First
Trenice Cannon

summer is happy
relaxing in the warm sun
being off at school

Second
Rowan Everly

parties into the night
fireworks explode in darkness
celebrations – loud

Third
Estefhana Marocec

zoo in the summer
flowers blooming in summer
cooling in the pool

Honorable Mention

Jala Poke

I saw cars pass by
The cool breeze blew through my hair
Bike riding is fun

Honorable Mention
Jennifer Lopez

New panda is born
Many animals to see
Monkeys are smart

JUDGE’S REMARKS:

As part of the judging process, I looked not only for the spirit of this year’s theme but for the spirit of haiku as well.  Originality was also a prized element.  Congratulations to the winners and to all the contestants for sharing their work and connecting with other poets and readers through haiku.  — Ferris Gilli