Cheyenne Area CVB Blog

Ghost Story: 19th St. Castle

Dave Marks — Mon, 17 May 2010 10:23:05 -0700

19^th St. Castle 1318 19^th St

By Jill Pope

Here's an odd little story that was relayed to us. The "19^th Street Castle" is the elaborate tan stuccoed home located across the street from Holliday Park. This home was built in 1914 for Thomas Heaney, a prominent businessman in Cheyenne. Before the home was completed Reverend Wesley Dumm purchased it and had the construction completed. He and his family resided here from 1915-1929. The Dr. Devine family moved into this home until 1944. Currently it is divided into apartments. A resident in the 1990s reported that the ghost here is known for violently shaking the bedposts of the four-poster bed and drinking all the beer out of the refrigerator! He said the spirit looks like a kindly, older gentleman and he believes it to be Reverend Dumm, the first resident of the home.

Ghost Story: City News

Dave Marks — Mon, 17 May 2010 10:21:15 -0700

CITY NEWS 18^th & Carey

By Jill Pope

I spoke to Shawn, the store manager of City News Book Store at 18^th St & Capitol Ave. this week. She said they have lots of ghost activity. They feel like it's a male spirit, possibly the doctor that used to work in the building years ago. Pretty much every employee that has been there in the past couple years has had experiences.

The ghost sets off their alarm sometimes. They've learned that if they acknowledge "him" the alarm goes off. When they call the alarm company they do not show a security problem. He also likes the children's books. There's one that makes noises of various farm animals when you push the button. The animal sounds will play on their own, and if they say hello and acknowledge the ghost, the animal sounds stop.

They often find whole sections of books turned around, or magazines moved. At first they thought maybe a customer was doing this. It was odd because the Obama books were always being turned! The staff began really watching the customers to see if someone was rearranging things. They could never find anyone turning the books, but it continued to happen like twice a day. At closing time they would check over the displays, and then diligently set the alarms. When they came in the morning they'd find books moved. They never feel threatened by the spirit. One employee heard a voice right behind her. When she turned to answer no one was there. She ran away hysterically!

First trip to Cheyenne

Cheyenne Visitor — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 15:41:39 -0700

My wife and I made our first trip to Cheyenne in July to see the "Daddy of Em All" and it was fantastic. We live in Kentucky which is a beautiful state, but a very different type of beauty from Wyoming. Although we got a lot of questions about our accents we certainly enjoyed talking to the folks that we met in Cheyenne. I was surprised at how many tourists from other countries were there too. We sat next a couple from Italy and at least rodeo has a universal language because we sure had a few problems answering their questions. Fantastic time and we will come back again to watch our daughter barrel race. She swears she will be running in the NFR some day (she is 16) and if we get to go to places like Cheyenne to watch her on her journey to the NFR I couldnt think of a better way to spend a summer day. P.S. We really enjoyed the cooler weather too with no humidity!!!

July 22-27, 2009

Cheyenne Visitor — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 13:16:09 -0700

My last visit to Cheyenne was July 22 - 27, 2009 during Frontier days. Not only did we do the Frontier days activities (3 concerts, 2 rodeos etc)but we explored the city. We went on the Big Boot tour which was an adventure in itself. I absolutely adore your city.

This year I took in Kenny Chesney's night show

Cheyenne Visitor — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 12:53:38 -0700

Hi, This year I only took in KENNY CHESNEYs night show, but I loved at the end of it while his band played on he signed autograghs on hats, shirts, and what ever else he was handed. Thats a first and hope will be done by more to come. Usually though I see the Thunderbirds, 2 or 3 night shows, take in the Pancake Breakfast. At least one parade, and one or two walk arounds the Fair Grounds(shopping). The rodeos are also on my list of must dos, with the behide the shuts tour, and a walk through the Indian Village and watching their shows and crafts making with kids. The Mellow Drama is another must do with walking (shopping) around downtown. Thanks to CFDs Committees for their hard work that they do. If there was anything I would/could change it would be getting artist sooner so balancing a budget would be easier for those of us from out of state.

