| R&R Dude Ranch's Guest Comment Page |
All these have warmed my heart over the years
We love hearing from you
Your Ranch Family
|
Hi Alice,
We greatly appreciate the stay on this property.
They were 3 wonderful days that we never forget.
We hope to return soon to ride again and enjoy your kind company.
We wish a great year for you and your family with peace and health.
I'm putting a link to a video about my city,
Rio de Janeiro,
so that you get an idea from my country Brazil.
Again, thank you very much.
Happy 2012!!!
A big hug for you and your mother.
Sincerely,
Dennis, Ana e Carolina
|
We had an absolutely awesome time there and will be sure to go back again......
just gave your info to a lady today by the name Dekker
she was thrilled about hearing about something like this so close by
to be able to share with her daughter (14).
I still have the photos from yesterday to put on my computer
as I was so exhausted last night and didnt get a chance.....
those were of Ebony.....
these are the 2 best photos of Véronique on Pouch
included a couple other photos
as well of Véronique just being her silly self.... :-D
Thank you for the wonderful hospitality
and look forward to seeing you again!
Wendy Long
|
|
| Hi Alice
We are now well back in Denmark
everything went smooth.
Super thanks for an excellent vacation
at your lovely ranch.
We have attached a picture of Shato jumping.
Hope to be able to visit your place again
sometime in the future,
we will definitely recommend you
to every one
we hear that are going to the
US on horseback vacation.
Best regards Carine and Carsten
|
Thank you for your hospitality.
The whole gang had a great time.
Great breakfasts too.!
Will tell our friends about you..
Thanks again, Jennifer
Ott Family Reunion
in our
WINTER WONDERLAND
will send some pics soon
|
![]()
|
|
|
Hi Alice,
I wanted to send you a little note to thank you
for accommodating my boyfriend and I
on such short noticea few weeks ago!
I also wanted to say that Meghan was a teriffic guide and instructor,
she made me feel comfortable my first time on a horse!
I was able to not only conquer my fears about horses,
but learned to respect them for the intelligent animals they are.
I've attached a picture for you, from a very happy customer
We will definitely be back to ride someday!
Thanks again!
Marina
--
Marina Szeman, MBA
On Sat, Sep 11, 2010 at 3:24 PM,
|
|
Sent:
|
Fri 9/10/10 8:57 AM
|
To:
|
|
Hello Alice,
I wanted to let you know that my family had a wonderful time at the ranch.
They can't wait to come back.
My granddaughter tells everyone that she has her own horse and she can make him run up hill all by herself.
My 14 year old son has finally found something that he likes to do and he is saving his money so he can stay for a week. He's never saved for anything. He mentions Ebony at least ten times a day and even has a few pieces of her black mane hairs that he keeps in a baggie on his dresser.
Our short time at the ranch has affected my family in such a positive way. I also wanted to know how much it would cost per person or as a group to stay for 5 days in the Bunk House.
Thank you so much for your hospitality and please tell
MJ and Erica
that they made our time there exceptional
and we hope to see you all soon.
Thanks again..... Laurie
|
|
![]()
|
Thank you 2010-Aug
Hello Miss Alice!
Thanks for such amazing hospitality!
We felt welcome from the moment we got out of the car.
The horses were superb and your staff and other young guests very friendly and helpful.
I love the dive in approach and we were happy to carry out hay, groom, and set the table.
My kind of place for sure.
The icing on the cake is that you are a fellow pilot and we could swap some stories.
Sorry we missed you when we left, but I hope all worked out well with your mum.
I've already got it in my plans to return, now we just need to figure out when!
We've got Prince Edward Island on our list as well as the EAA Oshkosh Fly-in next summer so it's already getting full.
But if there's a window you can count on us returning.
Special thanks to Izzy, Lindsay, Haley, and Kaylene
for getting us saddled up properly!
Best wishes
Chris Horsten
| Date: Tue, 14 Sep 2010
Hi Alice,
Just a note to let you know we arrived home to New Jersey safely.
We really enjoyed our stay at the ranch!
Looking forward to coming out again.
I will try to send you some of the pictures that we took
and the "Indian Mount Instruction" video later in the week.
Thanks again for such a great time,
Loretta & Katy
|
Hello Alice,
Just a note to say thanks again for a wonderful vacation.
Your ranch hands and horses were great.
Iris is still all smiles, and she misses your cooking.
When I fixed breakfast the first morning of our return she complained,
"It's always the same ol' thing".
To which I replied,
" That's what makes vacation so special,
to be able to experience and appreciate something new".
And it is so true,
we truly enjoyed your place,
thank you for sharing it so openly.
Maybe we can visit again.
Hope all goes well with your mother,
Mary Ann Laurie
|
Alice,
Thanks for the wonderful 3 days we spent at the ranch.
We all had a wonderful time! Everyone was so accommodating.
It was fun learning all the duties of owning a horse
and all the responsibility that comes with it.
Giving them a bathe was great, the rides were wonderful
Steve’s adventure trail ride through the creek
was certainly an experience for me!
I hope we can all clear our schedules for a few days in the fall.
We are still telling people about the great time we had.
Hope you stay there for a long time..
we would love to make this a yearly event for our group.
Who knows, we might be able to rustle up a few more cowboys!
Again please accept out thanks to all!
