This month in Nona Magazine: Meet Northwestern Mutual’s Marko Branis and Maria Jarrin in “Business Spotlight,” get back-to-school tips and easy dinners, plus Alexandria Spinelli's "Magical Charcuterie" in "People of Lake Nona!"
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
Curating this month's Nona Magazine was a blast! We spotlighted Northwestern Mutual’s Marko Branis and Maria Jarrin, I’ve shared proven backto-school tips for a smooth year, found weekly prep tips and an easy dinner recipe, and featured Alexandria Spinelli’s Magical Charcuterie in "People of Lake Nona."
eet Maria Isabel Jarrin, a dedicated financial advisor at the Lake Nona Northwestern Mutual office Born in Quito, Ecuador, the middle of the world, Maria immigrated to Orlando, Florida, in 2016, bringing with her a rich cultural heritage and a unique perspective.
Maria's journey is marked by her early leadership roles in the food and beverage industry, where she honed her strategic planning and managerial skills This foundation laid the groundwork for her successful career in financial advising.
Her commitment to helping others achieve their financial goals is matched by her passion for community service, making her a trusted and compassionate advisor.
Maria’s expertise in financial planning and investment strategies is complemented by her dedication to giving back.
She actively supports numerous non-profit organizations, embodying the spirit of philanthropy in both her professional and personal life.
Her leadership qualities have been widely recognized, earning her accolades such as Rookie of the Year and the Top Gun Award
She proudly ranks in the Top Silver category in the Southern Region and is among the top 5% of advisors with less than five years of experience at Northwestern Mutual.
As a member of the 2024 Field Advisory on Multicultural Events, Maria champions diversity and inclusion, striving to elevate Hispanic advisors and inspire excellence within the industry. Her goal is to make a lasting, positive impact on her community, fostering growth and development at every turn
Maria Isabel Jarrin is not just a financial advisor; she’s a dedicated leader, a community advocate, and an inspiration to all who know her
arko Branis, a standout financial advisor at Northwestern Mutual Marko’s journey in the financial services industry has been nothing short of remarkable Proudly ranking in the Top Silver category in the Southern Region, he has quickly risen to be among the top 5% of advisors with less than five years of experience at Northwestern Mutual
Marko's success is driven by his unwavering commitment to his clients. He brings a wealth of knowledge and a personalized approach to financial planning, ensuring that each client’s unique needs and goals are met with tailored strategies. His dedication and passion for helping others navigate their financial futures have earned him the trust and respect of those he serves.
Beyond his professional achievements, Marko is known for his genuine care and community spirit. He believes in the importance of giving back and actively participates in various community initiatives, making a positive impact both inside and outside the office.
Marko Branis is not just a financial advisor; he’s a trusted partner, a dedicated leader, and a compassionate advocate for his clients and community His exceptional accomplishments and heartfelt approach make him a true asset to Northwestern Mutual and everyone he works with.
BACKTO SCHOOL BLISS
TIPS FOR SMOOTH WEEKDAYS WITH GRADE AND MIDDLE SCHOOL KIDS
"Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today."
– Malcolm X h, back-to-school season! The excitement of new backpacks, the smell of freshly sharpened pencils, and the hustle of busy mornings To keep the school year running smoothly, here are some friendly tips that can make weekdays a breeze for families with grade and middle school children.
First things first, establish a routine. Consistent wake-up, homework, and bedtime schedules are like magic wands for a stress-free day And speaking of mornings, why not prepare the night before? Lay out clothes, pack lunches, and organize school bags in the evening to dodge the morning chaos
A dedicated homework station is a gamechanger. Pick a quiet, well-lit area stocked with all necessary supplies to help your kids focus Planning meals ahead and involving the kids in packing their lunches ensures everyone gets balanced nutrition
A family calendar is your best friend. Keep track of school events, assignments, and activities to stay on top of everything.
While screens are inevitable, limit screen time to balance fun and study. Encourage a daily reading habit to foster a love for learning Regular communication with your kids about their day and setting up a drop zone for school bags and jackets can keep things organized
Finally, prioritize sleep with consistent bedtime routines to ensure your children are well-rested and ready to take on the day
With these simple tips, your back-to-school weekdays can be smooth sailing. Happy school year!
