Destination Downtown Fall 2019 by Billings Gazette

Fall 2019

HAUNTED DOWNTOWN Your comprehensive guide to Downtown Billings

Welcome to Downtown Billings

ear readers, Change is an inevitable process in our lives. Oftentimes, we fear it. The unknown results can be the main course of regret. That is not the case here. As senior editor of Destination Downtown, I am changing this publication to involve the community in every way possible. It is essential for me to give our arts, culture, businesses and people a voice. I have great things on the horizon and look forward to working together to preserve and honor downtown Billings. Thank you for reading and supporting Destination Downtown.

THIS ISSUE

The Moss Mansion is one the most haunted locations in Billings. The baby carriage in the nursery is an original piece from the Moss family.

featuredstories

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The Haunting of Moss Mansion: The famed Billings family that never left ..... 6-8 You and me, and the devil makes three Something wicked lies beneath the YAM .. 10-12 Haunted History: The intriguing past of Billings urban legends ............................................ 13-15

Seasonal Events......................................................3-5 Calendar...............................................................16-17 Style Watch .........................................................18-22 Feast ...................................................................23-25 Arts & Culture .................................................... 26-29 Least expected haunting: The Loft .................... 30

Why do we love ghost stories? Is it the affirmation of life after death? Is it the appeal of mystery in our short lives? The afterlife is part of nearly every culture around the world. I have heard ghosts stories (and have a few of my own) all of my life. Sharing our experiences of the unexplained connects us in the most vulnerable ways possible. And let’s face it, a good ghost story is hard to walk away from. We need things like this – whether we want to admit it or not. I ask for a willing suspension of disbelief; to embrace the impossible; and to see how rich our history is – paranormal or otherwise. I put out a call on Facebook for your haunted stories, and what began as one article ballooned into an entire issue of haunted downtown locations. The stories in this issue are based on and dedicated to many community voices, urban legends and historical facts. It is, in every way, the haunted ghost tour that you all requested. Thank you for being part of it. Happy reading.

Charity Dewing Senior Editor

feast

Destination Downtown is a special advertising section of The Billings Gazette. Access Destination Downtown at www.billingsgazette.com/specialsections

Downtown restaurants have something to satisfy every appetite. See what’s on the menu this season and book your reservation.

Content Editor Charity Dewing Publisher Dave Worstell Advertising Director Ryan Brosseau Advertising Manager Arcadea Scott Designer Emily Shullaw

page 23 Ahi Nachos at Stacked | A Montana Grill Cover photos by AMY NELSON of The Gazette Staff

AUGUST 2019

Seasonal Events

Farmer’s Market There is no better way to start the weekend than at Farmer’s Market. Fresh fruits and vegetables, garden flowers and plants, homemade pastries, live entertainment, book sales, and food trucks – now that’s a Saturday morning well spent.

Saturdays through Oct. 5, 8 a.m. to noon Under Skypoint

LARRY MAYER, Gazette Staff

Ales for Trails Arterial Drive is headlining and Daniel Kosel will open the 2019 Ales for Trails.The event raises money for Billings TrailNet (formerly BikeNet) to create safe trails for biking and walking. Tickets are $35 at: Uberbrew, Thirsty Street, The Spoke Shop, The Base Camp, The Bike Shop and Yellowstone Fitness; $40 at the gate. 21 years and older: non-alcoholic drinks, beer and wine will be available.

Sept. 6, 5–7 p.m. ZooMontana Courtesy photo

Gazette Staff

2019 Burn the Point Parade Classic cars roll under Skypoint for the 2019 Burn the Point Parade and Street Dance at 6:30 p.m., Friday night. Saturday at 10 a.m., MetraPark Fairgrounds hosts the vintage car show where thousands of classic cars and trucks are on display. Entry is $3.

Aug. 30-31 Downtown Billings

CASEY PAGE/Gazette Staff

Saturday Live

LARRY MAYER, Gazette Staff

Sponsored by Billings Public Schools and the Education Foundation, Pioneer Park is transformed into a fun-filled carnival. Cotton candy, face painting, bouncy houses, games — and lets not forget, Batman — will all be part of this family-friendly event.

Sept. 28, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Pioneer Park

Fall Home Improvement Show This season’s Home Improvement Show includes hands-on displays, custom water features, synthetic grass putting green, free Pepsi products, Segway booth, and kids workshop by The Home Depot. Add food vendors, face painting, live animals, and cooking demos for a fun-filled family day. Let’s all go!

Sept. 6-8 Montana Pavilion and Expo Center at MetraPark

Artwalk

HarvestFest

Gazette Staff

Say goodbye to summer with one last hurrah. Skypoint fills with bails of hay, live folk music, dancers, and delicious foods for the final Farmer’s Market. There are plenty of family-friendly activities like face painting and balloon animals — and don’t forget about the pumpkin pie baking contest.

Oct. 12, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Under Skypoint

Keeping art alive and well in Billing is what the downtown ArtWalk is all about. Downtown galleries invite guests to observe and purchase local art while enjoying good conversation, snacks and complimentary wine.

Oct. 4, 5-9 p.m. Various locations COURTESY BILLINGS ARTWALK/“Floral Forest” by Beth Ann Zitur (Regele)

First Friday Finally, First Friday comes back to downtown Billings. From 5-8 p.m., downtown businesses come together to offer specials on food and drinks, merchandise and gallery events.

Sept. 6, Oct. 4, Nov. 1 Various locations

Haunted Happenings at Moss Mansion Montana Spirits: Ghostly tales, Montana brews and liquors will raise all kinds of spirits.

6-9 p.m., Oct. 4, 5, and 11

Murder Mystery: Someone has committed a heinous act – but who? Murder Mystery at the Moss Mansion is an amazing combination of great company, fabulous food, and a roaring good time. Dress in costume and enjoy the fun!

6-9 p.m., Oct. 12

High Plains BookFest Authors from seven regional states and three Canadian provinces arrive to BookFest as finalists in the High Plains Book Awards. Their works are read aloud at participating downtown venues and the audience is invited to engage in discussion afterward.

Oct. 10-12 Various locations

Haunted Moss: Turned into a terrifying asylum with actors in full costume, the Moss Mansion will be the stage for an evening of unimaginable horror. If you make it out of the house, check out the Labyrinth on the grounds.

Asylum Horror Theater: 6- 9:30 p.m.Labyrinth: 7-9:30 p.m.Oct. 18, 19, 25, 26, 31

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The haunting of

ABOVE: Moss Mansion, circa 1917. From left: P. B. Moss, Austin North (driving), Mrs. Moss, Hattie North. North Family

LEFT: The Moss Family on the 50th anniversary of Mattie and P.B. Moss.Front: Mattie and P.B. MossFrom left to right: Woodson Jackson, Kula, Preston Boyd Moss, Jr., Melville, and David Hickman Moss III.

MOSS MANSION By CHARITY DEWING cdewing@billingsgazette.com

Although the historic residence now operates as a museum, it is unnerving how much it feels like a home – and that’s because it is one. The entire main floor echoes of a family who shared meals in the dining room, hosted dinner parties, played music, made cookies in the kitchen, gathered around the Christmas tree and did just about everything else a typical family would do. It is the place that Preston Boyd Moss built in 1903 for his family – wife, Mattie (and her parents) and children (from oldest to youngest) Woodson Jackson, Kula, Melville Hollingsworth, Preston Boyd Moss Jr., David Hickman Moss III and Virginia. The Moss family has often been placed upon a pedestal throughout Billings history and by many residents. The mansion stands tall in the heart of our beloved city – a center stage for portraits, public events and weddings. To some degree, the family became dehumanized by the lure of grandeur and tales of the home being haunted by its adored residents.

