By Willa Boisseau, SCANews Senior Editor

The Chinese-American community helped move Maria Chapelle-Nadal on to victory at the polls Tuesday in her primary election race for Missouri State Representative in the 72nd District.

Maria won the election with 3,181 votes while her nearest opponent, Sandi Colquitt, only came in with 2,985 votes. Since there is no opposition to her in the general election in November, Maria will take office in January, 2005.

The Asian-American community helped Maria by handing out sample ballots for Maria to people coming to the polls to vote. The editorial staff of St. Louis Chinese American News worked together with the campaign staff for Maria to coordinate a very successful volunteer drive. Volunteers met at the St. Louis Chinese American Newspaper office in the morning. They went from there to schools and other buildings where the polls were located. Also, owners of the Olive Farmer's Market and the Vietnam Star Restaurant put out signs for Maria along Olive Street to encourage people to vote for her.

It was a very exciting election, ending with a victory celebration at the Red Sea Restaurant on Delmar, where Maria's campaign began.

Maria sends her heart-felt thanks to all who helped in her election, whatever their part. You will see more of her soon.