4 January 2017

EDITORIAL

After the strike UMFA president’s letter to students Page 6

COMMENT

A movement divided?

P.E.I. student union president weighs in on CFS national meeting Page 7

SPORTS

Rebound machine Omoerah sets tournament record with 45 rebounds Page 15

VO L 1 0 3 · N O 1 7 · J A N UA RY 4 , 2 0 1 7 · W W W.T H E M A N I TO B A N .CO M

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Index

VOL. 103 NO. 17 January 4, 2017

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Craig Adolphe

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EDITORIAL

MANAGING EDITOR Lauren Siddall

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NEWS EDITOR Levi Garber

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COMMENT EDITOR Shawn Garbutt

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SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY EDITOR Malak Abas

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ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR Tobi Nifesi

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SPORTS EDITOR Ryan Stelter

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COPY EDITOR Sarah Doran

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DESIGN

DESIGN EDITOR Bram Keast

SCIENCE

NEWS

Coming soon

Back at it

Exciting science in Canada

design@themanitoban.com

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PHOTO EDITOR Miguel Yetman

UMSU council demands apology from CFS

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PHOTO ASSOCIATE Star Roxas

DESIGN ASSOCIATE Kellie Huynh GRAPHICS ASSOCIATE Aldo Rios PHOTO ASSOCIATE Chantal Zdan

page 9

PHOTO ASSOCIATE Megan Colwell

REPORTERS

NEWS Osho Samuel Adetunji NEWS Diana Ubokudom COLUMNIST Jeremiah Kopp COLUMNIST Shaden Abusaleh ARTS & CULTURE Olivia Michalczuk ARTS & CULTURE Emelia Fournier SPORTS Kellen Taniguchi SPORTS Jason Pchajek COPY Joseph Gonzalez

VOLUNTEER CONTRIBUTORS SPORTS

What a year

MANITOBAN

Sports headlines from 2016

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News

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News Editors: Garett Williams & Levi Garber Contact: news@themanitoban.com / 474.6770

UMSU council demands apology from CFS executives over alleged harassment at national general meeting LEVI GARBER, STAFF

PHOTO BY CHANTAL ZDAN

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he University of Manitoba increases are currently capped at the Students’ Union (UMSU) coun- rate of inflation. cil passed an emergency motion Dec. In provinces where there is no 8 demanding an apology from the cap on domestic student tuition fee national executive of the Canadian increases, it would only ensure that Federation of Students (CFS) for its international students’ tuition fees treatment of UMSU executives at don’t increase at a higher percentage the CFS national general meeting than other students. in November.

The motion also recommends UMSU’s ongoing efforts to recon- “The motion cile with CFS following a three-year presented at the dispute be halted until a formal apology is issued.

UMSU council The emergency motion was introduced to council following a presen- meeting was largely tation from UMSU vice-president in response to the external Wilfred Sam-King, vicepresentation that president internal Adam Pawlak, and the union’s governance assistant was made in the Mark Stewart, detailing UMSU’s meeting” - Karas contentious history with CFS and the events that took place at the general Elbardisy, outgoing meeting last month in Ottawa.

UMSU president Tanjit Nagra UMSU chair claims that during the CFS national general meeting last month in Ottawa, University of Winnipeg CFS’s policy handbook currently Students’ Association vice-president calls for the union to advocate for the student affairs and CFS-MB wom- abolishment of tuition fees altogether, en’s commissioner Laura Garinger as well as for the removal of any difverbally harassed her over union ference between domestic and interfee increases previously passed by national students’ fees.

UMSU. The presentation given on The harassment allegedly took Thursday by Sam-King, Pawlak, and place after UMSU executives brought Stewart claimed that when Nagra forward a motion that would amend became emotional when speaking CFS’s policy on international stu- about the motion, CFS national dents, calling for the national union executives laughed at her. to advocate for international student “UMSU personnel were personfee increases to be locked at the same ally victimized and verbally attacked percentage increase as domestic during closing plenary,” the presenstudents. tation reads. “The situation was not In Manitoba, this would ensure remedied until UMSU demanded international students’ tuition fees the plenary chair and CFS executive don’t rise faster than the rate of infla- director to remove the harassers from tion, as domestic students’ tuition the area.”

