January / February 2014 Ultimate Magazine the Official Magazine for Ultimate Air Shuttle

St. Maarten/ Historic Lunken Wildman’s St. Martin Airport Wild Ride The Caribbean’s most The ups and downs of a A look back at WEBN’s unique island paradise. Cincinnati icon. craziest on-air Promo

VOLUME 1 / ISSUE 1 JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2014 ULTIMATE MAGAZINE THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE FOR ULTIMATE AIR SHUTTLE

SOARING HIGHER THE HISTORY AND FUTURE OF ULTIMATE AIR SHUTTLE

Mercedes-Benz of Fort Mitchell Official Automobile DealershipUltimate Air of Shuttle Ultimate Flights are public Magazine charters sold and operated by Ultimate JetCharters, LLC as direct air carrier. JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014 ULTIMATE 1 Customer First Amenities 52,000 s q . f t . Our goal is not just to give you better service, but also to provide you with Mercedes-Benz a better overall experience. To that end we offer amenities to keep you connected, productive, and of Fort Mitchell even, relaxed. From an espresso bar to a 7 acres full business center to a practice putting o f v e h i c l e sgreen, Mercedes-Benz of Fort Mitchell It’s the dealership, reinvented. was built to please you. Introducing Mercedes-Benz of Fort Mitchell, a dealership with exceptional services and amenities, including valet service that Environmentally comes to you (no-charge pick-ups and drop-offs), complimentary car Friendly Design wash and pit-stop inspection anytime (no appointment necessary), Overall. Meets or exceeds all standards of the U.S. and our full service department is open Saturday. And, as a Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program. Mercedes-Benz of Fort Mitchell client, simply mention our name, show them your Mercedes-Benz of Fort Mitchell license plate frame Lighting. The entire facility is equipped with LED lights and motion sensors to cut energy consumption by two-thirds and enjoy nearly 20% off your valet parking at CVG Airport. compared to typical dealerships. Heating. A convection-based, radiant floor heating system warms the dealership during cooler months, greatly reducing EXPRESS SERVICE GUARANTEE energy loss.

Oil Change† – Hydraulics. Our innovative lift system technology uses water and compressed air instead of oil, eliminating any possible soil 30 minutes or it’s FREE contamination. ($84.95 value) Introductory Special of $59.95 Wash Bay. Capable of cleaning up to 60 vehicles per hour, this automated system uses less water and more precise chemical “A” Service disbursement.

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*Slightly higher for V12 and AMG® models. Pre-production vehicle shown with optional and non-US equipment. Price advertised for Service A includes all factory required components. Please refer to your maintenance booklet for the complete list of factory specified service requirements and details on the specific intervals for your vehicle’s year and model. †Applies to 1998 models and older only. Mercedes-Benz Official Automobile Dealership wash bay of Fort Mitchell vehicles ™ of Ultimate Magazine will clean Where Above and Beyond Comes Standard. As part of our dedication to above and beyond per hour I-71/I-75 and Dixie Highway, service, Mercedes-Benz of Fort Mitchell is proud to 60 announce our exclusive partnership with Ultimate Air Exit #188, Fort Mitchell, KY Shuttle. We look forward to many years of providing the ultimate in luxury, comfort, and amenities to our 1-800-MERCEDES 859-331-1500 most-valued clients. www.mbfortmitchell.com 2 ULTIMATE JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014 Customer First Amenities 52,000 s q . f t . Our goal is not just to give you better service, but also to provide you with Mercedes-Benz a better overall experience. To that end we offer amenities to keep you connected, productive, and of Fort Mitchell even, relaxed. From an espresso bar to a 7 acres full business center to a practice putting o f v e h i c l e sgreen, Mercedes-Benz of Fort Mitchell It’s the dealership, reinvented. was built to please you. Introducing Mercedes-Benz of Fort Mitchell, a dealership with exceptional services and amenities, including valet service that Environmentally comes to you (no-charge pick-ups and drop-offs), complimentary car Friendly Design wash and pit-stop inspection anytime (no appointment necessary), Overall. Meets or exceeds all standards of the U.S. and our full service department is open Saturday. And, as a Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program. Mercedes-Benz of Fort Mitchell client, simply mention our name, show them your Mercedes-Benz of Fort Mitchell license plate frame Lighting. The entire facility is equipped with LED lights and motion sensors to cut energy consumption by two-thirds and enjoy nearly 20% off your valet parking at CVG Airport. compared to typical dealerships. Heating. A convection-based, radiant floor heating system warms the dealership during cooler months, greatly reducing EXPRESS SERVICE GUARANTEE energy loss.

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Ultimate Air Shuttle Flights are public charters sold and operated by Ultimate JetCharters, LLC as direct air carrier. JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014 ULTIMATE 3 January/February 2014

6 The Ultimate Air Story: A candid conversation with ContentsPresident and Founder John Gordon. 12 Join us as we explore the incredibly diverse pleasures of St. Martin/St. Maarten island in the Caribbean (clothing is optional).

4 ULTIMATE JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014 20 The Ups and Downs of Cincinnati’s ULTIMATE Historic Lunken Airport MAGAZINE BY MAXX WEST JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014 VOLUME 1 / ISSUE 1 22 The inside story of the greatest on-air promotion in the history of WEBN Publisher Tom Anneken BY DENNIS ‘WILDMAN’ WALKER President 26 The Ultimate Word Search Keith Sprunk

Vice President Rick Pawlak

Sales Manager Allison Head

Marketing Manager Noel Ripley 28 Contributing Writers Mercedes-Benz of Fort Mitchell Max West Donna Griffin and Ultimate Air Shuttle Team Up Glenn Sper for “Ultimate” Partnership Contributing 32 Photography Cincinnati’s 15 Top Restaurants Photographic Memories BY KEITH SPRUNK Printer Advertising Printers Inc.

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ULTIMATE MAGAZINE, January/Febrary 2014, Volume 1, Number 1. Publised bi-monthly 6 times a year. All content copyright © 2014 Ultimate Magazine. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or reprinted without permission.

Ultimate Air Shuttle Flights are public charters sold and operated by Ultimate JetCharters, LLC as direct air carrier. JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014 ULTIMATE 5 The Ultimate Air Story An interview with founder John Gordon

From its humble beginning as Gordon Air, Ultimate JetCharters, LLC. has grown to become one of the country’s premier private and public charter operators.

