Dozens of people made their way through the Kingfisher County Criminal Justice Center last Friday afternoon. Fortunately for them, it wasn’t official business. It was, however, to pay tribute to retiring Sheriff Dennis Banther. A reception was held at the facility for Banther, who is retiring at the end of this month, wrapping up 20 years as sheriff and 30 years of service in the department overall. Banther was presented with gifts as refreshments were served, memories were shared and people looked through a scrapbook of Banther’s time in office. Banther, seated in the picture on the right after just having had hip replacement surgery, chats with County Commissioner Ray Shimanek, who is also retiring at the end of the year. [KT&FP Staff Photos]