Ric Wells Common Man

FLIRTING WITH DISASTER

2011-05-04T16:36:00.001-07:00

FLIRTING WITH DISASTER

RICWELLS

COMMON MAN

COMMON SENSE CITIZENS FOR AMERICA

4/18/2011

LET'S PUT THIS INTO PERSPECTIVE. THE FEDERAL BUDGET FOR THIS FISCAL YEAR IS $4 TRILLION IN EXPENDITURES WITH REVENUES FALLING FAR SHORT OF BALANCE. RECENTLY, CONGRESS ALMOST SHUT THE GOVERNMENT DOWN WHEN THEY TRIED TO CUT $38 BILLION IN EXPENDITURES. THAT'S LESS THAN 1% OF SPENDING. WITH A FEDERAL DEBT OF $15 TRILLION AND TAKING INTEREST INTO CONSIDERATION, WE NEED TO CUT $750 BILLION-$1.5 TRILLION PER YEAR IN ORDER TO RETIRE THE DEBT IN 20 YEARS.

OUR FOUNDING FATHERS WERE INSISTENT UPON NOT INCURRING DEBT. IF THEY DID THEY MADE SURE IT WAS PAID OFF IN THEIR LIFETIME. THIS WAS TO MAKE SURE THEIR CHILDREN AND GRANDCHILDREN DID NOT PAY FOR THEIR SPENDING. THIS THEORY WAS CARRIED THROUGH UNTIL THE 1960'S WITH THE INCEPTION OF PRESIDENT JOHNSON'S “GREAT SOCIETY”. SPENDING INCREASED DURING THE TERMS OF PRESIDENT'S NIXON, FORD AND CARTER AND FINALLY EXPLODED DURING THE TWO TERMS OF PRESIDENT REAGAN WHO SPENT MORE THAN ANY PRESIDENT, UNTIL NOW.

THE EFFECTS OF OUR $15 TRILLION DEBT IS TAKING HOLD WITH NEGATIVE RAMIFICATIONS. THE INTEREST ON OUR DEBT IS STAGGERING. HIGH UNEMPLOYMENT DUE TO A SLOW GROWTH ECONOMY, HIGH GAS PRICES FROM A DECREASING VALUE ON OUR DOLLAR, INFLATION IN ENERGY COSTS, INCREASING FOOD COSTS, HIGH CONSUMER BORROWING COSTS AND LOW CONSUMER SAVINGS AND INVESTMENT RATES ARE TAKING HOLD WITH DEVASTATING EFFECTS.

WHAT WE HAVE NOW IS A FORMULA FOR DISASTER. AS A NATION WE HAVE TO FIND SERIOUS SOLUTIONS TO DECREASE INDEBTEDNESS. SPENDING HAS TO BE CUT, PROGRAMS ELIMINATED, DEPARTMENTS CONSOLIDATED AND BENEFITS SLASHED. WE WILL ALL HAVE TO SACRIFICE TO ACCOMPLISH THIS GOAL. IT IS POSSIBLE THAT TAX CUTS WILL HAVE TO BE ELIMINATED FOR INDIVIDUALS AND CORPORATIONS. IF WE DON'T START NOW WE ARE FLIRTING WITH DISASTER. TO SEND A MESSAGE TO THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT EMAIL cscfa2011@gmail.com. WE ARE COMMON SENSE CITIZENS FOR AMERICA.

THE NEW REVOLUTION

2011-04-11T15:30:00.003-07:00

THE NEW REVOLUTION

RIC WELLS

COMMON MAN

11/25/2010

Whether the established political parties want to recognize it or not the time has finally arrived. The Democrats and Republicans haven't recognized it yet. The blue dogs and tea partiers have a little notion of it but don't know how to handle it. They are all too absorbed in mudslinging, innuendo, party line mantra and hate politics to see where the next front is being established. The American people are totally disgusted with the political system that is in place. We are tired of the false promises on tax and budget cuts only to see an increase in fees and revenue enhancers. We are disgusted with the government handing down unfunded federal mandates to the states which in turn get passed on to the localities to be paid by, yet again, the taxpayer in the form of higher income, sales, school and property taxes. What the politicians ignore is that any program old or new has to be paid for by us. The government thinks they have an unlimited supply of revenue. They ignore the cries of, NO MORE we've had enough. We cannot and will not tolerate any more reckless spending to satisfy a member item, earmark or special interest. We are tired of paying increased income, state, local,sales, property,school,excise, etc. taxes. We are tapped out. There is no more. Now we are strapped with an ever increasing $15 trillion dollar budget deficit. Most every state, if not all, are running budget deficits. Localities are scrambling for funds to meet essential and mandated services. There is no end in sight to this downward spiral. The only way to stop this insanity is to take back control ourselves.