Courtesy of the Moss Mansion

Deaths

P.B. and Mattie; Virginia and Melville; and Mattie’s parents, George and Iantha Woodson all died in the house. Melville was the middle child of six and lived in the home her entire life until she died at 88 years old. According to Jennette Rasch, curator at the Moss Mansion, Melville was as generous and loving as her parents. One account tells of a group of boys ringing the doorbell and running away. Upon the second or third time, one boy saw the double bass sitting in the French Parlor. When his friends ran off, Melville opened the door and the boy stood, shocked that he was left behind. He told Melville he was admiring the instrument and wanted to learn to play it. She took the young man on as a student and taught him to play, free of charge. That boy grew to be an exceptional musician in New York. Virginia died suddenly from diphtheria in the home at age 5. Her death was quick and shocking. According to her 1908 death announcement, “Virginia was in unusually good health until Sunday evening, when she complained of a slight indisposition. Monday morning she appeared to be feel-

Virginia died from diphtheria in her room, on the second floor of the mansion, surrounded by her family. Her mother, Mattie, also contracted diphtheria, but overcame the disease.

The haunting

P.B. Moss

Gazette file photo

ing better and seemed to improve until yesterday noon, when her condition changed for the worse. Dr. J. H. Rinehart was hastily summoned to the bedside of the little girl, and with Mr. Moss he hurried to the Moss residence.”

Initially, staff weren’t to speak of paranormal activity in the home. Believed to be bad publicity or subject to other reactions, it was kept mum until recent years. Virginia is believed to be the most commonly heard, seen and felt spirit in the mansion. Rasch, along with Marlene McCave, event manager at the Moss, approach the situation with a healthy dose of skepticism and add that the mansion is usually quiet. Still, both believe they have had paranormal encounters. Recently, Rasch heard voices conversing back and forth, as well as a young girl giggling. “Sounds can carry from outside into the mansion, so we are always very aware of that. But this was different. I checked outside, no one was there. But then, I heard the voices again – this time, I knew they were coming from inside and I was alone in the

Courtesy of the Moss Mansion

Melville Moss with her harp.

house,” said Rasch. Rasch set the security system before leaving that evening. If someone were in the house, the alarm would go off when they tried to leave. The alarm was not triggered. In addition, McCave was preparing to leave the mansion one evening when she heard a young girl call out, “Daddy!” The disembodied voice was shocking to McCave. Again, no one was on the grounds, and the ghostly shout came from inside. The French Parlor harbors the piano and a gold-plated harp similar to Melville’s original harp. It was also the room that hosted the Moss family’s funerals and/or wakes. The energy in the parlor is vastly different than any other room on the main floor. It was the room Melville may have loved the most. It is a blend of beauty, life and death. Guests and staff have reported feeling or seeing playful Virginia peeking around the staircase to the great hall, where her parents would host parties. Orbs, which are luminescent spheres seen by the human eye, have also been reported. Upstairs, the home takes on a completely different atmosphere. The grandparent’s room, where George and Iantha stayed, is reported by visitors and staff to feel heavy with grief. According to Rasch, they loved Virginia very much – she was undoubtedly the family favorite, and her untimely death was devastating to them. The master suit, where P.B. and Mattie slept, is connected to Virginia’s room.

The dining area of the Moss Mansion.

AMY NELSON, Billings Gazette

Courtesy of the Moss Mansion

Virginia Moss was born in the mansion. She died in her bedroom, within days of contracting diphtheria. She was 5 years old.

It was reported by a groundskeeper that when he entered the room, the bed was orderly and everything as it should be, when he returned he noticed the bed appeared as though a small child had been jumping on it. Virginia’s room includes the original carriage that each Moss child was pushed in as an infant, as well as clothing and toys. The girl’s room, which was shared by Kula and Melville is a rose-colored room Please see Mansion, Page 8

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Mansion From 7

that Melville remained in until she became too ill and frail to manage the stairs. She passed away downstairs. The nurse attending to Melville claimed that she saw Virginia’s ghost standing by Melville at the moment of her death. The boy’s room is charming and playful. It even displays a boat made by David, with a half-titled “Monta” on the hull, in red fingernail polish he had stolen from his sister. The name, Montana, isn’t finished because his mother took the polish upon discovering what her son had done. The top floor is closed to the public. It served as quarters for the two Swedish maids and the “ball room.” Not a ballroom for dancing, but a playroom for the children. On each side hangs small hoops to play basketball and enough space for the children to run and play. The attic holds the most precious of all remnants throughout the mansion. Along the walls and beams of the eave are the names of the Moss children, written in chalk more than 100 years ago and somehow preserved as if they had done it just yesterday. The chalk-written names are a fitting metaphor for the Moss Mansion. Like the furniture, walls, beds, clothes, toys, hair brushes, kitchen utensils, dinnerware, books and every other treasure the Moss holds, the home echoes of the only family that has ever lived there. In many ways, they still live there. Captured in time, like an eternal photograph. In that way, the Moss Mansion is haunted – a giant memory of this incredible family, filled with their emotions and perhaps, even their spirits.

AMY NELSON, Billings Gazette

The staircase landing between the first and second floors is one of several places in the Moss Mansion where the presence of Virginia has been seen and felt.

AMY NELSON, Billings Gazette

A basketball hoop made by the Moss children remains on the third floor of the Moss Mansion.

A ship made by David Moss, with “Monta” painted with his sister’s nail polish, is displayed in the boy’s room.

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You and me, and the devil makes three 10

The county jail before it was the Yellowstone Art Center. Gazette archives

By CHARITY DEWING cdewing@billingsgazette.com Editor note: I have decided to write this story as a first-person narrative. The experiences I had while touring the YAM were simply too raw and personal to tell in any other format. rom the outside, The Yellowstone Art Museum appears to be a benign and beautiful space for local and international artists to display their work. Inside, a soothing water fountain, beautiful courtyard and incredible artwork serves as an easy distraction

est part of the jail is the gallery next to the gift shop. Steel beams and ceiling that once housed the jail’s drunk tank is the most visible remnant. “Men, and occasionally women, would have to come here to sober up,” said Abbey Sonntag, tour guide. Staff have reported hearing conversation and the sound of cards shuffling from the drunk tank. The entrance to the second jail, built in 1913, after the first one needed an expansion, is still prevalent. The old brick and The first floor County Jail insignia etched in stone over the The jail began as one small building, then same doorway prisoners walked into now expanded as demand grew. leads to the Raven Café, young artist’s exThe original infrastructure to the old- hibit, and restrooms. from the building’s history. Built in the 1800s, the site was home to the original county jail – a holding space for violent offenders, rapists and murders. In the early 1960s, the jail was converted into what was established as the Yellowstone Art Center. During the mid-to-late 90s, the center received a grant for a $6.2 million dollar expansion. The jail remained as part of the location’s legacy.

It is said that the ghostly apparition of a man in Sheriff’s attire can be seen standing in the doorway. The Raven Café was once a courtroom. The judge’s chambers was split, some of it now visible as a walk-in closet with lockers, right next to the café and some has become the café kitchen. The public restrooms were once cells – the doors are the original steel frames complete with rivets now coated over with white paint.

The second floor Upstairs is where the warden and his family lived. In fact, somehow and for some reason, the “children prisoners” were

cuted man and sure enough, that is exactly what transpired. I looked to my photographer Amy and said, “You smell that right?” She nodded, both of us in disbelief that the aroma of burning tobacco linger between us. And as suddenly as it appeared, the smell was gone. Sonntag turned to us and said, “This isn’t even the scary part.” She took us to a large elevator and suddenly we were going down.

