JIQ BOYS’ JOURNAL #28
The past few weeks at JIQ Boys’ Middle and High School have been filled with unforgettable experiences, meaningful growth, and tremendous school pride. From an inspiring and adventurous senior trip to Curaçao to a competitive and respectful chess tournament against Yeshiva Shaarei Tzion, the boys of JIQ once again demonstrated the values of friendship, sportsmanship, Torah, and unity that define the school community.
SENIOR TRIP TO CURAÇAO:A JOURNEY OF BROTHERHOOD AND GROWTH
For the graduating seniors, this year’s senior trip was far more than just a vacation—it was an experience filled with adventure, connection, and lifelong memories. Accompanied by dedicated staff members and mentors, the boys traveled to the beautiful island of Curaçao for several days of exploration, relaxation, and meaningful bonding.
The trip was carefully coordinated and organized by Mr. Inoyatov, whose tireless work ensured that every logistical detail—from rentals and transportation to activities and meals—ran smoothly throughout the journey. Alongside him was Rabbi Vaknin, who made sure the trip remained spiritually uplifting and grounded in Torah values, helping the boys strengthen not only their friendships, but also their connection to Hashem.
Additionally, Mr. A and Zevulun Isakharov played an important role in supervising and ensuring the safety of the group throughout the trip, while also helping with transportation and day-to-day logistics.
The journey began early in the morning, as the boys gathered at JFK Airport at 5:30 AM. Before boarding their flight, the group came together for an early Shacharit, setting a meaningful tone for the days ahead. Afterward, the seniors boarded their plane and embarked on a five-hour flight to the Caribbean island.
Upon arriving in Curaçao, the group picked up four rental cars and headed to a local supermarket to stock up on supplies for the week. Once settled into their home, the boys unpacked, relaxed by the pool, and enjoyed an incredible barbecue prepared by Mr. Inoyatov, whose cooking quickly became one of the highlights of the trip.
Over the following days, the seniors participated in a wide variety of unforgettable activities. The boys visited the oldest synagogue in Curaçao, founded in 1732, gaining a deeper appreciation for Jewish history and the strength of Jewish communities around the world. They also explored the city on electric bikes, riding through the beautiful streets and taking in the island atmosphere together.
One of the standout experiences of the trip was a private boat excursion to a breathtaking island, where the boys enjoyed the ocean, relaxed together, and appreciated the beauty of Hashem’s world. Throughout every activity, the seniors strengthened their friendships with one another and deepened their relationships with their Rebbeim and chaperones.
More importantly, the trip served as an opportunity for the boys to reflect on their years together at JIQ and to continue growing spiritually and emotionally before entering the next stage of their lives.
Toward the conclusion of the trip, the boys gathered together by the ocean for a beautiful group photograph—capturing a moment that symbolized not only an incredible trip, but years of brotherhood, growth, and memories that will stay with them for a lifetime.
JIQ KNIGHTS FACE OFF AGAINST YESHIVA SHAAREI TZION
Back in New York, another group of JIQ students proudly represented the school—this time on the chessboard.
The 7th and 8th Grade JIQ Knights Chess Team traveled to compete against Yeshiva Shaarei Tzion in an exciting and highly competitive tournament. Representing JIQ were:
• DANIEL ARONOV (8TH GRADE)
• ELIYAHU ILYABAYEV (8TH GRADE)
• YOSEF AMINOV (7TH GRADE)
• AVIEL KHANIMOV (7TH GRADE)
• AHARON KOYENOV (7TH GRADE)
• BENJAMIN KHAIMOV (7TH GRADE)
• AHARON BABAKHANOV (7TH GRADE)
The team was led by Coach Alan Gavrielov, alongside assistant coach Mr. A, both of whom guided and encouraged the students throughout the tournament.
Before the matches began, the boys joined together with some of the Shaarei Tzion students for a meaningful Mincha, demonstrating unity and mutual respect between the schools. Following davening, the players met Mr. Malayev, coach of the Shaarei Tzion chess team, who reviewed the rules and explained the matchups for the day.
Throughout the tournament, the JIQ boys competed with intelligence, focus, and remarkable composure. More importantly, they displayed outstanding sportsmanship and derech eretz (good manners), making a tremendous Kiddush Hashem both during and after the games.
At the end of the competition, Yeshiva Shaarei Tzion secured the first-place team victory. Individually, however, JIQ students earned impressive finishes:
• SECOND PLACE — BINYOMIN KHAIMOV
• THIRD PLACE (TIE) — DANIEL ARONOV AND AHARON BABAKHANOV
In addition to the tournament itself, the boys enjoyed pizza and snacks, and each participant left with a special goodie bag filled with chess memorabilia to commemorate the event.
The tournament showcased not only the students’ strategic thinking and preparation, but also the values of respect, discipline, and camaraderie that JIQ strives to instill in every student.
Whether traveling across the world together or competing thoughtfully across a chessboard, the boys of JIQ continue to grow into young men who proudly represent their school, their Torah values, and their community with dignity and enthusiasm.
Sponsorship opportunities are available, and Maaser money can be used.
Please call 718-480-0900 or email office@jiqboys.org for more information.
By Moshe Tuvia Ailyarov