Stomping Grounds Book Cafe

Hot weather, slow-braised beef, and a toddler who refuses to slow down.

Hi Friends!

I hope everyone is staying cool and surviving this summer heat! It was nice settling back into the café after the long Fourth of July weekend and getting back into our summer routine. The library quickly found its familiar buzz again, the café was humming along, and McKinsey continues to settle into her new role behind the counter. If you happened to stop by this week, I hope you had a chance to meet her. She’s learning quickly, mastering everything from lattes to the lunch rush, and it’s been exciting to watch her confidence grow each day.

While things were running smoothly at the café, family life had a different plan for us this week.

On Wednesday evening, Benicio took his very first trip to the emergency room. Like so many adventurous toddlers before him, he discovered that spinning and hardwood furniture don’t always make the best combination. One enthusiastic twirl ended with him meeting the corner of our nightstand forehead first, and the moment I saw it, I had a pretty good feeling we were headed for the ER.

Having earned a few stitches myself as a kid—and watching my brother do the same—I couldn’t help but think this must be some sort of family tradition. Apparently, in our family, getting acquainted with the sharp corner of a wooden piece of furniture is practically a rite of passage.

Thankfully, the incredible doctors, nurses, and staff at Intermountain Health St. Vincent Regional Hospital took wonderful care of him. Instead of stitches, they were able to close the wound with medical adhesive. The procedure itself, however, was another story. It took three nurses, a doctor, and a PA student to hold down one determined little boy who spent the entire time yelling, “Don’t touch it!” and insisting that he wanted to go home.

If I’m being honest, I think it was harder on his mother than it was on Benicio. Hearing your child cry like that—even when you know they’re in good hands—is something no parent ever gets used to. But true to form, once everything was finished, Benny dried his tears, thanked every doctor and nurse for fixing him up and checking his bones, and proudly walked out of the hospital with us just before midnight.

I’m officially putting in my request to the universe: No more hospital visits for my family for the rest of July, please.

Now that we’re settling into the second half of summer, the heat has definitely arrived. Today’s forecast is looking like a scorcher, so I have a feeling we’ll be seeking refuge at a splash pad, water park, or maybe even an arcade where the air conditioning works overtime. Once this heat wave finally eases up, I’m hoping to squeeze in a camping trip with the kids before school starts back up.

Speaking of summer winding down, my trip to bring Olivia home is officially on the calendar. I’ll keep everyone updated as we get closer, but I’ll be heading to California during the second week of August. While McKinsey has been doing an incredible job learning the ropes, I think we’ll give her just a little more time before handing her the keys and asking her to run the café solo. We’ll make sure lunches are covered, schedules are adjusted, and everyone is well fed while I’m away.

Until then, we’ve got another week of summer ahead of us, plenty of cold drinks to pour, fresh food to prepare, and a café full of friends to welcome.

Now, let’s turn the page and see what’s happening around Billings, at the Billings Public Library, and of course, what’s cooking this week at Stomping Grounds Book Café.

🌆 Community Highlights

🥕🌻 Healthy By Design Gardeners’ Market
📅 Every Thursday • June 11 – October 1, 2026 • 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
📍 South Park, Billings

One of my favorite things about summer in Billings is that fresh produce is finally making its way from our gardens to our tables, and there’s no better place to celebrate that than the Healthy By Design Gardeners’ Market at South Park. Running every Thursday from June 11 through October 1, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, the market is a wonderful opportunity to connect directly with the people growing food right here in our community.

More than just a farmers market, the Gardeners’ Market is a community gathering place. You’ll find fresh fruits and vegetables, flowers, plants, homemade foods, and handcrafted goods—all sold by the people who grow and make them. It’s a place to catch up with neighbors, support local growers, and enjoy a summer evening while making the healthy choice the easy choice. The market is also designed to keep fresh, local food affordable and accessible for everyone in our community.

As someone who loves cooking with seasonal ingredients, I can’t say enough about the difference fresh produce makes. Many of the flavors you’ll find on our café menu throughout the summer are inspired by what Montana growers are harvesting each week. If you’ve never visited the Gardeners’ Market before, I encourage you to stop by this Thursday. Fill a bag with fresh produce, meet the people behind the harvest, and enjoy one of the best parts of a Montana summer.