Thanks again for a very wonderful vacation!
Deb & Gerry Schumacher
|
Hello Alice,
Just wanted to drop in a hello!
Trisha, Jen and I really enjoyed ourselves at the ranch!
Your staff were awesome, and made the entire weekend a blast.
I was very pleased how they taught Trisha the basics,
and handled her fear so well!
We will be back some day soon, and hopefully I can bring my horse next time.
We have started some more training with him, and he is doing well.
Sassy was of course my favorite because she looks just like my Coby.
She is the almost as big, and has such an awesome personality.
Whistle was good too.
So thank you all for the good time, and you will be seeing us in the future!
Amber Noragong
Hey Alice & Gang,
Just checking in on everyone to see how you're doing.
Sophie, Abbi and I had a blast at the ranch
and I hope we'll be able to come back in the future.
I hope everyone's doing okay.
Harold, Cayleen, Hailey, MJ and Terry
made my stay the best experience
and I will always remember it.
While I was there,
Harold and Terry took some pictures of Sophie
and I was wondering if there was a way
that they would be able to send them to me if they still have them.
Sophie and I miss everyone!
Hope to see you soon!
Love,
Jenn Causer and Sophie Marie
|
|
Hi Alice,
We had a great time at the Ranch
No trouble getting home,
but can hardly wait to come again.
Thanks so much,
Carol
|
6-22-10
Alice,
Thank you for letting us join you on your ranch,
we had a wonderful time and we hope to do it again soon!
Your Ranch was lovely and your staff was exceptional!
And the horses spoke for themselves.
Hope all is well and hopefully we will return soon
Thanks again and best wishes,
Amanda and Rizhard
|
|
| Dear Alice,
Thanks so much for the pictures. We forwarded them to the boys' e-mails so everyone has them.
We loved our stay with you. The accommodations were great. The atmosphere was delightful. The horses were a lot of fun and a great experience. And the service and care that you and the staff provided us was extraordinary! The fact is that the ranch was the highlight of our exciting graduation trip!
Thanks again and regards from all the boys.
Sincerely,
Yaakov Bogart
Yeshivat Shaare Torah
PS The dean really enjoyed reading your email about their good behavior!
|
|
|
Hi Alice this is Rick I met you Saturday,
I just wanted to say thank you for a great time i wish i could have stayed longer with everyone I heard dinner was great.
I have been talking to most of the people who went and they all only great things to say.
It was really nice to see everyone enjoy themselves because sometimes these things can blow up in your face,
especially with so many different personalities.
I will be telling my family about our experience as we normally do a camp out and ride in Penn.
but i believe they would love this also.
Thanks again for everything and for being so nice to everyone.. Rick
|
![]()
|
|
Alice,
Thank you! Everyone had a great time.
Your Ranch and staff were so wonderful!
I really wish I could have spent more time there that day.
I heard from everyone that the food was great!
Thanks again and I hope to see you soon.
Paul Sims
|
Dear Alice & Ranch Family,
We have made it home safely from our fantastic vacation on the ranch. We had a wonderful time learning to ride the horses and the trails. The food was delicious and the beds comfortable and welcoming after a full day of horse activities.
Tell Mom that Kevin had to restart a Sudoku puzzle on the way home because he misplaced a number. Everyone makes mistakes sometimes!
Will send pictures after we have rebuilt our computer.
Thank you all so very much for taking good care of us. Cara loved riding Patch.
Love to y'all (with a northern New York accent of course!),
Althea, Kevin, and Cara
PS
The horses ribs are okay and so are my knees! Who'd a guessed? But I was so tired driving home that Kevin had to take over.
Althea
|
| Hey Alice,
We all made it home, although it took a lot longer than we expected due to construction.
Chris, Olivia and I had an amazing time, we'd liek to thank you for your great hospitality and you will definitely see us again. (maybe even as early as august).
Once again thanks a lot and as chris said, it was the most fun weekend since birth.
Ken
|
|
Hi Alice,
I am Lisa Franclemont and I had the great pleasure of being at your ranch on
several occassions back in the mid 80's. I was initially in the big group
from Lancaster, remember me? I just loved your heaven on earth!
I was on a school trip to Washington this week and the Mom in front of me
had an R&R T-shirt on. When I inqiured, she told me it was in E Otto. I
asked several questions, in disbelief. I thought you were gone years ago and
didnt realize you came back. I asked is Alice the proprietor? What a huge
great surprise when she said you are, I almost fell off my chair! I am
thrilled to hear you are back and cant wait to come visit. I would like to
bring my family. There are 4 of us. What is the availability? Are you
already booked for the summer?
So glad to hear you are there and can hardly wait to see you and catch up!
Fondly,
Lisa
|
| Thank you so much, Alice! We had the best time at your place! We haven't stopped talking about it! It was the highlight of our vacation (Lily Dale - pretty, but nothing special). Rich is telling everyone about how I'm coming back next year for the week long camp and I'm going to start saving now. The kids deserved it, especially Mike. All of them were great, but Mike goes the extra mile, you know?
Thanks again, so much, Alice. We will see you again, and I will definitely let you know when we plan to move back there!
Take care.
Sue and Rich
|
|
My family recently came to the ranch June 11-13 and had an awesome time.
Everything about the trip was awesome: the nature, the horseback riding, the food,
and the staff was also very helpful.