6 ULTIMATE JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014 Founded by John Gordon in 1984 as a small, one-aircraft charter company, Ultimate JetCharters has become widely known in the charter industry for its development of the large cabin market. In fact, Ultimate JetCharters has grown to become the recognized leader in providing Corporate and Project Shuttle service for Fortune 500 companies.

Ultimate JetCharters oper- all the Ultimate locations. ates an eight aircraft fleet of Those amenities include, 30-seat Dornier 328 Jets that free up close parking, fast allows the company to pro- and hassle free check in, vide highly-personalized and no baggage fees, free Wi-Fi reliable service for Corpo- and drinks in the lounges. rate Shuttles, Sports Team/ During the flight, customers Fan Travel, Project Shuttles, receive free inflight snacks Incentive/Group Travel and and drinks. Casino Trips. Their aircraft are Ultimate Air Shuttle will strategically positioned at mul- continue adding to their tiple locations throughout the shuttle line up in 2014. Stay country, which allows them to tuned. provide the most efficient, and John Gordon, President cost-effective travel solutions and Founder of Ultimate for clients. Equally important to JetCharters sat down with providing the very best Private Ultimate Magazine recently Charter Services is Ultimate’s to share a few stories and exceptional Flight Crew that are what motivates him every- very experienced, professional day. Mr. Gordon resides in and friendly. John Gordon, President and Founder of his hometown Akron, Ohio In July 2009, Ultimate with his wife of 28 years and JetCharters revolutionized air Ultimate JetCharters has two daughters. travel by successfully launching began service to Charlotte. UM: What motivated its Ultimate Air Shuttle service between Because of the demand on the New you to start your own company? Cincinnati and New York City. Five York/New Jersey Shuttle, Ultimate Air JG: The company I was a pilot for days a week, business and leisure trav- Shuttle expanded the service to CVG Air- sold their aircraft, which led to me being elers enjoy “VIP Travel for the Cost of port. Chicago will expand to CVG in the laid off. I used my first unemployment Commercial” on Ultimate Air Shuttle’s first quarter of 2014 because of the high check to incorporate Gordon Air. Need- Public Charter flights out of Cincin- demand from the business community. less to say, I was never laid off again. nati’s Lunken Airport. In September Customers will receive the same VIP UM: What type of flight services did of 2010, Ultimate Air Shuttle began amenities and great service at CVG and you provide at Gordon Air? service to Chicago and in June of 2012 LUK they have become custom to, at JG: We started providing Air Ambu-

Ultimate Air Shuttle Flights are public charters sold and operated by Ultimate JetCharters, LLC as direct air carrier. JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014 ULTIMATE 7 Five days a week, business and leisure travelers enjoy “VIP Travel for the Cost of Commercial” on Ultimate Air Shuttle’s Public Charter flights out of Cincinnati’s Lunken Airport. lance flights first. Then the Ultimate JetCharters? demand for corporate flights JG: In 1999, I purchased began. Another service Gor- this facility and began provid- don Air provided was carrying ing services such as; fuel sales, freight for Konica Film. We hanger space, ground support would carry 2,000 lbs. of film and maintenance. Today, the per day 6 days per week for 8 facility is still used for servicing years. customers aircraft in the Akron We also managed air- area and houses the Customer craft for companies in the Service and Reservations Team Akron area. We provided a for Ultimate Air Shuttle. turnkey flight department, UM: When did you pur- scheduling and maintenance. chase the first Dornier jet? This allowed us to grow our High demand from the business JG: In 2001, we added charter services faster. community led Ultimate Air Shut- the first Dornier to our fleet. UM: When did you pur- That was an important addi- chase the facility that is now tle to expand it’s New York Servce tion because that aircraft the corporate headquarters of to CVG Airport in 2013. proved to be the perfect size

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Ultimate Air Shuttle Flights are public charters sold and operated by Ultimate JetCharters, LLC as direct air carrier. JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014 ULTIMATE 9 to capture many business segments and begin the Public Charter service. shorten the ramp up time of the new city grow the company where it is today. UM: Where do you see the company pair launches. The faster the city pairs Ultimate JetCharters is now the largest in 5 years? become profitable the faster Ultimate Air operator of Dornier Jets in the country. JG: Our Performa we have now has Shuttle grows. UM: What do you like most about a build out up to 14 city pairs over the UM: Where did you grow up? your job? JG: I was born in Akron, JG: Interaction with the Ohio. My father was an engi- employees I enjoy the most. neer for Firestone. His job You cannot build a success- required us to move multiple ful company yourself. To times during my school years. have a great company you I finished up High School need great employees. I truly in the Akron Area. During enjoy the quest of finding High School I began flight les- those individuals. sons. I would work just to save UM: How did the Ulti- up enough money to take one mate Air Shuttle become a lesson at a time. After High reality? School, I started college at Kent JG: Ultimate Air Shuttle State University. went from a concept to being Comfortable 30-seat Dornier 328 jets allow I left college early because put into motion because of the Ultimate Air to provide highly-personalized the US Navy drafted me as a financial crisis. When the Tarp and reliable shuttle service with VIP amenities. Seabee. I spent 3 years in the money rolled out to the finan- Navy and 3 years in the reserves. cial sector, a few of our corporate shuttle next five years. We will also continue to When my military career was over I went dried up immediately. We had an available grow the private division as well. The key to the Spartan School of Aeronautics to aircraft we moved to Cincinnati in 2009 to to grow the shuttle program quickly is to get back to what I really loved to do: fly. n

Ultimate JetCharters operates a fleet of 30-seat Dornier 328 jets strategically positioned at multiple locations throughout the U.S. which allows them to provide the most efficient, and cost-effective travel solutions. 10 ULTIMATE10 ULTIMATE JANUARY-FEBRUARY JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014 2014 never gamble on WHERE TO GAMBLE

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Ultimate Air Shuttle Flights are public charters sold and operated by Ultimate JetCharters, LLC as direct air carrier. JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014 ULTIMATE 11 Sun, Sand, and 747s A Tour of St. Maarten/St. Martin, The Caribbean’s Most Unique Island Paradise.