The basement

AMY NELSON, Billings Gazette

The original stairs in the basement of the Yellowstone Art Museum now lead nowhere believed to have spiritual presence surrounding them.

also kept upstairs in the family quarters. Across the hall were cells for female prisoners. “The whole jail was their home,” said Sonntag. A terrifying and outlandish concept, especially since the warden and his wife had children. Now, the second floor houses office space for the staff. Personnel have claimed to see whom they believe is the ghost of the warden’s

Abbey Sonntag of the Yellowstone Art Museum shows the bars that were the supports for the drunk tank in the original jail.

wife and even their family dog. The area is typical office space, until you look closer. The original exterior of the jail is visible as weathered red brick, now part of an exposed wall in the hallway leading to the offices. It is a reminder that while much of the past has been covered, there is an unpleasant antiquity in this cheerful place. The second floor is also the location of the only capital punishment case in Billings. Juan Cuellae was found guilty of first degree murder after shooting Officer Enos Nelson. In the hallway between the offices, Juan

Cuellae, awaited the gallows – which was inside of the building. His body would drop through a trap door from the second floor, snapping his neck. According to Gazette archives, he was given a new suit, so he could be buried in it – as well as a shave and a haircut. He received a last meal but could not eat. He asked for a cigarette and awaited his fate. As we stood in the hallway, Sonntag led us maybe five steps away from the site of the trap door, to the spot Cuellae had his very last cigarette. She began to claim that the smell of cigarette smoke is a common occurrence when speaking about the exe-

I am going to be honest. I didn’t believe the YAM was haunted. I have visited the museum more times than I can count. It’s the home of many an ArtWalk, Jam at the Yam and date night for me and my partner. It was anything but scary. However, as the elevator opened to the basement, suddenly we were somewhere else entirely. The limestone walls, broken and corroded lead to a long hallway where cells once were. Even with the lights on, and before we even began to explore it, the space was undeniably creepy. Towards the end of the corridor is the boiler room that once allegedly housed the warden’s son, whom supposedly committed heinous sexual acts towards children in the space. Called “Patrick” by staff, it is believed his spirit will not leave the ruins of the old jail in fear of going to hell. While taking photos, Amy was visibly uncomfortable. She kept moving her shoulders back and tilting her head like

Please see Yellowstone, Page 12

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Red hand prints can be seen on this original cell of the Yellowstone County Jail in the basement of the Yellowstone Art Museum.

Yellowstone From 11

something was touching her. I asked if she was okay and she replied, “Just creeped out.” The basement is large with many chambers, one of which is solitary confinement. Etched into the walls with whatever I assume the prisoners could find are the names of those who spent their days locked in the tiny room – without fresh air, sunlight or sanity. The original stairwell is also still partially exposed, but now leads to a ceiling. While we stood with the guide at the bottom of the stairs, an ice-cold pocket of air came between us. Sonntag stopped speaking at the moment I felt the temperature drop. “Do you feel that?” I asked. Again, I was dumbfounded. Completely taken aback by what was happening around us. Like the smoke, a cold ball of air traveled between us and then dissipated. “Oh, that’s Frank,” Sonntag said. The ghost called “Frank” is believed to be a jailer, maybe even a sheriff. He is seen with what looks to be sheriff-like attire and a large key ring. It is believed that the entity “Frank” is a protector and he does not like “Patrick.” We continued through ruin, heading to a room towards the back – the one Sonntag said scared her the most. Like the rest of the basement, it is a limestone chamber now used to store holiday décor. The entrance to this room is strange. It is large with giant holes on each side of the door frame, like a possible cell that operated as a space more severe than solitary confinement, but even Sonntag is unsure of its origins. But she does mention that whatever resides there now is sinister. There is a portion of wall that appears to have once been a doorway, now bricked over. We noticed a large hole stuffed with

AMY NELSON, Billings Gazette

The basement walls of the Yellowstone Art Museum have corroded in the years since it was used as the county jail. It is believed to house at least three spirits — only one is good.

material which we removed. A steady, cold draft was felt from the hole and upon using flashlights to see what could be on the other side appeared to be a tunnel of some kind. My photographer and I felt dizzy, and I experienced a sensation of being covered in cobwebs – though I was not. The atmosphere, the smell of a dank rotting basement, the history – yes, it all had a factor in how I was interpreting the information. It’s hard not to feel the influence of how creepy the basement is. Nonetheless, it is also a location that stands on its own – without the stories, without the history – as a place I would never visit alone, mostly because I feel I wouldn’t be.

One last goodbye Sonntag took us to the elevator and we returned to the second floor. We lingered, talking about the building’s history and the ghost, “Frank.” The hallway was dark but light could be seen through a door at the end. As we spoke, Amy and I both began to feel uncomfortable. We turned to face the door behind us, letting our eyes adjust to the dark. We all stared for a moment, watching what I can only describe as a black mass beginning to take shape to the right of the door frame. Had the tour guide and my photographer

not seen exactly what I had seen, I would have thought I was experiencing some kind of delusional manifestation. Yet, there it was and there we were – all of us, seeing the exact same thing, at the same time. We left the YAM that day, unsure how to explain what we had smelled, felt or witnessed. I was expecting a quick visit,

with little-to-nothing to report. Instead, I left there with an incredible story and even more questions. In a strange way, the dark history of the location is trapped there. The jail has simply been built over, painted and converted – but it is still there, prisoner to a new proprietor.

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The first permanent school in Billings has a bleak, dark history. It was built in 1884 along Fourth Avenue North between 29th and 30th streets. Lincoln School, now the Lincoln Center had a “brilliant but sadistic principal,” according to Gazette archives. George W. Shoemaker delighted in torturing his students. Gazette archives reveal the basement of the original Lincoln School was known as the “Chamber of Horrors” by students as Shoemaker would whip them so terribly that the children’s screams could be heard on the top floor. Parents, students and community members were outraged but somehow, Shoemaker escaped the allegations. The school finally closed because of scarlet fever – several students fell ill, and at least one boy died. The paranormal activity at the Lincoln Center today echoes the past. Former students, employees and visitors claim to have felt tapping on the shoulders and poking on the arms. Allegations of an unfriendly man in a top hat and overall sense of dread in the basement are the dominate complaints at the Lincoln Center – believably, it could be Shoemaker, himself. As a place that should have been safe and educational, the cries of students infused into the stonework of the building. Although additions have been built and time has passed, the “Chamber of Horrors” appears to have locked in the sorrow of many young souls.

Please see HISTORY, Page 14

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History From 13

Gazette archives

Believe it or not, the L&L Building, located at 2624 Minnesota Ave., was the heart of Chinatown in Billings during the late 1800s to early 1920s. Yee Sam Lee either built or bought the building in the 1890s. Lee was the most influential induvial in the Chinatown district – right down to the gangs. Called fractions, Lee was a member of Bing Gong Tong. According to Gazette archives, there were two gangs – the other was Hip Sing. Court testimony from a 1922 Gazette achieve reveals gang-activity resulting in an assault case with the Tong division in court. A quote read, “Every Chinaman who has testified in the trial so far has said he belong to one society or the other.” Legend has it that Yee Sam Lee was murdered on the top floor of the L&L Building at the hand of a rival gang member, and now haunts the building. When the building housed a SUBWAY sandwich shop, employees claimed objects were relocated, they felt tapping on the shoulder and laughter – in essence, a playful spirit. Lee was often fined, had several run-ins with law-enforcement and was assaulted on more than one location – and in fact, almost lost his life when attacked with a hatchet. But, Lee was not murdered. He did die there in 1925, at age 72, from natural causes.

CASEY PAGE/Gazette Staff

OXFORD ANTIQUES HOTEL Constructed in Victorian-Italianate style, the Oxford Hotel was built cirque 1908 and completed in 1909. According to Gazettes archives, the back part of the building was added on during WWI and the entire building was completed around 1917. According to a Gazette article written on Sept. 9, 1922, Clifford Ramsbotton, of Buffalo, Wyo., worrying about his health, shot himself in the forehead with a .32 automatic revolver at 8:15 a.m., in his room at the Oxford. The bullet entered his forehead just above the right eye and came out at the back of the skull. Papers found in his coat Indicate that he had been contemplating the deed for some time. Another gruesome story tied to the Oxford is an alleged murder of another long-term resident. According to a 1966 Gazette article, the body of Tobias Gustav Hallinger, 83, of the Oxford Hotel, an elderly man from Norway, was found in Alkali Creek on Monday, Feb. 21, 1966. Oxford Hotel personnel told deputies Hallinger left the hotel carrying a suitcase. The suitcase was never found. There were also numerous natural deaths and disturbances by residents throughout the years of the hotel. The city condemned the building for use as a hotel in 1981. Mike and Alexandra Gregory purchased the building – including the hotel’s furniture – and opened Oxford Antiques that year. There is a sense of heaviness throughout the establishment. Velvet wall paper, Victorian-style ceiling designs and doors that once lead to many guest rooms and living quarters remain evident. Upstairs is a different vibe, altogether. Customers have felt nausea, dizziness, and immense pressure to the head and eyes. Is there a ghost at Oxford Antiques? Perhaps there are several. The old hotel is filled with numerous trinkets, clothing, photos, heirlooms, historical relics and journals. It is a collection of other people’s lives – and that is a haunting all in itself.

