KONA, HAWAII’S BIG ISLAND (March 10, 2010) – Preparations are underway for the 15th Annual Hawaii Coffee Association Conference and State Coffee Cupping Competition July 15-18 at the Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa on Hawaii’s Big Island.
Conference highlights will include noted guest speakers discussing relevant topics to the industry, offerings of select farm and mill tours in the Kona coffee belt, and the highly anticipated second annual State Coffee Cupping Competition.
“The conference is very well received by the industry, and the cupping competition is gaining tremendous momentum with the farmers and amongst mainland cuppers. The venue is truly an education on the distinctive qualities of Hawaii coffees. Winners receive positive exposure and so we’re anticipating a large participation this year,” stated Tom Greenwell, President, Hawaii Coffee Association.
The State Coffee Cupping Competition provides growers and consumers a better understanding of the cupping process and how to rate different coffees on various cup qualities. It also creates exposure to local and mainland markets revealing the quality and diversity of Hawaiian grown coffees. Organized by the HCA and run by Professional Cuppers – Wholesale Coffee Roasters & Brokers from the mainland USA, the second annual State Coffee Cupping Competition is open to all coffees grown 100% in the Hawaiian Islands and Certified by Origin by the Hawaii State Dept. of Agriculture.
Conference participants may register for a single day or the entire conference. To register, contact Steve Collector at 808-323-3131 or email sjcollector@msn.com or go to www.hawaiicoffeeassoc.org for more conference details.
Formed in 1996, the Hawaii Coffee Association (HCA) represents the coffee industry ‘from seed to cup’ with statewide membership including growers, processors, roasters and retailers. The Hawaii Coffee Association provides a forum for participation of discussion among industry members and opportunities to exchange ideas and information on industry issues. HCA membership is open to all Hawaii coffee industry members and supporters. To learn more, go to www.hawaiicoffeeassoc.org ####
Primary Contact: Tom Greenwell
Greenwell Farms
Phone: 808-323-2862
Secondary Contact: Jeannette Vidgen
Current Events
Phone: 808-326-7820
jvidgen@current-events.com