Emergency motion

President of the Pakistani Students’ Association Masroor Khan, who attended the meeting as a proxy for international students’ representative Steffan Aganbi, introduced the emergency motion.

Emergency motions may only be voted on by council if the chair rules that the motion is both time-sensitive and could not have been brought forward at an earlier time.

The outgoing UMSU chair Karas Elbardisy, who is vacating his position due to a scheduling conflict for future council meetings, said that the motion qualified as an emergency.

“The motion presented at the UMSU Council meeting was largely in response to the presentation that was made in the meeting,” Elbardisy said in an email. “As such it could not have been prepared and submitted ahead of time by the member, as he was not aware of all the issues [...] prior to said presentation.”

“The motion was in response to a specific set of circumstances, the [NGM] in November, and the motion would be less relevant after the winter break,” he said. “No councillor raised an objection, which serves to validate the decision.”

The next UMSU council meeting is scheduled for Jan. 5.

Khan said he brought forward the motion because he feels the mistreatment of the UMSU executives in Ottawa is not only disrespectful to the union, but to international students as well, whose concerns he said were being represented in the motion that UMSU had put forward.

“I thought that the mistreatment that the national body [of CFS] has done with our executive was completely an act of hypocrisy,” he said.

Khan also said that although the provincial wing of CFS has been receptive and understanding of international students’ issues, the national executive has been the opposite.

“On the one hand, the provincial body seems to be very collaborative, but on the other hand the national body seems to ridicule and ignore the demands of international students and disrespects them” - Masroor Khan, president of the Pakistani Students’ Association “On the one hand, the provincial body seems to be very collaborative, but on the other hand the national body seems to ridicule and ignore the demands of international students and disrespects [them],” Khan said.

The emergency motion passed overwhelmingly by a hand vote, with only three councillors voting against it.

Past disputes

The presentation delivered by Sam-King, Pawlak, and Stewart also went through a number of instances

over the last three years in which UMSU and CFS have been at odds with one another.

In 2013, UMSU held a review of the union’s membership in CFS following a dispute regarding day-timers.

Members of the then-UMSU executive ripped pages of CFS promotional material out of 20,000 student day-timers after learning they were unable to cancel a contract signed by the previous executive for the purchase of the promotional materials.

In June, UMSU council finally agreed to pay CFS nearly $1 million in outstanding fees that had been withheld over the previous 3 years.

In March, then-UMSU council voted to condemn the provincial chapter, CFS-Manitoba (CFS-MB), for expressing what it called political favouritism toward the Manitoba NDP during the spring provincial election after the lobbying group made statements praising the party’s education-related campaign promises.

At the CFS general meeting in July, Sam-King and Brandon University Students’ Union president Nick Brown got into a verbal altercation over UMSU’s unpaid membership fees to CFS, according to Sam-King.

On Nov. 2, Sam-King was allegedly prevented from addressing students at CFS’s National Day of Action at the Manitoba legislature, where students from all of the province’s major universities rallied, demanding free post-secondary education.

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News

News Editors: Garett Williams & Levi Garber Contact: news@themanitoban.com / 474.6770

University picks up tab to extend U-Pass U of M will cover transit costs for more than 2,000 students not enrolled in winter term to finish fall semester GARETT WILLIAMS, STAFF

PHOTO BY MIGUEL YETMAN

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he University of Manitoba is covering the cost of extending the fall U-Pass for students who were scheduled to finish studies in December but had courses pushed into the new year following a faculty strike.

The three-week strike in November led the university to extend the fall term into the first week of January with an exam period running until Jan. 17.

John Kearsey, U of M vicepresident external, said that when the university learned in December that Winnipeg Transit would not extend the fall term U-Pass – which was valid from Sept. 1 t hrough Dec. 31 – it moved to cover the costs for affected students.