Billings Gazette archives

FOX THEATER/ALBERTA BAIR Built in the 1930s, the hall was originally called Fox Theater until 1986 renovations and change to namesake, Alberta Bair. Interestingly enough, Fox Theater is said to be the same piece of land that the Bair family homesteaded. It seemed only right that they took back what was theirs – at least with title. Alberta Bair donated as much as $600,000 to the theater. When she died, the family again donated a whopping one million to the theater.Stories are told of specters taking a seat in the theater and chairs moving as if someone had just sat down. Former employees and performers have experienced a beautiful woman dressed in costume and ready to perform, her presence is especially prevalent in the dressing room. Theories are that the apparition is actually Alberta, visiting and enjoying the theater that held the birthplace and legacy of her family.

THE NORTHERN HOTEL Built in 1902, and at the time owned by P.B. Moss, the Northern Hotel has an astonishing history in the Magic City and many guests and former employees believe the legendary hotel harbors several ghosts. The Northern suffered a significant blow on Wednesday Sept. 11, 1940, when a fire leveled the hotel. The blaze began in the basement, home to Jane Drake Dress Shop. According to the Gazette archives, the fire likened the closest thing to civilian war that Billings had seen. The inferno contributed to many urban legends of guests perishing in a fiery death, now trapped there as permanent residents. Guests and former employees have claimed to see shadowy phantoms lurking in hallways of the hotel and experience unexplained pockets of icecold air. While the blaze was one of the most tragic events in our city’s history, achieves reveal that all guest were evacuated from the hotel, unharmed – no lives were lost. One tale describes a small ghost girl knocking on guest’s doors, waking them before the fire could ravage the building. It is said that this is the ghost of P.B. Moss’s deceased daughter, Virginia. While it can be disputed that the young child could have fond memories there and that is why she remained, it is worth mentioning that Virginia died suddenly at the home she loved, with her family — not in the hotel. Former employees have remarked on an unsettling feeling in the basement of the Northern – some, even refusing to enter the area where the fire took root. In what has been described as “the heart of the city,” perhaps it is simply the history of the hotel, itself. Built only 20 years after the city was founded, it holds untold stories of travelers, residents, life and in symbolic ways, death – with so much antiquity there, it seems possible that some guests never checked out. Gazette archives

THE REX

Built in 1910 by Alfred Heimer, chef for the Buffalo Bill Cody Wild West Show, The Rex Hotel has been one of the longest standing establishments in Billings. Mary Westwood of the Billings Gazette wrote an article in 1975 titled, “Will city’s heart beat again?” She was referring to Montana Ave and deemed it the birthplace of Billings – specifically the depot and few neighboring hotels. Among those hotels that shaped the city we love today was The Rex Hotel. The Rex survived the end of passenger trains, prohibition, real Wild West legends like Calamity Jane and Buffalo Bill and became center stage to decades of brothels, drugs and squatters. Somehow it has survived it all – and so have its ghosts. Guests and former employees have witnessed full-body apparitions of a man in the hotel’s basement, restrooms, kitchen and dining area. The ghost is rumored to be a former bartender. He seems to be an active and intelligent spirit who plays tricks, watches diners enjoy their meals and shuffles throughout the building. Now going through another transition, The Rex will open its doors again, this time honoring the man who began it all with a new name, Buffalo Block at the Rex. One can only wonder when the longtime resident bartender will begin making his presence known.

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Downtown Billings

events

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

Aug. 23 Western Heritage center Walking Tours: Grave Side Stories – A Walk through Mountview Cemetery, 10 a.m. Call 256-6809 for directions.

Aug. 27 Noon YAM Yoga Flow. Spend your lunch break with yoga instructor, YungBen for a 45 minute flow class. Noon, Yellow-

Aug. 30 Western Heritage center Walking Tours: South Park Stroll Meet at South Park (east side) at 10 a.m. Call for directions.

Sept. 6 First Friday. Downtown businesses come together from 5-8 p.m., to offer specials on food and drinks, merchandise and gallery events.

Aug. 25 “Weird Al” Yankovic: The Strings Attached Tour at First Interstate Arena at MetraPark, 7:30 p.m.

Aug. 29 Western Heritage center Walking Tours: Historic Moss Mansion Neighborhood. Meet at the corner of Division Street and Clark Avenue at 6 p.m.

stone Art Museum.

SEPTEMBER Sept. 3, 10, 17, 24 Noon YAM Yoga Flow. Spend your lunch break with yoga instructor, YungBen for a 45 minute flow class. Noon, Yellowstone Art Museum.

Sept. 6-8 Home Improvement Show, MetraPark Expo Center.

SEPTMEBER Sept. 7 Yoga at the YAM. If you have always wanted to try yoga, this is a great class for beginners, 9 a.m., Yellowstone Art Museum. Sept. 8 Yellowstone Bridal Fair at the YAM, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 6 & 20 Western Heritage center Walking Tours: Hidden in Plain Sight. Tour through downtown, showing all of the agricultural gems to be seen and the history behind the buildings. At Western Heritage Center, 10 a.m. Sept. 12 North x Northwest Awards Reception at the Yellowstone Art Museum, 5:30 p.m. Sept. 14 Cole’s Pantry Annual Benefit at MetraPark Montana Pavilion, 5 p.m. Sept. 14 Western Heritage center Walking Tours: Grave Side Stories – A Walk Through Mountview Cemetery, 10 a.m. Call 256-6809 for directions. Sept. 14-15 Spay & Neuter Clinic, MetraPark Montana Pavilion. For more information call the Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter at (406) 294-7387. Sept. 19 Western Heritage Center High Noon Lectures: Me and Martha: Intimate Reflections of Dora DuFran about the Real Life of Calamity Jane, noon.

NOVEMBER Nov. 2 Funky Bunch Improv at NOVA Center for the Performing Arts. AMY NELSON, Billings Gazette

OCTOBER

Nov. 3 Auction of Arias: Opera on the Avenue fundraiser for NOVA Center for the Performing Arts. At McCormick Café, 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 4-6 & 11-13 The Jungle Book at NOVA Center for the Performing Arts.

Oct. 17 Western Heritage Center High Noon Lectures: Will James: The Consummate Storyteller.

Nov. 7 Western Heritage Center High Noon Lectures: Knapsacks and Roses, Montana’s Women Veterans of World War I.

Oct. 20 Venture Improv at NOVA Center for the Performing Arts.

Nov. 8-10 & 15-17 Marriage of Figaro at NOVA Center for the Performing Arts

Oct. 26 Masquerade at the YAM, 8-11 p.m.

Nov. 9 &10 Holiday Food & Gift Festival at MetraPark Expo Center, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The drawings and writings of inmates can be seen in the original cells of the Yellowstone County Jail in the basement of the Yellowstone Art Museum.

Oct. 5 Funky Bunch Improv at NOVA Center for the Performing Arts. Oct. 5 Rescued and Reclaimed antique show at MetraPark Expo Center, 10 a.m.

Sept. 21 A 1920’s Evening: Billings Symphony Orchestra & Chorale, Lincoln Center, 7:30 p.m.

Oct. 5 Montana Women’s Expo, at MetraPark Montana Pavilion 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

OCTOBER

Oct. 5 Yoga at the YAM. If you have always wanted to try yoga, this is a great class for beginners, 9 a.m., Yellowstone Art Museum.

Oct. 4 First Friday. Downtown businesses come together from 5-8 p.m., to offer specials on food and drinks, merchandise and gallery events.

