I was born and raised in Western Nebraska. I grew up on a farm while attending a one room rural schoolhouse through the eighth grade. After graduating from high school in Chappell, Nebraska, I attended the University of Northern Colorado where, following graduation, I taught English composition for two years. I then went to Law School at the University of Nebraska and have practiced law ever since graduating in 1975. I'm also the Sedgwick County County Judge and have been since 1978. I still work as a private attorney part-time and as the County Judge part-time. My hobbies include photography and writing. I am the father of four boys. I live half-time in Julesburg, Colorado and half time in Prospect, Colorado.