I had such a good time and my cousin was thinking about going camping with me sometime this summer,
so I told her about this and she said she wanted to go and that next week would be perfect for her.
We would want to camp out like my family did last weekend and would eat lunch there all three days.
Thanks!
Nick
|
| Hi Alice
Thank you for the tour of R+R Dude Ranch today.
You made us all feel very welcome and comfortable.
Both Kelsey Emmerson and Lauren Anderson would like to reserve the week of July 12th.
We will fill out the reservation forms tonight.
Thanks again...
Gary and Kathy Emmerson
|
Hey Alice,
Just wanted to say thank you for letting me use your guitar to learn
some real cowboy tunes, and for giving me such a great horse to work
with that day. I was smiling through the rain and I had a wonderful
day. My daughter came away with a new sense of confidence and
definitely wants to come back to R&R. Please pass on my gratitude to
my coach and fellow picker, I think his name was John? He was
extremely generous with his time, horse skills, and music. I would
love to see you folks again, you left a great impression.
Joe Brady
|
Alice
Just wanted to drop you a line and tell you how much we enjoyed our stay
this past weekend.
You and ALL of you staff made us feel like we have always known you
and that we were part of the family!
The setting was so relaxing and absolutely beautiful!
We appreciated John, Terry and Bob taking us out on our rides
which we enjoyed very much.
That is the most that I have ridden in a year, and it felt really great!
The food was so delicious, I know how much work it must have been
to put on the spreads that you did for us three times a day,
but we thoroughly enjoyed each meal.
Doug is still raving about your scrambled eggs!
It was great to have a chance to enjoy our meals with your staff
and get to know them, we only wish that we had the opportunity to chat
with you more than we did, but we know you were very busy
with the Girl Scouts being there.
You run a top notch outfit there and we will definitely come back this summer sometime.
Doug wants to help clear the trails, that's just the kind of guy he is,
always wants to help people!
We will be telling our "horse buddies" about your place
and hopefully they will join us as well.
You are your staff are "OUR" kind of folks!
We can't thank you enough for making our stay so wonderful!
God Bless to you and your staff,
please let them all know how much we enjoyed them all!
Fondest Regards,
Lynn and Doug DeGraff
|
Dear Alice
Richie and I had a great time this weekend...I had to spend the week trying to explain to Richie why he could not quit school and live at the Ranch! We can't wait to come back!
Janelle
|
|
Subject: Our Stay at the Ranch!
Date: Wed, 1 Apr 2009
Alice,
Scott and I can't thank you enough for your gift-it was exactly what the doctor ordered-relaxation!
My favorite day was Saturday, having all my kids together and having Michael & Jessie get me so comfortable around the horses.
It is amazing all that they have learned from being at the Ranch and now teaching me!
I never thought in a Million years Jonathan would get on a horse,
he told me straight out on the way up there that he wasn't going to do it-and low and behold
it took Michael a half an hour to get Jonathan comfortable and riding!
I think Michael has found his "passion" and he is soooo good at it.
I would love to see him persue his goals but I can't stress enough to him that school comes first
and he needs a diploma-once he has that he can do anything he desires
(hopefully a little college)
but anyways, I thank you again for giving these kids such a great opportunity at the Ranch!
They should know how lucky they are and it is such a relief to me that they enjoy nature and horses rather than hanging our on street corners in the city!
Well THANK YOU AGAIN, it was a beautiful stay!
Lisa
Lisa
|
|
Alice,
I just wanted to express my sincere thanks for your wonderful hospitality.
I have had a ver hard time the last year with my back, but riding and being
in your wonderful 'Oasis' did me the world of good! I truly am in love with
Gypsy and have not felt a connection like that with a horse, ever. She is an
absolute doll. I thanked her for keeping me safe.
I also wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed meeting Terry, Harold, Megan and
Cara. You are very fortunate to be surrounded by such wonderful and warm
people. Everyone made us feel right at home.
I look forward to staying in touch and rejoining you in the very near future with
my husband.
All the best...XX...Dana
|
Dear Alice,
Thanks again for a wonderful week of camp last week. Laura and I had the
best time at the Ranch! It has been difficult to adjust to life without horses
around 24/7! Laura's riding lesson is tomorrow, so I am anxious to see if she
feels more comfortable now or if her teacher notices any new skills, etc. from
her week at camp.
Thank you again, and I hope the rest of your summer is good--both for riding
and friends and for business.
Sincerely,
Jane Bristol
|
Alice,
Noah has cried non stop since we left. He is
afraid "his horse" is going to die before he gets
to visit again.
We might swing by to say hello over the weekend.
We all thoroughly enjoyed ourselves.
Thank you,
Mark
Mark
|
Alice,
Thank you for sharing your little part of the world with us.
We misssed everyone & everthing as soon as we drove away!!
We will see you again very soon....
Christine XO
| Alice,
I just want to say thanks for your generosity and hospitality while we were there.
I had the time of my life listening to your stories and riding Apache...
Thanks a ton!
