Today, 22-year-old Ozawkie resident Jim Faris announces his candidacy for the Kansas 47th State House seat. Here is a brief statement from the candidate: Today I, James Robert Faris, announce my candidacy for the Kansas 47th State House district's seat. "Ad Astra per Aspera, to the stars through difficulties, to hope and prosperity through the challenges of the modern world." This motto and creed of Kansas spurs a great hope that inspires this young and idealistic campaign. Today from this place and time, let it be said that this is my inspiration, and the people are my focus. Youthful idealism for practical results is the plan to reach the stars of hope and prosperity that is this district, and great state's birthright. I will work tirelessly for better educated and healthier youth. For more teachers and greater tools to educate and inspire the future of our state and world. For a better funded state-wide foster care and adoption system that will help find loving parents for these needy Kansas children. In addition, I will focus on working equally hard for retired Kansans living off Social Security, helping them get by a little easier, finding state solutions for the soon to retire baby boomers that will want to draw on Social Security. I may not have experience, but I have a willing and determined heart. I will no longer stand idly by and watch people I know fall on hard times, being powerless to help. I am eager to serve my family, friends, and neighbors in the 47th, the citizens of Kansas, and through my service to them, my country and world. I will not back down from what will be hard, and I will not stray from what is right. We need real change in this state. By working together we will break down the barriers that separate us, creating a brighter future for each other. 0God continue to bless the people of the 47th district, the state of Kansas, and the United States of America. To contact the Faris campaign, please call or e-mail: (785) 220-1601 farisforkansas@yahoo.com www.farisforkansas.com