In Torrance County, state District Judge Ted Kase isn't just known as a well-respected judge, but also a masterful baker of macadamia nut cookies; lover of potlucks and hot sauce; hater of pink Post-Its; and a stickler for aligned hole punches.

Seventh Judicial District Judge Edmund "Ted" Kase III was honored by the newly elected Torrance County 4-H Council and the New Mexico State University Extension Office last week at the 4-H's annual swearing-in ceremony.

Kase is celebrating 38 years on the bench, making him the longest serving judge in New Mexico.

Laughter and congratulations filled the Torrance County Courtroom last Thursday evening when friends and colleagues honored Kase.

Those who spoke included Esther Baca, chief juvenile probation and parole officer, and Deputy District Attorney Tim Cornish.

Both described the impact Kase has had on their careers and lives, which wasn't always easy.

Baca told stories of how Kase made her come sit by him on the bench, and called Sturges Market in Estancia to find her when she left without checking in with him.

"Thank you for the profound impact on my life," she said.

Cornish called Kase's court "the most orderly court in the state." He also had a fair share of stories of working with the judge, noting the judge's intolerance of tardiness and attorneys being unprepared.

A lot of laughter filled the courtroom.

"It's pretty clear Judge Kase is the favorite among the clerks," said District Judge Kevin Sweazea, who presided over the ceremony. "Judge Reynolds and I are a bit jealous."

Several Torrance community members performed a story "It's Good to be the King." The story told of the long journey of King "Fred."

At the end of the ceremony, Kase was presented with a gold hole punch.

Now in his late 70s, Kase, who lives in Socorro, shows no signs of slowing down and has no immediate plans to retire.

Gov. Bruce King appointed Kase in his first term as governor.

Today, Kase remains one of three judges who comprise the 7th Judicial District, which handles an estimated 2,600 cases each year.

"I really love what I do," Kase said in an interview last year with the El Defensor Chieftain. "I enjoy contributing to my community in my capacity as judge. I also relish the challenges associated with it."