This month, we would like to recognize one of our Program Committee members and long-time volunteer: Robby Sonzogni.

Robby and her family have lived near what is now Pope Farm Conservancy since the early 1980s. They have watched it develop over the years, walking the area before it was officially the conservancy. When Pope Farm became a park/conservancy, Robby and her husband, Bill, joined the focus sessions regarding what uses people wanted to see on the land.

Robby now visits the conservancy about once a week and occasionally shares photos of neat things she sees on her hikes. She enjoys watching the changing of the seasons, the birds and prairies, and the serenity. In winter, she heads out to the conservancy to snowshoe or cross-country ski. “I love the peaceful beauty!” she remarks. In March, when she sees the first bluebirds at PFC, she knows that spring is coming! “This year that was March 21st,” she says.

Robby joined the Friends group in 2013 and first started volunteering during Sunflower Days. She continues to be a member of the Program Committee which plans public talks and tours at the conservancy throughout the year. During the winter season, Robby volunteers to lead the Winter Walks at PFC, as well.

When asked about her favorite memory at Pope Farm Conservancy, she replied, “My favorite memory was having our 50th anniversary family photos taken using the last Sunflowers as a backdrop. The setting was spectacular at the top of the hill.”

We are so grateful for Robby’s contributions to the Friends group and the Program Committee. Thank you, Robby, for your hard work in planning and participating in events at the conservancy. You have truly made a difference at Pope Farm!