According to the U.S. Constitution 75% of the states must ratify an amendment before it becomes law. Conversely, it would take 75% of the states to deratify an amendment. Because the U.S. Constitution is the highest law in this country it stands to reason 75% or more of the states could band together to overturn any law the federal government has or will hand down. Following this logic, unfunded mandates could be restructured or abolished. By doing so the states would have a say in what parameters were established in Health Care, Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security, Unemployment and Welfare, for example. The states would have a say in who is covered and to what degree to best serve the people of their state. They wouldn't have to rely on a broad based set of rules that may or may not pertain to the most needy in their particular state. States Rights is the fourth balance of power not taught in schools. We do not nor want the federal government dictating to us how to live our lives or spend our money. It has to be the other way around. Somehow we lost the ability to do this and now we must take it back.

The 2010 elections are over and the new Congress and State Legislatures will be seated in January. It is imperative that we pay close attention to the legislations being debated at both the federal and state levels. It is more important than ever that all levels of government be accountable for their actions and plans. Legislation must be examined and openly debated to see if it's in the best interest of those effected. Voting records must be scrutinized to make sure that campaign promises are kept. The politicians will not police themselves. We must do it under the threat of expulsion or impeachment. If we don't do this politics as usual will continue and this country will be doomed to fail.

Politicians, welcome to the new revolution.

NOVEMBER IS COMING

2011-04-11T15:18:00.003-07:00

NOVEMBER IS COMING

RIC WELLS

COMMON MAN

9/01/2010

Voting. It's the most important right that we Americans have. This right is so important that a national holiday should be declared to give everyone concerned a chance to vote.

With the vote we have self-imposed term limits. With the vote we have financial stability. With the vote we have economic growth. And with the vote we have political power. By exercising this right you let all concerned know that you have the intelligence and tenacity to watchdog your present representatives. By banding together and exercising this right you have the power to steer this country in any direction you choose. By banding together and exercising this right you have the power to elect anyone you see fit to represent you. By banding together and exercising this right you become the leaders and not the ones being led.

The old belief that your vote won't count doesn't wash anymore. There are too many examples of elections being won or lost by a single percentage point. Yes, you absolutely do make a difference. The established political parties don't want you to vote because then you cause uncertainty in the election process. They count on and process polling statistics to establish that their candidate is best suited for the job. By turning out to vote you throw a monkey wrench into their plans. They actually count on and forecast that you won't vote.

It's time to show the supposed political powers that we won't be silent anymore. We will be heard. We will be counted. We will vote.

A GREAT START

2011-04-11T13:09:00.001-07:00

A GREAT START

RIC WELLS

COMMON MAN

COMMON SENSE CITIZENS FOR AMERICA

3/28/2011

The 2011 New York State budget has been passed on time and in balance. Although there are some shortcomings in this years budget, the process has shown tremendous progress. For this we have four factions to thank. Former Governors George Pataki and David Paterson, current Governor Andrew Cuomo and the people of New York State. Governor Pataki for forcing legislation that prohibited the Legislature from changing the Governor's budget proposal. Governor Paterson for his introduction of budget extenders and his deft use of the veto power. Governor Cuomo for expertly using these powerful techniques. And the people of New York State for giving Governor Cuomo the People's Mandate and not backing down under tremendous political pressure, It is through the power of the people that Governor Cuomo was able to stand firmly against the Legislature and powerful special interests. Through a tremendous show of solidarity our opposing factions were forced to relinquish the power they held and transfer it back to its rightful place, the Executive Branch through The People.

That was phase one. A tremendous amount of hard work lies ahead of us. The state is in desperate need of ethics reform, tort reform and elimination of unfunded mandates. Ethics reform will be difficult given the recent history of the Legislative and Judicial Branches. Tort reform will be more difficult because most Legislators are lawyers or affiliated with law firms and they will be hard pressed to do anything to decrease their income. Unfunded mandates have to be eliminated because they are A) Unconstitutional and B) Strangle the economic and social growth of our state. I say difficult because nothing is impossible anymore. We have shown the State government and ourselves that we can accomplish what was considered impossible by standing as one and not relinquishing our power.

That's what I call a great start.

STAND UP

2011-04-11T12:55:00.001-07:00

STAND UP

RIC WELLS

COMMON MAN

1/05/2010

It's up to you to see it through

I can't go on much longer.

The sixties start just fell apart

You've got to be much stronger.

The government game is who's to blame

Waging war for profit and greed.

Don't care what side they take to win

What matters to them is colored green.

They wage their wars and rockets fly

They make their arms and people die.

We have no say, they think it's just

Unaccountable to anyone, especially us.