12 ULTIMATE JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014 Don’t worry, be happy! 30 plus years of traveling to St. Maarten / St. Martin to No truer words have ever been spoken, when it my benefit. comes to leaving the confines of a dreary Cincinnati We started www.stmartin-vacations.com in 2009 winter and traveling to the magnificent and gor- and now offer over 50 villas for rent. All of our villas geous island of St. Maarten/St. Martin. So, why you are located on the French side of the island, but you Dask, does it have two names? Well, can travel anyone on the island in that’s because it has two owners. St. about 30-minutes. You don’t have Maarten is the Dutch side of the to stop and go through customs island and St. Martin is the French when traveling from either side of side of the island. the island. My first trip to the island was in Our 50 + villas can accommo- 1982, 31-years-ago. Back in those date any needs you have, from a days, the island was still pretty laid single couple honeymoon getaway back and quiet. Traffic wasn’t bad, to 40 people getting away on a busi- you could still find some great real ness / leisure trip. estate opportunities on the island, ©GraphicMaps.com Following are some interesting but like most things in my life, I kept thinking that I things that this dual island offers. If you’re are inter- would purchase some property next month, next year. ested in traveling to St. Maarten/St. Martin, look up Finally, when I realized that I had waited too long our web site for some beautiful villas or give us a call to try and purchase land on this beautiful island, I at 513-477-1001 and we will structure the perfect decided to at the very least, try and use some of my vacation for you!

Featured on “Ripley’s Believe It or Not,” at the Sunset Beach Bar you can spend an afternoon watching giant 747 airplanes land just 50 feet above your head! Ultimate Air Shuttle Flights are public charters sold and operated by Ultimate JetCharters, LLC as direct air carrier. JANUARY-FEBRUARYJANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014 ULTIMATE 2014 ULTIMATE 13 13 St. Martin/St. Maarten island features many spectacular villas which can accommodate nearly any budget and need – from a single couple honeymoon getaway to groups getting away on a business/leisure trip.

The Greatest Beaches In located in Philipsburg on the Dutch side of best things to do is just find an empty bench The World! the island. and do some serious people-watching. If your looking for a great beach, then Most of the shops open at 10 a.m. Go So, bring lots of money and your walk- you’ve come to the best Caribbean island. early and plan on spending the day. There ing shoes and make sure you spend a day All the truly great beaches are located on are 2 main streets. Front Street and the shopping in Philipsburg on your vacation. the French side. Remember that all the newly built Boardwalk that runs along the French beaches are clothing optional. From beach. Take A Day Trip To the quiet beaches of Baie Rough Beach, The Boardwalk was built just 4-years- A Nearby Island Cupecoy Beach, Plum Beach, to the great- ago and has wonderful shops and restaurants If you get the itch to explore another est clothing optional beach in the world….. up and down the beach. island, St. Martin/St. Maarten is just a Orient Beach, there’s soft sand and sun wait- Front Street was remodeled 6-years- short trip to St. Barts, Anquilla or Saba. ing for you. ago and was beautified with paving stones, Winair and St. Barth Commuter offer Explore some of the greatest beaches benches, new sidewalks, palm trees and cast quick 10-minute flights to any of these 4 in the world, but everyone has to take a day iron streetlights. Parking was eliminated on islands, but the preferred way to go is via trip to Orient Beach. This clothing optional Front Street so the throngs of people can ferry, which can wisk you to any of these 4 beach is 2-miles long and has something for move easily. destinations in 30 to 45 minutes. everyone. On any given Saturday or Sunday Philipsburg is where all the cruise ships there will be over 5,000 people on this mag- disembark. On any given day you might St. Barts nificent beach that’s located at the north end find 3 or 4 cruise ships with 10,000 to 15,000 One of the most exclusive destinations of the island. people shopping on the Boardwalk and in the Caribbean, St. Barts is truly the “Hang- From water sports such as parasailing, Front Street. out” for the rich and famous. Take a day trip jet bikes, water trampolines to boutique’s Hungry? Not in Philipsburg! From to this beautiful island and you just might with wonderful clothing, from a dozen dif- beach bars serving hamburgs to Creole, catch a glimpse of any number of celebrities. ferent great restaurants to just chilling out from pizza to Chinese, from steaks to BBQ, Stop at Le Select and order a cheeseburger and getting a great tan and people watching, there are more then 50 restaurants just in the and just do a little people watching. this world famous beach has something for downtown area. There is daily ferry service from both everyone. The only thing that Philipsburg has Philipsburg on the Dutch side and from more of then restaurants are jewelry stores. Marigot on the French side to St. Barts. Shop Till You Drop In There are 62 stores on Front Street that sell Philipsburg some type of jewelry. With Front Street run- Anquilla There’s great shopping on both sides ning over a mile long and with thousands of Known for its posh resorts and fine din- of the island, but the “BEST” shopping is visitors daily from the cruise ships, one of the ing, Anquilla is served by ferries from both

14 ULTIMATE JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014 You Buy For Less Because Eddie Buys For Less 9301 Montgomery Rd. Cincinnati, OH 45242 | 513.793.4111 | eddielanes.com

