encounters. I have personally known Kathy for twenty years, as many of you have known her much longer. I think it is safe to say that Kathy has one of the most giving and caring souls that one could know. Kathy's home has been open to those that needed a home, her restaurant provided a meal for those that needed food and certainly most importantly, she herself listened to our woes or laughed at our stories.
As many of you are aware, the Midlands this past weekend was struck with an unfathomable tragedy. Unsurmountable flood damage engulfed homes, roads, businesses and roadways. With a sad heart, Kathy, not home at the time, received a call that her home was completely submerged from area flooding.
Many friends since that time, have gathered to help and sort out the catastropic damage that was left behind. Kathy, being the brave woman that she is, has found a way to push forward, staying positive. She is currently in the process of filing appropriate paperwork for FEMA assistance and other relative agencies. Enlight of the situation, the needs of the community at this time are great. The process will be long and taxing. Friends have already reached out, wanting to know how to help during this uncertain stressful time. Some of which have volunteered to purchase tangible items to replace what was destroyed. Others simply do not know how to help.
I find myself also thinking that this has been a very difficult year even prior to the floods destroying Kathy's property. Unfortunate events beyond Kathy's control also closed the doors of the cherished establishment, Utopia. What a year is an understatement.
It is my desire that those that can, regardless of the amount, contribute in helping Kathy rebuild a fraction of what was lost. At a time in which it seems that everyone is asking for money, everywhere we go, it may seem a bit much. However, for someone that has helped so many, I think it is the least we can do.
A monetary goal was set in hopes that this could help with some of the recovery costs in days to come. If we get lucky and happen to go over the goal, I have a feeling that Kathy will utilize some of those funds to help others experiencing the same obstacles and challenges within our own community.
In closing, here is hoping that we can pull together to help a friend that with all due respect needs us this time around. Peace and love to you all.
Kathy and Utopia created memories for many over the years. The name of her place, Utopia, speaks volumes as to the type of person she is. Peace, love, and friendship to all she encounters. I have personally known Kathy for twenty years, as many of you have known her much longer. I think it is safe to say that Kathy has one of the most giving and caring souls that one could know. Kathy's home has been open to those that needed a home, her restaurant provided a meal for those that needed food and certainly most importantly, she herself listened to our woes or laughed at our stories.
As many of you are aware, the Midlands this past weekend was struck with an unfathomable tragedy. Unsurmountable flood damage engulfed homes, roads, businesses and roadways. With a sad heart, Kathy, not home at the time, received a call that her home was completely submerged from area flooding.
Many friends since that time, have gathered to help and sort out the catastropic damage that was left behind. Kathy, being the brave woman that she is, has found a way to push forward, staying positive. She is currently in the process of filing appropriate paperwork for FEMA assistance and other relative agencies. Enlight of the situation, the needs of the community at this time are great. The process will be long and taxing. Friends have already reached out, wanting to know how to help during this uncertain stressful time. Some of which have volunteered to purchase tangible items to replace what was destroyed. Others simply do not know how to help.
I find myself also thinking that this has been a very difficult year even prior to the floods destroying Kathy's property. Unfortunate events beyond Kathy's control also closed the doors of the cherished establishment, Utopia. What a year is an understatement.
It is my desire that those that can, regardless of the amount, contribute in helping Kathy rebuild a fraction of what was lost. At a time in which it seems that everyone is asking for money, everywhere we go, it may seem a bit much. However, for someone that has helped so many, I think it is the least we can do.
A monetary goal was set in hopes that this could help with some of the recovery costs in days to come. If we get lucky and happen to go over the goal, I have a feeling that Kathy will utilize some of those funds to help others experiencing the same obstacles and challenges within our own community.
In closing, here is hoping that we can pull together to help a friend that with all due respect needs us this time around. Peace and love to you all.
Organizer
Pamela Williams
Organizer
Columbia, SC