We were in Cheyenne for Frontier Days this year

Cheyenne Visitor — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 12:51:49 -0700

We were in Cheyenne for Frontier Days this year. We had a great time. We did the Frontier Park from end to end...went to a couple Rodeos,PBR, and George Strait. We did a lot of shopping in town. There is so much to choose from. We also went to one parade and pancake breakfast. Also we went to the Outlaw Saloon a few times for the great music and a little dancing. Cheyenne is a wonderful town. All the locals we talked to were so nice and helpful, too. They all took time to talk to us and be friendly. We have been there for Frontier Days several times and plan on coming many more times. Thanks Cheyenne for the good time and the memories. Everything is so well run and organized. Our hats off to all of you. Bill and Lila Feather LeRoy, MN

Restaurant Review: Hathaway's

Around Cheyenne — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 14:02:54 -0700

I have been to Little America a few times in the past and have always had a wonderful time, and was made to feel very special by the entire experience. My food has consistently been wonderful and the atmosphere luxurious, glamorous, sophisticated, and welcoming. All in all, I have counted Little America as one of my very favorites over the years. So, when it was suggested that I review the Sunday Offerings and Brunch at Hathaway's Restaurant in Little America, I was absolutely delighted!

I called my dining partner and we squealed to each other on the phone in pure excitement. Our plans were made; we got gussied up and went to do a review that showed every sign of being the absolute highlight of my week. Just thinking about going to Hathaway's in Little America is an exciting prospect, and we were properly excited!

We decided to plan our arrival for just about an hour after the Sunday Brunch began, thinking they would be really rolling and in the groove, so to speak, by then. We were right, they were all set up and the Brunch was in full swing. The offerings are delightful and some of the selections included; fresh fruit and berries, cold cereal, yogurt, breakfast pastries, a domestic cheese tray, smoked Salmon with condiments and bagels, Egg casserole, Eggs Benedict, French Toast with Candied Pecans, Mini Pancakes with Maple Syrup, Cheese blintz, Cottage Style Potatoes, Bacon, Sausage, an Omelet Station, and Honey glazed Ham. What a fabulous assortment, just the aroma alone is satisfying. Too bad we don't have a scratch and sniff so you can share in the mouthwatering aroma.

When we presented ourselves at the door, the hostess asked if we preferred a booth or a table. We requested a booth and were promptly led to a table, when we again asked for a booth; we were then shown to a half booth and half table. My dining companion sat on the booth part and I was on the other side of the table with a big heavy chair. I kept attempting to adjust the chair with no luck; it was just a bit too far away from the table to be comfortable. My companion and I decided to not have the Brunch after all and ordered from the menu as the choices were equally tempting. She chose "The Sante Fe," a breakfast Burrito filled with eggs, bacon, green chili, cheddar cheese, and green onion served with sour cream, salsa, breakfast potatoes, and choice of beverage. I choose "The Benedict," an English muffin topped with poached eggs, Canadian bacon, and served with Hollandaise sauce, breakfast potatoes, and choice of beverage.

I need to go back a little to tell you about our server, she was delightful. She is a young Russian girl here working for awhile before she returns home. She was very sweet, very helpful, but very hard to understand. We did a lot of "excuse me's" and "I beg your pardons." It was a challenge, but a very fun challenge. All three of us were delighted when we got something across correctly. I ordered hot tea and my companion ordered coffee. The coffee was delicious, the tea was a mess. The small teapot had no lid, so a saucer was substituted, and as it was larger than the teapot it was difficult to pour a cup of tea without spilling on the table, myself, and some of the surrounding area. The tea was my favorite kind and piping hot, and once I managed to transfer it to the cup it was just fine.

When our food arrived it looked very appetizing, but I was surprised to see no garnish on the plate. However, in these tough times I imagine those garnishes are simply expensive garbage, as I don't think many eat them, do they? My companions food was really good, an excellent portion and she enjoyed every single bite. I was not so lucky this time. My eggs were not set, my English muffin was soggy, and the Hollandaise sauce was cold. I suppose I could have sent it back, and I am positive it would have been redone and the result would have been wonderful, but I did not. Visiting a restaurant for a review is to judge the food, service, atmosphere, and overall experience on the first impression. So, that is what I am doing. I still adore Hathaway's at Little America, and it is still in my top five restaurants. I will definitely go back, and so should you. The stellar reputation Hathaway's at Little America enjoys is well deserved, and it remains one of the "special" places to celebrate anything from an ordinary Tuesday to an anniversary.

I give Hathaway's at Little America a classy rating of 4 out of 5.

Restaurant Review: 2 Doors Down

Around Cheyenne — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 14:39:47 -0700

Downtown Cheyenne has a new eating establishment that is certainly a welcome addition. The owners of 2 Doors Down, Jerry and Sandy Inniss, also own the very popular Pizzeria Venti, which as it happens is just two doors down from their new venture, right on 17th between Central and Warren. 2 Doors Down offers Gourmet Burgers, Fries, Salads, Beer on tap, bottled and mixed drinks, and of course the regular assortment of soft drinks and tea. Even though they have been open just a short time, they appear to have worked out any kinks in their system.