Ultimate Air Shuttle Flights are public charters sold and operated by Ultimate JetCharters, LLC as direct air carrier. JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014 ULTIMATE 15 Philipsburg and Marigot. Anquilla is located The Sunset Beach Bar has actually been leave you laughing in stitches and dancing just 9 miles northwest of Marigot. The ferry featured on “Ripley’s Believe It or Not.” all night long. out of Marigot leaves every 20-minutes. There is a great beach area adjacent They have a complete menu from They have a great golf course in Anquilla. to the bar and when the sun sets and the steaks and seafood to hamburgers and The biggest attraction on this island airplanes stop landing and taking off, they salads. The food is wonderful and the though, is they have over 45 public beaches turn on the nightlife with live entertain- price is very moderate compared to most with the whitest white sand you will ever ment nightly. restaurants on the island. dig your feet into. Sports fans can watch all the important Cheri opened her restaurant in 1988 games on 30 ft. giant screens. And bring and had to rebuild the restaurant (it has Saba your laptop as they offer FREE wireless a roof, but no walls) after the hurricane Diving and hiking are the main attrac- internet connection. in 1996. tions on tiny Saba. Ferry service is only So whether you’re an early riser enjoy- The restaurant serves food all day. from Simpson Bay on the Dutch side, but ing the Egghead’s Breakfast, spending an Entertainment is nightly from 8 p.m. until this tiny island that you can see from Phil- afternoon watching the jumbo jets land midnight. This is truly a place you must ipsburg is 28 miles south of St. Maarten. and take off, winding down at the end of see and enjoy. There are only 1,500 residents that live on the day with a beer and watching the sun the island full time. There are 4 Atlantis Casino small towns on the island. They There are many casinos on are Hell’s Gate, St. John’s, The the island, but the one we rec- Bottoms and Windwardside. ommend is the Atlantis Casino The Simpson Bay ferry leaves at Cupecoy. This casino has early and returns late every day. slots, blackjack, poker and a fabulous restaurant called Prickly Pear or Sandy “Rare”. Its expensive…really Beach expensive, but you won’t find a Leave from either Marigot better restaurant anywhere in or Orient Beach to either one the world. They have a number of these 2 private islands. You of great restaurants, including might catch a catamaran to the best pizza on the island at either island and spend the day Bella Napoli. Try any of these sunning, snorkeling, having restaurants inside Gourmet your Captain and crew fix you Orient Beach has something for everyone. On any given Village at the Atlantis and you a steak or fish fry on the beach. Saturday or Sunday there will be over 5,000 people on will enjoy any of them. Nothing but...WOW!!! this magnificent clothing optional beach. P.S.: The Atlantis Casino also has a “Sports & Race Pinel Island set, or gearing up for a high-octane night Book” so when you go down in January you Located in Orient Bay, just follow the of dancing…the Sunset Beach Bar has it all. can actually watch and bet on your favorite signs to Cul de Sac. Follow the road until P.S.: The most important part of this hot NFL team. it ends in a parking lot. From there its just spot might be the sign that hangs over the a short 5-minute boat ride to Pinel Island. bar: “Topless Women Drink Here For Free!” More Great Restaurants There’s a couple of good restaurants and And there’s lots of takers… to Discover! small shops on Pinel. They have beach P.P.S.: Great food, especially those terrific • Rare: Best steakhouse in the Caribbean. chairs and a wonderful beach, but when hamburgers! • Temptation: Award-winning continen- you head for Pinel Island you’re looking for tal restaurant. quiet time. Cheri’s Café • Bella Napoli: Best pizza on the island. Located next to the Casino Royale and • Le Montmartre: Fine French cuisine. The One and Only Sunset just 500 yards from the Sunset Beach Bar, • Sugar Cane Café: American style food Beach Bar this is another great, great, great restau- and bar. Everyone should spend an afternoon at rant. Cheri’s Café has the “BEST” music • La Gondola: Fine Italian cuisine. the Sunset Beach Bar. This is a great place and live entertainment on the island, fea- • Casablanca: Moroccan Restaurant. to spend an afternoon watching giant 747 turing their very own “Sweet Chocolate • Thai Savanne: Thai Restaurant and airplanes land just 50 feet above your head. Band”. Magnificent music, this group will Sushi bar. n

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8939 Union Centre Blvd | West Chester, OH 45069 (513) 603-1444 | Monday–Saturday 10–7, Sunday 12–6 Still Flyin’... The Ups and Downs of Cincinnati’s Historic Lunken Airport. by Maxx West

Dictionary.com defines history as “a past notable for its important, unusual, or interesting events”. This perfectly describes historic Lunken Airport. No, it isn’t O’Hare, Kennedy, or LAX, but the role it has played for nearly one hundred years cannot be overlooked, or more importantly, it should not be forgotten. Lunken is located in the historic Columbia Tusculum neigh- borhood, which is notable in its own right as the first settlement in Cincinnati. In 1788, Hezekial Stites landed here at the con- fluence of the Little Miami River and the Ohio River. A veteran of the just-ended American Revolutionary War, he and others in his party were the first non-Native Americans to set foot on land in this region. He and many of these early settlers are buried just across the street from Lunken in the Pioneer Cem- etery and his gravestone touts him as “Pioneer of the West who landed in Columbia in 1788… In perilous times he ventured forth to tame the forest and till the earth.” A second cemetery, lost to the ravages of time but estimated to be just a couple hundred yards south, has an unmarked grave for William Brown, a sergeant in the American Revolution and the first recipient of a Purple Heart. The legend is that Martha Washington made the ribbon for the medal. This is a truly historic area and it seems appropriate that from this early settlement an airport of equally Photo courtesy cincinnati-transit.net. historic magnitude arose a century and a half later.

20 ULTIMATE JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014 It was an amazing time—the Roaring The future was bright. Several airlines made the high water mark. 20’s. The Great War was over and barn- Lunken their home, including an early ver- Cincinnati City officials were wor- storming was new and exciting. Aviators sion of American Airlines. In 1929, they ried. Their philosophy that Lunken should were mostly ex-pilots from the war and they featured regular flights from Lunken to Chi- be THE major airport for Cincinnati was would buzz a town, land in an open field, cago. As air travel became more and more debated and challenged. Approximately and then charge people for rides in their popular, Lunken grew and thrived. In 1929, ten miles away was Blue Ash Airport. It amazing flying machines. was on high ground and Dixie Davis was one of not susceptible to a flood those early pilots that like Lunken had seen. could captivate crowds, City leaders and plan- taking off and landing on ners feuded over which a patch of grass the size location should be the Still Flyin’... of a postage stamp. He primary airport. Mean- started a flying business while, shrewd Kentucky where the Lunken play- politicians saw an oppor- field is currently located, tunity. While Cincinnati creating his own small air- politicians bickered and strip. It was named after fought, their Kentucky Lieutenant John K. Gri- counterparts secured sard, the only pilot from federal funding to build Cincinnati that was killed a major airport in North- in the World War I. Mean- Photo courtesy cincinnati-transit.net. ern Kentucky. while, Edmund Lunken, Was this the begin- a successful Cincinnati During the flood of 1937, Lunken was completely underwater and its newly ning of the end for businessman, and his son completed terminal disappeared completely under the muddy river water. Lunken? By the end of Eshelby recognized the World War II, major importance and future of aviation. Edmund over 29,000 planes went through the airport. airlines started to exit. Flights and pas- was a German immigrant that had made And then came the rain. It rained, and senger numbers dropped to lows that had Cincinnati his home. They saw the potential then rained some more. not been seen since the early days of the of the site as a big-time airport. Downtown 1937 saw the greatest flood in Cincin- airport. Cincinnati was only four miles to the west, nati history. Approximately 1,200 small But Cincinnati is a corporate town the land was flat, and it was easily accessible. feeders and tributaries empty into the Little and sharp executives recognize a diamond In 1925 he purchased an additional 204 Miami River. The river swelled and spilled in the rough when they see one. Lunken acres for expansion and the airstrip officially over its banks and levies that had been began a transformation from a commer- became Lunken Airport. constructed to keep this from happening, cial airport to a general aviation airport. To In the same year, the Embry-Riddle flooding the airport. The Ohio also flooded this day, virtually every major Cincinnati Company became the first big player in and the destruction spread for miles, even corporation with private jets calls Lunken Lunken’s history when it ‘home’. started a flight school at But you know that Lunken Airport. They also To this day, virtually every major Lunken is not exclusively garnered one of the earliest a corporate business airmail contracts in the US, Cincinnati corporation with private jets airport. Ultimate Air delivering mailbags held Shuttle calls it home by passengers on their laps calls Lunken ‘home’. too, with flights from in open-air seats. Today, and to Cincinnati from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University con- inundating Crosley Field located approxi- Charlotte, New York, and Chicago. Yes, tinues their founders’ early traditions with mately 2-miles inland from downtown. Chicago, just like in those early days of aeronautical training, albeit with slightly The entire airport was underwater with aviation at Lunken. more sophisticated planes and equipment. the newly completed terminal disappeared As you step onto the runway at Lunken, In 1928, Eshelby Lunken basically gave completely under the muddy river water. appreciate the history. From Dixie Davis the airport to the City of Cincinnati via a And still the water level rose higher, nearly and those early barnstormers to Charles ‘perpetual lease’ with the stipulation it was reaching the top of the control tower located Lindbergh, who landed at Lunken back in to operate as a Municipal Airport and be above the terminal. If you are flying into or 1927. So did the Beetles in 1964 and just called Lunken Airport. Cincinnati passed out of Cincinnati, look at the tower on the about every President that has flown since a bond to raise money for airport expan- airfield side of the terminal. Near the top the airport began. sion and purchased an additional 870 acres. you will see a single black brick that marks Lunken Airport. Unique and historic. n