📚 Library Events

🦌🎨 Teen Thursday: Faux Taxidermy
📅 Thursday, July 16, 2026 • 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
📍 CO+LAB Makerspace, Billings Public Library

If you’ve been reading these newsletters for a while, you know one of my favorite things about the Billings Public Library is that it’s always finding creative ways to introduce young people to something new. This week’s Teen Thursday is one of those programs that’s guaranteed to spark some imagination—and probably a few laughs too.

Teens ages 12–18 are invited to the CO+LAB Makerspace to create their own faux taxidermy by upcycling toys, trinkets, and found objects into unique works of art. It’s a fun mix of creativity, craftsmanship, and a little quirky humor that encourages participants to see everyday objects in an entirely new way.

One of the greatest skills we can encourage in young people is creativity. Whether it’s building, painting, writing, inventing, or simply learning to think differently, creative experiences help develop problem-solving skills and confidence that last far beyond the project itself. Programs like Teen Thursday provide a welcoming space where teens can experiment, make something uniquely their own, and spend time with others who enjoy creating.

If you have a teen looking for something different this summer, this is a fantastic opportunity to spend an evening in the CO+LAB Makerspace making art, meeting new friends, and discovering just how much fun a little imagination can be. Registration is required, and don’t forget that a parent or guardian must complete a CO+LAB waiver before attending.

🍲🥗 Soup & Salad Specials

Summer is in full swing, and this week’s menu celebrates the season with fresh herbs, peak produce, and a few timeless café classics. Whether you’re looking for something cool and refreshing or a light lunch that lets summer ingredients shine, we’ve put together a menu that’s perfect for slowing down and enjoying the season.

🌿 Cream of Asparagus Soup
Fresh asparagus is gently simmered with sweet onions, garlic, herbs, and a touch of cream before being blended into a silky, velvety soup that’s rich without feeling heavy. Finished with fresh herbs, cracked black pepper, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, it’s a simple yet elegant celebration of one of the season’s finest vegetables.

Enjoy it served warm for a comforting lunch or chilled for a refreshing summer treat—it’s delicious either way.

🍑 Peach, Goat Cheese & Crispy Brussels Salad
Fresh mixed greens are topped with juicy ripe peaches, creamy goat cheese, crispy Brussels sprout leaves, toasted pecans, and ribbons of fresh basil before being finished with our house honey-lemon vinaigrette.

🥗 French Chicken Salad Plate
Our house-made chicken salad begins with tender roasted chicken breast tossed in a light dressing of Duke’s mayonnaise, creamy Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, shallots, and fresh herbs, creating a bright, refreshing chicken salad that’s both elegant and satisfying.

Served atop crisp butter lettuce with heirloom tomato wedges, fresh cucumber slices, and artisan crackers, it’s a timeless summer lunch that’s light enough for a warm afternoon yet hearty enough to keep you going.

🌟📅 This Week at SG Book Café

🥪 SG Deluxe Deli Sub

Sometimes, there’s nothing better than a really great deli sandwich.

This week we’re taking inspiration from the neighborhood delicatessens that have made the classic American sub a lunchtime favorite for generations. Our SG Deluxe Deli Sub starts with a toasted hoagie roll layered with premium Boar’s Head London Broil Roast Beef and Boar’s Head Tavern Ham, topped with melted provolone cheese, crisp shredded iceberg lettuce, vine-ripened tomatoes, thinly sliced red onions, and banana peppers for just the right amount of crunch and brightness.

What brings it all together is our house deli dressing—a flavorful blend of olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic, oregano, black pepper, and just enough mayonnaise to create that unmistakable deli flavor. It’s fresh, hearty, and packed with everything you’d expect from a great East Coast-style sub, with a Stomping Grounds touch.

✨ Café Lunch Special — $9.99

Enjoy a ½ SG Deluxe Deli Sub paired with your choice of:

🌿 Cream of Asparagus Soup

🍑 Peach, Goat Cheese & Crispy Brussels Salad

🥗 French Chicken Salad Plate

Plus a bag of chips.

Whether you’re grabbing lunch between errands or settling in with a good book, this week’s special delivers everything you want from a classic deli sandwich—fresh ingredients, premium meats, and bold flavor in every bite.

🍰 Daily Baked Specials

🥬🥚 Spinach, Egg & Cheese Puff — Available Monday & Wednesday
Flaky, buttery puff pastry is filled with fresh spinach, fluffy eggs, and melted cheese before being baked until perfectly golden. Warm, savory, and satisfying, it’s the kind of pastry that’s equally at home alongside your morning coffee or as a quick lunch on the go.

