Towne Lake Equestrian Club, Inc. announced the partnership of Ita Dore and current TLEC member Ashley Zimmerman during the monthly Barn Bash Friday, August 28th. Everyone in attendance was given a “Top Secret” envelope to open, one of which contained Ashley’s new business card, displaying her new title of “Managing Partner.” Ita Dore opened TLEC two years ago and has grown the club considerably over those years……”I hadn’t planned on partnering with anyone, but when Ashley approached me it was such a natural fit, I just couldn’t think of a reason to say no!” In October of 2008, Ashley moved one of her horses, Snickers (CSF Priceless Special), to TLEC thinking that he was ready to retire. After a couple of days of being the “newbies” they quickly settled in and found a home. Ita adds that Ashley has taken a leadership role at the club since day one . She remembers Ashley giving tours of TLEC, noting, “Ashley had been here about two weeks when I get a call from her saying that someone stopped by asking about the facility - so she gave them a tour. She just fit right in.” Ashley went on from there to organize several events including the “Hope for the Horses” fundraiser, helping to raise over $2300 for the Georgia Department of Agriculture Equine Division, providing much needed supplies for abused and neglected horses. It has always been a dream of Ashley’s to own a barn. “It’s something I always wanted to do, and do right,“ Ashley explained after the announcement. With the well rounded, family-focused facility that pampers horses and provides a variety of services for riders and their families —TLEC is definitely doing it right.
The two claim that their partnership is a “God thing” that came together without the stress and complication of a traditional business partnering. Ashley has a wealth of knowledge, bringing nearly 20 years of horse handling experience as well as a strong set of business skills. A Project Manager by day, organizing, planning, and managing are just some of Ashley’s talents. “I’ve always dreamed of starting my own barn but, I couldn’t imagine ever leaving TLEC”, Ashley explains as she gives treats to both her show horses that now reside at TLEC. “I was extremely nervous about leaving the barn where they were previously kept, I’d never shown with any other stable, but after getting settled...I knew this was home”.
	Ashley’s title of “Managing Partner” leaves no doubt she will be responsible for overseeing the daily operations at the club. Ita wraps it up with “Ashley’s strengths play right into the needs of our growing community at TLEC. I have no doubt that adding her to the ownership of Towne Lake Equestrian will do great things for the families we serve. It’s funny how God can answer a need you didn’t even know you had! God is good and even in these tough times…we are continually blessed!”