Oct. 11 Western Heritage center Walking Tours: Grave Side Stories – A Walk through Mountview Cemetery, 10 a.m. Call 256-6809 for directions.

Oct. 31 Western Heritage Center High Noon Lectures: Witches, Vampires and Zombies: Monsters in European History.

NOVEMBER Nov. 1 First Friday. Downtown businesses come together from 5-8 p.m., to offer specials on food and drinks, merchandise and gallery events. Nov.2 Tribute to Ballets Russes at the Lincoln Center, 7:30 p.m.

Nov. 17 Venture Improv at NOVA Center for the Performing Arts.

Nov. 16 & 17 An American Landscape: A Chorale Concert at the Lincoln Center, Nov. 16, 7:30 p.m.; Nov. 17, 3 p.m. Nov. 21 Western Heritage Center High Noon Lectures: Hazel Hunkins of Billings: Protesting for Women’s Rights, 1916-1920.

Style Watch Photos by Casey Page of The Gazette Staff

The “boyfriend” clothing trend is timeless and always a little sexy. The skinny blue jeans with washed-out knees are a great base for this look but what we really love is the red and gray plaid button-up with fringed bottom and striped cuffs. Throw on a little gray cami and long chain necklace with simple hanging embellishments to finish this flirty ensemble. And let’s not forget the black thistle Eric Michael boots and sleek genuine leather velvet hide black purse.

Rocker chic meets motorcycle mama with a parallel of sophisticated beauty – Needless to say, we love this look. The olive-colored leather jacket is eyecatching and really brings structure to the camo pants and black tee. The coin necklaces with jewel accents, leather bracelet with coin accent and coin earrings really tie this piece all together. Go to a concert, a poetry reading, a casual night on the town or just find your inner wild child.

Available at Cricket Clothing Co. Pants: $215; Cami: $24; Shirt: $69; Boots: $ 172; Purse: $ 148

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Available at Cricket Clothing Co. Jacket: $129 Pants: $89 Necklaces: $46-52 Bracelet: $59 Earrings: $52

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It’s all about accessories – and you can’t have ‘fun’ without it being functional. The gray leather purse offers plenty of storage for a mom on-the-go, but the chic simplicity makes this bag a sophisticated addition to any outfit. The Eric Michael boots are going to keep your feet dry and warm – and you’ll still look hot. Available at Cricket Clothing Co. Boots: $ 204; Purse: $ 229 Downtown Billings has the best boutiques and a new one on the block is Something Chic. From flirty fun to professional attire, this shop has an incredible selection. Take this beautiful Molly Bracken woven jacket in midnight blue. This eye-catching piece just screams empowerment – #boss. Available at Something Chic Jacket: $98

Can we just talk about how fabulous these accessory pieces are? The black wool, flat stiff brim hat and fawn suede boots are perfect for a day at farmers market or a patio lunch. The black casepurse with studs and thick, decorative guitar strap adds an extra cool factor. Available at Something Chic Hat: $78; Boots: $195; Purse: $110

Always open Sundays 12 – 4 Shop Local, Shop Downtown

2814 2nd Avenue North 259-3624

This vibrant blue 40s sweater is the epitome of movie star, Lana Turner, who coined the term “sweater girl” in the 1940s – a taboo fashion movement where women’s curves were visible. The peacock-colored leaf brooch adds just the right amount of bling without being too distracting. The 1970s tweed skirt accentuates the ensemble, making the blue really pop. The red leather 40s purse and sling back pumps complete this polished vintage look. Available at Montana Vintage Sweater: $17 Skirt: $18 Brooch: $30

Stripes, floral and polka dots – oh my! This charming multi-pattern dress is short and sassy with a good-girl vibe. The ivory scarf and palepink vintage purse balances this flirty fall outfit. Available at Marketplace 3301 Dress: $34 Scarf: $17 Purse: $14

Marketplace 3301 has a great selection of Boho-chic jewelry and clothing. This bohemian dandelion-yellow flowing shirt and long chain necklace with metal and wood pendant presents a cool and modish vibe. The floral hippie jeans really round out this stylish ensemble. Available at Marketplace 3301 Shirt: $25 Jeans: $98 Necklace: $12

Oh snap! We love the urban cowboy look. This orange, forest green and off-white 70’s western snap-button shirt and leather boot ensemble is ideal for a date by the fire pit. Available at Montana Vintage Shirt: $18 Boots: $45

Everything about this ensemble makes us want to grab a cup of hot cocoa and take a brisk stroll through downtown. The oversized off-white Molly Bracken knitted cardigan is the ideal seasonal staple piece. The black v-neck and blue jeans maintains a casual, yet hipster panache. Add a chunky gold chain and pearl drop-earrings and you are ready for a fine fall day. Available at Something Chic Cardigan: $78 Shirt: $30 Pants: $98 Necklace: $48 Earrings: $98

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Desmonds has fine men’s clothing for every season. From traditional and modern suits to handsome leather jackets and casual wear, there is something for every dapper man. We love this gray Bugatchi button-up with floral cuffs – it encapsulates hipster-chic. Add blue jeans and pair of black Fluchos loafers to finish this eye-catching ensemble. Available at Desmonds: Shirt: $129; Jeans: $95; Shoes: $209

22 Whatever the task, Billings Army Navy has you covered. The original fit, firm, 100% cotton ringspun duck canvas, Carhartt pants are perfect for hard jobs. The Timberland Pro boots will keep your feet dry and warm. The felt hat, face cover and Wells Lamont Men’s Leather Work Gloves offer safety and functionality. Available at Billings Army Navy Pant: $50; Boots: $150; Hat: $35; Socks: $20

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CASEY PAGE, Billings Gazette

TEN

CASEY PAGE, Billings Gazette

A directory of the best food Downtown Billings has to offer.

The Sassy Biscuit Co. 115 N 29th St.

19 N. Broadway We are big fans of this appetizer. Succulent pan-seared scallops are presented with cherry tomatoes and topped with a gorgeous sherry gastrique. Pair it with a glass of white wine to bring forth all of those aromatic flavors. This is a luscious way to begin your food experience at TEN.

First Friday at Sassy Biscuit is all about that bass – and by “bass” we mean delicious, decadent desserts. The first Friday of every month is devoted to a new dessert bar, each month has a theme and array of mouth-watering gourmet treats. Here is the Sugar and Sass Dessert Bar for chocolate lovers.From left to right: a white chocolate cheesecake featuring an Oreo crust and chocolate and orange ganache – my personal favorite; turtle bread pudding with salted caramel and pecans; four layer, triple chocolate coconut cake; red velvet lava cake with a white chocolate swirl; (front) vegan chocolate mousse with a coconut whip, flathead cherries, and strawberries.

SEPTEMBER 12-22, 2019

Experience the diversity of Billings arts, entertainment, and cultural scene, including theatre, art, film, music, literature, history, and entertainment events. Presented by Billings Cultural Partners

Tuesday - Saturday 10:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. February through December

WEST NORTHxNORTHWEST.org

Our 1893 cabin and large lower level feature the history of the Yellowstone River Valley with displays on Plains Indians, ranchers, firearms, & more.

NEW IN 2019: Police/Sheriff/Fire: 1883-1920 Updating firearms & weaponry exhibit.

106 N. Broadway

Get your spice on with these Chicken taquitos. Flour tortillas filled with chicken or picadillo, rolled and deep fried to crispy perfection. Topped with parmesan cheese and served with salsa, guacamole and sour cream, these melt-in-your-mouth bites will have you coming back for more.

The chefs at Stacked are always trying innovative ways to create new food experiences. Espresso-crusted Kobe beef is piled atop beautifully done Japanese soba noodles. Topped with teriyaki sauce, fried carrots and Peruvian Sweetie Drop peppers to offer hints of sweet flavor, this mouth-watering dish will provide a delectable taste explosion that even novice food connoisseurs will enjoy.

Bin 119 119 N Broadway A sautĂŠed green apple and bourbon glaze is poured over a 10oz bone-in pork chop, adding the perfect balance of sweet and savory. Roasted brussel sprouts add an earthy tone to the mix. Add a glass of white wine to finish this refined meal.

