provided to The Santiva Chronicle
Final plans are coming together for a public “Thank You” Reception to honor Judie Zimomra for her years of service as Sanibel City Manager. Zimomra’s last day as City Manager was Sept. 29. The reception will be held from 3 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 4 at Sanibel Community House, 2173 Periwinkle Way. All are welcome to attend; those planning to come are asked to RSVP by calling the Community House at 239-472-2155, for refreshment planning purposes.
Numerous groups and individuals from around the Island have submitted video clips expressing their appreciation of Zimomra’s contributions to Sanibel’s civic progress over the 20 years she served as city manager. The video clips will be part of a program presented at the reception, following a social hour. The event is open to the public and provides an opportunity for the community at large to express in person its thanks to her, along with best wishes as she transitions to other endeavors.
In her work as city manager, Zimomra has touched the lives of many Islanders, and they are grateful for the skills & knowledge she brought to her position. Said long-time Islander Steve Brown, who has worked closely with Zimomra on many civic projects over the years: “No matter what crisis we ran into, Judie was always in control of the situation. She was always calm and professional.”
That sentiment was echoed by Tom Uhler, whose many organizational roles have given him an up-close view of how Zimomra operates. “She’s a pro at operational matters, but she is also understanding and compassionate. After Hurricane Charley, when the Island opened up after 5 days of lock-down, she had all the City Council members gather at the toll booth with signs to welcome people back. It was touching and very emotional.”
Maggie Feiner, CEO of F.I.S.H. expressed the thinking of many, saying: “For 20 years Judie has built relationships, encouraged and acknowledged the importance of all nonprofits on Sanibel. She was not just City Manager, but a friend, mentor to many and always volunteering her spare time with a smile.”
The staging of this community-wide event at the Sanibel Community House is just the latest in a long history of important civic gatherings held there since it opened almost 95 years ago. Said SCA Executive Director Teresa Riska-Hall: “This is exactly the type of event the Community House was created for…. a place where the whole Island can gather to mark important occasions. In that spirit, we are happy to be able to host this reception for our retiring City Manager.”
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