Our Town: Mom named 'Rookie of the Year'

+ Mom named ‘Rookie of the Year’
Paula Lohnes, of GreyHawk Landing, recently earned the coveted “Rookie of the Year” award with national health-benefits company AmeriPlan.

The award, which thousands of new representatives seek, came with a $3,000 prize.

Over the past six months, Lohnes has built a successful business and earned the level of regional sales director while working from home.

AmeriPlan provides individuals, families and businesses across the United States affordable medical, dental, vision, prescription and chiropractic benefits.

+ Ranch resident collecting food
The Food Bank of Manatee is in need of donations, and Lakewood Ranch resident Don O’Leary is stepping in to help.

O’Leary will be collecting donations from residents of Edgewater and the Lakewood Ranch County Club (Community Development Districts 2 and 5) between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 3.

Individuals should place bags of non-perishable food items they wish to donate in bags at the end of their driveways.

Individuals also wishing to make cash or credit-card contributions should contact O’Leary at 907-1227.