“The moment we became aware of ate and graduate students could be Students enrolled in a full course positive thing for students.” it, we said the right thing to do was affected. load for the winter term are not “We’re very happy about that,” he make sure this was not an added burUniversity of Manitoba Student impacted and can pick up their said, “and, obviously, [it is] something den for the students who are affected Union president Tanjit Nagra said U-Pass at the Fireside Lounge in students will be happy about as well.” by this because of circumstances UMSU will be handing out the University Centre on the Fort Garry The universal transit pass was beyond t hei r campus until Jan. introduced at the U of M this fall and control and, cer6. After Jan. 6, offers full-time students unlimited tainly, at the time the passes can access to Winnipeg bus services at “It was an easy decision for us to we were heading be picked up at a cost of $130 per term. The fee repinto holidays and Answers. Students resents a $306 savings from regular make, quite frankly” – John Kearsey, U it’s a time when on the Bannatyne student rates for monthly bus passes. of M vice-president external people don’t need Campus can pick The adjusted winter term is schedone more financial up their passes at uled to have exams finished by April worry,” he said. the Brodie Centre. 29. The winter U-Pass is valid until “It was an easy decision for us to extended passes and affected underAdam Pawlak, UMSU vice- the end of April. make, quite frankly. Once it was graduate students were contacted president internal, said that while he brought to our attention we acted before the holidays. She said the was frustrated that discussions with that very morning.” union is still awaiting a final list of Winnipeg Transit did not settle the The university registrar’s office affected graduate students from the matter sooner, the university “stepped estimates about 2,200 undergradu- registrar’s office. up to the plate and delivered a very

Editorial

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Editor-In-Chief: Craig Adolphe Contact: Editor@themanitoban.com / 474.6770

A post-strike letter to University of Manitoba students from UMFA president Mark Hudson MARK HUDSON

against layoffs for financial reasons to librarians and instructors. UMFA did win a spoken-word guarantee of no layoffs for either of these groups until 2019, but this is nowhere near the same as winning fair and equal job protections.

The challenge we now face is keeping conversation and organizing alive now that we are “back to normal”

PHOTO BY CHANTAL ZDAN

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ver a month has passed since members of the University of Manitoba Faculty Association (UMFA) closed our picket lines and returned to work in labs, offices, and classrooms. The post-mortems of the strike will, with the benefit of hindsight, variously pronounce worldhistorical failure or qualified success.

Rather than pick at the remains of the strike as though it were now rotting away, today I am sending a message of appreciation to the U of M community – particularly the student activists, but also UMFA members and the members of Unifor 3007, CUPE 3909, and AESES – for what you all helped accomplish during those three weeks in November, and now, I am issuing a call-to-arms for a struggle in which the strike was simply one moment.

The strike was not an easy time for anyone, and I recognize that it has complicated lives and plans.

Sometimes, though, you have to take a determined stand for what you believe in. We believe that the

U of M can and should live up to the promise of “inspiring minds.” But the realization of that promise has to be fought for by those who make up the core of the institution – faculty and students. Its realization runs against the currents of change pushing on post-secondary education in Canada and internationally.

What was gained?

The issues we were striking over were, and are, pragmatic and directly relevant to the university as you experience it. For example, the limits we were able to put in place on workload increases are an example of the kind of collegial governance we would like to see more of at the U of M. Used appropriately by faculty, they offer the opportunity for more time to stay on top of our fields, more time to prepare for classes, and more time to engage with students outside of class.

We also won important limits on the use and misuse of performance metrics, and forced a full inquiry into their effects on teaching, learn-

ing, scholarship, science, and creative work. The things we achieved together hold the potential to change business-as-usual at the university and to hold at bay significant threats to our ability to teach and research fully and freely.

The strike has forced us to grapple with questions about the role of the university, how it should be governed, and what kinds of priorities should drive it What was not?

Unfortunately, even with a strong strike, we were unable to move the administration to extend protections

The academic freedom that professors of all ranks enjoy derives from the fact that the administration can’t just lay professors off without a genuine and demonstrable financial exigency.