So stand up and take back what's yours

You've got more than the right to vote.

The politicians know the systems broke

But they're just part of the joke.

Stand up and take back your life

If you don't you'll give it to them.

And you'll wonder what the hell happened

Just like we did, now we're government penned.

So stand up and band together

Cooperation is what they fear.

Coexistence is what to strive for

Peace and harmony are to be held dear.

OPEN LETTER TO ANDREW CUOMO

2011-04-10T22:23:00.001-07:00

OPEN LETTER TO ANDREW CUOMO

RIC WELLS

COMMON MAN

6/19/2010

I am reminded by every New York newspaper and newscast that you are the heir apparent for the governorship of my state. My state, that very phrase is not expressed lightly and a great amount of pride is felt whenever I say it. However, that pride has been dwindling ever since your father left office. The power of the governor's office is evaporating and the legislature and their special interests think they control the political structure of the state. You sir, are in for the fight of your life. You advocate that state government be run by public mandate but the legislature will not willingly give up their power. You have stated that if the people express their will the legislature will act accordingly. They have turned a deaf ear to the public and it's unlikely they will start listening now. They have constructed state government in such a way they feel they are not responsible for their actions. Their attitude is if it's not their idea and it doesn't benefit them, it's useless.

Now that you've declared your candidacy, your every move will be scrutinized by the opposing parties, every senator, assemblyman and state union official. But you have the mandate of the people. Every resource and opportunity will be granted to you in hope that your upcoming administration will clean up this mess. You have been called to arms by us, the people, to wage the fight for our state government. This is a role you have accepted. You have a tremendous amount of powerful resources at your disposal. The fight is on, the battle has just begun in hope that one day we may wake up in the morning and once again call New York, my state.

NEW YORK STATE FOR SALE

2011-04-10T17:18:00.001-07:00

NEW YORK STATE FOR SALE

RIC WELLS

COMMON MAN

It's official; the results from NYPIRG have arrived. You can have a great cost saving idea, show concern for your state government, know how to streamline the political process or have a project to bolster the state's economy; you will get nowhere without a suitcase full of money. Know how to decrease the debt, no response. Know how to decrease Medicare fraud, no return call. Kn ow how to decrease health care, brick wall. Know how to decrease state government, locked doors.

But if you have a million dollars to give they will line up like a bunch of rats to a lifeboat on a sinking ship. Got cash, they'll jump like a trained monkey. Got cash, they'll surround you like vultures picking at a dead body. Got cash, they've got it spent before they receive it. It's their addiction. They can't get enough. A hundred thousand dollars to them is like a penny to us. You won't be heard unless you've got some serious funds.

We have thousands of homeless in this state with no lobbyist looking out for them. But tell the state workers they won't get their 4 1/2% raise and the airwaves are full of news stories how this is illegal and against their contract. You can't have a valid contract when the state is broke. The people didn't negotiate your contract, and we're the ones who pay you.

In a time of high unemployment and economic stagnation, why should we worry about how re-regulation of the banking system and Wall Street is unfair when they're the ones who caused the whole mess in the first place.

Face it people, the time has come. Are we going to fight for our state or let New York be sold to the highest bidder.

IT'S TIME

2011-04-10T17:09:00.001-07:00

IT'S TIME

RIC WELLS

COMMON MAN

When the echoes of footsteps of the common man are no longer heard walking the steps of the capitol, it's time. When lobbyists and special interests have more influence over your legislators than you, it's time. When your representatives spend more time raising money than listening to and representing their constituents, it's time. When you work everyday and feel like your representatives are mere theives picking your pockets, it's time.

The American Revolution was fought for freedom and equal representation, not oppression and special interests. The Declaration of Independence, The Constitution and the Bill of Rights are not hollow documents written to be revamped and twisted for the feeble few who think they are in control. They were written as a blueprint to shed the shackles of our oppressors, both within and without. Washington, Jefferson, Adams and the rest of the colonists would roll over in their graves if they knew what happened to the ideals for which thousands spilled their blood.

We are not sheep to be led to the slaughter. We are not mice to be funneled through a maze. We are living, thinking people that have given you the privilege of representing us. A privilege that you have abused, so we are now taking back the power.

If you do not adhere to the balanced budget amendment, you are gone.

If you attach amendments to bills increasing our costs, you are gone.

If you put the wishes of lobbyists above the people, you are gone.

If you think we're kidding, we're not.

If you think we'll forget, please underestimate us.

A line has been drawn by your incompetence and arrogance.

Cross that line and you'll be fired.

You will be questioned.

You will be investigated.

Your every political move is being watched.

You will be voted out.

You will be gone.