While parking can occasionally be a bit of a challenge downtown we were able to find a space close to the restaurant, and only had to dodge a few raindrops getting inside. The crisp, fresh, red awning makes it easy to locate 2 Doors Down, and inside there is a surprising amount of open space, even with most of the tables occupied the restaurant it did not feel crowded. The inside has a sports feel with a touch of European style. Comfortable wooden chairs and tables fill the downstairs, while the upstairs is more lounge-like, with comfy sofas, big screen TVs, and a very casual atmosphere. 2 Doors Down is just different enough to be fun. When we arrived, we thought the music was too loud, but soon it was just background noise and we could visit comfortably. When you arrive, you order at the counter and are given a number. In a few minutes your food is brought by a pleasant server who provides good service with lots of smiles and good humor.

We ordered "The Magnificent" and the "Green Chili Burger." Both were excellent; The Magnificent was served on Italian Bread with red onion, tomatoes, Swiss and American cheese. It was named correctly. The burger was large, made with fresh ingredients and absolutely delicious. It was served with endless Steak Fries, and the Raspberry Ice Tea was a good choice with the burger. The Green Chili Burger was delicious, and served open faced with lots of cheese and green chili.

The prices are moderate and a great value for the money. You will feel comfortable taking your family, a date, or a group of friends. 2 Doors Down is a good place for a family dinner, a business lunch, or anything in between. We will definitely visit often and think you should do likewise.

They are open from 11am to 9pm Monday through Thursday, and open until 10 pm on Friday and Saturday; closed Sundays. We give 2 Doors Down a finger licking rating of four out of five!

Restaurant Review: Poor Richard's

Around Cheyenne — Wed, 20 May 2009 13:50:35 -0700

For more than 30 years Jim and Cassie Rauzi welcomed the people and visitors of Cheyenne to come dine with them in Poor Richard's Restaurant located at 2233 East Lincolnway. They do not rest on their laurels. A glance at the menu and specials will tell you the favorites remain but a variety of new items will tempt you.

When my husband and I sat down to chat with Jim about his background and the origin of Poor Richard's, we discovered common roots. Both of the men's families immigrated from adjoining Northern Italian regions of Alto-Adige and Trentino, just below Austria. Their fathers even enjoyed the same brown veal gravy on their polenta.

We relaxed in the inviting lounge area. The fireplace's flickering light reflected around us. Numerous vintage and custom stained glass windows hang between booths along the far wall and are mounted in the walls and doors. Carved antique wooden panels adorn the walls, complimenting the ceiling's warm wood beams. Jim scoured the Denver antique districts and procured these gems. The quiet surroundings hold small dining groups engaged in animated conversations.

Wednesday nights Poor Richard's offers a special treat featuring your choice of Sliders. The Salmon slider comes a close second to the pulled pork. Others say only the Kobe beef will satisfy. The expanded appetizer menu gives you even more decisions. A whole range of seafood from Oysters Rockefeller or Oysters on the Half Shell to Applewood Smoked Bacon Wrapped Shrimp with BBQ sauce and a Crab and Artichoke Dip with pita chips made decisions delightful. Maybe your tastes lean toward the Crispy Calamari, Mussels with Garlic and White Wine, Smoked Salmon Quesadilla or Escargot. Of course, the Italian influence steers me to the Portabella Mushroom Ravioli.

We greeted some friends and the woman took me to her favorite, the salad bar. Besides the fresh homemade Soup Du Jour, an abundant array of toppings, including sweet Jicama Root slices, fill the area. Be sure to combine the warm homemade hot-bacon dressing and the fresh spinach. Her husband boasts, "I've been eating here longer than Jim." (Before Poor Richard's opened its doors, a Big Boy Restaurant occupied the building.)

When Jim and Cassie celebrated the thirtieth anniversary of Poor Richard's ownership, their long time staff surprised them. Not only did this core group prepare a party, they also gave Jim and Cassie pictures of the Big Boy and Poor Richard's restaurants and a framed collection of diminutive menus throughout the years since 1977.

The current menu encompasses a vast selection. For smaller appetites, the generous salads serve as dinner. You may choose to order your Caesar Salad with chicken. The Seared Salmon Salad accented with cranberries and cranberry vinaigrette dressing ranks as a favorite with me. Olives, hard-cooked eggs, red onions, tomatoes and French green beans generously top the Seared Ahi Tuna Nicoise Salad.