🍋🥐 Lemon Turnovers — Available Tuesday & Thursday
Our flaky puff pastry is generously filled with a smooth, tangy lemon filling before being baked until golden and finished with a light vanilla glaze. Every bite balances sweet and tart with layers of delicate pastry, making this a perfect summertime treat.

🥧🥥 Key Lime Pie — Available All Week

A little taste of the Florida Keys right here in Montana.

Our Key Lime Pie features a buttery graham cracker crust filled with a smooth, creamy key lime custard made with fresh lime juice and sweetened condensed milk, then topped with fresh whipped cream and a sprinkle of lime zest.

Cool, refreshing, and just the right balance of sweet and tangy, it’s the perfect dessert to enjoy on a hot summer afternoon.

🚚 Friday’s $10 Take-Out Special: French Onion Beef & Potato Bake

We’re bringing the comforting flavors of a French bistro to this week’s Friday Take-Out Special.

Inspired by the timeless flavors of French onion soup, this hearty bake transforms everything we love about the classic into a satisfying dinner that’s perfect for sharing with family or enjoying after a busy summer day. Rich caramelized onions, slow-braised beef, savory herbs, and bubbling cheese come together in one comforting dish.

Our French Onion Beef & Potato Bake begins with tender slow-braised shredded beef, simmered low and slow in a rich beef broth with garlic, fresh thyme, and plenty of deeply caramelized onions. It’s layered over herb-roasted potato wedges, allowing every bite to soak up the rich French onion gravy, before being topped with a blend of Swiss and provolone cheeses. The casserole is baked until hot, bubbling, and beautifully golden, then finished with crispy French fried onions and fresh parsley for the perfect finishing touch.

It’s everything you love about French onion soup—rich, savory, cheesy, and comforting—reimagined as a hearty summer dinner.

As always, enjoy free local Friday delivery or convenient café pick-up with every preorder.

Why You’ll Love This Dish:
🧅 Caramelized Onions: Slow-cooked until rich, sweet, and flavorful.
🥩 Braised Shredded Beef: Fork-tender and slow-cooked in savory broth.
🥔 Herb-Roasted Potato Wedges: Crisp edges with tender, fluffy centers.
🧀 Swiss & Provolone: Melted until golden, bubbly, and irresistible.
🌿 French Bistro Comfort: Classic flavors in every satisfying bite.
💰 Amazing Value: A chef-inspired comfort dinner for just $10.

Preorder your French Onion Beef & Potato Bake today and let us take care of Friday dinner while you enjoy another beautiful Montana summer evening.

📲 How to Order
🛒 Order Online: stomping-grounds-book-cafe.square.site/home
☕ Visit Us: Inside the Billings Public Library
📞 Call or Text: 406-894-8464
✉️ Email: [email protected]

Friday Take-Out Specials are available for café pick-up or free local delivery.

Pick-Up: Friday from 11:00 AM–2:00 PM

Delivery: Friday afternoon beginning around 2:30 PM

After-hours pick-up is also available. Your order will be stored securely in the café refrigerator, and library staff can assist with retrieval.

Preordering is always encouraged, as Friday dinners frequently sell out.

As always, thank you for supporting our little café inside the Billings Public Library.

This week was another reminder that summer rarely slows down exactly when we expect it to. Between training a new team member, keeping up with the café, planning the weeks ahead, and making our first family trip to the emergency room with Benicio, life has certainly kept us on our toes.

Thankfully, Benny is doing well, McKinsey continues to find her rhythm behind the counter, and we’re looking forward to another week of cold drinks, fresh summer lunches, familiar faces, and good books.

Thank you to everyone who continues to stop by, share our newsletter, order Friday dinner, introduce friends to the café, and offer patience during our busiest moments. Your support allows us to keep growing, experimenting, and serving this wonderful community.

Stay cool, enjoy the long summer days, and make a little time for the people and places that bring you joy.

We’ll see you at the café.

With gratitude,

Oscar
Stomping Grounds Book Café
📞 406-894-8464

☕ Good coffee, great food, and even better community.

☀️ It’s Too Hot to Cook—Good Thing We’ve Got French Onion Beef & Key Lime Pie | This Week at SG Book Café Click here for an update from Stomping Grounds Book Cafe!

Summer’s in full swing—and so is our kitchen.

Hi Friends!

I hope everyone had a safe and memorable Fourth of July weekend!

