Roots: Fifth generation Texan. Norwegian/Swedish, and French via Louisiana. Early years: Born in Texas. Reared in Fort Worth. Eagle Scout. College: Texas A&M University, Cadet Corps, Class of '71. Military Service: Former Air Force Officer, Vietnam service. Marital status: Married with two grown children. Favorite pasttime: Freemasonry (with emphasis on the "Free".) Other pasttimes: Book collecting. Former owner of a 38' Beneteau sailboat. Current owner of enough self-protection that I don't lie awake at night. Worst habits: Book collecting. Sailing. Favorite reminiscences: Duck hunting with my Dad. Favorite reading: History of western civilization. Kipling. Favorite fizzy beverage: Shiner Bock. Favorite foods: Prime Rib. Gumbo. Chili. Chicken Enchiladas. Favorite distillate: Ardbeg Single Malt Scottish Whisky (1.5 oz. neat). Other indulgences: Cigars. Sarcasm. Favorite quote: "The makers of our Constitution undertook to secure conditions favorable to the pursuit of happiness.... They sought to protect Americans in their beliefs, their thoughts, their emotions, and their sensations. They conferred as against the government the right to be left alone -- the most comprehensive of rights and the right most valued by civilized men." - Justice Louis T. Brandeis (1928)