Rachel
|
|
From: Rufless, Stevie, Da Kidd Brooks
Sent: Monday July 7,2008 10:23 am
To: ranchinfo@recreationranch.com
Subject: My Visit
I would consider myself a well seasoned traveler. After ten years in the military, I think I have visited some true hidden wonders.... Nestled just slightly of the beten path lies a horse lovers dream. With a little work, great meals, a wonderful staff, and a true ranch experience this place tops the charts of things to do. If you are looking to enjoy some great animals, learn more about, or brush up on your horse etiquette this is the place to do so.
Alice is a wonderful instructor for all levels of riders. As I sat back and watch her give instruction to a wide variety of riders from children to matured adults at various riding levels it helped me to analyze my riding skills and become a better rider.
Her staff, a few well seasoned handlers and some young but matured beyond belief hands, were very outgoing to please the guest, I found very knowledgeable and helpful on and off the trail. While riding they did everything to ensure your comfort and safety. While tending to the horses, they were the extra hands when your two were tied up. And in down time they knew just how to bring out the fun of living on the ranch.
The horses were marvelous from the gentlest giant to the most loving little foal, they varied in attitude and demeanor, no two horses were exactly alike there was something there for everyone from a pleasant ride to a challenge just to see how good you are.
The rooms were exactly what you would see on a ranch. No plush modern amenities, no pay as you go TV, and no outlandish tile floors and marble counter tops, just cabin style living with cozy rooms in a warm setting.
The meals were great all home cooked nothing over seasoned or overcooked but exactly what you needed to keep you going for the work at hand.
This place is to me is a kiss from heaven.
To Alice and your staff, "Ride Easy!"
Respectfully Yours steve "Cowboy"
P.S. There is a piece of home there in the warmth that was presented to me, so I'll being seeing you for many years to come. and please feel free to E-mail me with the happenings
and going ons of the ranch.
|
Dear Alice
We came across this & thought of you. Hope you like it & put it to good use.
Dana & I are looking at our pictures from our wonderful weekend spent at your ranch
With longing. Such good memories – thank you again for them. I’ll never forget that firefly scene.
Enjoy the dinner bell at breakfast. Hope you’ll remember us when you ring it!
|
|
Alice :
We wanted to thank you for providing such an awesome weekend for our troop. You and your ranch will forever be in our hearts and memories. Our girls didn’t waste any time in asking when we were coming back! We’re hoping to do this again in a couple of years. We wish you a happy respite in California-enjoy that wonderful family you have. Thanks to your staff of counselors and helpers for working with everyone so well. We’ll e-mail you pictures soon. Continued success with your program! Most fondly,
Heidi Bailey, Karen Schroedel & all of Girl Scout troop #804, from Broadview Heights, Ohio.
Kayla A, Sarah, Kelly, Abbey, Olivia, Kayla K, Emily, Allison, Jenna, Rachel, Nicole.
|
 |
| Girl Scout Troop 804 |
|
|
|
Alice, hi.
I must be getting senile!
After I sent you the letter, I remembered that I forgot to thank one very important person--
JOHN!! The canadian!
He was soooo helpful, eager, willing, talented.... and Joe and him got on fameously!!
Please, tell him thanks.
He was ALWAYS there for us on the ready! haha. TRUE.
The commoraderie all around the ranch was great.
Thank you for being so sweet and kind too, and for letting me braid your hair!
Love to all...
Alison and Joe
I am still a child in many ways me thinks!
Love to All...
Alison and Joe
| Dear Alice,
I had a great time, although looking at the videos, and thinking on it all, I would/need a lot more practice! Kristian said it best, in that I need to build confidence (which I think she tried to do for me even though her and I spent so little time together). I was intimidated by the horse, the skill of the other riders [staff of course], but mostly what hurt me was my lack of confidence! I'd like to come back and work more on Blade and others, without bit in the mouth. I need to be more assertive and keep them away from the gate!! Blade loved that darn gate!
Thanks for everything. The breakfast and dinners were great!! Next time I'm there I'll do the lunches!
During the day you are WAY too busy to be fussiing with that mess!
Thanks for all the fun. Joe and I really enjoyed ourselves, right down to the bathroom - haha! Baby had a blast too.
Thanks to everyone else too; Harold thanks for your 'horse whisperer' attitude ~ calm and in charge!
Megan ~ Thanks for being such a laid back kid. Perhaps I will learn the double-rein jump someday!
Chris and Kristian, thanks for your friendship/hospitaltity! Everyone needs that!
Debbie, thanks for the girl talk. Be well.
To Sandy, Joe, Terry and Cayleen and the young dude [harolds nephew]... keep up the good [hard] work!
I enjoyed shooting the poop around the table.
Alice needs you all! And, I think you all need her too. This is a good thing, to be needed.
Hope to see you all again this summer!
Truly
Alison and Joe
|
Date: Sat, 25 Aug 2007 14:03:21 -0400
Hi Alice,
I made it back home easy as pie! Hey it really is only 2 hours drive to Rochester,
guess it helps to know where you are going.
I greatly enjoyed myself at the Ranch!
When I arrived Sunday night, I knew basically nothing at all and, I admit it to you now, I was afraid of the horses.I learned so much from all the instruction, the trailrides and just living on the Ranch for the week. On Friday, Taffy let me braid her tail (although it fell out later)!! I enjoyed the trailrides, and all the great food, the best!
I hope to visit again. Hello to Deanna, Harold, Poppy and the girls too!