Last week at the café started just as summer weeks often do—with our wonderful Story Time families, familiar lunch regulars, and plenty of friendly faces stopping in throughout the day. As the holiday weekend drew closer, though, you could almost feel the excitement in the air. The pace slowed a bit, conversations shifted toward barbecue plans and camping trips, and it seemed like everyone was itching to get outside and enjoy the long holiday weekend.

Our Fourth of July looked a little different this year.

Just a few days before the holiday, my mother and grandmother both found themselves in the hospital. Fortunately, after a stressful few days, they were both back home in time to celebrate together and help christen Grandpa’s brand-new barbecue. It certainly wasn’t the week we had planned, but it was a wonderful reminder that sometimes the greatest celebration is simply having everyone home and healthy again.

Even then, our family gathering was only half complete. Like many families, ours was spread across the globe this year. My sister Jessica, her husband, and my nephew Sam were celebrating from Australia. My sister Brianna and Olivia spent the holiday in California, while Omar has been enjoying summer vacation with his mother in Arizona. We definitely missed having the whole tribe together, but Benicio made sure there wasn’t a dull moment. Between novelty fireworks, sparklers, and an epic lightsaber battle using our kayak paddles, he managed to create plenty of Fourth of July magic all on his own.

Having the library and café closed for a couple of days turned out to be a mini vacation that I didn’t realize I needed. Spending uninterrupted time with my wife and son was a welcome change of pace after the busy start to summer. And now, as I sit here writing this on a quiet Sunday afternoon, we’re easing back into our usual routine before another busy week begins.

If last week reminded us what spring weather felt like, this week is making up for lost time. The forecast is calling for some serious summer heat, and I’m already finding myself appreciating those cool, rainy days we were all complaining about just a week ago. Funny how quickly that changes.

As we head back into the café this week, we’re excited to continue settling into our summer rhythm. With McKinsey joining the team behind the counter, we’re looking forward to serving plenty of smoothies, cold brew, Italian sodas, fresh summer lunches, and whatever else it takes to help everyone stay cool. Whether you’re escaping the afternoon heat with a good book or simply stopping in for your favorite drink, we’ll be here and happy to see you.

🌆 Community Highlights

🌆 Community Highlights
🔍📚 Find Waldo Local in Billings!
📅 Throughout July
📍 This House of Books

One of my favorite summer traditions is back, and it’s the perfect excuse to explore downtown Billings while supporting our incredible independent businesses.

Find Waldo Local is a month-long community scavenger hunt that invites families, readers, and adventurers of all ages to search for everyone’s favorite red-and-white striped traveler hidden inside participating local businesses throughout Billings. Pick up a passport from This House of Books, visit participating shops, and see how many Waldos you can find along the way. Collect stamps as you go, then return your completed passport for the chance to win prizes and celebrate your discoveries.

I especially love events like this because they’re about so much more than finding Waldo. They encourage us to slow down, wander into stores we may have never visited before, meet local business owners, and experience just how vibrant our downtown community really is. Every stamp collected is another reminder that shopping local helps keep our community unique.

Our friends at This House of Books have long been champions of literacy, local authors, and small businesses, and we’re grateful for everything they do to make downtown Billings such a welcoming place. If you’re looking for a fun family activity this month—or simply an excuse to spend an afternoon exploring—grab a passport, start searching, and see if you can find Waldo before the month is over. Happy hunting!

📚 Library Events

🪨🐆 Teen Thursday: Discover Montana’s Leopard Stones
📅 Thursday, July 9, 2026 • 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
📍 CO+LAB Makerspace, Billings Public Library

One of the things I appreciate most about the Billings Public Library is how it encourages curiosity far beyond the pages of a book. This week’s Teen Thursday is a perfect example, combining science, geology, and hands-on learning into an evening that’s uniquely Montana.

Teens ages 12–18 are invited to the CO+LAB Makerspace to discover the fascinating story behind Montana’s famous leopard stones. Local expert Penny Clifton from the Billings Gem & Mineral Club will share why the leopard stones found along the Stillwater River have earned Montana recognition as one of the world’s significant geological history sites. Participants will also explore the rock cycle and learn how these remarkable stones were formed over millions of years.

One of my favorite things about growing up and raising a family in Montana is that learning often happens outdoors. Whether you’re hiking a trail, fishing a river, or simply picking up an interesting rock, there’s always something new to discover. Programs like this remind us that our state is one giant classroom, and the library is a wonderful place to begin those adventures.

