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Tiffany Ward
Barista, Livewire Cafe in Paia

by AS TOLD TO GABRIELLE POCCIA

April 21, 2005

Livewire is a great job for me. The schedule is perfect because I can work a full shift in the morning, be off at 11 and have the whole rest of the day to do whatever I want. Waitressing would cut too much into my schedule. Too many horror stories have given me a bit of a phobia about serving tables.



Windsurfing brought me to Maui. I am originally from Oregon but the weather conditions are not good for physical training and activity. I had to find a more permitting climate. My parents sent me on a trip to Maui for an early graduation present from culinary school in San Francisco. While visiting I met two of the top windsurfers in the world and they encouraged me to pursue a career in pro windsurfing. My eyes were filled with the glory of a world championship and I gave my notice, finished school and came right back to the island.



I like to compete and someday would like to have a championship but the best thing for me is to catch a good wave. I don’t just do ballet on the waves. During the winter it killed me because there were no waves. On the other hand, it gave me time to focus on other things like my business. I have a catering business called Exquisite Catering but I think I am going to change the title because I can never seem to spell it right. I like to make all kinds of food and just started making spinach and feta crepes for the cafe.



I have worked at Livewire for two years already and I never want to leave! The girls are great. They are the kind of people that you would pick for your friends. I feel like working at the cafe is kind of like stand-up comedy because you really make someone’s day. It really pays off.



Saying corny lines like “Thanks a latte,” or being cheeky with some of the older men gets you a dollar here and there but it adds up and you walk away with 20 extra bucks. A “woo-hoo” always helps. I am a “woo-hooer.” MTW