If a professor is making unorthodox statements, or is challenging the way that the university is being run, they can’t be singled out and given the axe on the pretext of a budget crunch.

Instructors and librarians, in order to do their jobs well, also need this freedom, and we must continue to push for it.

One other area we didn’t get movement on in this agreement was closing the wage gap between staff at the U of M and other comparable universities. This is bad news for hiring, retaining, and keeping and developing original, passionate, and responsive teachers and researchers.

It needs to be addressed, and we will continue to work towards narrowing that divide.

Going forward

But the strike has had a wider impact than those reflected in our new collective agreement. It opened up a space for a conversation – maybe even an argument – about what kind of university we want and how we can build it. The strike has forced us to grapple with questions about the role of the university, how it should

be governed, and what kinds of priorities should drive it. It gestured to the broader context of post-secondary education: a context that no single strike or action can adequately address, but one that clearly needs to be questioned.

The UMFA strike served as a platform for students to engage in these conversations and arguments.

It was incredibly heartening to see how students rose to this, became informed, talked to their classmates and to faculty on the picket lines about the issues, debated in their student associations and councils, and became central actors in the dynamic of the strike.

The challenge we now face is keeping conversation and organizing alive now that we are “back to normal.”

“Normal” as it has been defined over the past couple of decades is what created the conditions for the strike. The “normal” pressures on universities to become more narrowly “efficient,” to squeeze more teaching from an overworked faculty, to dehumanize education, to be responsive to the will and wishes of private funders, to evaluate the success of our endeavours and justify our existence on the basis of reductionist measures, are no less present post-strike. And new threats to the public mission of the academy are on the horizon.

We continue to hear rumblings of tuition increases, paired with a provincial budget context guided by the blinkered mindset of austerity.

Things are likely to get bumpy for faculty and students concerned about the creation of a university with the principles of affordability, access, free inquiry, and engaged learning at its heart. We will need all of our collective will and capacity to confront that rough road, and to build the university whose possibility we glimpsed during the strike.

Mark Hudson UMFA president

Letter to the editor RE: Liberals on the wrong side of history with pipeline approvals

T

hanks for the excellent piece

by Jeremiah Kopp criticizing Trudeau for approving the Enbridge and Kinder Morgan pipelines.

I too am so disappointed in this Liberal government and their unwillingness to stand for the environment and against big business.

People created a movement that

pushed back against Big Tobacco and got smoking almost outlawed and certainly shamed into the margins.

It's time to do the same against Big Oil and get gas-burning cars shamed right off the public roads. Smoking cigarettes is a minor sin compared to car exhaust, which is polluting and killing the whole earth. We need a

sin tax on gas at the pumps that will offset a transition to green energy and pay for free mass transit.

I can remember when gas prices reached an all-time high, and I thought, “Great – maybe people will drive less and less as gas goes up.” Why haven't governments brought in taxes on gas to keep it at

that higher price to deter driving? But cars are so convenient – maybe, Gas is so cheap now that there is no like the Liberals, we're still all on the thought to conserving, which is lead- wrong side of history. ing to demand, which of course leads to more pipelines.

Tim Brandt It's up to us. This government won't lead us into a healthier future unless we show we are willing to change and that we demand change.

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Comment Comment Editor: Shawn Garbutt Contact: comment@themanitoban.com / 474.6529

In defence of pragmatic tuition policy NATHAN HOOD

I

recently read Mary Asekome and Sofia Descalzi’s piece “Don’t Tell International Students To Accept Fee Increases” and I would like to address some comments and suggestions that were made therein.

There is evidently much division surrounding a motion proposed at the Canadian Federation of Students’ (CFS) national general meeting in November that would have had the CFS advocate for the capping of international student tuition increases to the same percentage as domestic student tuition increases. Opponents of this motion suggest that the motion conflicts with the CFS’s central policy stance of free tuition for all.