CASEY PAGE, Billings Gazette

17 N. 29th St.

TEN 19 N. Broadway This luscious 16 oz pork tenderloin Au Poivre is served with beautifully roasted acorn squash rings and delicious Romanesco broccoli. Top off this lip-smacking meal with a smooth glass of Pinot Noir.

CASEY PAGE, Billings Gazette

Stacked

CASEY PAGE, Billings Gazette

Guadalajara Mexican Restaurant

CASEY PAGE, Billings Gazette

A directory of the best food Downtown Billings has to offer. Featured restaurants are marked with a shaded box. Casual Cuisine Bernie’s Diner 19 N. Broadway (406) 867-6767 The Burger Dive 114 N. 27th St. (406) 281-8292

Rockets Gourmet Wraps & Sodas 2809 First Ave. N. (406) 248-5231 Sassy Biscuit 115 N 29th St (406) 200-7530 Soup and Such 2716 Third Ave. N. (406) 294-0148 Stacked: A Montana Grill 106 N. Broadway (406) 534-8702

Velvet Cravings 225 N. Broadway (406) 294-0308 Veronika’s Pastry Shop 2513 Montana Ave. (406) 855-5770 Well Pared 2710 1st Ave N. (406) 534-3170

Ethnic Cuisine The Athenian 18 N. 29th St. (406) 248-5681 Café Italia 2417 Montana Ave (406) 896-9700

Café Zydeco 2503 Montana Ave. (406) 248-3440

Stella’s Kitchen & Bakery 2525 First Ave. N. (406) 248-3060

Crazy Mary’s 1404 6th Ave. N. (406) 252-0089

Coffee/Specialty Shops

Cham Thai & Cuisine 2916 First Ave. N. (406) 256-1812

Annex, Coffeehouse and Bakery 2601 Minnesota Ave., Ste. 4 (406) 371-5904

Ciao Mambo 2301 Montana Ave (406) 325-5100

Big Dipper Ice Cream 100 N. Broadway (406) 534-2350

Don Luis 15 N. 26th St. (406) 256-3355

Denny’s 501 N. 27th St. (406) 256-7335 Dickey’s Barbecue Pit 2519 Montana Ave. (406) 969-3909 Dude Rancher Restaurant 415 N. 29th St. (406) 259-5561 Guido’s Pizza 2417 Montana Ave. (406) 208-4942 Harper & Madison 3115 10th Ave. N. (406) 281-8550 Hog Wild Cafe/Party Pig Catering 204 N. 22nd St. (406) 256-5599 Lisa’s Sandwich Den 2908 First Ave. N. (406) 252-4282

Broadway Deli & Café 313 N. Broadway (406) 281-8568 Brockel’s Chocolates 117 N. 29th St. (406) 248-2705 City Brew 1131 N. 27th St. (406) 294-4620 Ebon Coffee Collective 2712 2nd Ave. N. (406) 431-4522 The Grotto Kombucha Bar & Taproom 2223 Montana Ave. Suite 104

McCormick Café 2419 Montana Ave. (406) 255-9555

Mazevo Coffee Roasters & Espresso Bar 2719 First Ave. N. (406) 534-6625

Perkins 825 N. 27th St. (406) 248-8320

MoAV Coffee House 2501 Montana Ave.

Pita Pit 2813 Second Ave. N. (406) 245-7482

Rock Creek Coffee Roasters 124 N. 28th St. (406) 896-1600 Starbucks 27 N. 27th St. (DoubleTree) (406) 252-7400

Guadalajara Mexican Restaurant 17 N. 19th St. (406) 259-8930 Guido’s Pizza 3005 First Ave. N. (406) 259-1041 Imperial Thai Cuisine 216 N. Broadway (406) 696-3330 La Tinga 113 N. 30th St. (406) 969-8828 Mia’s Wok 3012 4th Ave N. (406) 371-7273 Mirch Masala Indian Restaurant 304 N 19th St. (406) 589-4289 NaRa Restaurant 3 Custer Ave. (406) 245-8866 Sarah’s Mexican Food 310 N. 29th St. (406) 256-5234

Shanghai Village 2926 Second Ave. N. (406) 245-6887 Wild Ginger 2713 Montana Ave. (406) 252-4486

Fast Food Burger King 520 N. 27th St. (406) 245-7911 Hardee’s 608 N. 27th St. (406) 259-3344 Jimmy John’s 122 N. Broadway (406) 281-8282 Kentucky Fried Chicken 719 N. 27th St. (406) 259-2641

Sports Bars - Bars - Pubs Angry Hanks 20 N. 30th St. (406) 252-3370 Asylum Distillery 2223 Montana Ave., Suite 101 (406) 200-7022 The Bookie 3011 First Ave. N. (406) 245-4900 Carter’s Brewing 2526 Montana Ave. (406) 252-0663 Daisy Dukes 222 N. Broadway (406) 201-8725 Doc Harper’s 116 N. Broadway (406) 200-7177

Fine Dining

Hooligan’s Sports Bar 111 N. Broadway (406) 259-3328

Billings Petroleum Club 27 N. 27th St, 22nd Floor (406) 252-6700

Last Chance Pub & Cider Mill 2203 Montana Ave. (406) 534-8918

Bin 119 119 N. Broadway (406) 294-9119 DoubleTree Montana Sky 27 N. 27th St. (406) 252-7400 The Fieldhouse 2601 Minnesota Ave., Suite 3 (406) 534-2556 Jake’s 2701 First Ave. N. (406) 259-9375 Juliano’s 2912 Seventh Ave. N. (406) 248-6400 Lilac 2515 Montana Ave. (406) 969-4959 TEN 19 N. Broadway (406) 867-6767 Walkers Urban Grill 2700 First Ave. N. (406) 245-9291

Montana Brewing Co. 113 N. Broadway (406) 252-9200 Monte Bar & Casino 2824 First Ave. N (406) 259-3393 The Pub Station 2502 First Ave. N. (406) 894-2020 The Rainbow Bar 2403 Montana Ave. (406) 259-0047 406 Kitchen & Taproom 1207 N. 27th St. (406) 245-5985 Thirsty Street Brewing Co. 3008 First Ave. N. thirstystreet.com Tiny’s Tavern, Inc. 323 N. 24th St. (406) 259-0826 Trailhead Spirits 2314 Montana Ave. (406) 969-1627 Uberbrew 2305 Montana Ave. (406) 534-6960 Yellowstone Valley Brewing 2123 First Ave. N. (406) 245-0918

Arts & Culture ALBERTA BAIR THEATER

The show must go on. The ABT will go dark while renovations occur but will continue to present performing arts at the Lincoln Center, Petro Theatre and Babcock Theatre. For more information visit albertabairtheater. org.

“Piano Concerto in G Minor.” Date & Time: Sept. 21, 7:30 p.m. Location: Lincoln Center Tickets: Call Billings Symphony Orchestra & Chorale (406) 252-3610

Tribute to Ballets Russes

Created from the traveling ballet company based in Paris, “Ballets Russes” features works by Stravinsky, Debussy and founder Sergei Diaghilev. The Symphony also welcomes the return of former BSO&C intern violinist and To view movie showings at Art House MASO winner, Rosie Weiss. Cinema & Pub, visit arthousebillings.com. Date & Time: Nov.2, 7:30 p.m. Location: Lincoln Center BILLINGS PUBLIC Tickets: Call Billings Symphony Orchestra & Chorale (406) 252-3610 LIBRARY

ART HOUSE CINEMA & PUB

To view classes and seminars at Billings Public Library, visit billingslibrary.org.

An American Landscape: A Chorale Concert

BILLINGS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA & CHORALE

A beautiful collaboration from the Billings Symphony Chorale as they perform at St. Patrick Co-Cathedral. This event will evoke spiritual, artistic and emotional enlightenment – or at the very least, some serious goosebumps. Date & Time: Nov. 16, 7:30 p.m.; Nov. 17, 3 p.m. Location: Lincoln Center Tickets: Call Billings Symphony Orchestra & Chorale (406) 252-3610

A 1920’s Evening American composer/pianist Conrad Tao brings the roaring 20s to Billings with the jazz-inspired melodies from Gershwin’s “An American in Paris,” and Ravel’s

Photo courtesy Billings Symphony

Get your Gatsby on with musician Conrad Tao for the jazz-inspired, season opening concert held at the Lincoln Center Auditorium.

