Appendix E-J

Che-ch-ch-ch-check check it out.

It is exciting to finally be able to tell you this with all certainty and without breaking any rules.

Barista competitions are fascinating things. Think Iron Chef but with coffee, and with just 15 minutes to prepare a 3-course beverage spread for four judges: an espresso, a cappuccino, and a signature beverage. At the event in Chicago last year, we saw signature beverages made with blue cheese, rootbeer, fresh squeezed grapefruit juice, caramelized bananas, and lots of heavy cream. It’s quite a nice time.

This year, the national competition will be held April 15-18 in Anaheim, CA. Leading up to that event are the regional competitions. Colorado baristas participate in the Mountain Regional. This year, that event makes its way our way.

This has us giddy. We’d really like you to be giddy, too…though we understand if you are not. BUT, you should check it out. A lot of Everyday Joe’s folks will be there volunteering and watching and oohing and ahhing. If you need some convincing, watch last year’s national championship winning performance below. Then look forward to watching some nice hearts being poured over Valentine’s Day weekend.

View on Vimeo.

Popularity: 2% [?]

You might remember last year when Intelligentsia’s Kyle Glanville won the US Barista Championship. It was exciting news, mainly because we brew the beans roasted by Intelligentsia and we stand behind everything they are doing to straighten out the coffee industry.

This weekend, the 2009 USBC will take place in Portland, OR…and Intelligentsia will again be well represented. By my count, our favorite roaster will be sending 5 baristas to the competition — including reigning Western Regional Champion Nick Griffith. Mr. Griffith happens to be our sales rep, so we are rooting for him loudly from Fort Collins. Maybe not loudly out loud, but definitely loudly in our hearts. Here is a picture of him holding a trophy and smiling largely:

The fellows to his left & right are Devin Pedde and Ryan Wilbur – also Intelli baristas and concluded the top 3 sweep at the WRBC. They are pleased to meet you. All three will compete at the USBC.

You can watch live coverage of this weekend’s fierce dueling beginning at 9:15 am Portland time on March 5 by clicking here.
Further:

• 2009 USBC Official Site
• Watch the 2009 USBC

Popularity: 22% [?]