What is your position in the coffee industry?

barista, coffee shop owner, home barista, coffee enthusiast

Where are you located? ( City and Country )

Portland, Oregon

How many years have you been in the industry?

1

If you are a barista or shop, are you interested in a barista exchange with another coffee shop/barista?

maybe

Tell us more about your coffee shop or barista skills.

My coffee shop is a small operation in a converted house in NE Portland (70th & Glisan). I bought an existing business and moved it. I would say I may be an intermediate level barista; I have an expert on my staff, who is also my manager. I am in search of a second experienced barista, part time. Also want a La Marzocco 2 group soon, and grinders, etc.

What cities or countries are you interested in traveling to?

I have been to Russia, Nepal, Central America, Alaska and the Arctic - I want to see more of Asia, also most other continents.

About Me:

I am a natural resources professional and aquatic ecologist, got crazy and bought a closed coffee shop that was a favorite place of mine. I am a long time coffee enthusiast, and home barista. Have lots to learn though and welcome feedback.

About My Company:

My coffee house - Touchstone Coffee & Tea House is a community/neighborhood space - and all about connecting people who want to make a difference in their world and community. Like many Portland businesses, I am shifting my menu and products toward "green" - seeking to reduce our footprint and impact on the environment.

What is your favorite thing about the coffee industry?

Well coffee of course, but more than anything, how coffee is a "medium" of sorts, to bring people together. Coffee shops are wonderful spaces where people love, live and experience community and acceptance.

Website:

http://touchstonecoffeehouse.com