Bickmeier, Original Ronnie's BBQ honored by Richmond Region Tourism

Henrico Sports and Entertainment Authority Executive Director Dennis Bickmeier was honored with the Tourism Leadership Award from Richmond Region Tourism Foundation during its 2025 Awards and Annual Meeting May 7 at the Greater Richmond Convention Center.

Bickmeier was among 10 honorees – a list that also included The Original Ronnie’s BBQ, which received the Restaurant of the Year award.

The Richmond Strikers soccer organization, which hosts the annual Jefferson Cup soccer tournament that draws thousands of competitors and their family members to the Richmond region from throughout the nation, earned the MVP Sports award.

More than 400 community and business leaders attended the event, which included a keynote address from Al Hutchinson, president and CEO of Visit Baltimore.

Jon Lugbill, who is retiring in June after more than three decades as executive director of Sports Backers, received the Jack Berry Tourism Impact Award, presented by Rosie’s Gaming Emporium and Colonial Downs. The honor highlights Lugbill’s pivotal role in transforming the Richmond region into a nationally recognized destination for sports tourism and active lifestyle events.

“Tourism is a powerful economic engine in our region and a force for good,” said Katherine O’Donnell, president and CEO of Richmond Region Tourism. “We are proud to honor these outstanding individuals and organizations that are helping us showcase everything the Richmond region has to offer.”