If you have a teenager who enjoys science, the outdoors, or simply trying something new, this is a fantastic opportunity to spend an evening learning from local experts and discovering why Montana’s landscape is unlike anywhere else in the world. Be sure to register in advance, as space is limited, and don’t forget that a parent or guardian must complete a CO+LAB waiver before attending.

🍲🥗 Soup & Salad Specials

When Montana turns up the heat, there’s nothing better than letting fresh summer ingredients do the heavy lifting. This week’s menu is all about celebrating the season with cool, refreshing flavors, garden-fresh produce, and two salads that showcase some of summer’s finest ingredients.

Whether you’re looking for something light and refreshing or a satisfying lunch packed with flavor, we’ve got just the thing to help you beat the heat.

🥒 Chilled Cucumber & Garden Herb Soup
Fresh cucumbers are blended with creamy Greek yogurt, buttermilk, and sour cream to create a silky smooth soup infused with fresh dill, chives, parsley, garlic, and bright lemon. Served ice cold and finished with diced cucumber, garden herbs, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, and freshly cracked black pepper, this elegant soup is both cooling and incredibly satisfying.

🍅 Heirloom Caprese Salad
Beautiful heirloom tomatoes are layered with fresh mozzarella, basil, and baby arugula before being finished with basil-infused olive oil, aged balsamic glaze, flaky sea salt, cracked black pepper, and toasted sourdough breadcrumbs for just the right amount of crunch.

🥑 California Chicken Salad
Half of a perfectly ripe avocado is generously filled with our house-made chicken salad, prepared with roasted chicken breast, crisp celery, sweet red grapes, toasted pecans, fresh herbs, and a light lemon-Dijon dressing. Served over mixed greens with cucumber, cherry tomatoes, pickled red onions, sunflower seeds, and microgreens, then finished with a bright lemon herb vinaigrette.

🌟📅 This Week at SG Book Café

🥪 Tuscan Chicken Melt

This week’s lunch special is inspired by the simple, fresh flavors of an Italian summer.

Tender roasted herb chicken breast is layered with basil pesto aioli, roasted red peppers, melted provolone cheese, vine-ripened tomatoes, and fresh baby spinach, then served on toasted ciabatta bread. Every bite is packed with bright herbs, creamy cheese, and perfectly roasted chicken, making this sandwich hearty enough to satisfy while still feeling fresh and seasonal.

✨ Café Lunch Special — $9.99

Enjoy a ½ Tuscan Chicken Melt paired with your choice of:

🥒 Chilled Cucumber & Garden Herb Soup

🍅 Heirloom Caprese Salad

🥑 California Chicken Salad

Plus a bag of chips.

Whether you’re cooling off after a summer stroll downtown or taking a break between chapters of a good book, this week’s lunch special is a delicious way to enjoy the best flavors of the season.

🍰 Daily Baked Specials

🧀🍅 Boursin & Roasted Cherry Tomato Puff Pastries — Available Monday & Tuesday
Flaky, buttery puff pastry is filled with creamy Boursin cheese and sweet roasted cherry tomatoes, then baked until beautifully golden. The rich garlic and herb cheese pairs perfectly with the concentrated sweetness of the roasted tomatoes, creating a pastry that’s equally at home as a light breakfast, lunch, or afternoon snack.

🥜🍪 Peanut Butter Cookies — Available Wednesday & Thursday

Our old-fashioned peanut butter cookies are baked until lightly golden with crisp edges, soft centers, and that signature crisscross pattern everyone remembers from childhood. Rich, buttery, and full of roasted peanut flavor, they’re the perfect companion to a cold brew, smoothie, or afternoon cup of coffee.

🥥🥧 Coconut Cream Pie — Available All Week

Cool, creamy, and made for summer.

Our Coconut Cream Pie starts with a flaky, buttery pie crust filled with silky coconut custard, topped with generous clouds of fresh whipped cream and finished with toasted coconut flakes for the perfect crunch and aroma.

🚚 Friday’s $10 Take-Out Special: Chicken Piccata Penne Bake

We’re excited to bring one of Italy’s most beloved comfort dishes to this week’s Friday Take-Out menu—with a Stomping Grounds twist.

Chicken Piccata has long been celebrated for its bright combination of fresh lemon, butter, garlic, and capers. Traditionally served over pasta, we’ve transformed those classic flavors into a hearty baked casserole that’s perfect for sharing around the dinner table or enjoying after a busy summer day.

