For the first time since the arrival of Shluchim Rabbi Yakov and Mrs. Hana Poliwada to the small Panamanian town of Boquete in 2016, the town’s Mayor Joswar Alvarado appeared at Chabad’s yearly public menorah lighting. “This is definitely a milestone and honor in the recognition of our work in the community”, said Rabbi Poliwoda after describing the joyous event that included sing-along music, dougnuts and latkes for all. Uniquely, the menorah remains installed all year-round in the town’s central park – a standing testimony of the good will between its Jewish residents and the broader community • Photos

Among the various summer alternatives available for Bais Menachem’s Yeshivah Bochurim in Wilkes-Barre, a small, yet dedicated and creative, group decided to embark on an adventurous option – Panama • Full Story, Photos

Chabad in Panama this year devised an interactive drive-through tunnel where scenes depicted the life and times of the Rashbi and the times of when Moshiach will come in honor of Lag B’Omer, giving everyone a fun and safe way to celebrate this year • Photos

A special Lag B’Omer parade was held in Panama city with the children from the local school where they proudly paraded through the streets of the city with special signs and ‘floats’ • Photos

On the night of Pesach, Chabad hosted a Seder in Playa Venao, Panama, with the help of Ber Chaim Arcusin and Mendy Lapidus, who were sent by a Shliach in Panama City, Rabbi Mendy Karniel. The Bochurim also distributed Matzah to locals ahead of the onset of Yom Tov • Photos

Chabad in Panama City prepared local children for Pesach with educational Matzah bakeries brought to their local schools engaging them in the Mitzvah of Matzah • Photos