Eric Blantz, chief of the Nicasio Volunteer Fire Department, stepped down on Dec. 31 after eight years in charge, allowing a new guard to take over. He leaves the department in the hands of Kent Grady, his right-hand man since 2009. Captain Robyn Burton will become the new assistant chief, and Mr. Blantz will stay on as a rank-and-file responder and board member. “I’m very proud of what I’ve been able to do in my…