Mouth-watering veal and beef entrees, including their famous prime rib, present many choices and toppings that add to your variations. Either Brandied Mushrooms, Straw Onions, Bacon Wrapped Shrimp or Blue Cheese Mushrooms can be included on your meat. The Veal Saute in Brandy Cream with shrimp and mushrooms tops my list for our next visit; or maybe the Wild Mushroom and Rosemary Tenderloin Tips Saute will win.

Five chicken dishes from Chicken Cordon Bleu and Chicken D?on or Lemon (each with a mushroom risotto cake) to Chicken Piccata or Marsala cover nearly every possible combination of wonderful recipes. The pasta category lets you pair seafood, chicken or fresh vegetables with linguine, angle hair or penne pasta.

Salmon, Tilapia, scallops, shrimp, lobster tail and crab legs vie for your favor in the seafood section. The Crab and Boursin Cheese Stuffed Salmon, finished with beurre blac and accompanied by the tri-citrus rice, sounds perfect. If this were not enough, you may add a small steak to any seafood selection.

The lunch menu offers more salads such as the Rosemary and Mushroom Beef Tenderloin Salad and Mediterranean Chicken Salad. Beef and buffalo burgers stay perennial favorites. Then come (are you ready?) seventeen creative mixtures for sandwiches. Several that piqued my interest include the Club (turkey breast served with bacon, lettuce, sprouts and blue cheese mayonnaise on toasted bread) and the Portabella Mushroom Sandwich (roasted red peppers and provolone cheese top the marinated mushroom with sun dried tomato mayonnaise on a toasted Ciabatta roll). Try the Prime Rib sandwich (tomato, lettuce and horseradish mayonnaise on a fresh croissant). Another prime rib choice comes from the popular sliders. This one sits on Jalapeno Cheddar Rolls. The lunch menu offers quality food at budget-conscious prices.

If you need a heartier meal, select from a baker's dozen of entrees. Again, the seafood lover need not despair. The Mandarin Orange Steamed Halibut, Wonton Crusted Salmon topped with Sesame Chile Sauce and Cajun Shrimp Pasta represent only half of the seafood items. You can order a Chicken Fried Chicken entrée or the traditional steak variation.

Jim told me, "We're adjusting our menu to offer some smaller plates and additional choices to attract a wider range of age groups and customers. Poor Richard's is a great steak house and much more." For those tech-aware individuals, especially the young crowd, they may text PRS to 95495 and hit send for daily specials and discounts/coupons. Also check out Poor Richard's specials in the Around Cheyenne "Daylight To Dusk Dining Deals" and "Out For The Night" sections.

Join your neighbors for lunch Monday through Saturday from 11AM to 2:30PM or for dinner beginning at 5PM. The restaurant is usually closed on Sundays except when special holidays occur such as Easter, Mother's Day and Father's Day. If your organization needs a quality meeting place serving a varied, delicious menu call 307-635-5114. Whether you need to book a small or large party, Poor Richard's provides three banquet rooms that accommodate 10 to 70 people. Catering at your own location is another option. Visit the website at www.poorrichardscheyenne.com.

Ghost Story: Chinese Ghost

Jill Pope — Mon, 18 May 2009 10:29:54 -0700

The following is a story I received from a local resident, in her own words:

When we bought our house on south Bent, the couple who owned said that they had problems with the garage door always opening by itself. I never gave it a second thought.

Karly was only 2 when we moved into the house and right away she kept talking about "the man". She would tell us that a man would come into her room at night and sing to her. She even had us set a place at the table for him. I hadn't seen or heard anything so I thought it was just an imaginary friend.

A few months of living in the house and I started noticing weird things. Stuff would be missing or moved to strange places. The ghost loved to put things under the kitchen table for some reason. The first time I saw him, I went into Karly's room to check on her and he was standing next to her bed. He was oriental, with shoulder length straight hair and he wore a long black coat. Kind of like a trench coat. He was not scary, and he looked fairly young. (Maybe early 20's). From then on we started calling him the "Chinese Man."

He always seemed to be around day or night. We would always catch a glimpse of him walking around the house. My son Bret always said that he would come into his room at night and say I love you. I remember waking up a lot of times to him standing in the corner of our bedroom. The neighbors across the street saw him one night when were over there visiting. We were in the garage and Larainne looked across the street; she asked me who was still at our house? I told her no one, but when we looked across the street we could see him watching us from the living room window. One year when we went to Arizona, Andy came over to feed our fish. He said that the first day he came over the entire bedroom doors were open. (That's how we left them) and the Aquarium light was on. The next day all the doors were closed and the aquarium light was off. A few days after that the doors were open again and all the lights in the house were on.

