Message from Councilwoman Elizabeth Stamler | February 20, 2026
With just over a week left in February, there’s still plenty happening in Scotch Plains before we flip our calendars to March. I’d like to share a few upcoming events hosted by key partners in our community and hope you can get involved.
First, the JCC of Central New Jersey, at 1391 Martine Ave., will host a Special Needs Resource Fair this Sunday, February 22. This free event begins at 10 a.m. and is designed for parents, families, caregivers, individuals with disabilities, advocates and professionals to connect with 90 organizations and vendors who serve and support the disability community.
Scotch Plains is built on a strong sense of community, where residents know they can turn to one another for support. This annual fair embodies that spirit, ensuring people can easily access vital resources and opportunities in one welcoming space.
Attendees will learn about the many innovative resources available in the areas of education, recreation, professional services, accessibility, and social services. This resource fair is where attendees can learn about assistive technologies, therapeutic resources, social programs and other aids that can enhance daily life.
Exhibitors come from all areas, including ABA Therapy, Financial Planning, Respite Services, Specialized Travel, Day and Sleepaway Camps and Supported Employment. And there is so much more for those seeking resources.
The JCC is committed to making the event accessible to all and will provide specific accommodations upon request, if possible. Learn more by contacting Jamie Frank at
I encourage you to spread the word to anyone who may benefit. If you plan to attend, please be sure to pre-register here.
I also want to highlight the 16th-annual Scotch Plains Volunteer Rescue Squad Pancake Breakfast, taking place Sunday morning as well. For just $8, you can enjoy a delicious meal while supporting some of our town’s true heroes — the men and women who respond to emergency calls around the clock, 24/7.
The squad has more than 90 volunteers with more than 800 combined years of service to our community. Squad leaders estimate that they have responded to more than 85,000 emergency calls since the operation was launched in 1937.
We are incredibly grateful for the all-volunteer squad, which continues to serve selflessly without asking for anything in return. The pancake breakfast will be held at 1916 Bartle Ave., with the first flapjack flipped at 8 a.m.
Can’t make the breakfast but want to help out? Donations are accepted here.
Finally, you won’t want to miss Shady Rest Country Club’s “Rhythm & Roots” night on Saturday, February 28. This tribute to Black History Month promises an evening of celebration, featuring performances by JB & the JB Blues Band, The Glenn & Oria Band and DJ E Smooth.
In addition to the live entertainment, a buffet dinner will begin at 6:30 p.m., followed by music at 8 p.m. The venue could not be more fitting to mark Black History Month. Shady Rest is listed in both the state and national registers of historic places, recognizing its significance as the first country club in America for African Americans.
All proceeds from the evening will benefit the non-profit Preserve Shady Rest Inc., which raises money to support the historical country club. Be sure to secure your tickets here.
As we continue to weather these cold winter days, there is no better way to bring warmth into the season than by enjoying these meaningful, informative and fun events in our community.
