Michael J. Ripps

Town: Adams

Age: 57

Birth date: April 4, 1945

Birthplace: Middletown, Conn.

Occupation: Judge since 1993, presiding Justice of Northern Berkshire District Court since 1998, and Associate Justice of the Western Appellate Division of the District Court since 1999.

How I would describe myself: Hard-working, conscientious and fair.

Current volunteerism, board memberships, etc.: Youth sports photography. Being a presiding judge and appellate judge are volunteer positions.

Family: Wife, Jane; daughter, Markell; step-daughter, Chris Steever; and step-son, Geoff Steever.

Education: Asbury Park (N.J.) High School, 1963; A.B. in psychology, Emory University, Atlanta, Ga., 1967; Suffolk University Law School, Boston, 1971.

Personal hero/role model: William B. “Butch” Bruno, my high school football coach.

Why is this person a hero/role model to you: He taught the benefits of hard work and fair play.

Personal achievement(s) of which you are most proud: Becoming an attorney and judge and parent.

Personal quote/trademark expression: “There’s more than one way to cut a banana. Some people have no taste.”

The best advice you can give someone: STRIVE!

Most recent book read and author’s name: “Stillwater,” by William F. Weld.

Favorite TV/radio show: News on TV and public radio, baseball, college football, “Boston Public,” “Connections.”

Pet peeve: Inarticulateness, bad penmanship, wasting court time.

Hobbies/interests: Cross country skiing, biking, hiking, golf, photography, baking.