BEUSSINK WAITS IN LINE TO FILE FOR COLLECTOR

Judy Beussink, chief deputy clerk of the Cape Girardeau County Commission for the past 20 years, and members of her family waited in line all day Monday to ensure that her name will be first on the ballot for county collector.

"If that's not dedication, I don't know what is," Beussink said.

Beussink, a Democrat, announced earlier that she would be a Democratic candidate for county collector.

The filing period opens today.

Beussink began her employment with the county over 32 years ago, starting as a deputy county clerk. At that time Cape Girardeau County was a third-class county. In 1967, the county moved to second-class status, and in 1997 it moved to first-class status.

"I have been a part of the growth and development of Cape County over the years," Beussink said.

She said it is time to move into the position of county collector.

"I would approach the office with knowledge, common sense, hard work and honesty," Beussink said. "I believe the growth, success and sound financial condition of Cape Girardeau County is due in part not only to the county officials but also to myself and other faithful employees working hard to do our jobs. We work as a team."

In particular, Beussink said she has first-hand knowledge of the workings of the collector's office. She works with the county tax books as part of her job with the county commission.

"My experience as chief deputy county commission clerk working with county tax books gives me a definite edge," she said. "My work record speaks for itself. My work load as chief deputy has grown enormously over the last 20 years, but I continue to do the job alone."

County Collector Harold Kuehle has announced he won't seek re-election.

Beussink is an honor graduate of Portageville High School and attended Southeast Missouri State University.

She is active in a number of civic organizations, including the American Legion Auxiliary, Noon Optimist Club of Jackson, the Jackson Heritage Association and the Cape County Democratic Central Committee.

She and her husband, David, are members of Immaculate Conception Church in Jackson. They have two children.