LIMBAUGH SERVES AREA, STATE WELL IN NEW ROLE

Cape Girardeau County this week bids farewell to Stephen Limbaugh Jr. He leaves his post as a Cape Girardeau County circuit judge to become Missouri's newest Supreme Court justice. Limbaugh has served the 32nd Judicial Circuit well since his appointment in the fall of 1987.

Limbaugh's appointment benefits the state and, particularly, this region. As a trial judge, he is well respected by the attorneys who practice before him. He takes that expertise and experience to the state's highest court. In addition, his is the only appointment from the eastern part of the state. As such, his insight into Southeast Missouri should assist the court in representing the entire state.

With Limbaugh's appointment, Gov. John Ashcroft has named all seven members of the Missouri Supreme Court. It's an extraordinary statistic, although due more to the age of former justices than the actions of the governor. But it's a legacy that could outlive other accomplishments by Ashcroft. Considering the fact many of his appointments are young men (most are in their 40s), Ashcroft's influence could be felt for two or three decades.

Cape Girardeau County can feel proud of the top-notch legal talent who have gone on to higher judicial appointments. Limbaugh marks the third Cape Girardeau County resident to serve on Missouri's highest court. James A. Finch Jr. served from Dec. 7, 1964 to Jan. 1, 1979. S.P. Dalton served from Jan. 3, 1950 to 1964. In addition, Limbaugh's father, Stephen Sr., is a federal district judge for the eastern district of Missouri. Stanley Grimm was named in 1987 to the Missouri Court of Appeals.

Limbaugh also carries on a fine family tradition. He is one of six lawyers in the family, including his grandfather, Rush Limbaugh Sr., who at 100, is the oldest practicing attorney in Missouri.

Public service is no stranger to Limbaugh. At 26, he was elected as Cape Girardeau County prosecutor. After returning to private practice, he was appointed to the Cape Girardeau Circuit Court in 1987. Limbaugh believes the judiciary is the highest calling for public service. This appointment will allow Limbaugh to serve all Missourians.

His resignation from the Cape Girardeau Circuit Court officially took effect Tuesday. He will be sworn in as a member of the Supreme Court before the new term begins Sept. 1. His record should provide a solid foundation for the challenges ahead. We wish Judge Limbaugh well in his new calling.