scaa charlotte and usbc (ryanj's take)

So this is kind of a late update, but it's taken a long time to both process everything that went down in Charlotte and get back into the swing of things back home.

We had two fine competitors in the United States Barista Competition, placing 27th and 32nd in an amazing field of baristas. RyanG and Katie poured their hearts out and made us all proud with their dedication and professionalism. Behind the scenes, Katie got to high-five her "ultimate high-five", eventual USBC champion, Matt Riddle from Chicago, IL, and Ryan got to hob-nob with coffee luminaries Mark Inman (Taylor Maid Farms Organic) and Andy Schecter. Mandy also got her ultimate high-five, Jeff Taylor of PT's Coffee, and was the best station maintenance-r at the whole competition.

RyanJ and Aaron spent the weekend judging the USBC and meeting some of the coolest folks in the industry from Ritual Coffee Roasters in San Francisco, Stumptown in Portland, and enjoying some good times as always with the Counter Culture posse.

Nick enjoyed another schmooze-fest, podcasting like crazy and emceeing the USBC, shaking hands and kissing babies with the best of them.

All in all, an amazing competition, an amazing show floor (clover!!), and amazing peoples. Thanks for hosting a great party, SCAA!