Our Chicken Piccata Penne Bake begins with tender roasted chicken breast and al dente penne pasta, tossed together in a silky lemon-garlic butter cream sauce with capers, roasted asparagus, blistered cherry tomatoes, and plenty of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Everything is gently baked until bubbling and lightly golden, allowing the penne to capture every bit of the bright, savory sauce while the roasted vegetables add freshness and color.

It’s rich enough to satisfy, bright enough for a summer evening, and exactly the kind of comforting meal that makes Friday dinner effortless.

As always, enjoy free local Friday delivery or convenient café pick-up with every preorder.

Why You’ll Love This Dish:

🍋 Classic Chicken Piccata: Bright lemon, garlic, butter, and capers.
🍗 Tender Roasted Chicken: Seasoned chicken in every delicious bite.
🍅🥬 Peak Summer Vegetables: Asparagus and blistered cherry tomatoes.
🧀 Penne & Parmesan: Every bite is coated in our creamy piccata sauce.
🌿 Comfort Meets Freshness: Rich, bright, and perfectly balanced for summer.
💰 Amazing Value: A chef-inspired Italian dinner for just $10.

Preorder your Chicken Piccata Penne Bake today and let us take care of Friday dinner while you enjoy another beautiful Montana summer evening.

📲 How to Order

🛒 Order Online: stomping-grounds-book-cafe.square.site/home
☕ Visit Us: Inside the Billings Public Library
📞 Call or Text: 406-894-8464
✉️ Email: [email protected]

Available for café pick-up or free local delivery every Friday.

Pick-Up: Friday from 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Delivery: Friday afternoon beginning around 2:30 PM

As we settle back into our summer routine, I continue to be amazed by the community that gathers around our little café inside the Billings Public Library. Every week brings familiar faces, new friendships, and stories shared over coffee, lunch, and a good book.

This past week reminded me how important it is to slow down and enjoy time with family. Between welcoming relatives from across the world, celebrating the Fourth of July, and simply enjoying a few quiet days away from the café, I came back feeling rested, grateful, and excited for everything the rest of summer has in store.

This week we’re looking forward to another busy few days filled with fresh summer flavors, cool smoothies, iced coffee, and some of my favorite seasonal dishes we’ve offered all year. If you’re looking to escape the heat, catch up with a friend, or simply enjoy a relaxing lunch surrounded by books, we’d love to see you.

Thank you for continuing to support local, supporting our library, and allowing Stomping Grounds to be part of your week. Every coffee, every sandwich, every Friday dinner, and every kind conversation helps make this little café what it is.

Have a wonderful week, stay cool, and as always…

Happy Reading, Happy Eating, and we’ll see you at the café!

With gratitude,

Oscar
Stomping Grounds Book Café
☕ Where great books, great food, and great community meet.

🍋🍝 Chicken Piccata Rigatoni Bake, Heirloom Caprese & Summer Flavors at SG Book Café Click here for an update from Stomping Grounds Book Cafe!

Life, liberty, and the pursuit of really good barbecue.

Hi Friends!

What a week it’s been at the café!

If you stopped by the Billings Public Library this weekend, chances are you noticed it was absolutely buzzing with activity. Saturday’s Big Rig Petting Zoo brought in countless families, curious kids, and quite a few first-time visitors to both the library and the café. Seeing so many people discover everything our library has to offer is one of my favorite parts of summer. Whether they came for the trucks, the books, or just a good cup of coffee, it was wonderful to see the building so full of life.

If you visited the café during the week, you may have noticed a couple of new faces behind the counter.

The first was my little cousin, Brynlee, who flew in from San Diego with my uncle for their very first trip to Montana. If you met the sassy little girl with the half-shaved haircut, long blonde-and-purple braids, and a personality much bigger than the café itself, then you know exactly who I’m talking about. She was determined to learn every aspect of café life, although I quickly realized her biggest motivation wasn’t customer service—it was discovering that employees have unlimited access to Italian sodas while they’re working… and that they get to keep the tips!

She greeted customers like she’d been doing it for years, but what most people didn’t know is that she’s also a highly accomplished youth jujitsu competitor. I’m not exaggerating when I tell you she had me tapping out—and on one occasion questioning my life choices—more than once while she was in town. My jaw was sore for days from one particularly enthusiastic headlock. I suppose that’s what happens when you underestimate an eleven-year-old.

The second new face you may have met was McKinsey, who joined us behind the counter on Wednesday and Friday as the newest member of the Stomping Grounds team. At just sixteen years old, this is her very first job. We actually met through the library some time ago—a story I’ll let her tell someday because it’s one of those reminders that small communities have a way of bringing people together at just the right time.

