High School Sophomores Win International Haiku Contest

On Saturday, June 8, high school sophomores Bobby Menges and Jamie Silk were honored at an awards assembly at the United Nations International School (UNIS) for their winning entries in the 2013 Student Haiku Contest, jointly sponsored by the Permanent Mission of Japan to the United Nations, the Northeast Council of Teachers of Japanese and the English and Japanese Departments of the United Nations International School.

Their Spanish teacher, Marie Nuzzi, who has an interest in the Japanese language and culture, sponsored them in the competition. This was the second consecutive year Ms. Nuzzi had students’ works selected as winners.

This year’s contest received 1,000 entries from schools both nationally and abroad. Of these poems, a total of 99 were chosen in English and Japanese for special recognition to be displayed at the United Nations International School. Bobby was honored further with second place in the English High School Division and Jamie received honorable mention in the same category.

“This is a tremendous honor for Bobby and Jamie, and they should feel very proud of their accomplishment!” Ms. Nuzzi said. “To be selected from so many entries is quite significant.”

The ceremony began with a musical performance by Masayo Ishigure, world renowned musician, on the koto, a traditional Japanese instrument, followed by a few words from Ambassador Yamasaki, Permanent Mission of Japan to the United Nations. Shortly afterwards, prizes were awarded, and the winners came forward to read their original haiku. At the end of the celebration, participants and guests were treated to refreshments, which included a variety of sushi and Japanese tea. 

All winning poems were on display at the United Nations International School June 7-12.

Submitted by the Garden City School District