Ultimate Air Shuttle Flights are public charters sold and operated by Ultimate JetCharters, LLC as direct air carrier. JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014 ULTIMATE 21 The inside story of the greatest on-air promotion in the history of WEBN By Dennis ‘Wildman’ Walker

With Apologies To Late President Guest What? The Broncos routed the climb up the ladder to visit me had signed Franklin D. Roosevelt: November 3rd, Bengals 45-14. I lost! a guest book and had been filmed with a 1991, a date that will live in infamy. I faced the consequences and made video camera because this was Cincinnati My 61 day stay on a Billboard – yes my way to the Billboard the afternoon of history in the making. 61 days – until the Bengals won their Tuesday September 3rd, 1991 at the cor- Bengals offensive lineman, Bruce first game! Bengals Cornerback, Eric ner of 8th and Broadway facing I-71 south Kozerski, Joe Walter, safety David Fulcher, Thomas blocking a field goal attempt by bound and confident I would only be up Cincinnati Mayor, David Mann, Cyclones the Browns, Matt Stover. With no time there for 3 nights. NOT! defenseman Dallas Eakins and news remaining, finally the Bengals win 23-21. I stayed up there, the bye week reporter Lisa Cooney from WLWT’s My Billboard stunt came about from included, 61 days (a Guinness World Channel 5, are a few of the braves souls I a simple wager with a then Jacor owned Record)! remember who climbed up the ladder and rock radio station Disc Jockey in Denver, Thinking about it 22 years later, the 61 squeezed through the little opening on the Colorado. days I spent on the Billboard turned out to roof to visit me. If the Bengals beat the Broncos on be, at the time, the Bengals worst season What a hoot it was watching the big Sunday September 1, 1991, the Den- ever (3+13), the best bet I ever made. and burly Koz and Walter come through ver Jock goes up on a Billboard until the If I had a dollar for everyone that has that small hole in the roof. Broncos win their first game. However, If asked me since, “how many days did you I stuck to my game plan from day one the Broncos beat the Bengals, Wildman spend on the Billboard”, I would be driv- to wake up at my usual time of 5:30 AM to goes up on a Billboard until the Bengals ing a Rolls-Royce. prepare my sports reports on the WEBN win their first game. I wish all those who were allowed to Dawn Patrol.

22 ULTIMATE JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014 On Bengals game day (and there were eight of them while I was on the billboard), I thought… the Bengals would win every time, only to watch them lose in ways that had “me thinking they were doing it on purpose…

Ultimate Air Shuttle Flights are public charters sold and operated by Ultimate JetCharters, LLC as direct air carrier. JANUARY-FEBRUARYJANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014 ULTIMATE 2014 ULTIMATE 23” 23 Once my duties were finished, I lady from Mortons of Chicago would board), I thought every Sunday and the had a lot of free time to answer phone climb the ladder in her high heels with a Monday night game the Bengals would calls from news outlets in England and full steak dinner for me and whoever was win every time, only to watch them lose Australia, read the paper, watch Andy there at the time, served on fine China. in ways that had me thinking they were Griffith and always take a nap until my When I came down from the Billboard doing it on purpose to keep me up there 5:50 Happy Hour Sports Report. all season long. My nights during the week, when not Wildman I will never forget the Bengals/Bills talking to a legion of listeners who came Walker can Monday night game where Jim Kelly was to the Billboard to see if I was really up currently picked off 4 times in the first half, the there, I watched what sports I could find be heard Bengals scored all three points on 4 Kelly on a fuzzy TV. The reception there was interceptions and lost ugly, and I mean on ClassX horrible. My Fridays and Saturdays on ugly 35-16. the Billboard were spent playing poker radio at My best memory is from Sunday with my friends until 5 AM drinking lots 88.9 FM in November 3rd, 1991 when Browns kicker of free ice cold beer. This was just one of Cincinnati and 89.1 FM Matt Stover lined up to kick what could my many perks for this famous stunt. in Northern Kentucky be a game winning field goal. My long I am not ashamed to admit I ate like a Monday through Thurs- time friend Greg Thomas says to me king on the Billboard. I had a list of Jacor day 3-6 PM and on Fri- “they are going to block it, they are going clients that included LaRosa’s, Arbys, to block it” and holy cow, Eric Thomas Montgomery Inn and Lumpys Sports days from 4-6 PM. runs in untouched to block Stover’s Bar where I could order anything I want kick, the ball then bouncing around for and they would deliver it with a cimb after 61 days I must have had some 20 a few seconds until linebacker Carl Zan- of the ladder or I would lower a bucket plates and supreme steak knives from der fell on it. Bengals win 23-21! I was down to get my chow. Mortons of Chicago. then knocked to the floor and smoth- I will never forget starting on Sep- On Bengals game day (and there were ered by a pile of happy Bengals fans tember 4th, 1991. Every Wednesday a eight of them while I was on the Bill- (why someone did not snap a picture of