There are many issues that could come with a free tuition system. First, students from higher-­income backgrounds are more likely to benefit from such changes than those from lower­-income backgrounds, as the former are more likely to pursue a postsecondary education. It is highly unlikely that such an across-theboard policy would be the most fiscally responsible and sensible policy to improve access to and participation in post-secondary education, especially for those students who have the most difficulty accessing it currently.

Secondly, such a system could make admissions to Canada’s universities and colleges increasingly competitive should the government decide to subsidize only a set number of seats for students. Grades could become an increasingly important factor in admissions, which would benefit academic high-achievers, who are more likely to be students from higher­-income backgrounds.

Furthermore, given that funding would be primarily provided by the government, universities would be opened to an increased risk should the government choose to reduce its funding. We have seen recent examples of this in international

jurisdictions such as Denmark, where government austerity measures have forced the University of Copenhagen, the country’s largest university, to cut over 500 professors, researchers, and administrative positions. In Chile, it has been reported that at least half of the universities committing to a fully funded public system have suffered financially as a result of a free tuition policy, and some universities have warned that quality may decrease and others have postponed infrastructure and research projects as a result. Ignoring the many issues that could be associated with free tuition policy, I do not think it was prudent to oppose this motion, especially when opposition rests upon a policy stance that is based more in ideology than feasibility.

Fervently promoting the policy position of free tuition, for which there is currently little to no governmental appetite, should not occur at the expense of more reasonable policy positions When I read what the motion asks of the CFS, I do not see a motion supporting tuition increases.

Rather, it recognizes that tuition does increase, often at levels that are disproportionate and unfavorable to students. However, recognizing that increases occur is not an admission of support for those increases, unlike the characterisation that was provided in the aforementioned article. Instead,

GRAPHIC BY ALDO RIOS

this motion is asking the CFS to raised by exorbitant percentages with greater chances of implementation. ensure that international students the same ease should such a policy Besides, the provinces with postare treated more fairly by fighting to be implemented by government or a secondary financial aid systems that limit their potential tuition increases postsecondary institution, it would are the closest to “free tuition” – to the same percentage as domestic not be improbable to see domestic Ontario and New Brunswick, accordstudents’ tuition increases. students bearing some of the finan- ing to the CFS’s “Time To Think Big The authors note that they seek cial burden that would have once ” document – just happen to have the support of domestic students in belonged to international students. strong provincial student advocacy addressing flaws in the Canadian That should not be understated. groups that pursue more pragmatic postsecondary system; this is Close to a month ago, I was in policy solutions than free tuition. expected and completely reason- Ottawa advocating on behalf of Maybe they’re onto something. able. Having said that, rather than students to members of Parliament, criticizing the domestic students who senators, and federal ministers. It Nathan Hood is the president of the supported this motion – those who was clear to me that our politicians University of Prince Edward Island were elected to represent the inter- are seeking pragmatic solutions to Student Union. ests of their memberships, including student issues. Fervently promoting international students – I think we the policy position of free tuition, for should be proud that domestic stu- which there is currently little to no dents would support such a motion governmental appetite, should not in the first place. Given that inter- occur at the expense of more reasonnational student tuition could not be able policy positions that have far

Calm reflection must prevail during the next round of faculty negotiations TAMI JACOBY

H

appy New Year to all my univer- bridge. Here are, briefly, some of the reflections. Perhaps the turmoil is sity colleagues, administrators, lessons I have learned from the strike. that serious. Perhaps not. All I know and students! I am excited, as I’m sure The world became very divisive is that no rational decision was ever you are as well, about the prospects of with the U.S. elections in November made in the heat of intense emotions.