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To view events at The Pub Station, visit 1111presents.com.

The Jungle Book The classic story of a young boy raised by wolves comes to the Black Box theater. With his friends, Baloo and Bagheera, Mowgli struggles to find safety from the clutches of Shere Khan. Date & Time: Oct. 4-6 & 11-13 Location: NOVA Center for the Performing Arts Tickets: Call (406) 591-9535 or visit novabillings.org

Funky Bunch Improv Gotta have that funk! This high school improv troupe performs the first Friday of every month with hilarious skits borrowed from popular shows like “Whose Line is it Anyway?” Audiences cannot help but get caught up the sidesplitting dynamic of this improv group where anything can happen. Date & Time: Oct. 5 & Nov. 2 Location: NOVA Center for the Performing Arts Tickets: Call (406) 591-9535 or visit novabillings.org

Venture Improv For over 20 years, this improv group has been amusing audiences with their witty stage rapport. With various games and different actors taking part each time, this fresh approach to theater production offers a hilarious and unpredictable result that has kept audiences coming back for more. Date & Time: Oct. 20 & Nov. 17 Location: NOVA Center for the Performing Arts Tickets: Call (406) 591-9535 or visit novabillings.org

FIRST INTERSTATE ARENA AT METRAPARK “Weird Al” Yankovic: The Strings Attached Tour Courtesy of Nova Center for the Performing Arts

Nova Center for the Performing Arts presents improv troupe, “Funky Bunch.”

Auction of Arias: Opera on the Avenue Meet, mingle and hear the powerhouse voices of some of the most talented opera performers in the region at this incredible fundraiser for NOVA Center for the Performing Arts. Tickets are $30 in advance or $35 at the door. Advanced reservations are encouraged by calling (406) 591-9535. Date & Time: Nov. 3, at 7:30 p.m. Location: McCormick Cafe Tickets: Call (406) 591-9535 or visit novabillings.org

Marriage of Figaro

With a full symphony orchestra at his disposal, “Weird Al” will bring classical music to a whole new level. Date & Time: Aug. 25, 7:30 p.m. Location: First Interstate Arena Tickets: Call (406) 256-2400 or visit metrapark. com

Home Improvement Show If you own a home or are looking to buy one, the Home Improvement show is for you. Learn about indoor and outdoor products for your home and advice from experts about price, technique and products. The show is free to the public. Date & Time: Sept. 6-8, times vary Location: Expo Center Tickets: Call (406) 256-2400 or visit metrapark. com

Spay & Neuter Clinic

Composed by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Figaro Bring your furry companion down for the annual is a servant ready to marry Susanna. But, Count AlmaSpay & Neuter Clinic. For more information call the viva has plans to seduce Susanna, whom happens to Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter at (406) 294-7387 be a servant to his wife. for information and to make an appointment. Date & Time: Nov. 8-10 & 15-17 Date & Time: Sept. 14-15, times vary Location: NOVA Center for the Performing Arts Location: Montana Pavilion Tickets: Call (406) 591-9535 or Tickets: Call (406) 256-2400 or visit metrapark.com visit novabillings.org

Cole’s Pantry Annual Benefit Dinner, dance and auction will be held to raise money for needy children in rural Montana. Date & Time: Sept. 14, 5 p.m. Location: Montana Pavilion Tickets: Call (406) 256-2400 or visit metrapark.com

Rescued and Reclaimed

Dealers from all over Montana and Wyoming will exhibit and sell raw antiques like dolls, farm equipment and jewelry as well as restored décor and vintage items with new purpose. General admission is $5 Date & Time: Oct. 5, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Location: Expo Center Tickets: Call (406) 256-2400 or visit metrapark. com

Montana Women’s Expo Women who need assistance with parenting, careers, healthcare, finances, education and so much more are encouraged to attended The Montana Women’s Expo. Local professionals will be on-hand to answer questions and provide information. Admission is free. Date & Time: Oct. 5, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Location: Montana Pavilion Tickets: Call (406) 256-2400 or visit metrapark. com

Holiday Food & Gift Festival With as many as 200 booths with metal art, woodwork, stained glass, photography, pottery, jewelry, quilts, dolls, holiday décor and so much more, finding that perfect gift just got easier. Admission is $3 at the door or $1 with a donation of a non-perish-

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able item to the Billings Food Bank. Date & Time: Nov. 9, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Nov. 10, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Location: Expo Center Tickets: Call (406) 256-2400 or visit metrapark.com

WESTERN HERITAGE CENTER HIGH NOON LECTURES Me and Martha: Intimate Reflections of Dora DuFran about the Real Life of Calamity Jane. Date & Time: Sept. 19, noon Location: Western Heritage Center Tickets: Call (406) 256-6809 or see ywhc.org

Will James: The Consummate Storyteller Date & Time: Oct. 17, noon Location: Western Heritage Center Tickets: Call (406) 256-6809 or see ywhc.org

Witches, Vampires and Zombies: Monsters in European History Date & Time: Oct. 31, noon Location: Western Heritage Center Tickets: Call (406) 256-6809 or see ywhc.org

Knapsacks and Roses, Montana’s Women Veterans of World War I Date & Time: Nov.7, noon Location: Western Heritage Center Tickets: Call (406) 256-6809 or see ywhc.org

Hazel Hunkins of Billings: Protesting for Women’s Rights, 1916-1920.

Courtesy photo

YungBen’s Yoga at the Yellowstone Art Museum.

Date & Time: Nov. 21, noon Location: Western Heritage Center Tickets: Call (406) 256-6809 or see ywhc.org

EXHIBITS Charles H. Barstow Collection of Crow and Gros Ventre Indian Ledger Art From wedding ceremonies to battle scenes, the drawings by Crow Indian leadership depict the beauty and sorrow during the late 1800s. Date & Time: through Sept. 21 Location: Western Heritage Center Tickets: Call (406) 256-6809 or see ywhc.org

The Friends of Ben Art Show: Celebrating the Influence of Ben Steele Honoring the man that touched so many, the exhibit is a reflection of Steele’s influence on his students, friends and family. Date & Time: through Sept. 21 Location: Western Heritage Center Tickets: Call (406) 256-6809 or see ywhc.org

Please Don’t Feed the Bears: Close Encounters with Yellowstone Wildlife This exhibit tells visitors how to love bears from a safe distance. Date & Time: through Dec.28 Location: Western Heritage Center Tickets: Call (406) 256-6809 or see ywhc.org

Historic Walking Tours Historic Moss Mansion Neighborhood Learn about the historic architectural homes of Clark and Yellowstone Avenues, where some of the most well-known Billings figures once lived. Meet at the corner of Division Street and Clark Avenue. Date & Time: Aug. 29, 6 p.m.; Sept. 26, 6 p.m. Location: Western Heritage Center Tickets: $10 for adults, $5 for students, children (under 12) are free (up to 2 per paying adult); call

Call for directions. Date & Time: Aug. 30, 10 a.m. Location: Western Heritage Center Tickets: $10 for adults, $5 for students, children (under 12) are free (up to 2 per paying adult); call (406) 256-6809 or see ywhc.org for more details.

Hidden in Plain Sight Local historian, Joyce Jensen takes tours through downtown, showing all of the agricultural gems to be seen and the history behind the buildings. Date & Time: 10 a.m., Sept. 6 & 20 Location: Western Heritage Center Tickets: $10 for adults, $5 for students, children (under 12) are free (up to 2 per paying adult); call (406) 256-6809 or see ywhc.org for more details.

