STATE REP. MARY KASTEN: A BIG LEGACY

State Rep. Mary Kasten will retire from public office when her term ends Dec. 31, 2000. The 70-year-old Republican from Cape Girardeau was first elected in 1982.

Her decision not to run will certainly spur interest among both Republicans and Democrats.

Kasten has been a model legislator, a champion for family values and fiscally sound government. She has fulfilled her duties in a caring fashion, earning her the nickname "Mother Mary" at the State Capitol. She always has time for her constituents and is quick with an earnest ear or even a hug.

Kasten's decision was not affected by the new term-limit rule. Legally, she could have run again in 2000.

Missouri's term limits went into effect in 1994, limiting lawmakers to eight consecutive years in the House or Senate. The limits didn't kick in for another term for those lawmakers already in office when the limits were imposed. But there's no doubt term limits will shake things up as many familiar faces must bow out in 2002.

The race to fill Kasten's seat may offer a preview of the names and faces that may file to represent the area or region. Potential candidates must realize that it will be hard to fill Kasten's shoes.

She has served Cape Girardeau admirably, both as a state representative for nearly two decades, a member of the Cape Girardeau Board of Education for two decades and a member of the Southeast Missouri State University Board of Regents for three years.

Service, it seems, is second nature to Mary Kasten, and Cape Girardeau has benefited from her love of the city and its people.