The Chinese man loved to turn on lights and the TV (especially) in the middle of the night. One night we woke up to our bedroom light on and all three TV's on.

Things would always turn up missing. One year I made Birthday invitations out for Karly's Birthday. I put them on the TV so she could take them to school the next day. In the morning I noticed that they were not on the TV anymore. We search the entire house and never found them. The Chinese Man was always taking things like hair brushes, keys, clothes and then we would find them later underneath the kitchen table.

Probably the most bizarre thing that ever happened was when we first started talking about moving. We noticed that there was a funny smell in the Bret's room and then the carpet on the stairway was always wet. Since the house was a bi-level, there were no pipes running underneath the floor where the carpet was wet. Then we noticed that the banister was wet as well. We had a plumber come to the house but they could never find the cause of it. It wasn't water, because it was kind of a slimy-sticky goo and it smelled a little like syrup. I know it wasn't my kids doing it because we would come home from being gone all day (the whole family) and the carpet would be soaked. I got so tired of it I decided to tell our ghost out loud that we really hated it when he did that. And as mysteriously as it started it stopped.

When we were moving out of our house, my husband and I were sitting in the kitchen and we had cleaned out all of the cupboards that day so all of the cabinet doors were open. They all slammed shut at the same time! I think he was upset because we were leaving.

Now I did do some research on our old house and come to find out where our house is now used to be a tent camp for Chinese immigrants who were here building the railroad. None of the workers lived to be very old because of the harsh weather. A friend of Karly's, who lived behind us also said that they have a Chinese ghost in their house as well.

Ghost Story: A Ghostly Apprentice

Jill Pope — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 11:25:45 -0700

Among the assortment of theories in paranormal studies is the theory that ghosts may be imprinted upon an existing surface of a building, such as a wall or a door frame. Similar to a taped recording, the ghost will reappear at different intervals. Removing or altering the surface can cause portions of the recording to fade, eventually disappearing entirely. But the occurrences in this building turn this theory around.

Nick the phone technician was programming a phone system at the Senior Center. However something was interfering with Nick's programming efforts. The phone was actually programming itself. Nick called the main office and described what was occurring. They told him that was impossible. Nick said he had 4 witnesses on his end. He unplugged the phone system for two minutes and then reconnected it; now the memory was completely erased, which is not supposed to happen. Every time he would set down his tools and flashlight they would be moved when he went to grab them again. He was extremely frustrated.

This activity went on for days. Not ever believing in the supernatural Nick was forced to accept that something paranormal was at play here. Finally at his wits end, he yelled at the ghost and much to his surprise the phone system began to work. He finished up the job, but as he went on to new jobs the ghost actually followed him! After two long days of phone systems lighting up erratically, and tools being moved, and nothing working appropriately for Nick, he again spoke out loud to the ghost. While on his way to work he said "fine if you want to work with me that's just great, but you need to follow directions. These people count on their phones, so just do what I tell you". When he got to the job site and began working on the phones, much to his dismay he started having problems with the system programming itself again. He yelled at the ghost and immediately all of the books on the shelf next to him slammed to the floor. Nick was really frightened, but that was the end of the ghostly apprenticeship!

Have you heard this story or another version of it? Do you have a ghost story to share? Click on "Comments" to tell your tale!

Restaurant Review: Pizzeria Venti

Around Cheyenne — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 15:52:40 -0700

Close your eyes, smell the tantalizing aromas and transport yourself to Tuscany in Northern Italy. You don't have to be Italian to hear your Nonna (grandmother) Francesca encourage you to eat, eat. Before you can say basta! (enough), you'll be tempted to top your scrumptious meal from Cheyenne's Pizzeria Venti at 112 E. Seventeenth Street off with a delicious serving of tiramisu or other Italian pastry delicacy and the bottomless soft drinks, beer, and wine.

Billed as "America's Only Authentic Sliceria," Pizzeria Venti derives its name from the twenty (venti) varieties of pizza offered by the slice or full pan daily. According to Jerry Inniss, co-owner with his wife, Sandy, the secret to the exquisite taste is the key ingredients (pure Italian water, top quality Italian sausage, superior quality prosciutto, special dough conditioning agent, salt, fl our, yeast and choice Italian seasonings) imported direct from Italy. Combined with extra virgin olive oil and other Italian meats you have the makings of great Italian food. They pair these Italian foods with fresh produce and authentic Tuscan recipes. Of course, it takes a bit of knowledge and some secret recipes to mix all of these ingredients into Italian masterpieces. That's where experience and the Tuscany training come into play.

