GRANBY — Volunteers of the Granby Fire Department (Grand Fire Protection District No. 1) honored one of their own by awarding him the “Firefighter of the Year” award for 2013. Lieutenant Joe Starika was chosen by the department members to receive the award. Lt. Starika is a high contributor in all areas of the department’s operations and training. He has served on the department for a total of seven years and has performed as a role model for many new members and seasoned members as well. The Firefighter of the Year Award is presented each year to the fire department member receiving the highest number of votes from the membership. oe has been the recipient of this award twice, once in 2011 and this past year, which indicates he is a well-respected member and officer. He spends many hours planning training exercises, working with staff and volunteers on projects, and making repairs on equipment and vehicles each and every week.