WRITE UP BY THE THINK3 INSTITUTE

2011-03-11T03:05:00.001-08:00

10 March 2011

A 'Common Man' writes and blogs

Ric Wells of Wilton is a diligent writer to newspaper letter columns. His latest effort appears in today's Troy Record. In it, he announces his creation of Common Sense Citizens for America, an organization dedicated to the interests of "the Common Man." The letter directs readers to Wells' new blog, www.commonsensecitizensforamerica.blogspot.com, where today's letter is the latest post. Wells intends his group as a home for "fiscal conservatives and social moderates" whose mission is "To re-establish common sense political solutions for our states and nation in accordance with the principles of our Founding Fathers as stated in our Constitution." The "Common Man" letter may clarify whom Wells identifies as his ideal constituents.

The Common Man is in all of us. He and she are the hard working individuals who get up every day and are proud of their work. He and she are 'we.' We love our state and country. We believe in the Constitution. We hate injustice. We hate lies. We are seekers of truth. We are deeply concerned with the direction our state and county are taking. We are God fearing and God loving individuals who live by the Golden Rule. We are loyal to the principles our Founding Fathers have given us. We are everyday individuals who are frustrated in our non-representative form of government. We are the new Vocal Majority.

Not every common man fears God, of course, but it isn't clear whether Wells would insist that we all do so. On an alternative blog under his own name, Wells called Common Sense Citizens an "unknown union" and clarified its professedly nonpartisan nature.

We are tired of special interests, big business and government siphoning the fruits of our labor. We number in the millions and are organizing to reverse the trend of unfair representation. We demand people in office that will lead. We demand politicians with vision. We demand a political structure that will represent us. We are hard working citizens of this state and country that demand common sense in laws, budgets and policies. We are formally organizing to combat the inequities in the political structure. Republicans, Democrats and Tea Partiers are too self-absorbed to recognize the power of the people. We have recognized this fact and will be silent no more. We are frustrated. We are organizing to be represented according to fundamental constitutional principles. We demand to be represented on our terms. We will change the laws for equal representation. We will abolish corrupt fiscal policies. According to our constitutions this state and country belong to us. We are taking it back.

What Wells means by "equal representation," and how it might be implemented, remain unclear. Last fall, demoralized by the prospects for the New York state elections, Wells composed a manifesto defining his political priorities.

For better or worse the time for change in the New York political structure is now. It's time for the people to throw off the shackles of an obstructionist government and take back the power. We must find and elect leaders who are not afraid to represent the majority of the electorate instead of acting like prostitutes to satisfy their money supply. We must elect leaders that will realize higher taxes only drive small businesses away. Tax breaks to large corporations are only made up on the backs of the people. Issue driven politics are short-sighted solutions with no long range plans or goals. Increasing budget deficits only serve to decimate the economic stability of our state. Adhering to mandates handed down by the federal government are unconstitutional if we have no say in the parameters of said mandates. This is just another form of taxation without representation. Not having a balanced budget prepared and passed by April 1st is a direct violation of the New York State Constitution. We need leaders that realize government by the few and for the few is detrimental to all New Yorkers.

Fiscal conservatism is a constant theme in Wells's writings, but he is unconvinced by Republicans' or Tea Partiers' avowal of that principle. Wells' own conservatism on that score doesn't necessarily mark him as a "right winger." On his profile page he includes among his favorite books Rousseau's Social Contract and Howard Zinn's People's History of the United States, neither of which are usually found on conservative bookshelves. Another favorite, however, is The 5000 Year Leap, a reported favorite of Glenn Beck. Wells is no conservative if that means fidelity to an intellectual establishment. Like many an apparent autodidact, he seeks information from authors, like Zinn, who claim to reveal suppressed truths, Zinn's affirming a left-wing reading of history. A construction worker, Wells needs no academic credentials to realize that something's wrong with the country. There are probably millions like him, and that makes him a common man. Whether that means his answers, once he articulates them, are automatically right is another story. For now, it's hard to argue with his profile assertion that "the only way to correct [the] misdirection of this state and country is to express how we feel." That alone won't do it, but we probably can't do without it.