Take good care of the kitties,
Diane
| nancy randall wrote:
Hi Alice -
I just wanted to let you know that Olivia and I had a great time this past weekend with Troop #804. I was truly, truly pleased with your team and your approach to teaching the girls about horse safety and enjoyment. Olivia was so bonded with you, the girls, and the horses - like I've never seen before. She cried so long and hard when she returned home. I keep telling her that's a sign that she had a great time.
Take care and thank you again for all of your time energy and love for the kids!
Nancy Randall
|
I am now back boarding 2 of my horses at the ranch and have gotten my novice fiancee to become a R& R Dude Ranch junkie....just like me!!!
5 stars
~*~The Best Thing My Parents Ever Did~*~
I first came to the R & R Dude Ranch as a birthday present for my eighth birthday from my parents ... in August of 1992. My mother later told me she secretly wanted me to be scared and not bother her on a daily basis to buy me a horse! Little did she know her plan backfired..BIGTIME!!
I essentially grew up at the ranch, spending my vacations, and summers there. The ranch was always my home away from home, where I knew I could be myself and no one would ever hurt me. For my 16th birthday, exactly 8 years later, my dad bought my first horse for me, a beautiful chocolate brown and white paint, with a flax mane and tail named Chelsea. Alice has taught me everything I know about horses. I left the ranch in 2003 to try a business in the horse world for myself, I opened a small American Paint Horse breeding farm, with just a stallion, and 2 mares, but boy, I did get some pretty babies!
While still in high school I devoted my english thesis paper to the genetics of the American Paint Horse, and a horriffic disease called Overo Lethal White Syndrome. I have been committed to showing western pleasure and the study (and breeding) of the American Paint Horse since then, and I always make sure the horse I have is the prettiest horse around!!
I am now back boarding 2 of my horses at the ranch and have gotten my novice fiancee to become a R& R Dude Ranch junkie....just like me!!! I cant help but to thank Alice for opening a huge door in my life.... cant help but to wonder where I would be without her!
~*~Delevan, NY, USA~*~
~*~Kristian Pequeen~*~
E-mail: RideWithColor23@aol.com
|
Oct 12-14, 2007
[5 stars - the best]
The trip was definitely "Super Fun" for everyone. It exceeded my expectations. I thought there would probably be alot of "down" time while we "wandered around looking at things". Boy was I wrong! We were definitely busy - learning, laughing, having fun, and growing.
I've never watched Olivia have such a huge growth experience in such a short time. What she learned - both about the care of horses as well as the bond that can occur with horses - was amazing. She cried the entire first night back home. She "missed Alice and the horses - especially Casey".
Our food was wonderful. The girls loved the meals and it was fun for them to help set up.
Everyhting was great. Can't wait to come back!
Where do you live? City Country Brecksville, OH
Nancy Randall
| Hello Alice,
I don't know if you remember me, but I certainly do remember you, Missy, Bandit and the whole gang at the R&R. I enjoyed many wonderful weekends in the saddle... and a few "Snowy River" runs too! Yeehaw! Your bed & breakfast/ranch combination was a godsend for me. I always loved riding, and your location was just far enough from home to be a wonderful, easy escape from the "rat race" now and then. I always left tired, but very happy. It was wonderful spending holidays there -- your crazy Halloween meals, a very icy New Years (with a very long night of cards! I still don't know how you managed to get up the next morning). I was one of the gals from the Buffalo area (Karen, Diane Zahm, Kris, etc.) with our "godammit dat be beeootiful" slogan.
If you are interested, I also have a few friends that are very involved with our local Girl Scout Council. Maybe that connection can help begin a lifetime of equine appreciation for some more local girls. If someone hadn't dragged me to a riding stable way back in high school, I can't imagine what - if any - contact with those wonderful animals would have ever been in my life.
I always thoroughly enjoyed your company, the people, the food, the work and especially the riding, the wonderful scenery, as well as your 4-legged and 2-legged boarders!
Thanks again for being YOU and for creating such a wonderful Southern Tier escape for us "city slickers"!
Kathy Dziekan
|
9/07
5 stars
"Exhilaratingly Fun"
You take an unexpected turn down a country driveway to a nearly idyllic setting, a small grove of trees, an expansive, verdent pasture and a grandly gated corral of horses, only to find a simplar way of life where everyone's family and everyone has to help out.
Let me explain, I went to the barn expecting to saddle up and go on a trail ride. As soon as I got there and to my surprise, I was given a bucket with grooming tools. Why, the horse I was given had mud all over it and since I barely groomed a horse before, I gladly excepted the challenge. Just one thing, I remember my brother telling me about a disfigurement of his mouth, because you guessed it! he did something stupid! and the horse kicked him in the mouth. Needless to say, he received a lot of stitches, so, to alay my fears the lovely owner Ms. Alice helped me brush the under belly and inne! r parts of the legs.
I'm so used to English saddle, I didn't dare say anything about the Western saddle except, could she help me with the strap so it's tight enough and it won't slip off to the side. The trail ride sure was muddy but, not too tretcherous under the direction of our young guide who did a wonderful job making our up and down, very rooty and rocky, somewhat narrow passage.. a fun experience.
Yes! the stream was great fun too, honestly, I felt like I was in a Western movie looking for gold or someone.
