Video Podcast

Well, this one has the whole video, but it is of lesser quality.

Untitled from Leslie Ruckman on Vimeo.

video podcast

Portland coffee stops:Coffeehouse Northwest

Now for the best coffee shop EVER! Carla and I were recommended this place by tons of people and we instantly fell in love. We chatted it up with the baristas who were amazed we drove all the way up to Portland. They hooked us up with free espressos which was super nice.

















Our drinks were excellent, and I also had to get a hot chocolate which was AMAZING. They said they are known more for their hot chocolate than their great coffee. They explained to me why it was so special, something about a famous chocolateer, seasalt, and cream or something. But is was AMAZING!!! Definitely the best in Portland for their delicious coffee, a fabulous hot chocolate, and great hospitality. :)

Portland coffee stops:The Fresh Pot

Anyone who's been to Portland must know of the famous Powell's bookstore. Well, The Fresh Pot is a little coffee spot plopped inside one of the few Powell's. One of their baristas, Alex Pond, won the Northwest Regional Barista Competition and went on to compete in the United States championship that weekend.













This place is closer to the top of my list when it comes to quality. Not only is it connected to a cute little bookstore; they use pretty green cups, AND make the drinks delicious. And, you guessed it, they use Stumptown.

I took this opportunity to buy some coffee to take back home (and I just have to say that Stumptown has the coolest packaging for their whole beans).










Another great stop, but still
more ahead!

Portland coffee stops:Crema

Our next stop was to a garage that got turned into a cafe: Crema.
(No, not the same Crema that is on the Alameda.)

The good:
Cozy, open, and clean.
Filled with people SOCIALIZING
rather than being stuck on their computers. :)
Stumptown coffee.
A massive 4-group La Marzocco.

The bad:
The cups were bigger than average.
The coffee just plain sucks.

Usually I can drink something to be polite, but I really just couldn't, even with a larger than normal macchiato and cappuccino. It was bitter, scorching hot, and the milk was bubbly.


On the upside, it was around time for lunch and I was craving soup which they happened to serve here. Now that was good. I guess this place just focuses more on their food and bakery items.

E-Portfolio

Over the course of the semester, I've done some cool things in my MCOM 63 class (like this blog). I want to share them with you, so just click below.

• My banner this blog.
• My graduation brochure.
• My coffee house website.

I learned a bunch, but definitely still need some work. :p