09 March 2011

NEW YORK STATE ASSEMBLY

2011-03-07T16:53:00.000-08:00

Amedore, George District#105
amedorg@assembly.state.ny.us

Canestrari, Ron District#106 Majority Leader
CanestR@assembly.state.ny.us

Jordan, Tony District#112
JordanJ@assembly.state.ny.us

Kolb,Brian District#129 Assembly Minority Leader
own site

Silver, Sheldon District#64 Speaker
Speaker@assembly.state.ny.us

Tedisco, James District#110
TediscJ@assembly.state.ny.us

NEW YORK STATE SENATORS

2011-03-07T16:41:00.000-08:00

Ball,Greg District#40
gball@ballforny.com

Farley, Hugh District#44
farley@senate.state.ny.us

Klein,Jeffrey District#34 Independent Dem. Conference Leader
jdklein@senate.state.ny.us

Lanza, Andrew District#24
lanza@senate.state.ny.us

Little, Betty District#45
little@senate.state.ny.us

McDonald, Roy District#43
mcdonald@senate.state.ny.us

Sampson, John District#19 Senate Minority Leader
sampson@senate.state.ny.us

Skelos, Dean District#9 Senate Majority Leader
skelos@nysenate.gov

NEW YORK STATE NEWSPAPERS

2011-02-27T16:49:00.000-08:00

Albany

Albany Times Union

tuletters@timesunion.com

Amsterdam

Amsterdam Recorder

ckraebel@recordernews.com

Auburn

Auburn Citizen

Have their own site

Binghamton

Press & Sun Bulletin

viewpoints@pressconnects.com

Buffalo

Buffalo News

LetterToEditor@buffnews.com

Catskill

Daily Mail

editorial@thedailymail.net

Elmira

Star Gazette

ckocher@gannett.com

Glens Falls

Post Star

Have their own site

Hudson

editorial@registerstar.com

Ithaca

Ithaca Journal

ckocher@gannett.com

Kingston

Daily Freeman

letters@freemanonline.com

Middletown

Times Herald Record

letters@th-record.com

Newburgh

Same as Middletown

New York

New York Times

letters@nytimes.com

New York

New York Post

letters@nypost.com

New York

Wall Street Journal

wsj.ltrs@wsj.com

Oneida

Daily Dispatch

letters@dailydispatch.com

Plattsburg

Press Republican

letters@pressrepublican.com

Poughkeepsie

Poughkeepsie Journal

Have their own site

Rome

Rome Observer

letters@romeobserver.com

Saratoga

Saratogian

letters@saratogian.com

Schenectady

Daily Gazette

Have their own site

Syracuse

Post Standard

Have their own site

Troy

The Record

letters@troyrecord.com

Utica

Utica OD

infocenter@uticaod.com

Watertown

Daily News

jmcfadden@dailynews.com

RESPONSE TO QUESTION

2011-02-25T17:31:00.000-08:00

A few days ago my friend Connie Farrington asked me a poignant question. That being, "What specifically do I want people to do"? My instant response if for people to get involved. But how? What, in my opinion, is the most effective way for people to express their desires, concerns and political views.? Recognizing fully that people's level of involvement will differ for each individual I can only try to formulate guidelines to satisfy as many people as possible. After much soul searching I put forth the following:

1) First and foremost-We must let our elected officials know of our dissatisfaction or satisfaction in the way they are representing us, "The People". Individual letters to newspapers are an effective way to voice your opinion. To help I will be posting the names of the major New York State newspapers and their Email addresses on this blog. ricwellscommonman.

2) Second-Contact your individual representatives on issues you feel strongly about. Give reasons why you support or oppose each issue. If possible propose alternatives to those issues you oppose. Again, I will be posting the name and Email addresses of each state senator and assemblyman on this blog ricwellscommonman.

3) Third-Join an organization which you feel most closely supports your views. This can be done on the internet. There is strength in numbers. This is clearly evidenced by what is happening in the Middle East. The people have gathered and demonstrated and dictatorial regimes are toppling to show off the shackles of oppressive governments. Newly formed organizations are always seeking increased memberships. Remember that most of us are feeling our way through all these developments and are facing older and more entrenched organizations. But always keep in mind this nation started as a fledgling idea and has become the most powerful country in the world. On a personal note, I have started an organization called Common Sense Citizen's for America. Email address cscfa2011@gmail.com. Also posted on ricwellscommonman.

4) Fourth-I would like others to join me in a letter writing group as part of Common Sense Citizen's for America. I feel that a large number of individual letters sent to newspapers, politicians, radio stations, TV stations, political parties and other organizations will get more attention and have more clout than an individual letter from a single organization.

5) Fifth-We must be vigilant in our efforts to organize ourselves, reorganize our state and country and formulate policies that are consistent with the fundamental principles of our Constitution. The world is not a stagnant place and events are constantly changing. We must be prepared to anticipate these changes and not just react to them. In this way we will have a strong say in the formulation of future domestic and foreign policies.

6) Sixth-The most important idea that comes from these steps is the word "We". As hard as I try I cannot do it alone nor realistically can any one individual. "We" must band together as a show of force. "We" must pursue individual actions as a group. "We" must realize this is a for reaching struggle which will take a lot of hard work and time. "We" must realize each persons contribution to this effort is vital and necessary. "We" must support each individuals effort in this group action. "We" must realize every viewpoint brought to the group is important and valuable to be discussed as to how it fits into the overall vision of the groups mission.

