As you have no doubt heard, on March 11, 2011, an 8.9 earthquake struck right off the coast of Japan. The destruction from not only the earthquake itself, but the resulting tsunami that followed has just been incredible. In an effort to help those in their hour of direst need, we're going to do what we do best...make great coffee!

So, for a $15 donation to the American Red Cross, you can enter one throwdown or the other, but for just $5 more, you can enter BOTH! $20 for both throwndowns? Gettouttahere!

The throwdown format of this event will be twofold: 

1) a head to head latte art throwdown. You know the deal: one shot of espresso (BIG thanks to Benetti's Coffee Experience for donating the espresso), one pitcher and one pour. Better make it pretty (and tasty)!

2) Simultaneously, a Brewer's Cup style competition with round one being prepared using A) a secret coffee provided by PT's Coffee Roasting Co. and B) whatever brewing apparatus that you bring with you, so long at you can brew 3 cups in 7 minutes. Beehive drippers and paper filters will be available to use on site if you do not have your own manual brewer. THE FINALS ROUND WILL USE COFFEE THAT YOU BRING YOURSELF. If your brewer makes coffee, you can use it to brew with! Anything goes! If you are not familiar with the Brewer's Cup format and want a fuller explanation, a link to the 2 minute video is posted below or visit here:http://bit.ly/ftmdLIv 

As a special twist to this event, the preparing barista can opt to auction off their drink to the highest bidder! I mean, why dump all that expert goodness down the drain when we're trying to raise some cash?

Participation is open to all and spectators are welcome. Invite your customers! Bring your mother! Invite your whole friend list! Draw straws with your co-workers to see which poor schumck has to close the cafe while everyone else goes to the throwdown!