We’re live from Barista Nation PDX, imploring you to stop by, say hi, check out a class (full schedule below), and take a gander at this gorgeous event space. The Wonder Ballroom played host to the 2009 NWRBC regionals, and it’s decked out again today for Barista Nation. Enjoy some play time and demos on Stella di Caffe’s “Tron”-esque new Viper machine, learn about the history of Italian coffee culture with the experts at illy, and enjoy a lecture or two on milk, art, and international barista culture from Giorgio Milos.
This whole day is free! The space is gorgeous! Come visit us and sip some Monoarabica! Join us at the Wonder Ballroom (128 Northeast Russell Street) all day today until 6pm. Here’s a schedule of events:
11am – 12:30
Becoming A Virtuoso with Tim Vincent of Texas Coffee School and Ed Panzella, the Senior Manager of Quality and Technical Service at illy caffé.
Embracing Our Origins with Heidi Rasmussen, Senior Manager of Education and Quality at illy caffé and Lori Eastes, Northwest Regional Manager and West Coast National Account Manager at illy caffé.
12:30-1:30
Decoded: Using Historical Coffee Advertising To Inspire Modern Day Marketing Strategies with Kenneth R. Olson, Publisher of Barista Magazine.
Answering The Call For Sustainability, Hearing The Demand For Quality with Mark Romano, Senior Director of Education, Quality, and Sustainability at illy caffé.
BBQ Luncheon (ooh)
2:00 – 3:30
La Scienza Dell Latte: The Science Of Milk, thirty minutes of theory and demonstration from the 2008 Italian Cup Champion and Giorgio Milos, illy caffé’s Master Barista.
From Latte To Arte, sixty minutes with teams preparing latte art with Saura and Giorgio.
Barista Business Tools with Brian Cornelsen of David Rio and professional barista Heather Bradford.
Break
4:00-5:00
Fluid In Motion: Milestones In Espresso Machine Innovation with Brad Butler from Unic.
Passion Without Borders: The Art Of The Barista In Italy and America with Sauro Dall Aglio and Girogio Milos.
5:00-6:30
Competition: Create Innovation In Your Cafe with Heather Bradford.
Kick Off Party and Latte Art Throwdown, your informal springboard for an evening of various debaucheries.
