Entry by Rhodina B. Cena and Muhammad Junaid

Last April 27-29, 2009, together with Tracey Duffey, Rhodina B. Cena and Muhammad Junaid participated in the Pennsylvania Manufacturing Confectioners’ Association 63rd Annual Production Conference at the Hershey Lodge and Convention Center in Hershey, Pennsylvania.

During the conference, we were able to meet several member companies, including confectionery manufacturers, suppliers, equipment manufacturers, and industry service organizations worldwide. The conference also featured a comprehensive half-day supplier exhibition from manufacturers and suppliers from different countries.

The PMCA also organized a Student Outreach Program (SOP) led by committee chair, Barry Glazier where each student was assigned with a conference mentor. Rhodina’s mentor was Steve Genzoli of Ghirardelli Chocolate Company while Muhammad’s mentor was Judy Cooley of Hershey Company. We were much honored this year because the number of students has grown from 10 to 28 students representing 12 Domestic Universities and 2 International Universities (Rhodina B. Cena from the University of Southern Mindanao, Philippines and Muhammad Junaid from the University of Hassanudin, Indonesia). We also joined the exciting tour at the Warrell Corporation in Camp Hill, Pennsylvania where a lecture was given prior to visiting the plant.

A farewell get together party was also organized by the SOP committee to give us chance to say good-bye to one another and for us to say thank you for our participation. We also visited the Hershey Story Museum where we learned more about the man behind the chocolate bar and saw the exciting interactive exhibits and hands-on activities.

Before Rhodina returned to Tifton, Georgia, the World Cocoa Foundation (WCF) organized a visit to USDA-ARS Beltsville, Maryland. Rhodina and Muhammad made a presentation about their work in their home country to the USDA-ARS Beltsville Scientists and USDA Borlaug Staff. Afterwards, we went on a tour of the different laboratories. Rhodina also had the chance to meet and interact with Dr. Fernando Vega, an entomologist and other scientists involved in Muhammad Junaid's fellowship training.

Finally, on May 5, we made our final presentation concerning our fellowship training at the USDA in Washington D.C.. The Norman Borlaug Office and the USDA staff, Tracey Duffey as the World Cocao Foundation Program Director for Southeast Asia and Africa, the Agricultural Attaché and Offy Ismojo from the Embassy of Indonesia were there to listen.

They were very happy about our accomplishments so far and subsequently, awarding of certificates was given by Marianne McElroy. We concluded this day with a radio interview with Susan Carter that was broadcasted on the USDA radio station.