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Honoring the Legacy of James B. Ricketts

Dear Friends and Supporters,

It is with deep sorrow that we remember the passing of the esteemed former Convention and Visitors Bureau Director, and Virginia Beach, Travel and Tourism Foundation Board Member and Vice-President, James B. Ricketts, on March 23, 2016. His remarkable 42-year journey as a visionary leader in Virginia Beach's travel and tourism industry has left an indelible mark on our hearts.

In commemoration of Jim's enduring passion for the Virginia Beach hospitality industry, the Virginia Beach Travel and Tourism Foundation is proud to announce the renaming of its scholarship program to the James B. Ricketts Memorial Scholarship Fund. This initiative will serve as a perpetual tribute, shaping the future of travel, tourism, and hospitality professionals in the city he loved dearly.

Our heartfelt gratitude extends to all the businesses and individuals whose generous contributions have breathed life into the James B. Ricketts Memorial Scholarship Fund. Together, we honor Jim's legacy and ensure his spirit continues to inspire the next generation of industry leaders.

In addition to the establishment of the James B. Ricketts Memorial Scholarship Fund, the Virginia Beach Travel and Tourism Foundation is committed to further honoring Jim in the future on the 10th year commemoration of his death. Plans are underway to create a lasting memorial at our oceanfront resort area that will stand as a tangible symbol of his significant and enduring contributions to the Virginia Beach hospitality industry. This memorial will serve as a place of reflection, ensuring that Jim's legacy remains vividly etched in the fabric of our community for generations to come. Your continued support is crucial as we embark on this meaningful journey to pay tribute to a visionary leader who has shaped the heart of our beloved city. Together, we weave a tapestry of remembrance and gratitude.

Sincerely,

Virginia Beach Travel and Tourism Foundation