Both Jerry and Sandy were born and raised in Cheyenne. Jerry brings 25+ years of restaurant experience, working from the ground level up to management. His nephew Adrian Samora declared, "Uncle Jerry has always been a great cook." Sandy left a position with the Wyoming State Bar Association to round out the venture. With Pizzeria Venti, Jerry came back to the food of his roots since his great grandfather emigrated to America from Sicily.

January 4th marked the third anniversary of Pizzeria Venti in Cheyenne. Fate played a part in the restaurant landing here. Sandy's family in Michigan ate at one there and sent them an article on the new Italian restaurant concept. That piqued his curiosity about what was new and exciting. He called the founder of Pizzeria Venti who came to visit Cheyenne. Our Pizzeria Venti became the fifth one in the United States. His search for the right building led him to the 1930s structure, complete with vintage overhead lights and original woodwork which fit the décor perfectly. The first year business grew about 10 percent and in 2008, as word spread from satisfied customers, volume is up 15-20 percent.

The interior is decorated with reproductions of vintage 1920s Italian food and drink posters, a picturesque Tuscan landscape, and Roman Forum faux marble pillars. "We want our customers to experience the unique Tuscan ambiance and character of our restaurant." Customers have commented about the cosmopolitan feel of the restaurant, "It's like getting out of Cheyenne without leaving town."

As they say, traveling to Italy for cooking classes is tough but somebody has to do it. Jerry and Sandy stayed in Olivello, a Tuscan farm house in the mountain above Monteroni. Their hostess, Marina, taught them the secrets of creating gnocchi (silent g). She effortlessly made sauce by simply putting a bit of garlic, basil from her garden, olive oil, salt and pepper, and roma tomatoes in a bullet mixer and tossed it with the pasta for a memorable meal.

During the two week session in Tuscany, Jerry developed a respect for the Italians and their pace of life while absorbing their food tradition and culture. "They are very resourceful and don't let anything go to waste. If they can't get something they want, they work with what they have to substitute without sacrificing flavor. The people greet you with a sense of family and we strive hard to create that feeling here in Cheyenne."

The delicately seasoned food reflects their philosophy of less is more. When you take a bite you taste all of the different flavors rather than being overcome by one flavor. Come and you will feel the passion and love for the food they share with you.

The most difficult thing about eating at Pizzeria Venti is deciding what to order. In addition to the multitude of pizza combinations to choose from, you have a virtual smorgasbord of other dining options. A variety of the mouth-watering trademarked Timpanini (stuffed pizza pie) in six variations including Three Cheese and Herb, Spinach Ricott a (red sauce), Chicken Venti (blend of Italian cheeses, artichokes, mushrooms and garlic with Alfredo sauce), Italian Trio (ham, coppicola and salami with onions and tomatoes), Bolini (stuffed with pepperoni, cheese and red sauce), and Del Giorno (the daily special), innovative appetizers, traditional baked pastas of ravioli, lasagna, manicotti, and gnocchi, salads, and soups await.

The Bocce Balls are a favorite. No, an impromptu game of tossing wooden balls will not break out between the tables. These bocce balls are Italian meatballs of pork and beef at the center with a 50/50 blend of Italian cheeses and pizza red sauce surrounded in a baked crust. The dough and all dishes are made fresh daily, sometimes two or three times. If you want something else, call ahead and they will create a custom order for you from available ingredients.

Prices are reasonable with baked pasta or Timpanini entrees at eight dollars or less, salads at four and one half bucks for a house salad or up to seven dollars for a field greens and apple salad. On family night, you can order one of three pan pizzas, bottomless salad and beverages for only $20.00.

After trying the Gnocchi Basilico, my husband has finally stopped complaining that you can't find good gnocchi in a restaurant. To be honest, I have not tried all of the items on the menu, but give me some time and I will, for they are all tantalizing and promise to be new gastronomic adventures.

Your Italian experience does not stop there. Italian restaurants excel in recreating the family atmosphere. Pizzeria Venti is no exception. You will be greeted with open arms and a friendly smile from the owners, Jerry and Sandy, their children, nephew, sister and especially Jerry's mother, Mary. While kisses on both cheeks are not yet part of the routine, you can expect a warm welcome and personalized service.

