Ron Kokinda has seen a lot of changes in his 34-year career in the Carbon County Adult Probation office.

The 26-year chief adult probation officer has seen caseloads balloon from 372 in 1990 to 1,684 last year, the offender makeup change significantly and a drug epidemic grow at an alarming rate.He has led the way in helping to start programs such as pretrial services, finding alternatives to incarceration through the intermediate punishment monitoring, intensive drug and alcohol programs, after-hours supervision and currently was working on the re-entry coalition to help people leaving incarceration reintegrate to society.Kokinda has increased his staff to accommodate the growing caseloads and improved their safety by better equipping them with gear to handle various situations while out in the field.But all stories must come to an end, and Ron closes this chapter of his life today, ending as one of the longest-tenured chief adult probation officers in the state. He passes the position on to Richmond S. Parsons, who was hired by the county in April.This week, his colleagues, friends and wife gathered to honor the man who had been a fixture in the Carbon County court system and a beacon of light for many to help guide them in their careers.Roberta Brewster, county court administrator, planned the surprise presentation and thanked all who could come celebrate Kokinda."As an expert in his field, Ron met his challenges head-on," she said, pointing out a number of his accomplishments, as well as his love for fishing, the Boston Bruins, wife Gwyn and their four dogs.President Judge Roger Nanovic, and Judges Steven Serfass and Joseph Matika have all sat on the bench for less time than Kokinda has been chief.The judges agreed with Matika's thoughts that Kokinda has been their "go-to guy" when they needed advice with regard to probation options for offenders."His advice and guidance has been invaluable," Serfass said.Nanovic said this was a bittersweet moment before awarding Kokinda his badge."I hate to see Ron go, but you've earned it," he said.Brad Hurley from state Sen. John Yudichak's office and state Rep. Doyle Heffley also presented citations for his dedicated service.Brewster then read a letter from Sheriff Anthony Harvilla, who was unable to attend.Harvilla was the chief adult probation officer when Kokinda joined the office in 1987 and recommended that the court appoint him to the head of the department upon his own departure in 1989. But he knew Kokinda since they were teens playing sports in Tresckow."It is evident Judge (John P.) Lavelle made the right choice in making Ron chief," Harvilla wrote.Other colleagues also spoke about their time with Kokinda.Cliff Eckhart, who was hired by Kokinda as an adult probation officer and has worked under him ever since, was thankful that Kokinda believed in him and gave him his chance."Thank you," he said, noting that those two words are something adult probation officers don't hear often. "Thank you for giving me a chance. You've been there and have been a mentor, a guide, a leader and one of the most brilliant men I met. You inspired me, and when I say me, I mean all of us. We are better for having you in our lives."Kokinda then addressed his friends."This has been overwhelming and so humbling," he said, noting that he will be back to visit so the people don't have to miss him too much.Kokinda thanked everyone for making his career a memorable experience."God bless and farewell," he said."May the fish always be biting," Brewster said. "May the Boston Bruins make the playoffs, and may your travels be varied and full of fun."