Grave Side Stories – A Walk Through Mountview Cemetery

It may sound creepy but cemeteries hold a lot of city’s history. Tour Mountview cemetery located South Park Stroll on Central Avenue, which is Billings first cemetery, Discover the remains of the Billings’ railroad; how including the historic mausoleum. Meet at Mountview the sugar beet factory has affected our city; and the Cemetery, off of Central Avenue. Call 256-6809 for part South Park plays. Meet at South Park (east side). directions. (406) 256-6809 or see ywhc.org for more details.

EXHIBITS

seum.org for more information.

The Thing Itself

North by Northwest Juried Art Show

The permanent collection focuses on art made from “the things of the world.” The work varies from sculptures, collages and mixed media, as objects are repurposed for symbolic significance. Date & Time: ongoing Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: Call YAM at (406) 2566804 or see artmuseum.org for more information.

If you are an artist, age 18 and over specializing in painting, drawing, graphic arts, collage, sculpture, photography or mixed media, the Yellowstone Art Museum is taking submissions for the North by Northwest Juried Show. Date & Time: through Oct. 10 Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: Call YAM at (406) 256-6804 or see artmuseum.org for more information.

Will James Rides Again

Holding the largest collection of art by Will James, the American West lives on through the legacy of the man whose illustrations remain a steadfast favorite at the Yellowstone Art Museum. Date & Time: ongoing Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: Call YAM at (406) 256-6804 or see artmuseum.org for more information.

Clyde Butcher: America the Beautiful Photo courtesy Yellowstone Art Museum

Clyde Butcher’s “Many Glacier.” The exhibit opens to the public on July 18 and will be on display through mid-October.

Date & Time: 10 a.m., Aug. 23; 10 a.m., Sept. 14; 10 a.m., Oct. 11 Location: Western Heritage Center Tickets: $10 for adults, $5 for students, children (under 12) are free (up to 2 per paying adult); call

A collection of photographed landscapes capturing the beauty and intricacy of Montana’s national parks will Photo courtesy Yellowstone Art Museum be on exhibition. Kelsey Bowen’s, “The Runaways”will be on Date & Time: through Sept. 13 exhibit as part of the YAM’s North by Northwest Location: Yellowstone Art Museum art exhibition. Tickets: Call YAM at (406) 256-6804 or see artmu-

chandise and gallery events. Date & Time: Sept. 6, Oct. 4 & Nov. 1, from 5-9 p.m. Location: Yellowstone Art Museum (406) 256-6809 or see ywhc.org for more details. Tickets: Call YAM at (406) 256-6804 or see artmuseum.org for more information.

YELLOWSTONE ART MUSEUM EVENTS & CLASSES Yoga at the YAM

If you have always wanted to try yoga, this is a great class for beginners. Join instructor, YungBen as he leads a restorative class that helps participants join breath, body and mind together. Walk-ins welcome. Date & Time: Sept. 7 & Oct. 5, 9–10 a.m. Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: $10 members, $15 non-members; call YAM at (406) 256-6804 or see artmuseum.org for more information.

Noon YAM Yoga Flow Desk jobs wreak havoc on your body. Spend your lunch break with yoga instructor, YungBen for a 45 minute flow class. Date & Time: Aug. 27 & Sept. 3, 10, 17, 24, noon to 12:45 p.m. Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: $10 YAM Members (and their guests), $15 not-yet-members. Call YAM at (406) 2566804 or see artmuseum.org for more information.

First Friday Downtown businesses come together from 5-8 p.m., to offer specials on food and drinks, mer-

Yellowstone Bridal Fair You’re engaged – now what? Professional photographers, wedding planners, and venue location representatives will be at this year’s bridal fair to offer advice and answer questions. Date & Time: Sept. 8, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: Call YAM at (406) 256-6804 or see artmuseum.org for more information.

North x Northwest Awards Reception The votes have been tallied and the winners will be announced for People’s Choice, Juror’s Choice and Purchase Awards at the YAM’s first annual juried art exhibition. Date & Time: Sept. 12, 5:30-9 p.m. Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: Call YAM at (406) 256-6804 or see artmuseum.org for more information.

Masquerade at the YAM The costume party of the year takes place at the Yellowstone Art Museum. Aerialists perform and pour wine while guests mingle in the most elaborate and imaginative costumes of the season. Date & Time: Oct. 26, 8-11 p.m. Location: Yellowstone Art Museum Tickets: Call YAM at (406) 256-6804 or see artmuseum.org for more information.

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THE LOFT Dance Club LEAST EXPECTED HAUNTING:

By CHARITY DEWING cdewing@billingsgazette.com

Built in 1930, it is hard to find the origins of 1123 1st Ave N. Now, The Loft Dance Club, the location seems to house at least one resident spirit – and they have proof. Randy Napier, co-owner of The Loft, purchased the location in 2005. During the 14-month renovation process, Napier claims of immediate paranormal occurrences. Even the building contractor told Napier that something supernatural was happening at the location. Bar stools moved, and continue to do so, on their own. Employees have heard footsteps around and on the stage area after closing time. Recently, Napier was speaking with a performer after a show when both

clearly heard someone walk across the stage – and no one else was in the building. “It freaks me out. I have cameras covering every inch of this place. The first thought I have when I hear footsteps is that someone has broken in,” said Napier. “I’ll check all of the cameras and no one is here.” Photographic evidence caught by employees and customers show a ghostly apparition with what appears to be wings on a ramp leading away from the stage and a face in a porthole window of a door pressed against a wall where no one could fit behind. Achieves revealed a few dark incidents at the location, which was once home to the 17 Bar. Interestingly enough, the building has an apartment atop the club. One resident was talent-booking agent Jack Rogers. In

1968, Rogers plead guilty to statutory rape after he and six other men were accused of raping two female runaways, ages 14 and 15. In 1956, a fatal gunshot wound occurred in the parking lot. The victim was found in his truck. At the time, authorities speculated if it was a murder or suicide. In 1960, Lyle Opstad was charged with first-degree, premeditated murder after bludgeoning another man with a tree branch just outside of the 17 Bar. In 1971, while still the 17 Bar, a woman was attacked in the bathroom by Leonard Garden Franz. He was charged with third degree assault. Strangely enough all of the males involved range in age 30-33. Coincidence or paranormal influence?

Courtesy of The Loft

Employee Shelly Harr saw an apparition in the porthole of this door and snapped a photo. Amazingly, the photo captures the ghostly face Harr claimed to witness.

Courtesy of The Loft

This photo was taken by a patron at The Loft. The image shows an unusual apparition next to the stage area. Note that a customer is looking towards the figure.

The former 17 Bar & Club is home to The Loft today.

Gazette file photo

Jungle Book

October 4-15, 2019

Marriage of Figaro

November 8-17, 2019

A Christmas Carol

December 6-15, 2019

One-Act Plays No Exit and Free Birdie An Evening with Sherlock Holmes Inside Out Treasure Island

One-Act Operas

January 10-19, 2020 January 31-February 9, 2020

2317 Montana Ave February 28-March 8, 2020 Billings, MT March 27-April 5, 2020 406.591.9535 www.NOVAbillings.org

Sister Angelica and The Impresario

May 1-10, 2020

A Midsummer Night's Dream

June 5-14, 2020

Borrowers

July 17-26, 2020

s, Telling Storie ds, Building Min ination! Powering Imag

• History Museum • Walking Tours • Public Programs

2822 Montana Avenue Billings, Montana www.ywhc.org • 406-256-6809

Mark your calendars!

T HE W RITER ’ S V OICE proudly presents a reading by the U.S. Poet Laureate

JOY HARJO 7pm, Saturday, Nov. 9 Cisel Hall, MSUB-Billings

Supported in part by grants from NEA Big Read, the Charles M. Bair Family Trust, and the Western States Arts Alliance Advancing Indigenous Performance Touring and the Andrew W. Mellon Founda�on.

Bringing the Excitement of the Performing Arts to Big Sky Country

GET BEST SEATS NOW! 2722 Third Ave N, Suite 200 M-F 10-5

(406) 256.6052 | AlbertaBairTheater.org JANUARY 29, 2020

JULY 18 TO OCTOBER 13, 2019

FEBRUARY 15, 2020

FEBRUARY 25, 2020