7) Seventh-In order for organizations and movements to grow we must keep spreading the word to others as to our involvements, beliefs and actions. In your conversations tell people of our blog and the purpose of our organization. Doing this will increase our support group and our sphere of influence in the political realm. I needed I can always be contacted via the following Email addresses:
a) ricwells@verizon.net
b) cscfa2011@gmail.com
c) citizensforcommonsense1@gmail.com
d) post a comment or question on this blog.

8) Eighth-By doing this I feel we can form a powerful organization to express our voice in the political sphere. To interject our influence in the formation of domestic and foreign policies. To put our existing representatives on notice that they are being watched and judged by their actions. And finally, to help steer this state and nation back to the fundamental principles of our Constitution as brought forth by our founding fathers and updated to meet the needs, problems and visions of today's world.

Ric Wells
Common Man
Wilton, N.Y.
ricwells@verizon.net

Written by Ric Wells
Common Man
2/25/11

THE UNNAMED UNION

2011-02-16T22:23:00.000-08:00

We have no leader. We have no formal meeting hall. We have no lobbyist. We ask for no special considerations. We have no media representation. We pay our dues through our taxes. We have a binding contract through our State and Federal Constitutions. We have representation through our vote. We earn our retirement pensions through our own sweat. We are employed and jobless, young and old, Republican, Democrat and Independent, rich and poor, male and female. To get our respect you must give us respect.

We are tired of special interests, big business and government siphoning the fruits of our labor. We number in the millions and are organizing to reverse the trend of unfair representation. We demand people in office that will lead. We demand politicians with vision. We demand a political structure that will represent us.

We are hard working citizens of this state and country that demand common sense in laws, budgets and policies. We are formally organizing to combat the inequities in the political structure. Republicans, Democrats and Tea Partiers are too self-absorbed to recognize the power of the people. We have recognized this fact and will be silent no more. We are frustrated. We are organizing to be represented according to fundamental constitutional principles. We demand to be represented on our terms. We will change the laws for equal representation. We will abolish corrupt fiscal policies. According to our constitutions this state and country belong to us. We are taking it back. Emailcitizensforcommonsense1@gmail.com to support the unnamed union.

Ric Wells

Common Man

Wilton, N.Y.

1-518-361-6282

ricwells@verizon.net

Written by Ric Wells

Common Man

2/09/11
Published in Washington Times
2/14/11
Published in Glens Falls Post Star
2/20/11
Published in Saratogian
2/26/11
Published in Daily Gazette
3/2/11

LETTER FROM VICE PRESIDENT JOE BIDEN

2011-02-11T14:18:00.000-08:00

Compose Delete Spam Move To Actions

The White House - Presidential Correspondence | no-reply@correspondence.whitehouse.gov Add to Contacts

Today, Friday, Feb 11 10:30 AM | Show Details

From the Vice President

Dear Ric:

Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts with me.

We are living in an extraordinary moment - we have an economy to improve, a workforce to rebuild, a Nation to defend, an environment to protect, and a future to secure for our children. The President and I remain confident that with your help, America's best days still lie ahead.

Thanks again for writing to me, and please continue to stay actively involved in your government.

Sincerely,

Joe Biden

TIME TO WALK THE TALK

2011-02-02T05:54:00.000-08:00

A new era in United States foreign policy has presented itself. The Obama Administration has a rare opportunity to show the world what support to democratic movements entails. The situation in Tunisia, Egypt, Yemen, Jordan and others opens the door for clear cooperation between these nations and the United States. Free and U.N. supervised elections should be called for by the United States, Russia, China and the EU members, then the results honored, no matter the outcome. Let the people speak.

Old alliances must remain steadfast while exploring new ones in an attempt to ease world tensions and bring peace and prosperity to all. The geopolitical situation in the world is rapidly changing. Adhering to outdated policies is certain failure. We must recognize that this moment presents a new and powerful opportunity to replace old simplistic outdated political theory with a new pro-active approach that assumes the complexity of the current situations is at hand. By carefully utilizing our relationships with India, Pakistan, Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Japan we can give rise to new alliances that not only reshapes U.S.-Middle East geopolitical relationships but also strengthens our relationship with Israel. By showing respect and honoring the outcome of the current democratic movements led by the people in the Middle East we can demonstrate to the world that a democratic solution to a country's complex political problems is the best way to govern. But we must keep our word and support the outcome of these uprisings. In doing so we will raise the integrity of the newly formed government but also our standing in the court of world opinion.The United States will once again be seen as a nation to be relied upon to keep its word. Trust in one's actions is the most important element in a new geopolitical developmental effort among both old established and new upcoming nations.

