Rankin Inlet (Feb 18/04) - The riding of Rankin Inlet South/Whale Cove will still be sending a female MLA to Iqaluit following Monday's territorial election.

The winner Levinia Brown: "I just broke down and cried."

Levinia Brown won the riding previously held by Manitok Thompson, finishing 33 votes ahead of runner-up Jerry Ell.

Brown captured 206 votes, while Ell had 173, Percy Kabloona 84, Ishmael Naulalik 50 and Solomon Voisey 17.

It was an emotional moment when financial agent Evelyn Thordarson phoned Brown with the results.

"I just broke down and cried," said a joyous Brown.

"We worked so hard during our campaign and this victory means so much to me.

"I can't thank the people enough for their support, as well as my campaign committee members for all their hard work."

Patterk Netser took advantage of two strong challengers splitting the vote to hold his Nanulik riding of Coral Harbour/Chesterfield Inlet with 154 votes.

Bernard Putulik Sr. finished second with 127 votes, Emily Beardsall had 109 and Willie Nakoolak 51.

David Simailak swept to victory in Baker Lake to lay claim to the seat vacated by Glenn McLean.

Simailak took 352 votes, while David Ansawnee had 209, Becky Kudloo 96 and David Toolooktook Sr. 73.

Repulse Bay's Steve Mapsalak captured the Akulliq riding of Repulse Bay/Kugaaruk with 161 votes.

Roland Tungilik placed second with 96 votes, followed by John Ningark (87), Joani Kringayark (67) and George Bohlender (62).

Tagak Curley was acclaimed in Rankin Inlet North.

The Kivalliq region produced, arguably, the night's biggest upset, with David Alagalak taking the Arviat riding away from former house speaker Kevin O'Brien, who finished a disappointing fourth.

Alagalak had 282 votes, followed by Peter Alareak (216), Kono Tattuinee (113), O'Brien (86), Peter Two Aulatjut (61) and Jay Saint (14).

The former Arviat mayor said the community was ready for a change.

"One reason, I think, is that people wanted someone they could speak to in their own language," said Alagalak.

"They also wanted somebody who was here most of the time, accessible, who they can talk to."