Joey Ritchie Ritchie-Curbow Construction

Point Blank

Joey Ritchie with his wife Jodi and their granddaughter Brooke Giannotti

I am most thankful for  my family and friends.

My favorite things about November are  the leaves turning color, college football (Go Hoos!) and hosting Thanksgiving gathering at our house.

When I am looking for inspiration, I turn to  my dad, friends or take my plane for a ride.

My hidden talent is  playing guitar and being a flight instructor.

I know this to be true:  True wealth is measured by family and friends.

The most important lesson I have ever learned is  anything in life worth doing takes time, practice and passion.

Something I regularly do to make this world a better place is  promoting STEM concepts for youth. I am president of the Williamsburg Aviation Scholarship Program that provides scholarships to local high schoolers looking to earn their pilot’s license. I am also past president of the Virginia Air and Space Science Center, where we just finished a major interior renovation and installed a young learners exploration gallery.

If I had an unexpected day off, I would  fly to a southeast location. My wife and I recently enjoyed Beaufort, North Carolina, and Jekyll Island, Georgia.

The best way to relax is to  bike, boat, fly, strum or go for a paddle.

My Favorite Thanksgiving dish is  the classic turkey and stuffing smothered in gravy.

I would do just about anything for  my granddaughter, my kids or a slice of Boston Cream pie.

The best kept secret in Newport News dining is  Hayashi’s — the bento box is the best lunch in town!

Something I have learned from being in construction is  there is more than one way to solve a problem.