(Courtesy of Troop 226) On September 20, Boy Scouts of Troop 226, chartered to the Jewish Center of Teaneck, participated in their annual cleanup at Cedar Park/Beth El Cemeteries in Paramus. As they have for many years, Scouts of Troop 226 mowed and trimmed the overgrowth at the four Jewish Center of Teaneck plots, combining the Scouting slogan of “Do a good turn daily” with the Jewish tradition of gemilut chesed.

Many families pay for the cemetery to trim the vegetation surrounding the graves of their loved ones, yet for various reasons some do not, explained Scoutmaster Daniel Chazin. Over the course of the year, these graves become overgrown and can affect the appearance of the entire plot. Since it is a Jewish custom to visit the graves of parents and loved ones at this time of year, it is particularly important that the plots be beautified.

This year, the cleanup crew was led by Scoutmaster Daniel Chazin, Assistant Scoutmaster Joe Rosenfeld, Committee Chair Shimon Oppenheim, and David Goldman. Scouts Mason and Josh Rosenfeld, Judah Goldman and Manny Oppenheim also participated in this service project. Troop 226 is pleased to help ensure that the graves of departed members and loved ones of its chartered institution, the Jewish Center of Teaneck, are kept in good condition.

Shomer Shabbat Troop 226 aims to instill independence and responsibility in young men through hikes, camping trips and other outdoor activities. Scouts ages 11 to 17 meet Wednesday nights (except for holidays) from 7:30 to 9 p.m. at the Jewish Center of Teaneck, with outdoor activities taking place most weekends. For more information, contact Daniel Chazin at [email protected], 201-835-5338 or via Facebook at www.facebook.com/NJTroop226.