2017. I write this letter to reflect some- 2016. I agree with Merriam-Webster’s We all need to calm down. what belatedly on the UMFA strike. 2016 word of the year “surreal” as Like many, I was angry and anx- the best one to describe the global ious during the strike. I too said condition today. People are worNo rational decision things I shouldn’t have said. I would ried and scared. Global politics has was ever made in like to humbly take this opportunity always been a struggle between those to share some reflections now that I who benefit and those who do not the heat of intense have had the chance to think clearly. benefit from the changes underway. emotions. We all Had I written this a month ago, it However, with the penetration of would have been a very different let- social media and real-time politics, need to calm down ter. I would have tried to prove my there has been no period in world hispoint; I would have rallied statistics tory more immediate when it comes and secondary literature to try to con- to the impact of global politics in our A strike is a very divisive and vince others that I am right and they everyday lives. I have heard the term emotional phenomenon. Livelihoods, are wrong. Now it is water under the “apocalypse” penned on contemporary reputations, and fundamental

belief systems are at stake. From better to be more, rather than less, the moment people head to the tentative about our views. Instead picket lines, there is no controlling of trying to be right, let us all think the course of events, whether that about what would best move the involves slander, relationship end- university forward and create a more ings, or even violence. I understand collegial environment. This does not that some passers-by blared rap music necessarily involve compromising in their cars while driving through one’s views. Perhaps it relates more to pickets, others honked in support, the delivery. Perhaps it can be a more and a very few others veered into the unifying process, if we are all kinder. crowds.

We all have to work and study here Since the strike ended in a one- together. The University of Manitoba year contract and we will be going belongs to us all. Let’s do better the into bargaining again soon, I find it next time around. crucial to think through what happened very carefully. The way forward Tami Jacoby is a professor at the U of cannot be through the same patterns M in the department of political studies. and thought processes that fuelled the original divisions. It would be

Science & technology 8 Science & Technology Editor: Malak Abas Contact: science@themanitoban.com / 474.6529

Nearly 4,000-year-old garden found in British Columbia Potato garden could be the first evidence of wetland plant cultivation in the Pacific Northwest MALAK ABAS, STAFF

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rchaeologists have found what may be the world’s oldest garden in British Columbia.

The excavated garden consisted of 3,768 wapato tubers (Sagittaria latifolia), also called Indian potatoes, and was found on Katzie First Nation territory. It was found during a routine roadwork inspection. Radiocarbon dating from the wooden tools suggests that the garden is 3,800 years old, but was abandoned 3,200 years ago.

The investigation, published in Science Advances, was led by Tanja Hoffmann of Simon Fraser University in British Columbia. The dig also uncovered crude wooden digging tools with burnt, hardened tips. This finding led researchers to conclude that this garden is the first evidence of North American huntergatherers utilizing wetland plant cultivation in the Pacific Northwest. The research article calls these findings “a particularly strong example because it does not rely only on proxy evidence

for plant management.”

The potato garden also appeared to use relatively advanced engineering techniques. A stone “pavement” was built in the garden by packing it with rocks. This had several advantages, as it allowed the gardeners to control how deep the potatoes would grow into the ground, and it also made it easier for the potatoes to be harvested.

The potato garden also appeared to use relatively advanced engineering techniques A stone wall was also built and relatively well-preserved. Wapato tubers grow in the swamp-like dirt under freshwater. The wall would have kept the potatoes uniform and

easier to find, along with keeping the water in. These water-heavy conditions also created a good environment for preservation, which is why these potatoes did not disintegrate over thousands of years. The remains of the wapato tubers were blackened, but some were so well-preserved that some had managed to keep part of their starchy insides intact until now.

Wapato tubers have a long history as a crucial part of First Nations diets.

Some of the very first ethnographic accounts of the Pacific Northwest mention them, and while wapato was not a widely domesticated crop, they were a heavily traded food. Nondomestic plant management was a common source of food throughout history.

Wapato tubers were typically harvested from October to February, and were an important source of carbohydrates during cold winters. Wapato tubers today are found along southern Canada and the United States.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY KATZIE DEVELOPMENT LIMITED PARTNERSHIP

VOL. 103 NO. 17 January 4, 2017

Science & Technology

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2017 promises to be a big year for Canadian science From astronauts to advisors, here’s what’s happening in Canada’s science community this year MALAK ABAS, STAFF

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anada’s science community had a very eventful 2016. One of the most effective vaccines against the Ebola virus was developed right here in Winnipeg. Canada celebrated the 15th anniversary of the revolutionary Canadarm2, the 17-metrelong robotic arm that built the International Space Station. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s political campaign had a strong focus on “unmuzzling” Canadian scientists, and federal scientists recently negotiated with the Government of Canada to be protected within their rights to speak freely about their work.

