A STEP FOR LIMBAUGH'S DISTINGUISHED CAREER

The ascension to chief justice of the Missouri Supreme Court by Judge Stephen N. Limbaugh of Cape Girardeau is an occasion of justifiable pride for his family, friends and acquaintances, both here in Southeast Missouri and across the state.

Limbaugh, a member of a family whose name is synonymous with the legal profession, has served on the court since his appointment by Gov. John Ashcroft in 1992.

Before serving on the state's highest court, Limbaugh won election as Cape Girardeau County prosecuting attorney in 1978 at the age of 26. After a four-year term, he was engaged in private law practice until he went on the 32nd Circuit Court bench in 1987, also at the appointment of Ashcroft. These past associations will stand him in good stead as Limbaugh presides over the entire Missouri court system during his term.

Limbaugh is also known for his good-humored nature in working with lawmakers from both parties, qualities he will need in dealing with the Missouri Legislature.

Limbaugh's most recent predecessor as chief justice from Cape Girardeau County was Judge James A. Finch Jr., whose extensive service to our state still ranks him as one of the great Missourians of the 20th century. We hope and expect that, inspired by his distinguished family forebears and luminaries such as Judge Finch, Limbaugh's tenure will be marked by similar distinction.