Meet Our Team
Marena Long
Attorney
Marena Long joined Rizzo & Blackburn, PLLC after earning her Juris Doctor from Elon University School of Law and being admitted to the North Carolina State Bar in 2025. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Marine Biology from New College of Florida and a Master’s degree in Environmental Law and Policy from Vermont Law and Graduate School. Marena enjoys helping clients navigate important life and business decisions, whether they are purchasing real estate, planning for the future through estate planning, or addressing complex legal matters. She is passionate about providing practical guidance and building lasting relationships with her clients. Outside of the office, Marena enjoys reading, running, and spending time with her cat.
Jenn Nakata
Paralegal
Jenn brings over a decade of dedicated real estate paralegal experience to Rizzo & Blackburn, PLLC. Her favorite part of her job is when she is able to help first time home buyers close on their first home and other clients close on their beach vacation homes. “Topsail is such a unique and special place that feels like home, even if you didn’t grow up here or live here year round. It’s truly one of the best places to own a home” she says. Outside of the office, Jenn enjoys spending time with her husband and four daughters, lifting weights in the gym, and reading books on her kindle.
Lori Sumerel
Paralegal
Born and raised in Fairmont, West Virginia, Lori graduated from Fairmont State University before relocating to Charlotte, North Carolina, where she began her career in banking. With nearly two decades of banking experience, as well as experience as a business owner and Notary Signing Agent, Lori brings a unique understanding of the real estate closing process. Her diverse background allows her to effectively navigate lender requirements while ensuring clients receive exceptional service throughout every transaction. In 2019, she and her husband moved to Holly Ridge, North Carolina, and in 2023, Lori joined Rizzo & Blackburn, PLLC as a real estate paralegal.
Rhonda Shobe
Office Manager
Rhonda brings more than 32 years of management experience to her role, including six years of dedicated service with the firm. She finds the greatest reward in her career through building strong, lasting relationships with staff, agents, lenders, and members of the community. Her commitment to fostering meaningful connections has been a cornerstone of her professional success.
Having grown up enjoying the beauty and charm of Topsail Island, Rhonda has a deep appreciation for all the area has to offer. Outside of the office, she enjoys cultivating heirloom gardens and exploring historical sites, pursuits that reflect her passion for preservation, history, and lifelong learning.