Well, the truth of the matter is I've been a teacher for so long I almost forgot what it was like to be a kid again. For those wishing to rejuvinate their youthful spirit, this experience is definately the ticket to healing the spirit in so many ways more than just the riding, for example, visiting the Amish, the Cheesefactory, etc.
The Boring Suburbs of New Jersey
jmcghee48@comcast.net
|
Hi Alice,
We just want you say thank you very much for letting us come to your ranch the past couple of years we loved being on the ranch .You made us feel like we where part of your family and felt welcome . Your Horse Ranch is the best one that we have ever been to . We would love to come again..
Thank you some much for the Great Weekends that we spent with you and your help .Alice you will always have a place in are hearts .
Carter , Rose and Tyler
|
Dear Alice,
Just a little note to say how much my husband and myself enjoyed coming to the ranch for vacation. Your breakfasts were superb! We really enjoyed the quiet countryside. What a break from the everyday hurries!
The horses were great—no fear about being tossed off—and the guides were always very nice. We especially enjoyed being able to help groom and tack the horses ourselves, not to mention being able to ride as much as we wanted.
Town was just a hop, skip and a jump away, and other attractions, like that beautiful estate you took us to, are close by.
All in all, it was the kind of vacation we would do over and over again.
Love,
Mike and Cheryl Zellers
|
To Whomever It May Concern,
My name is Sydney Gray, I am a 4th year double biology major at UC Berkeley. The summer betweenmy freshman and sophomore years I spent in Otto, NY working on Recreation Ranch for Alice
I spent three months meeting amazing people and working harder than I ever had before in my life. The ranch is set on a beautiful property that draws people in and steals their hearts. I saw many people that were regulars on the ranch,visiting at least once a month, often up two three times a season.
The trails around the ranch are perfect for beginner riders, which is often what the ranch caters to, as well as the seasoned rider.
After coming back home to urban California, it took me two weeks to sleep
through the night because I wasn't used to all the noise! I was used to hearing, at most, the
babbling creek next to the property. The house itself is set in a small valley which creates a
feeling like you are alone on a desert island. This is, with out a doubt, one of the most
beautiful and heart capturing places I've been to. The number of regulars alone should speak to
its quality.
After 3 years away, I still dream about the place and often go back when my academic
schedule permits. It is a welcome vacation.
Sincerely,
Sydney Gray
|
To whom it may concern,
Shelley Boyle came up to the ranch bringing the Girl Scout troop and loved it! Everyone had a great time. Shelley and Pam also visited several other times enjoying the great facilities, horseback riding, training, and bed and breakfast. Pam Ammond also brought her husband to the ranch for a romantic weekend.
Thanks,
Pam Ammond and Shelley Boyle
| My experience with R&R Dude Ranch at Otto, N.Y. was nothing but positive.
I was an employee, working in the housekeeping side of the business and with the trail rides as well. The customers came with smiles on and went home with more smiles.
The booking was always full, return guests, regulars and new guests. The property lends itself perfectly to such a business, there is ample pasture to maintain many horses in top health. At the time I was there, we had thirty five to thirty eight horses. The water is abundant and good, all buildings loved and maintained in top condition.
Clients came from as far away as England and from as near as a few miles to ride. Groups of youth such as 4-H and Girl scouts were regulars. Their learning continued at the ranch, all aspects of horse care and love, riding, and something they all seemed to rise to, horse shows.
For many years R&R Dude Ranch provided work and unequaled experience to young people and adults such as myself in the local area.
Penny Gottsche
|
|
Hello Alice and Missy,
How are you both? My goodness I feel as though a bond has been reconnected. Congratulations on your awaited arrival Missy, and on your 2nd grandchild Alice!!
I think about you often, and all the times we had on your property. I think you should write a book on your adventures! So many challenges, so many occurrences, people, events have shaped your life, have shaped YOU essentially. How courageous of you to even contemplate packing up your lives and moving to the country, let alone purchase a bunch of horses and start a whole new business.
People need to hear this success story. People need to laugh too, and feel human again. You should write about finding the R&R Dude Ranch, making offers, buying the horses, how Mrs. Robinson got her name (I LOVE that story), your 2 week battered women's seminars and workshops, the wild husbands on the hunt for their wives, weddings, firefly rides at dusk, your delicious dinners, Missy's Japanese Salad recipie, your unparalleled breakfasts, Bandit, the huskies, horse births, the locals, funny guests, the 400 foot mud slide, your fabulous toilets and how you'd tease the guests if they were in there too long. What an awesome project that might be.
Your place was always so very warm and welcoming. Thank you so much for the invitation to spend time on the property, it means so much to me. I think it's best to keep the memory of it the way I know it best: teeming with horses, huskies, bunnies, and cats, all under the loving direction of Ms. Alice Ferguson, her magnificent blond locks about her and her melodious laugh that I can hear so clearly to this day! You are an amazing woman who has made something out of nothing, not once but MANY times in your life. You have overcome so many challenges and I learn from you still.
I'm sending you both lots of love and kisses and a big hug.
Lots of love, and please keep in touch!
Tania
|
|
I first became acquainted with the ranch when I was lookingfor a weekend get-a-way for me and my fiance. I searched
the internet and found a website with beautiful photos ofthe property, the buildings and its surroundings. It looked like a peaceful and welcome place to spent a weekend. What I found was a second home.
