It was a busy morning as business and nonprofit leaders gathered on October 15 at the Terrace Room of The Mainland in Manahawkin for the Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce Business Forecast Breakfast, an informative morning focused on economic outlooks, strategic planning, and healthcare considerations for the year ahead.

Board Officer Lori Pepenella welcomed attendees and thanked the event sponsors, presenters, and business community members for their continued support and participation. She also recognized the value of bringing together industry experts to provide timely insights that help organizations navigate changing economic conditions and growth opportunities.

Special guest Assemblyman Greg Myhre provided attendees with a legislative update and year-end review, sharing key developments impacting New Jersey businesses and communities.

The program featured presentations from leading professionals across finance, accounting, and health insurance sectors:

• Michael Marano, Financial & Portfolio Advisor with Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, discussed financial strategies and market considerations for the upcoming year, highlighting the importance of proactive planning in a changing economic environment.
• Sarah Snell, CPA, PSA, PAFM, Partner and Chief Operating Officer of Holman Frenia Allison PC, shared how organizations can leverage sound accounting practices and strategic advisory services to improve operational efficiency and strengthen business decision-making for the upcoming year.
• Megan Petrosino of Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey provided an overview of individual and group health insurance options ahead of the open enrollment season, helping employers and individuals better understand available coverage opportunities.

The Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce extends its appreciation to the event sponsors:

Presenting Sponsors

• Holman Frenia Allison PC
• Michael Marano, Merrill Lynch Wealth Management
• Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey

Breakfast Sponsor

• The Residence at Stafford

Coffee Sponsor

• Royal Fades Barbershop

Table Sponsors

• Barnegat ACE Hardware
• Bruno's Barbershop
• Drifting Sands Oceanfront Hotel
• Integrated Financial Concepts

Attendees were also encouraged to stay connected through several upcoming Southern Ocean Chamber programs designed to strengthen the regional business and nonprofit community. Mark calendars for the Non-Profit Forum on November 4, featuring discussions on AI and Google Grant opportunities; the members only Women in Business program on October 27 in partnership with the Maximillian Foundation; and the Chamber Office Holiday Open House on December 2, sponsored by The Residence at Stafford, and supporting donations for Brody's Crew Christmas Project. The Chamber also announced that 2027 sponsorship opportunities are now available, offering businesses a chance to increase visibility, support community initiatives, and engage directly with members throughout the year. Whether through event sponsorship, educational programming, or networking initiatives, now is the time to get involved and make 2027 the year your business strengthens its presence, expands its connections, and invests in the future of the Southern Ocean County business community.

For information on upcoming events and sponsorship opportunities, visit the chamber website or contact the Southern Ocean Chamber office directly 609-494-7211