By taking this cautious and fragile but necessary step we demonstrate to the world that we are a nation that can be trusted. Our actions match our words. New alliances and coalitions will be formed to develop a worldwide response to the economic, plitical and religious challenges of the time; it is imperative that in a giant leap of faith to move every country towards stability, peace integrity and economic prosperity. It is time for the United States to walk the talk.

Ric Wells
Common Man
Written Jan. 29, 2011
Published in The Record in Troy, N.Y.
Feb.11, 2011

COMMON SENSE CITIZEN'S FOR AMERICA

2011-01-24T13:54:00.000-08:00

I would like to start a grassroots organization composed of people who express their views. My idea would be to organize people, choose a topic and each one of us write their own individual letters to be sent to Newspapers, TV, Radio, Politicians and other organizations. Each letter would be signed by the author and then punctuated with Common Sense Citizen's for America .

Example:
Ric Wells
Common Man
Common Sense Citizen's for America.

I think this would create a larger impact if our thoughts and views were construed from one group rather than a single individual. If you would like to participate Email us at cscfa2011@gmail.com

Ric Wells
Common Man
Common Sense Citizen's for America

OPEN FORUM

2011-01-24T13:42:00.000-08:00

Even though I created this blog it's not just for myself and my views. This is our blog. I wanted to create a forum for discussion by all so that communication could take place from all viewpoints. This is the best way I can think of to accomplish this goal. Feel free to state opinions and solutions so that we may all engage in solving our community's, state's and nations problems.

Ric Wells

Common Man

TO POST A COMMENT

2011-01-24T13:33:00.000-08:00

When on the home page look to the right side. You will find BLOG ARCHIVE. Click on the title you wish to see. When page pops up scroll down to bottom to Post Comment. You are there. It's all yours to say what you wish.

Ric Wells
Common Man

A COMMON MAN'S PROMISE TO AMERICA

2011-01-23T14:06:00.000-08:00

As citizen's and citizen's to be of all genders, races, social strata, economic advantage, political affiliation and religious persuasion "We the People" promise to:

1) Recognize as individuals we can make a difference and joined together we can change the course of this nation to represent the tenets of our founding fathers.
2) Take pride in our country and promise to promote her in a positive light.
3) become involved in the workings of our localities so we know what our local governments are doing to better our lives.
4) Volunteer to help our neighborhoods, streets, schools, shelters, hospitals, disadvantaged, homeless and animal shelters.
5) Band together to peacefully take control of our destiny.
6) Vote intelligently, in accordance with our principles, in any and all elections.
7) Remember, we are a diverse nation and through this diversity comes our strength, ingenuity, creativity, unbridled energy and compassion.
8) Respect each other and our differing viewpoints.
9) Hold our elected officials accountable for their actions and keep their feet to the fire at all times.
10) Understand fully, less government is better but some big government is necessary.
11) Uphold the tenets of our Declaration of Independence, Constitution and Bill of Rights and in doing so show the rest of the world that as flawed as it is this is still the best form of government.
12) Understand we live in a capitalist society with a deep belief in a "free market economy"and legal wealth is something to strive for and not punished.
13) Understand there is strength in numbers and the strongest force in our government is ourselves, "WE THE PEOPLE".
14) Defend our rights and land from all enemies both within and without.
15) Understand we live in a global economy where expansion and coordination of ideas and ideals is necessary and isolation is self-destructive.
16) Promote fiscal responsibility to achieve a balanced budget recognizing that some programs and services will be cut or eliminated.
17) Remember, a strong national defense not only includes a superior standing military but also a deep and clear understanding of different cultures, races, ethnicities, political, economic and philosophical theories around the world.
18) Lastly, a strong belief in the precept in the Declaration of Independence that "All men are created equal" with men equated to humankind and the final phrase in our Pledge of Allegiance that we are "One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all", not some but all.

Ric Wells
Common Man
Published in Glens Falls Post Star
12/19/2010
Published in The Troy Record
12/29/2010

THE ONE THAT STARTED IT ALL

2011-01-21T20:06:00.000-08:00

Below is a copy of the speech I gave at "THE RECALL RALLY" in Green Island, New York. Sponsored by WROW 590 AM radio on 9/19/09. Thanks to Jackie Donovan and Steve Van Zandt for giving me the chance to speak.

When the system of government you are living under becomes so powerful that the laws they enact are oppressive, it is the right, nay, the duty of every citizen to peacefully overthrow said government. That sentiment is written in the Declaration of Independence for the expressed purpose of stopping the government from becoming too powerful.