When we arrived we were greeted by the owner, Ms. AliceFerguson, who was later to become a good friend and advisor pretaining to horses and horsecare. I purchased a horse from Alice and boarded it on her ranch.
I enjoyed the ranch and its opportunities for fresh air,fishing, swimming, horseback riding and learning about the goings on of a ranch and bed and breakfast. Therewere many repeat guests at the ranch and many friendships developed among many of us.
I eventually purchased a camper trailer so I could spentmore time at the ranch. I rented a lot space from Alice along the Cattauragus Creek which runs around the property. My grandson and I spent many weekends together at the ranch which resulted in many fond memories. It was a wonderful opportunity for him to enjoy country life and experience many of the fine things in the outdoors he would not have been exposed to living in the inner city.
I was present for many weekends when Alice hosted troopsof Girl Scouts at the ranch. Alice had a wonderful program for teaching the Scouts about horses, horsecare and horseback riding. They also experienced outdoor skills, campfiresafety and generally just a grand old time. Alice's programhelped them to achieve points for Girl Scout badges.
There were also other groups that came out to the ranch including children with behaviorial problems and otherdisabilities whom had an opportunity to experience all that the ranch had to offer. Ms. Alice took great strives in continuously upgrading and adding to the facilities so that no one was incapable of coming for a stay at the ranch.
She created an "at home" atmosphere for her guests and for all us "regulars" who came every weekend or as often as possible to hang out and live the country way.
Very truly yours,
Christine H. Doze
|
To Whom It May Concern:
I would like to express our satisfaction and enjoyment in our stays at the B & B Ranch. We used it for business stopovers and found it most attractive and comfortable...It is peaceful and a great place to get restful sleep. The settingis so relaxing and the food was always exceptional. One feels at home immediately.
Dennis & Diane Collins
Langdon, NH
|
Alice~
Well, wow, where do we begin.......
Five years ago Jay wanted to go snowboarding at Holiday Valley. So I got on their website, looked up area lodging and came across The Ranch. We didn't know what we were in for, but the price was right and it wasn't too far from the ski resort.
I remember that it was in late January and we left on a Friday night. Mapquest said that it should take us 3 1/2 hours to get there....well we didn't end up arriving until 2am....there was so much snow (that was wonderful!! we love snow!!) that it took us about 8 hours to get there.
When we arrived, the lights were on with a note on the door telling us which room was ours...we were so tired that we went straight to bed! When we woke up it was like Christmas!!! It was so beautiful outside (we couldn't see anything on our way in since it was so late), and we met Alice who was an absolute doll! We all hit it off really well.
We ended up going snowboarding that day, and when we got back, I talked my husband into horseback riding....he had never been on an horse, and I hadn't been on one in years! We had the best time of our lives.
We ended up visiting again 2 weeks later. We fell in love with the place, the people, the animals, everything about it....we call it heaven! We visited a few more times that snowy season, and then...well the rest is history...we got addicted to the place and never wanted to leave.
Our initial visit was because of the ski resort....that first time we went was the last time we went....we have visited Alice's probably 40 - 50 times over the past 5 years and have never once went snowboarding again!
My husband and I have visited throughout almost every season...and there hasn't been a single time that we haven't absolutely loved it out there! We have brought our snowmobiles, atv's, tent, fishing poles....basically you can do it all at The Ranch.
We will definently be visiting again.... we want our Heaven back!
Stephanie & Jay M
Canton OH
|
Dear Alice & Staff,
Thank you so much for a lovely, memorable week-end experience with shared
stories, family style accomodations, and of course, riding!
Very much looking forward to seeing you all again and returning
to this great place.
Sincerely & Best Wishes,
Debbie P. and Angela M.
|
Mary Jo sent along this little note after brining her Girl Scout Troop to the ranch to earn their riders' badges:
|
 |
Alice,
Just wanted to thank you again for a wonderful weekend! I have a few parents who are blaming me because now their daughters are begging for a pony and riding lessons. I am so happy that they are hooked ..
We even had some tears because they won't be able to come back for a while. I hoped you enjoyed my girls as much as I do , they continue to amaze me with their ability to learn and their willingness to try new things.
Sincerely, Mary Jo
Girl Scout Troop
|
|
Kristine Wallace brought her entire staff for a summer day off:
|
|
Dear Alice,
I wanted to send you my sincere thanks for such a wonderful day at your ranch. The events that day will bring fond memories to each and every one of my staff members. I knew that this event would be very different from what they were accustomed to. In the past, the previous General Manager planned an outing to a Buffalo Bison's game one evening during the summer months.
When I started with this company in January, I was told that the attendance to the summer event had been disappointing the last few years.
After last Friday, my staff asked if they could have their Christmas party at the ranch! When the bus returned to our plant, I had some people say that the time at your ranch brought back their childhood and they felt refreshed and connected with their company. What better response could a manager ask from her team?
You should focus more marketing on the team-building experience you can provide to companies in this area. The results are substantial. Feel free to leave my name/company/number as a professional reference.
As always, your professional and warming demeanor put everyone at ease. Your staff did an excellent job showing them the ropes and guiding many of them on their first-time riding experience.
Your facility is an outstanding example of horsemanship and your staff an exemplary example of professionalism and kindness.
