Block That Pushes Entities Doesn't Work As Intended

Hello, I am trying to make a block that pushes entities and it doesn't work properly. Firstly, when the block is activated with redstone it is supposed to display particle effects where it is pushing the entities, the particles don't spawn. Secondly, the block doesn't push players, but does push items and other entities. 

Here is the procedure: https://imgur.com/a/dMGUq7k

Once I have this working I will make the block launch entities based on the direction it's facing but for now I'd like to get the upwards launch to work. 

Help is appreciated!