(Courtesy of Troop 226) Teaneck’s Boy Scout Troop 226, Bergen County’s only Shomer Shabbat boy scout troop, has resumed activities this fall, after suspending meetings and events last spring due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Troop meetings have resumed, with scouts and scout leaders adhering to strict health guidelines, including meeting outdoors, wearing masks and maintaining sufficient social distance. The troop also offers online remote access to its meetings for scouts.

In mid-September, the scouts conducted their annual pre-Rosh Hashanah cleanup of the Jewish Center’s graves at the Cedar Park-Beth El Cemetery in Paramus, which are not otherwise maintained. The annual service project is conducted during this time of the year, when it is traditional for family members to visit the graves of their departed loved ones.

This year, the team trimming the vegetation was led by Scoutmaster Daniel Chazin and Committee Chair Emeritus Hal Dorfman, along with Reuben Sarett and Shimon Oppenheim. Scouts Asher Cooper, Yona Sarett and Senior Patrol Leader Benny Oppenheim participated in the service project.

The scouts have conducted weekly Wednesday night meetings, learning and practicing scouting skills, working on completing Merit Badge requirements and planning upcoming activities, such as a Chol Hamoed hike and a riverbank cleanup.

Boy Scouts Troop 226 seeks to instill self-confidence in young men ages 11 to 17 by building character, teaching lifelong skills and fostering independence, utilizing fun outdoor activities and community service in a Shomer Shabbat environment.

For more information about participating in the troop’s activities, contact Scoutmaster Daniel Chazin, [email protected], 201-835-5338.