JIQ Boys Journal #22
This year’s Chanukah Chagiga at JIQ Boys’ Middle and High School lit up more than just the menorah—it sparked joy, ruach, and a deep sense of unity among students and staff alike. From the first moments of morning learning to the final song before Mincha, the day was a celebration of Torah, friendship, and the eternal light of Jewish pride.
A Festival of Learning and Celebration
The morning began with powerful learning sessions, reminding the boys that the miracle of Chanukah begins with Torah. After immersing in words of Torah, it was time to move into the joy of celebration—and JIQ certainly delivered!
The lunch spread was nothing short of delicious: piping hot pizza, crispy fries, golden mozzarella sticks, fluffy garlic knots, crunchy onion rings, and refreshing drinks brought the whole school together in true Chanukah spirit. As the music turned up, so did the energy in the room.
Enter DJ Yair Khafizov and Shlomo Mash, whose live performance had the crowd on their feet and dancing with all their might. The ruach was electric as the entire school danced together in circles, with the 12th grade leading the way and infusing the room with unparalleled excitement. Their energy set the tone and transformed the space into a true chagiga.
Games, Winners, and Surprises
After the dancing, it was time to put some guessing skills to the test. The school had set up a “Guess How Many Dreidels in the Jar” game—and the lucky winner was 12th-grader Idan Akbashev, who walked away with the prize and a big smile.
Next up was the beloved “Friends Game,” where students were paired and quizzed on how well they knew their classmates. Every grade participated, but it was the 9th grade who secured the win thanks to the dynamic duo of Eliezer Ilyayev and Yisroel Meir Samechov. The crowd cheered as friendships were tested—and celebrated.
No JIQ event is complete without raffles, and this Chagiga didn’t disappoint. The school raffled off Chanukah gifts and in-class perks, bringing an added layer of excitement and surprise to the already action-packed day.
Before heading off to start Chanukah break, the boys received fresh sufganiyot, davened Mincha together, and left with both full hearts and full bellies.
Bringing the Light to the Community: Senior Carnival at BJCC
The celebration didn’t stop there. On Sunday, the 12th grade extended the simcha to the entire community by hosting a Chanukah Carnival at the Bukharian Jewish Community Center. With booths, games, and fun for the whole family, the seniors created an atmosphere of joy and inclusion, welcoming friends, siblings, and parents for an afternoon of festivities. The booths were creative, interactive, and full of prizes and laughter, all run by the seniors with a sense of responsibility and warmth.
This event was not only a hit with the children and families who attended—it was a tremendous Kiddush Hashem, as our boys stepped up as leaders, hosts, and ambassadors of joy.
A Special Thank You
A celebration of this scale doesn’t happen without dedication behind the scenes. A heartfelt thank you goes out to:
● Rabbi Niazoff, for his vision and leadership
● Mrs. Sassoon, for her tireless effort in organizing
● Mrs. Babaev and Mrs. Herskowitz, the amazing secretaries whose behind-the-scenes work helped everything run smoothly
Because of their hard work, the entire school enjoyed a day of simcha, unity, and lasting memories.
Sponsorship opportunities are available, and Maaser money can be used.
Please call 718-480-0900 or email office@jiqboys.org for more information.
Moshe Tuvia Ailyarov