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24 ULTIMATE JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014 that, I don’t know). I could hear a sea of noise making its u way from the Riverfront Stadium to the Billboard to celebrate the Bengals first u win of the year. It was a sight to behold! Bengals fans yelling “Wildman, you are u The free”! Who-Dey! Ultimate The Cincinnati Fire Department u showed up with its hook and ladder

u Spa Experience truck offering to help me come on down. I declined wanting to do one last show from the Billboard on Monday morn- u • massages ing (a little known fact, until now). I did • facials & professional skincare come down a little later that evening after u the crowd went on their merry way to • manicures take my only shower. It was a long one, u after 61 days of sponge baths. • pedicures That Monday morning I finally u • body treatments climbed down the ladder and I immediately dropped to my knees and kissed the u • selection of organic & ground rolling around and around. cosmeceutical product lines There is no trace, I am sorry to say, u of my 61 day stay on the Billboard. The • legendary customer service building at the corner of 8th and Broad- u way was torn down a few years ago.

u experience My new home is now ClassX radio at 88.9 FM in Cincinnati and 89.1 FM in Northern Kentucky where I can be u heard Monday through Thursday from

3-6 PM and on Fridays from 4-6 PM. I u suggested to station owner, Bill Spry, that perhaps ClassX does a massive campaign u Cincinnati & Dayton, OH to finish WEBN’s work to have the City of Cincinnati to place a historical public u Montclair & Red Bank, NJ monument of some kind there. After all, woodhousespas.com the mayor at the time, David Mann, gave u me the key to the city. I might have to bend the ear of the new Mayor, soon. u the woodhouse printable gift The only two things I still have from card order or print online today! my Billboard stunt 22 yrs ago is the his- u toric WEBN neon sign which I want to sell for $250 and a piece of the Billboard u which WEBN sold to listeners with the money going to charity. I’ve lost track of u how many I signed all the same “61 days

Wildman, WEBN”. u I have been asked many times, awarded

“would I do it again, go up on a billboard u until the Bengals win a game, or the Reds “Favorite Day Spa” win 3 in a row”. My answer, a big NO! u in the american spa magazine’s Been there done that. professional’s choice awards u u Ultimate Air Shuttle Flights are public charters sold and operated by Ultimate JetCharters, LLC as direct air carrier. JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014 ULTIMATE 25 Ultimate Word Search

C A O I J I L U T M R L N T P L N C B H N S E L F R E E P U A K A Q R P I L I T T H O R K I X X M Y W T I A L I S C S P C L V F D U C G H N A M L A A A R E A Q L F A R C D X A C E B K C I D W I N A T B Y X T Q B N S O B A E W T E S N U S E Z V I L L A A E S S T G O R X O S H U T T L E O R L A N I M R E T S H F G W V H O P D N A T L R G J E J K E K S U P S B D R N U S Q T I C B U E A U Z V B I U N N B F Y R N I S C A R I B B E A N K N C N P G R V Z B S B H B B T E E N A T U O C F R L Y Z R Q R S D N O P L H E L X T E U J F Z U E O E P V A N P C U R Y S P U L S R I V W A W

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Ultimate Air Shuttle Flights are public charters sold and operated by Ultimate JetCharters, LLC as direct air carrier. JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014 ULTIMATE 27 Mercedes-Benz of Fort Mitchell and Ultimate Air Shuttle Team Up for “Ultimate” Partnership

Mercedes-Benz of Fort Mitchell proudly announces the most recent example of “above and beyond” customer service: an exclusive partnership with Ultimate Air Shuttle (UAS). It’s just one more way this dealership is expanding the definitions of luxury and client amenities.

Rick Pawlak, Managing Director of two years, The Collection Auto Group has I-71/75 corridor provides easy access for Ultimate Air Shuttle, said Mercedes-Benz also been noted as “One of the Best Places visitors from across the tri-state area, and of Fort Mitchell and UAS partnered early to Work” by The Cleveland Plain Dealer close proximity to Cincinnati/North- and we are pleased to have them as our newspaper. ern Kentucky International Airport and “Official Automobile Dealership of Ulti- But despite all this, Moreno still downtown Cincinnati. mate Magazine.” believes the best is yet to come. Featuring an illuminated, unique “Ultimate Air Shuttle is a perfect part- “We started with a simple idea: that waterfall that topples 25 feet, the bright ner for us,” said Bernie Moreno, owner car shopping and car service can actually and airy showroom is dominated by a huge of Mercedes-Benz of Fort Mitchell and be positive experiences. That philosophy, turntable that rotates the featured car 360º The Collection Auto Group. “Both orga- more than anything else, contributed to every five minutes. Outside, the sprawling nizations have a strong commitment to our incredible expansion. What’s more, we seven-acre lot displays more than 200 new premier service for exclusive clientele.” believe it will continue to help us grow— vehicles, a fleet of current-year Mercedes- The announcement is the latest in a now and in the future,” Moreno said. Benz courtesy vehicles, and, what will be, series of successful industry initiatives, “Twenty years ago, we could never have the largest Mercedes-Benz certified pre- spearheaded by Moreno. In less than a imagined a dealership like Mercedes-Benz owned inventory in the Cincinnati area. decade, Moreno has grown his business to of Fort Mitchell, but now, here we are.” “Drivers across the tri-state area can 21 dealerships, including Mercedes-Benz, count on us for a first-class experience, up- Porsche, Aston Martin, Maserati, Lotus, It’s the dealership, front pricing, and unmatched customer Sprinter, Nissan, Infiniti, Acura Buick/ service,” said Don Paparella, Managing GMC and VW. Ohio’s largest dealer of lux- reinvented. Partner of Mercedes-Benz of Fort Mitch- ury vehicles, The Collection Auto Group Fort Mitchell is now home to one of the ell. “Simply put, we offer exceptional is also the largest volume dealership in the nation’s most advanced Mercedes-Benz services and amenities.” Central region. dealerships. The Collection Auto Group An advanced diagnostics system pro- The company has been recognized debuted its new $20 million location at vides a vehicle inspection in just three with JD Power and Associates’ prestigious 2100 Dixie Highway on Friday, October 1. minutes. The state-of-the-art system Certified Retailer Award, and the coveted The 52,000-square-foot Mercedes- checks wheel alignment, tire pressure, Mercedes-Benz “Best of the Best Award,” Benz of Fort Mitchell site was selected tire tread condition, battery capacity and for seven consecutive years. For the past with client convenience in mind: the brake performance. Tire pressures are