Opt for a large table for a lunch or dinner with friends or family, an intimate table for you and your sweetheart, a table in the upstairs balcony, or sit in the window alcoves and watch life pass by as you would at a sidewalk café in Tuscany.

Hours of operation are Monday and Tuesday 11AM to 8 PM, Wednesday through Saturday 11 AM to 9 PM. Closed on Sunday. If you want to book a party, the balcony dining is available for a private gathering of up to fifty people. You may request the entire restaurant for a larger gathering. Another option is to have the Italian food come to you for a catered event, including wedding receptions. "We strive for the complete satisfaction and happiness of our customers. Where there is a will there is a way to fulfill our customers' wishes," Jerry says.

Ghost Story: No One Stood Trial

Jill Pope — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 15:49:33 -0700

DAVIS BUILDING

"Rich & poor, high & low, good & bad, people meet death but once. All have their appointed time to die ... [oft-times with] no warning of the coming of the dread reaper ... [Their] souls ... hurled into eternity where bodily pain is not felt," so claimed Cheyenne's The Daily Leader Newspaper of June 4^th, 1876. The heartless murder of an innocent young girl in the heart of downtown Cheyenne stunned the residents.

It was a pleasant Saturday evening in early June when fifteen year old Jennie Martin, her friend Minnie Montgomery, and Jennie's little niece walked hand in hand up 17^th street on their way to the Catholic Church. Shortly after the hour of 8 o'clock in the evening, as they were crossing Eddy Street (changed to Pioneer Street in 1913), a shot rang out. Still clasping her niece's hand Jenny Martin fell dead on the spot. The bullet had entered her right temple. Minnie screamed out in horror as people gathered around. It was too late to save the young lady. Jenny Martin was buried in Lakeview Cemetery (lot 335 space 8) on June 22, 1876.

Immediately following the shooting a few women who were out for a stroll on Ferguson Street, one block to the east, encountered a man running at a fast pace heading towards the depot. Suspecting that he would catch a train Sheriff O'Brien arrested him within an hour. His name was Butler and he was labeled a hoodlum, but he was soon released. No one stood trial in this death, no motive determined, no justice found.

At the moment of her demise, Jenny's head was turned slightly towards the Underwood & McGregor building, where the Davis Building now stands. Perhaps it is here that Jenny's spirit lingers since the tragedy of her death. This could certainly explain the unusual events reported in the Davis Building which was erected in 1895. There have been many businesses at this location over the years. At least three grocery stores were here. Inside the lobby of the building hangs a vintage photo taken by Walker of Kimrey & Nagle Grocers, circa 1907. The signs advertise "queensware, grain, fruits & hay". A horse and buggy are parked beside the building. Today Avalon Correctional Services is located here.

Some years ago, prior to learning of Jennie's untimely death, tenants of the Davis building reported unusual occurrences within their walls. Over the years people from the Goodwill Juvenile facility and later the Frontier Correctional Systems were housed in the Davis Building. They were disgruntled when posters of their favorite rock bands were destroyed. Their beds would be found disheveled and occasionally flipped over. Standing outside of the building the residents have watched as their cigarettes are put out in front of their eyes, as if an invisible hand is passing along snuffing them out. At the same time they realize the air surrounding them has suddenly become bitter cold. If the wholesome Jennie Martin is residing in the Davis building, it appears that she disapproves of the habits of her peers. She may have a lighter taste in music, and smoking is something she's not tolerating.

To further substantiate that this spirit is Jennie, a former counselor who worked at the facility for many years reported seeing an entity that she described as a teenage girl.

This building has housed different rehabilitation facilities over the years. In the 90s it held residents that were mentally disabled. On the 3^rd floor was a juvenile program for runaways and troubled children. Because of the nature of this facility the building was locked down with high security. One night around 11:00 pm the police brought a new girl in. During the "in-take" process they always took a Polaroid picture for the file. Peggy had this teenage girl stand in the center of the hallway and snapped the picture. She was interviewing the girl while another staff member was processing her paperwork. The second staff person began tugging on Peggy's arm and then pointing to the picture. There was a clear image of a man in the air above the girl. His whole figure could be seen except for his feet. He wore a hat and a vintage suit (Peggy called it a zoot suit). They told the girl the photo did not come out, and then took another copy for the file. Peggy took the original Polaroid to the staff meeting in the morning so that the rest of the employees could view the apparition. All were amazed even though the residents often reported seeing a man in the hall. Prior to this event there was often talk of the building being haunted. They called him the "Goodwill Ghost".