New Yorkers are now in a situation and time when this is more evident than ever.

We have faced and lived through a time when the New York State Senate shut down the state government because of:
1) Petty differences
2) Greed
3) Personal financial gain
4) Unethical power brokering
5) Possible illegal nepotistic appointments

We have faced and lived through a time when the New York State Assembly did absolutely nothing to stop the Senate lockout.

We have faced and lived through a time when the Governor was powerless to bring the Legislative branch back into a constructive session until he forced a constitutional debate by making what might be an illegal appointment, according to the State Constitution, of Lieutenant Governor.

We have faced and lived through a time when the New York State Judicial branch could do nothing to end the petty bickering in the Senate because neither branch pursued this avenue to restart the state government.

The situation in the state government has reached the point where all parties involved have forgotten the most important principle of a democracy. That principle being: THEY WORK FOR US.

Now I am neither a Democrat or Republican or as I like to say a Republicat nor a Demican. Therefore I have no party affiliations. I just know that because of recent events glaring holes in our State Constitution have become evident. We have:
1) No appointment procedures of a Lieutenant Governor
2) No recall procedures for a state politician not performing his or her sworn duties
3) No public debate or referendum procedures to correct any absence of constitutional law.

Therefore, the preceding events and reasons dictate that we New Yorkers put pressure on our elected officials to convene an immediate Constitutional Convention to be known as The Peoples Convention. This pressure can be applied through a campaign of phone calls, letters, Emails and text messages. Phone numbers can be found in the phone book under New York State. A Peoples Convention should be convened to:
1) Solve the glaring inadequacies that have been recently discovered.
2)Give the power of governing back to the people where it belongs.

It must also be stressed during this campaign that if your particular official does not support a Peoples Convention they will not be re-elected, PERIOD. A state wide write-in campaign of none-of -the-above could be instituted thereby vacating seats in the 2010 election and forcing the convention to convene.

In closing, I would like to say to all New Yorkers that the time for reform is now and the power is within our grasp.

Ric Wells
Common Man
9/19/09

IT'S TIME

2011-01-20T16:16:00.000-08:00

When the footsteps of the common man are no longer heard walking the halls of the capitol, it's time.
When lobbyists and special interests have more influence over your legislators than you, it's time.
When your representatives spend more time raising money than listening to and representing their constituents, it's time.
When you work everyday and feel like your representatives are mere thieves picking your pockets, it's time.

The American Revolution was fought for freedom and equal representation, not oppression and special interests. The Declaration of Independence, The Constitution and The Bill of Rights are not hollow documents written to be revamped and twisted for the feeble few who think they are in control. They were written as a blueprint to shed the shackles of our oppressors, both within and without. Washington, Jefferson, Adams and the rest of the colonists would roll over in their graves if they knew what happened to the ideals for which thousands spilled their blood.

We are not sheep to be led to the slaughter. We are not mice to be funneled through a maze. We are living, thinking people that have given you the privilege of representing us. A privilege that you have abused, so now we are taking back the power.

If you do not adhere to the balanced budget amendment, you are gone.
If you attach amendments to bills increasing our costs, you are gone.
If you put lobbyists above the people, you are gone.

If you think we're kidding, we're not.
If you think we'll forget, please underestimate us.
A line has been crossed by your incompetence and arrogance.
Cross that line and you'll be fired.
You will be questioned.
You will be investigated.
Your every political move is being watched.
You will be voted out.
You will be gone.

Ric Wells
Common Man
Published in Glens Falls Post Star
April 13, 2010

PREFACE TO BLOG

2011-01-18T09:09:00.000-08:00

The intent of this blog is to heal not harm. We are a nation of varying political and philosophical viewpoints. We all know that the nation is in trouble. We are here to discuss the problems and achieve common sense solutions. All viewpoints are welcome. Profanity will not be tolerated. If you must use this language please show your intelligence on someone else's blog. We are not here as Conservatives or Liberals, Democrats or Republicans but as Americans. This is an attempt to unite our diverse opinions into a clear and concise plan to reaffirm the basic tenets upon which our nation was founded.

The time for change is past due but will not occur with partisan politics. People must start to put aside their differences and join together for the greater good. That being the formation of a government that was envisioned by the founding fathers. That is of, by and for the people. The discussion has started and is wandering in several different directions but the debate has begun and that is a good thing. Politics as usual must be driven from the scene and attack campaigns must cease. Candidates and representatives should state what they perceive as the problem, how they would rectify the problem and what they envision as the solution. How refreshing this would be. We could then make an intelligent choice as to who we wish to represent us rather than listening to sound bytes and political pablum we are being fed today.

Ric Wells
Common Man