Watching someone start their first job is always exciting. There’s something special about seeing that mix of nervousness, curiosity, and determination. This summer has been our busiest yet, and having another smiling face behind the counter couldn’t have come at a better time. Between summer reading, library events, tourists, regulars, and everyone discovering the Book Nook and café, the entire building has been alive with energy. I truly believe our library staff, volunteers, Friends of the Library, and this incredible community deserve a round of applause for creating such an active and welcoming place for people of all ages.

And somehow, while all of that was happening, several of you reminded me of something I’d almost overlooked—we’re already heading into the Fourth of July weekend.

After a lot of thought, we’ve decided not to offer a Friday take-out dinner this week. Between the library’s early holiday closure on July 3, the shared kitchen spaces around town preparing for one of their busiest weekends of the year, and the logistics that come with a holiday week, it simply made the most sense to give everyone a little breathing room.

Instead, we’ll be celebrating all week long with a few Americana-inspired lunch specials here at the café before we close Friday, July 3, and Saturday, July 4, in observance of America’s 250th Independence Day celebration.

As we head into one of the busiest weekends of the summer, I also want to take a moment to thank the firefighters, police officers, EMTs, dispatchers, and all of our first responders who will spend part of their holiday serving our community instead of celebrating with their own families. The Fourth of July is one of my favorite holidays. I enjoy a good bratwurst, a local beer, and a fireworks show as much as anyone. But it’s also a weekend when preventable tragedies can happen all too easily.

So wherever you’re celebrating this year, I hope you’ll do so responsibly. Look out for your neighbors, keep an eye on the little ones, be mindful with fireworks, and if you’re enjoying a few drinks, make a plan to get home safely. A little preparation goes a long way toward making sure everyone has a holiday worth remembering for the right reasons.

Now, let’s turn the page and take a look at what’s happening around Billings, at the library, and of course, what’s cooking this week at Stomping Grounds Book Café.

🌆 Community Highlights

🧶✨ The Martinez Oaxacan Weavers Pop-Up Shop
📅 Monday, June 29 – Friday, July 3
🕙 Monday Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
📍 Yarn Bar • 2909 2nd Ave N, Billings

This week’s Community Highlight is one that’s especially close to my heart because it features some wonderful friends of the café. If you’ve spent much time downtown, chances are you’ve heard me mention Yarn Bar before. They’re the kind of local business that continually shows up for our community, supports fellow small businesses, and reminds us why shopping local matters.

This week, Yarn Bar is hosting a truly special event: The Martinez Oaxacan Weavers Pop-Up Shop. Visitors will have the opportunity to browse and purchase handcrafted textiles created by Alex and Nancy Martinez, members of the renowned Martinez family of Oaxacan weavers. Their collection includes beautiful rugs, table runners, placemats, wall hangings, and other woven pieces that celebrate generations of artistry and tradition.

📚 Library Events

⚾📚 Story Time with the Billings Mustangs
📅 Thursday, July 2, 2026 • 10:00 AM
📍 Billings Public Library

Summer and baseball seem to go hand in hand, so it’s only fitting that one of Billings’ favorite hometown teams is stopping by the library this week!

Join members of the Billings Mustangs Professional Baseball Team for a special Story Time filled with books, songs, laughter, and plenty of baseball spirit. After the stories, children and families will have the opportunity to ask questions, meet the players, and snap a few photos to remember the day.

The fun doesn’t stop there. The Bike Library will also be making a stop at the Wise Wonders Science & Discovery Museum, bringing free books, summer reading giveaways, and even more opportunities to keep young readers excited all summer long. It’s a wonderful reminder that learning doesn’t end when school lets out—it simply moves outdoors, into our community, and sometimes even onto the baseball field.

🍲🥗 Soups & Salads of the Week

With Independence Day just around the corner, this week’s menu brings together a few American classics with fresh seasonal ingredients. We’re continuing our summer menu format featuring one weekly soup and two featured salads, giving you a choice between comforting favorites and lighter seasonal fare.

🍲 Beef & Barley Soup

A timeless café favorite.

Tender chunks of slow-simmered beef are combined with wholesome barley, carrots, celery, onions, tomatoes, and fresh herbs in a rich, savory broth that’s been simmered low and slow to develop deep, comforting flavor. Hearty enough to be a meal on its own and the perfect companion to one of this week’s sandwiches.

🥗 Americana Cobb Salad

A patriotic twist on one of America’s favorite salads.

