BETTENDORF - Former Rock Island Arsenal Attorney Maria Bribriesco has filed nominating petitions for Iowa Senate, District 47.

District 47 includes the cities of Bettendorf, Riverdale, Panorama Park, part of eastern Davenport and Pleasant Valley Township.

"I've contacted voters in District 47 and its clear they want to see more from their elected officials," said Bribriesco. "People are very tired of the divisive, partisan attitude of today's politicians. They want a representative in the Iowa Senate who will do the right thing for the people–not the party."

Bribriesco spent twenty-seven years as a civilian attorney with the U.S. Army at Rock Island Arsenal, rising to the position of Chief Counsel to TACOM before retiring in 2011. She's active in Ministry Gardens, an organization dedicated to supplying local food pantries, homeless shelters and meal sites in Scott County.

"I come from a background where I was taught that if I worked hard and played by the rules, that I would succeed. I did work hard. And I played by the rules. I believe that it takes an entire community to provide the right environment for people to succeed."

Maria Bribriesco was born in south Texas. Her father was a veteran of both World War II and the Korean Conflict. Her parents both worked as migrant farm workers and various other labor intensive jobs. In spite of the financial obstacles, she pushed ahead and worked her way first through high school, then college and law school. Her success was facilitated by the financial aid policies that existed at the time. She received aid in the form of grants (Basic Educational Opportunity Grant and Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant), student loans at low interest rates, scholarships and work study programs.

"With education, there is hope of a productive future," said Bribriesco. "I want everyone to have the same opportunity to obtain the best education possible without getting into overwhelming debt."

Maria and her husband William have three grown sons: Alex, Anthony and Andrew. They also have four grandchildren: Ava, Liam, Marissa and Caliana. The Bribriescos are active members of Our Lady of Lourds Catholic Church in Bettendorf.

"I hope I get a chance to talk with every voter in this district. I've been knocking on doors and attending community events in Bettendorf, Riverdale, Davenport and Pleasant Valley. I welcome anyone interested in my campaign and interested in adding your voice into State Government, to contact me at (563) 332-0416 or email me at maria4ia@gmail.com."