Ghost Story: Life After Death

Jill Pope — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 15:19:12 -0700

Is there life after death? If you are a believer in ghosts then obviously you believe in some life hereafter. You are not alone in that conclusion.

"If our personality survives, then it is strictly logical or scientific to assume that it retains memory, intellect, other faculties and knowledge that we acquire on this Earth. Therefore, if personality exists after what we call death, it is reasonable to conclude that those who leave the Earth would like to communicate with those they have left here. I am inclined to believe that our personality hereafter will be able to affect matter. If this reasoning be correct, then, if we can evolve an instrument so delicate as to be affected by our personality as it survives in the next life, such an instrument, when made available, ought to record something." This statement was written by one the greatest inventors of all time, Thomas Edison.

Wyoming has a connection to Edison. In the year 1878 Thomas Edison visited Battle Lake in Carbon County Wyoming. He chose this location for prime viewing of the solar eclipse. While fishing with his long bamboo pole, the pole got tangled up in a tree. Edison could not manage to cut the pole, so instead he burned it. Edison noticed that the bamboo burned for quite a long time. This actually sparked the thought process that eventually led to his discovery of the electric light bulb. Cheyenne had the first electric streetlights using alternating current electricity in the United States; they were installed in 1882. History books tell us that the LR Breshnahan home at 17^th and Warren was the first house to be wired for "alternating current" electricity in the US, rather than a battery system.

It is said that Edison worked on a prototype for an invention to communicate with the dead. This was a scientific machine designed to measure "life units" he felt were the energy of the soul when it left the body upon death. He wanted to develop a ‘Telephone to the Afterlife', a communication network where spirits of the deceased could speak to those remaining here on earth. No documentation of the plans for this invention was ever found after his own death in 1931.

There are thousands of reports of "near death experiences" where the individual's heart stopped beating for a time, but they were resuscitated. Many of these patients report floating above their own body watching medical attendants work to revive them. Often they report moving through a tunnel to a great source of light, and even seeing deceased relatives. Skeptics say this is a result of medication, a different level of consciousness, or lack of oxygen. Draw your own conclusions. On top of these experiences we have the thousands of ghost sightings to add to the mix

We have made great strides scientifically. So although we may not have the answers to all our questions today, they may soon be explained.

Spirit sightings are reported from all parts of the world in all cultures and have been throughout the ages. This makes their existence that much more probable. While some reports are obviously the result of an over active imagination, it's hard to explain them all away as that.

These could be beings that live on another physical plane, or the spirit of someone who previously lived here.

Along the same theory as Edison, modern time paranormal investigators try to physically measure the presence of entities that would be evidence for their existence in this world.

Restaurant Review: High Tea at the Nagle-Warren Mansion B&B

Around Cheyenne — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 14:20:47 -0700

If you have ever had the opportunity to visit the Nagel Warren Mansion, you know what a wonderful treat it can be, but visiting for Afternoon Holiday Tea, is a Christmas treat to remember.

The historic Nagle Warren Mansion, located at 222 East 17th Street, serves primarily as a Bed and Breakfast. During the holidays, owner, Jim Osterfoss has the Victorian Mansion beautifully decorated top to bottom. Guests are welcomed by period furnishings and 19th Century artwork. The service received during high tea is the best accommodations in town.

At the Nagle Warren Mansion Bed and Breakfast, the teas commemorate the tradition of afternoon tea begun by the English, Scottish and Irish who brought this gracious ritual to frontier Cheyenne.

Traditionally, high tea is served 5pm to 7pm, instead of dinner. The Nagle Warren Mansion serves Afternoon Tea, as a light afternoon refreshment in lieu of the traditional high tea meal. The Christmas High Tea menu was expanded and offered an enormous array of items it was easy to leave feeling as though we had consumed an entire meal. The sixteen plus item menu prepared by Sandra McClelland and Jane Branigan was so appealing, it was hard to choose. Some of our favorites included the Orange Poppy Seed Scones, Roast Beef Pinwheels, Ham & Cheese on Baguettes and Chocolate Chestnut Roulade. Each item was unique, fresh and absolutely scrumptious!

High Tea at the Nagel Warren Mansion Bed and Breakfast is not only a holiday treat. The opportunity for High Tea indulgence is offered throughout the year among other wonderful opportunities to experience the ambiance of the mansion. Whether it be Fine Wine & Dine at the Mansion, Romantic Valentines Evening, Murder Mystery Dinners, High Tea, or a weekend getaway; your visit to the Nagle Warren Mansion Bed and Breakfast is guaranteed to be a special time.