Sincerely,
Kristine Wallace
General Manager
The Mibro Group
|
|
From: Jen*****@*****.com
To: jcpo*****@*****.com
CC: alice@recreationranch.com
Subject: R&R Horse Camp
Date: Thu, 3 Oct 2002 12:04:13 EDT
Dear Cheryl,
My name is Jennifer Hansen and I am a lawyer in Columbus, Ohio. I received a copy of your email from Alice Ferguson regarding your very legitimate questions regarding her horse camp. I was a counsellor during one of the summer camps this past year and would highly recommend the R&R program for your daughter. I own two horses and started visiting R&R in January 2002. I have visited six times since January - no small feat since I live @ six hours away. I have visited a large number of riding stables and have never found a location where you are taught about safety around horses, how to control a horse and respect for animals better than what I have found at R&R. In fact, my husband who is new to horseback riding, has never felt comfortable riding horses with me. He visited the ranch in January with me and learned so much about riding correctly that he is confident in his safe riding skills and therefore enjoys the experience.
If you have any specific questions regarding the ranch's programs, I would be more than happy to answer them. I recommend R&R with the highest amount of confidence that you daughter will be taught extensively re. safety, respect of horses, and will have one amazing time!
Very Sincerely,
Jennifer Hansen
|
|
|
From: "Deborah Gould"
To: Alice Ferguson
Subject: Happy New Year!
Date: Wed, 16 Jan 2002 22:38:36 -0400
Hi Alice-
Just thought you'd like to know that the kids and I were talking tonight, and were reading a book called "The Kids Book of Questions". Tonight's Q was "If for 1 day you could do absolutely anything you wanted and not get caught or punished, what would you do?" We tossed around ideas such as "shop till you drop" and watch movies while eating candy. The final answer was that we would spend the day on your ranch and ride. You can use that in your brochures!
Hope you are well. How is Missy doing?
Deborah & family |
|
|
|
|
From: Valerie*****@*****.com
To: jcpo*****@*****.com
CC: alice@recreationranch.com
Subject: horse camp
Date: Thu, 3 Oct 2002 19:28:05 EDT
Cheryl:
My daughter Sarah (11 yo) went to horse camp this past summer and it was a great experience for her.
We first met Alice and visited the Dude Ranch in the summer of 2001. Sarah had told me she loved horses ... and I wanted to teach her that she probably didn't. We spent 5 days there as guests in the bed and breakfast. Sarah loved it.
We soon bought a horse, and found ourselves going out there a few times a month (we live in Rochester, NY ... it is 100 miles away).
I felt comfortable sending Sarah to horse camp because I had the opportunity to "see the place" first hand ... live their routines ... watch the people ... listen to Alice and all of her rules.
People sometimes think Alice is a mean person when they first meet her. Soon though, you realize that she has very strict rules and enforces them because she does NOT want anyone to get hurt. Once Alice knows the rider ... and their capabilities ... she lightens up on them (unless its someone that pays no attention, then she watches them like a hawk). Alice is not a mean person at all ... she has a big heart and worries about everyone.
The horse camp is a very busy place ... they are active sun up to past sun down ... and the kids love it. They laugh and play ... the way kids should.
Alice has come to be a good friend of our family ... I would do anything for her.
Sarah ended up living with Alice the whole summer ... Alice is a second mother to Sarah now. Sarah misses Alice dearly when she's at home. She misses home when she's at Alices!
I hope this helps ... if you have questions ... please don't hesitate to ask.
Valerie Grossman
|
|
|
From: Jane Tevnan Blanchard
Subject: Thank you
Date: Sun, 13 Jul 2003 10:28:28 -0400
Dear Alice,
I am just writing to thank you for hosting my family on our wonderful (if brief) stay at R&R from June 30th to July 2nd. I wasn't sure what to expect, never having been to a dude ranch . However, you and your staff provided a great experience for us. We only wished we could have stayed longer! Next time we will for sure. We just arrived back yesterday from our 2 week trek to Wisconsin via Otto, NY. All went well and we had a great trip. Your ranch was indeed a major highlight!
I especially enjoyed talking with you, Alice, and meeting Sydney, Judy and "Alice #2!" Phil was great, too - I was touched by how he jumped right in to helping that night on the firefly ride. I know it was a big hassle to have 2 extra folks along, but they, too jumped in and helped along with the "pros". It seems you touch a lot of people with your unique approach and style, Alice. You are one of the most interesting women I have come across in a long while! I sincerely hope you will write that book...I'll be one of the many in line to buy a copy.
I plan to write another letter about the "firefly" ride for the web site at some point soon...As you know,I was very anxious about it before hand, and apologize to Sydney for asking my son every 2 minutes (or less) if he was ok during the ride. She was very patient, and quite aptly told me I needed more reassurance than he did!! I am SO GLAD I did go, though. It was a classic example of the way to cope with fear is to "ride through it". It was a valuable life experience for me. I sincerely meant it when I told you it changed my life. You laughed in that wonderful way you do, but I think you understood. The ride in the dark was a metaphor for trust...blind faith and the inner peace that comes from acceptance of life's mystery. It was a ride I will never forget.
Thank you again for everything. I imagine you are busy as ever with the height of the summer season. My best to all at R&R!!
Very Fondly yours,
Jane (Tevnan) Blanchard
(Gene, Mary Kate & Tom)
|
|
|
|