28 ULTIMATE JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014 then adjusted to factory specifications with EnviroLift® AquaVantage™ – The The technology, furnished by GE Lighting, nitrogen at no cost. Underground service Service department is equipped with lift will allow the facility to operate with 75% bays then enable technicians to expedite system technology that uses water and less energy than traditional lighting. Addi- vehicle maintenance as a team, dispelling compressed air instead of hydraulic oil. tionally, these LED lights will be virtually the notion that luxury vehicle maintenance More energy-efficient, this system also maintenance free, given their 12 year life. must be a full day commitment. Finally, eliminates oil contamination of soil, a The facility has also been equipped with each car is cleaned by a highly-efficient common problem in service garages. a GE Lighting Controls intelligent facil- (and speedy) car wash, capable of washing Express Oil Service – All oil ity system that controls every light with and drying up to 60 cars per hour. processes will be serviced over an in- a touch screen and integrates dimming While their vehicles enjoy cutting-edge ground, fiberglass-lined, service bay. capabilities with occupancy sensors, day- service, owners can enjoy Mercedes-Benz This creative approach centralizes all oil light harvesting, and intelligent timers to of Fort Mitchell’s client-first amenities, and fluids in a controlled, environmen- further optimize energy consumption of including Express Service guarantees (ser- tally safe collection area. the facility based on customer needs. vice is on-time or it’s free), Heating – A radi- a fully integrated business ant floor heating system center, an espresso bar, and that relies upon convec- an outdoor putting green, tion to circulate warm air sponsored by Fort Mitchell will reduce energy loss Country Club. in the service area and Other benefits for cli- showroom. More energy ents of Mercedes-Benz efficient than baseboard of Fort Mitchell include or forced-air systems, no-charge pick-ups and radiant floor heating also drop-offs servicing all of eliminates duct losses and Northern Kentucky and allergens. Cincinnati, complimen- Storm Water Deten- tary car wash and Pit Stop tion – An underground inspections during service storm water detention hours, and reduced valet vault capable of collecting parking rates at Cincin- 15,080 cubic feet of excess nati/Northern Kentucky storm water runoff will International Airport. One of the nation’s most advanced dealerships, the 52,000-square- prevent potential flooding The new dealership, foot Mercedes-Benz of Fort Mitchell facility provides cutting-edge in adjacent neighborhoods designed and built by service and client-first amenities, including a fully integrated and parking lots. Newport-based EGC Con- business center, an espresso bar, and an outdoor putting green, Landscaping – The struction, was created to be sponsored by Fort Mitchell Country Club. aesthetically appealing land- environmentally friendly scape design not only adds and energy efficient. Wash Bay – Equipped with the indus- beauty along the hilltop where Mercedes- try’s latest technology, this fully automated Benz of Fort Mitchell is located, it’s also earth Where above and beyond system uses less water and precise chemi- friendly. A brick paved driveway adds curb cal disbursement to clean as many as 60 appeal as guests make their way to the granite comes standard. vehicles an hour. island, crafted by using granite cobblestones “Mercedes-Benz of Fort Mitchell was Nitrogen Tire Supply – An onsite reclaimed from the streets and waterfront forged with a long-standing commitment nitrogen supply system will provide in Cincinnati. Drought-resistant plants and to the environment because it’s the right the most effective inflation possible to trees, native to the locale, have been care- thing to do—for business today and for improve tire-pressure retention, fuel econ- fully selected to help reduce or eliminate the our children tomorrow,” said Moreno. omy, vehicle handling, and tire life. need for additional water and the use of harsh During each step of the design and Garage Doors – High-speed doors chemicals. construction process, leaders from The Col- with clear polycarbonate glass panels have Sound excessive? The owner of Mer- lection Auto Group, EGC Construction, been installed in the Service area. The cedes-Benz of Fort Mitchell and The and their design partner Vocon, challenged panels provide natural light and reduce Collection Auto Group doesn’t think so. one another to create the most environmen- seasonal heat loss/gain. Doors open in less “It’s how we approach everything,” said tally-friendly solutions possible. than two seconds, barely enough time to Moreno. “From service and repairs to car The result? An open and airy, indus- let out any heat or air conditioning. shopping to green initiatives, client partner- try-leading, energy-efficient dealership Lighting –The dealership is the first ships, and community and cause support. We with advanced technologies you won’t find of its kind to be furnished with 100% LED do whatever it takes to make people happy. anywhere else. lighting for both the interior and exterior. We go above and beyond, every time.” n

Ultimate Air Shuttle Flights are public charters sold and operated by Ultimate JetCharters, LLC as direct air carrier. JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014 ULTIMATE 29 Experience VIP Travel from Cincinnati for Commercial Rates.

Chicago $575 New York $695 Charlotte($449 when booked 11$449 days or more in advance) or $595

Midway Airport via Lunken Morristown Airport via CVG Charlotte-Douglas via Lunken MON/TUE/THU WED MON/TUE/THU/FRI MON Depart Cincinnati Arrive In NYC Depart Cincinnati Arrive In NYC Depart from Cincinnati Arrive in Charlotte Depart Cincinnati Arrive In Chicago 10:45 AM EST 12:36 PM EST 6:30 AM EST 8:05 AM EST 6:35 AM 8:00 AM 7:30 AM Eastern Time 7:30 AM Central Time Depart NYC Arrive In Cincinnati Depart NYC Arrive In Cincinnati Depart from Charlotte Arrive in Cincinnati Depart Chicago Arrive In Cincinnati 8:30 AM EST 10:33 AM EST 5:15 PM EST 7:00 PM EST 8:30 AM 9:45 AM 5:15 PM Central Time 7:15 PM Eastern Time TUE/WED/THU Morristown Airport via Lunken Depart from Cincinnati Arrive in Charlotte MON/TUE/THU/FRI 6:35 AM 8:00 AM Depart Cincinnati Arrive In NYC Depart NYC Arrive In Cincinnati Depart from Charlotte Arrive in Cincinnati 6:30 AM EST 8:00 AM EST 5:15 PM EST 7:00 PM EST 5:30 PM 6:45 PM

Check-in as little as 15 No cancellation Up-close, FREE parking No baggage fees All applicable taxes minutes before your fees up to 24 hours. at private facilities. and hassle-free and fees included. scheduled departure. security checks. No hidden charges. 800-437-3931 • ultimateairshuttle.com

30 ULTIMATE JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014 Experience VIP Travel from Cincinnati for Commercial Rates.

