Free Cup of Coffee, Photo Credit: Bozeman Grit
GALLATIN COUNTY, Montana — In an effort to help alleviate the burden of mundane Monday morning small talk, Gallatin County has launched a new program that offers free coffee to residents who don’t want to talk about other people’s weekends.
The program, called “Silent Sip,” allows residents to get a free cup of coffee at participating cafes and coffee shops if they simply state “no thanks” when asked about their weekend.
“We know that asking about someone’s weekend is a long-standing tradition in our community,” said a county spokesperson. “But we also recognize that some people just don’t want to talk about it. That’s where Silent Sip comes in – it’s a safe space for those who want to skip the small talk and just enjoy their coffee in peace.”
The program has been met with mixed reactions, with some residents applauding the county for recognizing the need to respect others’ boundaries, while others worry that it could lead to the breakdown of social norms.
“I think it’s great that the county is acknowledging that not everyone wants to talk about their weekend,” said one Bozeman resident. “But at the same time, I worry that this could be the start of a slippery slope. What’s next? No more holding doors open for each other?”
Regardless of the criticism, the county is moving forward with the program and hopes that it will help make Monday mornings just a little bit easier for everyone.
The editor has always had a passion for the written word, ever since penning a Pulitzer-worthy essay at the tender age of five. Spending formative years traveling the world, writing about everything from Machu Picchu to the mall food court, The Editor eventually apparated in Bozeman, realizing a true calling as the editor-in-chief of Bozeman Grit.
