Baristas from the surrounding states of Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio, will converge to take part in a competition designed to encourage and recognize the art of espresso preparation and service. Competitors will serve up to 12 drinks in a 15-minute period in front of a panel of seven judges. Four espressos, four cappuccinos and four beverages of their own creations will be critiqued. Judges will evaluate each Barista on their technical skill; the flavor and quality of their espresso; the taste, creativity and appearance of their drinks, and on their presentation/customer service skills. The winner will automatically advance to the Semi-Finals Round at the United States Barista Championship held in Portland, Ore., in March 2009.

The Competition is a free event will be held at Navy Pier in Chicago, Illinois on Friday, February 20 through Sunday, February 22 and is open to the public. For more information on the event and registration for those wishing to compete, please visit www.coffeemasters.com and click on the GLBC logo.

Coffee Masters, Inc., a leading Midwest specialty coffee roaster and wholesaler in Spring Grove, IL, will be hosting the Championship in during the Coffee Fest Chicago Trade Show. This event is presented by the Specialty Coffee Association of America, the industry's trade group, which coordinates 10 such regional events throughout the country, as well as a national competition every year.