Family Farming
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. In January 2015, at the United States Pony Club Annual Meeting, Ellen was awarded the 2014 Founder's Award. The Founder's Award is presented to individuals with over 20 years of volunteer service to the USPC. She is still active as an Instructor, Coach, and USPC National Examiner, and previously served as a USPC Regional Instructional Coordinator. Ellen played an intregral 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. She has now returned home to a slower pace. Peace Point Pony Club has come with her. In her spare time she 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.
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 has now retired and this has allowed him the chance to enjoy his hobbies. His other interests and activities include: Ham Radio, amateur radio emergency service, support staff Washington County mobile command unit and emergency operations center, PA Emergency Management, sky warn spotter, and he owns and operates his own Mobile Command Unit.