Crisp romaine is piled high with roasted turkey, crispy bacon, hard-boiled eggs, ripe tomatoes, creamy avocado, sharp cheddar cheese, and cucumber. Finished with your choice of ranch or our house buttermilk herb dressing, it’s colorful, satisfying, and packed with all the flavors of summer.

🌟📅 This Week at SG Book Café

🥪 BBQ Tri-Tip Sandwich

With the Fourth of July just around the corner, we’re leaning into one of my favorite summer traditions: great barbecue.

This week’s lunch special features thinly sliced grilled tri-tip piled high on a toasted brioche bun with our house-made barbecue sauce, fresh tomato, and crisp sprouts. The smoky richness of the tri-tip, paired with the tangy sweetness of our barbecue sauce and the freshness of the vegetables, creates a sandwich that’s simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor.

And before anyone asks—yes, you get the whole sandwich this week!

There simply wasn’t a practical way to fit all that tri-tip onto half a bun, so we’re serving the full shabang. Sometimes the sandwich tells you what it wants to be, and this one wanted to be generous.

✨ Café Lunch Special — $9.99

Enjoy a full BBQ Tri-Tip Sandwich served with your choice of:

🍲 Beef & Barley Soup

🥗 Americana Cobb Salad

Plus a bag of chips.

Whether you’re grabbing lunch before heading out for the holiday weekend or simply craving a great barbecue sandwich without firing up the grill, this week’s special is the perfect way to kick off Independence Day celebrations a little early.

🍰 Daily Baked Specials

🍕🥐 Poma Pizza Puffs — Available Monday & Thursday

You asked… and after hearing the suggestion more times than I can count, I finally gave in.

Our beloved Poma Sandwich has officially made the leap into pastry form! Think of it as a homemade pizza pocket—but one that actually contains real ingredients and doesn’t leave the roof of your mouth looking like you wrestled a volcano.

Wrapped in buttery puff pastry and baked until perfectly golden, these savory pockets are filled with all the flavors that have made the Poma one of our café favorites. They’re portable, satisfying, and dangerously easy to eat.

I have a feeling these won’t be making just a one-week appearance.

🥓🧀 Ham & Cheese Puffs — Available Tuesday & Wednesday

Apparently, this week is all about reliving childhood favorites.

Flaky puff pastry is filled with smoky ham and melted cheese, then baked until crisp and golden. If you grew up loving hot ham and cheese pockets, consider this the grown-up version—made from scratch, with real ingredients, and considerably less likely to burn the inside of your mouth.

Sometimes the classics don’t need reinventing—they just need better ingredients.

🥧🍎 American Apple Pie — Available All Week

Nothing says America quite like apple pie.

Our American Apple Pie features tender cinnamon-spiced apples tucked beneath a flaky, buttery crust and baked until beautifully golden. It’s the kind of dessert that feels right at home after a backyard barbecue, at the family table, or enjoyed with a fresh cup of coffee at the café.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, enjoy it à la mode with a scoop of vanilla ice cream… or with a slice of sharp cheddar cheese.

If you know, you know.

As another month comes to a close, I can’t help but reflect on just how much has happened over the past few weeks. Summer has officially arrived, the library has been buzzing with activity, we’ve welcomed new faces behind the café counter, and our little corner inside the Billings Public Library continues to grow in ways I never imagined.

Whether you stopped by for the Big Rig Petting Zoo, introduced yourself to Brynlee or McKinsey, grabbed lunch with friends, or simply came in for your usual coffee, thank you for continuing to make Stomping Grounds feel like more than just a café. It’s become a place where our community gathers, catches up, studies, celebrates, and occasionally debates whether pie should be served with ice cream or cheddar cheese.

As we head into Independence Day weekend, I hope each of you has the opportunity to spend time with family and friends, enjoy a great meal, and take a moment to appreciate the freedoms and community that make gatherings like these possible.

To our firefighters, law enforcement officers, EMTs, dispatchers, healthcare workers, military members, and everyone serving our community over the holiday weekend—thank you. While many of us are celebrating, you’re answering calls, keeping watch, and making sure the rest of us get home safely. Your dedication does not go unnoticed, and we’re incredibly grateful for all that you do.

From my family to yours, have a safe, joyful, and memorable Fourth of July. We’ll see you back at the café after the holiday, rested, recharged, and ready for another great week together.

With gratitude,

Oscar

Stomping Grounds Book Café

☕ Good Coffee. Great Food. Even Better Community.

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