An interesting, common sense look with no fear mongering, but honesty about the characters, characterization of their future, current actions and intentions. Time will tell…..

Copied:

William D. Marriott is a retired economist who specialized in public policy analysis of the oil and gas industry.

Things are starting to get both real and serious. If you’ve been ignoring the debate or hoping it doesn’t matter, it is time to wake up. The Stay Free Alberta (SFA) petitions have been delivered. At this point, there is north of 700,000 Albertans who want to vote “stay” or “leave” on an independence referendum. This is a substantial voting bloc that cannot be ignored. So, what’s the current state of play?

First, language matters. It influences how we think and thus how we vote. Both sides should choose respect, although I am not optimistic. “Loaded” keywords broadcast intent; separatist vs secessionist or sovereigntist, independence vs separation. The name-calling by Don Braid in a recent Calgary Herald column...