Chicago $575 New York $695 Charlotte($449 when booked 11$449 days or more in advance) or $595

Ultimate Air Shuttle Flights are public charters sold and operated by Ultimate JetCharters, LLC as direct air carrier. JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014 ULTIMATE 31 CINCINNATI’S TOP 15 RESTAURANTS by Keith Sprunk

The Precinct: Time stands still for this restaurant. It was the Jags: They opened their doors 10-years-ago and they’ve been 1 BEST restaurant in Cincinnati 30-years ago and remains Cin- 6 busy every day since they opened. Owned by John Allgaier, cinnati’s No.1 restaurant today. Jeff Ruby, he did his way…and it this GREAT restaurant is located off Union Centre Blvd. in West was the right way!!! Chester. They have unbelievable steaks and food, but they have Montgomery Inn Boathouse: This magnificent restaurant also built a great reputation on their live entertainment. 2 on the banks of the Ohio River is famous for its succulent El Coyote: Located on State Rd. in Anderson Township, ribs and for its founder, the late Ted Gregory. Every celebrity that’s 7 this sleepy restaurant has been a mainstay for eastsiders for ever stepped foot in Cincinnati has also stepped foot into the Boat- close to 30 years. Nobody –and we mean nobody – makes a bet- house. Great service from Dean and the family is a guarantee. ter pork chop in North America then the El Coyote Restaurant. Bella Luna: If it’s TRUE Italian that you’re looking for, then Oh, and if you want GREAT Mexican food, they have that as 3 this little hideaway on Eastern Ave. is the place to go. Owned well. You can also visit their second location, located downtown and operated by Harry & Gay Stephens, this wonderful Italian Res- at 6th & Walnut St. taurant has built a tremendous following for TRUE Italian food. Nada/Boca/Sotto: David Falk has changed the look of the Carlo & Johnnys: Where suburban meets Jeff Ruby steaks. 8 northeast corner of 6th & Walnut St. with his combination 4 Another tremendous Ruby Steakhouse that serves food of restaurants. Nada (Mexican), Boca (French cuisine) and Sotto the right way. Located in the heart of Montgomery, Ohio. It’s not (Italian) has brought a trendy hip crowd to this corner of the city. cheap…but it’s GREAT. The food is GREAT at all 3 restaurants, but it’s a who’s-who when enter any of the facilities. It has become the “Go To Place” for the Tony’s: Tony Ricci opened this grandiose restaurant on Aronoff crowd on show nights. 5 Montgomery Rd. almost 4 years ago. He fought through a road construction for almost a year and now has one of Cincin- Stone Creek: This restaurant came out of Indianapolis and nati’s finest high-end restaurants. From his steaks to his pasta’s to 9 is owned by the Cunningham Dining Group and has made his Mother’s homemade desserts….you’ll become a fan of this a great name for themselves in Cincinnati. Located in old Mont- wonderful restaurant the minute you step foot inside the place. gomery, Stone Creek offers a wide variety of both lunch and dinner.

32 ULTIMATE JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014 Jeff Ruby’s: It’s as good as The Precinct and Carlo & John- 10 nys. It’s got his name on it and there is no better steak in America then a Jeff Ruby steak. Need we say any more Greandview Tavern: This Northern Kentucky restaurant 11 is starting to gain some acclaim. Located off Buttermilk Pk. its busy year-around, but in the spring and summer this is the hottest spot in Northern Kentucky for a patio. If your anybody in Northern Kentucky…you’ll be on this patio in the spring and summer, which includes some really outstanding entertainment. Oh, and don’t let us forget to tell you that their food is out-of-site. They have a Kentucky Hot Brown that’s to die for. Zips: Don’t want to spend a lot for dinner, but want some- 12 thing that tastes good. It’s the BEST hole-in-the wall restaurant in Cincinnati. Zips is located in Mt. Lookout (about 4 miles east of downtown Cincinnati). They have a tremendous double cheeseburger. Add the French fries and a bowl of their CINCINNATI’S famous chili and you’ll walk out and swear you won’t be hungry again for a week…. Butterbee’s: They’re located at I-275 & Beechmont Ave. and 13 this restaurant has the BEST chicken tenders in the USA. We’re not talking about the BEST in Cincinnati, we’re talking about RESTAURANTS the BEST in the USA. We can’t tell you their recipet for fear they TOP 15 would kill us, but its worth the drive if you like chicken tenders. And yes, the rest of their food is excellent. They just recently installed one of those State-of-the-art beer taps with different types of beer. Crave: One of the new kids on the block located at The 14 Banks. Everything we’ve heard about this place is that its exceptional, both their lunch and dinner menus. We dropped in for dinner one evening right before Christmas and they were on a 30-minute wait. We didn’t stay but there must be something good going on there for all those people to be waiting and eating. Lake Manor: Drive a little, eat a lot! This country restaurant Gay & Harry 15 is located in Mt. Orab, about 35 miles east of Cincinnati. Head out there for Sunday brunch or Friday night dinner. It’s a won- Stephens derful drive and the food is fantastic. Owned and operated by Ray & Julie Evans, they will make you feel right at home. Oh, and on your way out, get some of the homemade fudge that they made daily. TGI Friday’s: We’re adding a 16th restaurant to our TOP 16 15. Now we’re not against chains, but they usually don’t fit into these kind of lists. But, the exception is TGI Friday’s Res- taurants. Owned by franchisee The Bistro Group, this chain has changed with the times and offers food, drinks, atmosphere like Friday’s did 20-years ago. Orchids at Palm Court: OK, were adding a 17th into 17 our TOP 15. How could we ever forget this amazing res- 4632 Eastern Avenue taurant located inside the Hilton Hotel at the Netherland Plaza downtown at 5th & Race. Their food is truly unforgettable, but Cincinnati, OH 45226 just sit in the restaurant and stare at the ceiling to see some of the Reservations: 513.871.5862 most unbelievable paintings the world has ever seen. n

Ultimate Air Shuttle Flights are public charters sold and operated by Ultimate JetCharters, LLC as direct air carrier. JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2014 ULTIMATE 33 OUTFITTING AMERICA’S FINEST HOMES SINCE 1991

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