About Us
Bob - Was born and raised in the area. Bob graduated from McGuffey HS, enlisted in the Navy and did two tours in Vietnam. After his discharge, he spent some time living in California and Michigan before returning home to finish working his way through college. He earned a Nursing degree from West Liberty State College and a second Bachelor of Science degree from California University of Pennsylvania. He continued his education at the Washington Hospital School of Nursing where he became Certified as a Nurse Anesthetist and was awarded the Agatha Hodgins CRNA Memorial Award as the Outstanding Graduate Nurse Anesthetist. When there was spare time Bob also gave his time to the West Alexander Fire Department where he was Assistant Chief. Bob also was active in Search and Rescue with his German Shepherd on land and Diving gear in the water. Eventually he was able to purchase his family farm and became the 7th Generation Owner/Operator. This established Keystone Cross Ranch and renewed his interest in horses. Bob is also Vice President of Western Operations at Peace Point Equestrian Center where he has organized Team Roping Competitions and Practices. This allows him the chance to participate in a hobby which he enjoys.
Ellen - Was born and raised in Upstate New York. After graduating from North Salem HS she came to this area to attend Bethany College, graduating with a degree in Education, settled in the area and continued her life with horses by working for the local Fox Hunt as a Whipper-In and eventually becoming Master of Foxhounds. She also remained involved with the United States Pony Club Inc. In 2004 at the Organization's Jubilee Celebration she was honored as a "Legend", one of only 200 people chosen out of over 5000 nominations for dedication and service. She is still active as an Instructor, Coach and National Examiner. Most recently Ellen played in intregal part in the development of the Equine Program at Bethany College serving as Interim Director of Equine Studies for the college and Executive Director of Peace Point Equestrian Center which made a successful partnership of the two parts of the program for it's first 4 years. She has now returned home to enjoy a slightly slower pace and way less drama. Pony Club has come with her, and while still using the Peace Point facility, will be doing most of their lessons at Clairlea, thanks to a couple of Peace Point horses which have moved there too. In her spare time she also judges Draft Horse Halter and Hitch Classes at Shows in the Mid-Atlantic area. She has also judged the Under Saddle Classes at both The World Percheron Congress and The North American Belgian Championships.
Son Brandon is out on his own now working full time which leaves him little
time at the farm and has no involvement with the horses
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