'Twas the Night Before Christmas' Alberta economy edition

'Twas the night before Christmas and all through the land
Albertans were weary, you understand.
Recession has pummelled our spirits this year;
it's been a tough time of worry and fear.

Businesses suffer and jobs hard to find,
it's left a discouraging note this Yuletide.
But cheerier lies the next year ahead--
economists tell us to not be mislead.

The price of West Texas is up over fifty
and that, says producers, is really quite nifty.
For fifty is now the new eighty, they say,
and at this new price we need not dismay

With OPEC agreeing to crude oil cuts,
and Putin in need of petroleum bucks,
the price of the black stuff should stabilize soon
and that will lift energy stocks like balloons.

And at the same time, new projects are near.
A way to move oil to tidewater, dear!
A pipeline or two, we've asked not too much.
And finally, Trudeau has given thumbs up!

Now things, of course, percolate south of the border
where Donald and company seek a new order.
Will Canada suffer? What happens to us
if NAFTA is thrown right under the bus?

Yet Trump is pragmatic, and ever so keen
to bolster America's economy.
That should help us out, Canadians mention.
Let's try to forget Trump's other intentions.

So next year is likely to be a bit better,
but hard work is needed from all whom we've vetted.
Our government leaders must be in good form
to help our dear province manage this storm.

On Notley, on Ceci, and on Brian Jean!
McIvor, Don Iveson, Naheed Nenshi!
Let's all work together, and be sharp as whips.
The fighting and nastiness help not a bit.

And even though 2016's been a curse,
there is always someone who's struggle is worse.
Be kind to each other and be neighbourly.

So many are struggling—give generously.
Take heart, dear Albertans, and be of good cheer.
A new year is coming, we'll play it by ear.
The recession will fade, so rest comfortably.

Merry Christmas to all, and a good economy!