Elected to Nebraska Legislature: 2018; re-elected 2022

Born Sept. 18, 1951, in Fremont.

Education: Graduate of Scotus Central Catholic High School, 1969; Central Community College (associate degree), 1971; University of Nebraska-Lincoln (B.A.), 1975.

Family: Married Jan Waak in 1971; three children: Maria, Anne and Michelle.

Occupation: Owner/manager, Columbus Music Company

Former: Columbus mayor, (2004-16); community education computer instructor, Central Community College.

Former member: Nebraska Crime Commission, 2007-10; Columbus Youth Softball Association (vice president, secretary and treasurer), 1997-2002; board, Central Community College Foundation, 1998-99; parish council, St. Bonaventure Church (president and vice president), 1978-79.

Honors and awards: 1994 outstanding alumnus, Central Community College; 2004 alumnus of the year, Columbus Scotus Central Catholic High School.