I am still decompressing from a few days at SCAA as a guest. The sheer amount of coffee related information and machines was almost overwhelming. In no possible way could I have been able to see and personally prioritize all that was happening in only one day.
My greatest respect and thanks to all the folks who made this show possible. That includes the City of Minneapolis for excellent parking very near to the convention, a large clean show floor, and very courteous help at all levels.
The SCAA board made pre-registration and badge pick up a cinch! The folks doing the set up and judging at the National Barista Championships did an outstanding job! Here are a couple of shots backstage where the competitors spent many hours practicing and perfecting.


Thanks also to the many machine suppliers for showcasing the competing Baristas at their machines during the show.
Cheers
Richard / espressme
PS It was nice to have put faces to some of you fellow H-B'ers.

The interesting thing for me was watching the Barista Championships online where the Anfim grinder baristas skipped distribution altogether. I had read this on the Gimme blog and indeed noticed it at some local cafes that have Anfims, but it was still surprising to see it being done at this level.

Ah, but there was dissent saying that the modified Robur was the better choice.

The gathering in Minneapolis was a load of fun and lots of work for me as well. Never enough time to wear all the hats I would like to. But for what it's worth, I have posted my personal report on my website. It's Chapter 96 on the bloggy (left) side of the site.

Hi Randy - it was a real pleasure meeting you!

BobS wrote:Ah, but there was dissent saying that the modified Robur was the better choice.

Nope.