First Selectman Matt Riiska was recognized for eight years of service with a Sept. 6 program on the Village Green and a commendation from state Rep. Maria Horn (D) (left) and state Sen. Paul Honig (D) (at rear). The evening, organized by the Democratic Town Committee, included hot dogs, chips and homemade desserts, in addition to speeches. Riiska said Norfolk experienced any number of “calamities” during his tenure in office from gasoline spills and bridge washouts, to Covid 19 and runaway construction costs. He expressed appreciation for the state and federal support received by the town—more than $14 million in grants and support across an array of programs. “The help has always been there,” he said. The life of a first selectman covers the full gamut of issues and Riiska shared an anecdote from early in his first term. After being called about a pig running loose on Parker Hill Road, Riiska’s wife Linda asked if it was coming home. “Only with a gallon of barbeque sauce,” he replied. In a serious vein, Riiska said praised his likely successor Selectman Henry Tirrell and said he was well positioned for the role. “I try not to tell him everything because I don’t want to scare him way,” he deadpanned.