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Honoring Service and Commitment 

During the 2025 Virginia Fire Services Board Meeting and Summit held in Harrisonburg, Virginia, VFSB Chair Keith Johnson and Vice Chair Abbey Johnston celebrated a very special moment. VFPA Past President Ernie Little was recognized for his many years of dedicated service to the fire services board.

Ernie has been instrumental in advancing our mission to strengthen codes and code enforcement through his active participation on the Fire Prevention and Control Committee, as well as various other board and committee roles. His leadership and commitment have made a lasting impact on our community and the safety of all.

Please join us in congratulating Ernie Little on this well-deserved recognition. Thank you for your service and dedication!

Past-President Gerry Maiatico Appointed to Virginia Fire Services Board

Richmond, VA — June 27, 2025 — Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin has announced the appointment of Gerry Maiatico to the Virginia Fire Services Board. He will serve a minimum four-year term.

In his new role, Gerry will serve as the representative of the Virginia Fire Prevention Association, bringing valuable insights and specialized expertise to the board. Gerry has previously served in various positions on the Board of Directors of the Association including President.

President Maddox commented:

“Past-President Maiatico’s appointment reflects his deep commitment to fire prevention, public safety, and our Association. I am confident he will make significant contributions to the fire board’s mission and help shape policies that protect our communities and firefighters now and into the future.”

Honoring A Remarkable Legacy

At the 2025 Annual Meeting, the Virginia Fire Prevention Association proudly awarded the late Steven M. Phillips Posthumous Life Membership and the Meritorious Service Award in recognition of his outstanding dedication and hard work in fire prevention and safety.

Steven’s unwavering commitment and service to the VFPA and the community left an indelible impact. His immediate family was in attendance to accept these honors on his behalf, and we also presented a special resolution honoring his invaluable contributions.

We are grateful for Steven's legacy and proud to have known him as a dedicated leader and friend. His spirit will continue to inspire us all.

Rest in peace, Steven. You will be greatly missed but never forgotten.

2025/2026 Executive Board Elected

We are pleased to introduce our newly elected 2025/2026 Executive Board as adopted at this week’s Annual Meeting of the Association. These dedicated leaders are committed to advancing fire prevention, safety through effective codes and legislation, and training/education services to Virginia’s fire service and code enforcement communities.

Meet the Board: (Pictured Right to Left.)

**President: Shawn Maddox – Albemarle County

**1st Vice President: Steven Sites – City of Fairfax

**2nd Vice President: Robert Paxton – City of Salem

**Secretary: Jonathan Bowden – City of Lexington

**Treasurer: Austin Cucciardo – Warren County

**Delegate At-Large: Mike Yingling – State FMO

**Delegate At-Large: Keith Buchanan – Caroline County

Congratulations to all! We look forward to working together to make Virginia safer and more prepared. Thank you to everyone who participated in this important election process.

Stay tuned for updates as our new leadership guides VFPA forward!