PREP TIME: 10 MINS
COOK TIME: 15 MINS
TOTAL TIME: 25 MINS
SERVINGS: 4 SERVINGS
INGREDIENTS
5 tablespoons olive oil, divided
(2) 8 oz packages fresh cheese tortellini
1 teaspoon kosher salt
2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1 1/2 cups water
3 oz baby kale or spinach
1 cup finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese, plus more for serving
Cook the Tortellini:
Sear the Tortellini:
Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a 12-inch cast iron skillet over medium heat until shimmering Add the tortellini in an even layer Cook, tossing occasionally, until nicely browned in spots, 2 to 4 minutes.
Add the water, kosher salt, and black pepper Stir with a wooden spoon to combine, scraping up browned bits from the bottom of the pan Cover with a lid or baking sheet and cook, stirring and scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan occasionally, until the pasta is tender and glossy and almost all of the water has evaporated, 3 to 5 minutes.
Stir in the Greens and Cheese:
Remove from the heat and stir in the greens, handfuls at a time, until just wilted, about 2 minutes Stir in the grated cheese and the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Serve garnished with additional grated cheese and freshly ground black pepper.
elcome Alexandria Spinelli, the visionary behind Magical Charcuterie, to the vibrant community of Lake Nona! Currently offering exquisite charcuterie boards through online orders, Alexandria’s story is one of resilience and creativity.
Amid the challenge of a furlough from the theme park that once held her dreams, she found a silver lining In a moment of reflection, alongside her mother a wellspring of creativity and innovation they envisioned a service both unique and unprecedented
It was a time ripe with possibility, leading to the birth of Magical Charcuterie
This venture marries Alexandria's passion for creativity with the technical prowess of her partner and the elegant design sensibilities of her mother. Together, they’ve woven a tapestry of luxury and artistry, dedicated to bringing you an experience as enchanting as it is exclusive
As their brick-and-mortar store nears completion, the excitement builds for what promises to be a truly magical addition to Lake Nona Welcome to a world where every board tells a story, and every bite is a celebration!
Back-to-School
s summer winds down and the school bells ring once more, it's time to think about more than just new notebooks and backpacks Back-to-school season is also a perfect opportunity to refocus on healthy eating habits A nutritious diet is essential for students to excel academically and maintain their energy throughout the day
Why Healthy Eating Matters
Kids need the right fuel to power their brains and bodies A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins supports cognitive function, boosts concentration, and stabilizes energy levels. Good nutrition also strengthens the immune system, helping kids fend off the inevitable school-year germs
Tips for Stress-Free Healthy Eating
Transitioning back to the school routine can be hectic, but with a bit of planning, you can ensure your kids eat well without adding to your stress
Here are some tips to help:
1. Plan Ahead: Take some time each weekend to plan meals and snacks for the week. Preparing a menu can save you from the last-minute scramble and help you make healthier choices.
2. Make Breakfast a Priority: A healthy breakfast sets the tone for the day. Include a mix of protein, fiber, and healthy fats to keep kids full and focused until lunchtime. Think yogurt with fruit, whole-grain toast with avocado, or a smoothie packed with spinach and berries
3. Pack Smart Lunches: When packing lunches, aim for a balance of nutrients. Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and a source of protein Bento boxes are great for providing variety and making meals visually appealing.
4. Healthy Snacking: Keep a stash of healthy snacks handy for after-school hunger pangs Nuts, cheese sticks, hummus with veggies, and fresh fruit are all excellent choices.
5. Stay Hydrated: Don’t forget the importance of water. Encourage your kids to drink water throughout the day to stay hydrated and focused
6. Lead by Example: Children learn by watching their parents If you prioritize healthy eating, they’re more likely to do the same.
Healthy eating doesn't have to be a chore With a little planning and creativity, you can provide your kids with the nutrition they need to thrive academically and physically Here's to a successful and healthy school year!
