Pennsylvania College of Technology students will compete for prizes in the fourth CalJava Wedding Cake Competition, designed by a world-renowned cake decorator for students enrolled in the college's baking and pastry arts classes.
Following judging, the students' three-tiered cakes will be displayed for the public 1-3 p.m. March 5 and 10 a.m.-2 p.m. March 6 in the Mountain Laurel Room, Thompson Professional Development Center.
The cake competition is sponsored by CalJava International, a manufacturer of ready-to-use gum-paste decorations, and was conceived by CalJava founder and owner Daniel Budiman after two visits to Penn College's campus to work with students. His intent was to encourage the students to pursue their creativity and further develop their blossoming skills.
"This cake competition gives the students an opportunity to practice and perfect the various techniques they learn throughout the advanced decorating course," said Sue L. Major, assistant professor of hospitality management/culinary arts. "The students have so much creativity and talent. Students learn to look at fabrics, textures, colors, architecture and paintings for ideas to incorporate unique elements into their cakes. Today's customers and brides are looking for cakes that use these unique elements and style."
Eight students enrolled in an advanced cake decorating course taught by Major will compete for four prizes by designing three-tiered wedding cakes inspired by wedding wrapping paper.
Grand prize is a trip to California to attend a class of the winner's choice at CalJava International's School of Cake Decorating and Sugarcrafts. The prize, worth at least $2,000, includes airfare and accommodations. CalJava is also sponsoring prizes for first-, second- and third-place winners of $250, $150 and $100.
"This year's competition will prove to be at an unprecedented level because of the talent and dedication the students have to accomplishing their goals," Major said.
Those who visit the display may donate cash to cast votes for the People's Choice Award winner. The money will be given to the Williamsport YWCA's Liberty House, which provides rooms for homeless women (and women with children) and programs to assist them in becoming self-sufficient.
For more information about CalJava International, visit online .
To learn more about the academic programs offered by the School of Hospitality at Penn College, visit on the Web , e-mail or call (570) 327-4505. For more information about Penn College, visit online , e-mail or call (800) 367-9222.