Rock Island, IL...Yesterday, the Illinois Policy Institute released a statement calling the Amazon Tax "all pain, no gain." The group released a YouTube video featuring local businessmen Mike Martin and Jonathan Wallace. Wallace, founder of NoCollarMedia.com, and candidate for State Representative in the Illinois 72nd criticized his opponent Pat Verschoore on the "Amazon Tax."

Wallace is specifically referring to the affiliate nexus law, voted for by State Representative Pat Verschoore earlier in 2011, and signed by Governor Pat Quinn. The law is commonly called the Amazon Tax. The controversial law shifts the complex burden of sales tax collection from individuals to out-of-state retailers who have no physical presence in Illinois. As a result, Amazon and Overstock.com decided to cut ties with business affiliates, thereby driving businesses to Iowa and surrounding regions.

"I think this law is a flashing neon sign to new startups and young entrepreneurs that you aren't welcome in Illinois," said Wallace. "My opponent is an advocate of raising taxes, creating burdens for an already challenging small business environment. Illinois has the potential to be the next Silicon Valley but that potential is continually squandered by politicians like Verschoore."

Wallace continued to discuss the economic impact that this law has on Illinois businesses and jobs, "This is just another part in the entire exodus of the state," referring to small businesses who are leaving or are looking to leave Illinois due to new taxes being imposed and an unfavorable policy environment.

Jonathan Wallace is a candidate for the Illinois State Representative in the 72nd District. Jonathan is a small businessman, entrepreneur, former Township Trustee, and serves as an advisor for State Representative Rich Morthland.

The link to the YouTube video can be found here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_d3mzePWxPQ&feature=relmfu

The link to the Illinois Policy Institute brief can be found here:

http://illinoispolicy.org/news/article.asp?ArticleSource=4480

For more information, visit http://www.jonathanwallace2012.com or email jonathanwallace2012@gmail.com

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Silvis, IL...Standing in the same Hero Street Memorial Park where he played as a child, Marc Ramirez (R-East Moline) announced his candidacy for Rock Island County Coroner. September 12, 2011 is the 10th anniversary of his enlistment in the US Army. "I answered the call to duty the day after our nation was attacked on 9/11," said Ramirez. "Today, I am answering the call to serve again."

"I want to deliver the same kind of care and respect for the departed that I learned on the battlefield, and I will provide the same kind of compassion for survivors that I supplied in the barracks," said Ramirez. "Coroners work mostly with families and funeral directors; I will serve them all during life's most difficult moments."
Ramirez served as a Combat Medic in the 101st Airborne Division. He worked on Army Morgue duty and as a Combat Lifesaver trainer. Extensive damage to his ankles during a fire fight ended his military career. Since returning home, Ramirez has worked to complete a degree from Black Hawk College that included training in health information management. He is currently employed by Genesis Health.
"My family has long been a part of the proud tradition of service coming from Hero Street," Ramirez added. "I want to continue to do my part to keep the legacy going strong."
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