A rainy morning gave way to a bright and joyful afternoon on Sunday, September 7, as the Yeshiva of Central Queens (YCQ) community gathered for an epic Back-to-School Carnival hosted by the Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO).
The school grounds were alive with the laughter of students and the buzz of excitement. Families enjoyed a wide array of attractions, including thrilling carnival rides, engaging games, and delicious food, making for a festive atmosphere to kick off the new academic year.
A huge thank you to the entire PTO: Natalie Rakhminov, Daniela Shamayev, Sara Yunatanov, Natalie Sulaymanov, Melissa Stock, Sarah Dzhurayev, Yelena Davidov, Liel Schwartz, Aviva Reschke, and Sara Malakov.
Thank you to all the parent and faculty volunteers, including: Revital Mavashev, Yana Yagudayev, Iris Shwartz, Margie Shickman, Bracha Hacker, Shoshy Khalili, Emma Kadin, Morah Shana Weiss, Mrs. Rebecca Blum, Mrs. Jen Jaffe, and Mrs. Doreen Ambalu. The contributions of YCQ students and alumni, who dedicated their time to running booths and activities, were also highlighted as crucial to the day’s success.
Amazing raffle prizes, including gift cards and sports tickets, were also distributed to a select group of lucky winners. Thank you to the following families for the sponsorships: Emma & Arthur Daniarov, Ariel & Daniela Shamayev, Rafael & Diana Kasaev, Iris & Chanan Shwartz, Jeffrey & Natalie Sulaymanov, Sara & Jonny Yunatanov, Immanuel & Diana Babayev, Jacob & Dina Kataev, and Joanna & Ariel Pinhasov.
The carnival was made possible through the generous contributions of numerous community sponsors. The YCQ PTO extends its sincerest thanks to DJ Jordan, Seasons of Queens, Abaev Law, Mama Knows Best Pediatrics, Ornella Dance Studio, Richie Rich, Motion in Time, Ilana Pharmacy, Chameleon Event, Bayview Orthodontics, Haven Grill, Sushi Fusion, Lauren B Jewelry, Smash House, Jerusalem Bagel, PMF, Allaboutkindness, Mazal Auto, Fit by Aviva, Sculptify, Anthony Iron Works, Secure Eyes Tech, New Image, Style Glam Salon, Amerikick, A to Z Grocery, Tikvah Meat, Lielle Event, and Silver Key Realty.
The successful carnival served as a wonderful kickoff to the 2025-2026 school year, reinforcing the strong bonds between students, parents, and faculty at YCQ.
