November 1, 2011

Dear Friends and Neighbors:

I am excited to announce my candidacy for State Senator in the 50th District.  The  district is a special place to me because it is where I have lived my entire life; it is composed of my friends, neighbors and family.  I am a proud third-generation graduate of Springfield High School and a third-generation graduate of Illinois College in Jacksonville. 

As a fiscal conservative, I am a firm believer in limited government and low taxes.  You are a much better steward of your own money than the Chicago politicians who waste millions on pet projects and personal political agendas.  The recent massive state tax increase and ongoing out-of-control state spending must cease immediately.  State officials must lower taxes and reduce spending.  We need to have a system that offers incentives for success rather than a broken status quo which punishes hard work and dedication through increased taxes and reduced opportunities for growth. 

If you send me to the Illinois Senate, I will be your conservative voice and focus first and foremost on the economic reforms we need to improve our quality of life.  In addition, there are issues to me and you which are equally as important:

• Law Enforcement
  I am an attorney. I have spent my entire legal career as a prosecutor at the Sangamon County State’s Attorney’s Office.  I have seen first-hand the strain that habitual offenders cause law enforcement officers, the courts and the community.  I will use my experience to craft and enact legislation that aids in the prosecution of habitual offenders. 
• Education
  I believe that education is the bedrock of our community and our nation.  I have served as a Director and as President of the Ball Charter School Board in Springfield.  I hold a current teaching certificate and teaching license. A good school system ensures access to the best teachers and latest technologies.  To that end, I will work to help Illinois retain the best teachers by ensuring that they are well-compensated and have access to the latest technology and educational resources.
• Strong Local Communities.  
  Legislation and regulation is not the solution to many of the issues facing our communities.  I believe that the measure of a community is the strength and beliefs of its members.  The 50th District is filled with honest, hard-working, selfless people who day-in and day-out do their part to help their family, friends and neighbors.  As an active member of my community and elected member and Vice President of the Springfield Park District Board, I have contributed to the improvement and evolution of our parks.  I will use my experience to encourage public service and to create incentives and support for those who volunteer their time and efforts to help our community.

I truly appreciate the opportunity to prove to you – my family, friends and neighbors – that I am the most qualified candidate, worthy of your vote.  I look forward to traveling throughout the district, meeting with you, listening to your comments and concerns. 

Thank you for taking the time to allow me to introduce myself.  I look forward to meeting you on the campaign trail.

Sincerely,

Gray H. Noll