2017 is shaping up to be just as innovative and historical for Canadian science. Let’s take a look at what’s happening in Canada in the upcoming year.

Canada begins search for a chief science advisor - January

On Dec. 5, the federal government began its search for a chief science advisor.

The announcement, which was presented by Minister of Science Kristy Duncan, came after promises from the Liberal government to create a position if elected that would advise the government on scienctific decisions.

“This search for a chief science advisor is a historic moment,” said Duncan.

“This position is critical because science affects everything from the health and well-being of Canadians to the economy and the environment. Science is also the foundation of sound decision making within government.”

“Our astronauts have been a source of national pride for our country. If you have aspired to go beyond our planet's frontier, now is your chance to make this dream a reality” – Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development The chief science advisor will report directly to Duncan and the prime minister, and will have a team of scientists and policy experts to consult with. They will also work to maintain Justin Trudeau’s promise to keep federal scientific research transparent and available for public access.

Canada is not the first country to appoint an advisor to government leaders for science-focused issues.

Many countries, including the United

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States, have science advisors, and it has been proven to be an especially crucial position in times of weather or environmental crisis in countries all over the world.

Criteria for the position was decided after Duncan spent a year consulting scientists on just what role a science advisor should play in a government setting.

The position is open to all Canadians, and those interested can apply online at the governor in council website. Requirements to be considered for the position include a doctoral degree in natural sciences, mathematics, engineering sciences, health sciences or social sciences, experience in scientific research and peer reviews, and proficiency in both English and French. The application process closes on Jan. 27, 2017.

Two new Canadian astronauts will begin training – August

On June 17, 2016, the Canadian Space Agency announced it would begin Canada’s fourth astronaut recruitment campaign.

The announcement was led by Navdeep Bains, the minister of innovation, science and economic development.

“Our astronauts have been a source of national pride for our country. If you have aspired to go beyond our planet’s frontier, now is your chance to make this dream a reality,” said Bains.

“This class of Canadian astronauts

will be part of a new generation of explorers to advance critical science and research aboard the International Space Station. Just like the astronauts before them, they will inspire young Canadians to view science and technology as accessible and interesting tools they can use to build their own adventures.”

This announcement came after previous good news for Canadian astronauts. In March 2016, the Canadian government allotted $379 million over the next eight years to increase Canadian participation in the International Space Station until 2024.

People interested in becoming a Canadian astronaut have to meet many rigorous requirements, including 20/20 vision, being between 110 and 209 pounds, and having a science-based educational background.

Applicants for the new astronaut positions were asked to have either a bachelor’s degree in a science or engineering field, or a doctorate in either medicine or dentistry. Consideration was also given to those licensed to practice medicine in Canada.

Basic training once selected is equally intense, and includes a military aquatic survival course.

The application period ended in August 2015, and candidates will be announced in the summer of 2017.

Starting in August 2017, the selected few will begin training at NASA in Houston, Texas.

The Canadian Science and Technology museum is re-opening – November

The Canada Science and Technology Museum is set to re-open in November of 2017.

The museum – which started as the National Museum of Science and Technology in 1967 – is located in Ottawa, Ontario, and was the first in the world in incorporate interactive exhibits.

“Science is also the foundation of sound decision making within government” – Kristy Duncan, minister of science The museum was forced to close its doors in 2014, due to what was referred to as “unacceptable” amounts of airborne mold in the air and walls.

On Sept. 8 2016. the museum had to be evacuated because of the mould, and the museum has remained closed since. No health issues related to the mold were reported.

The renovations, which required just over $80 million in funding, includes a complete re-haul of the museum’s roof, and updates to keep the building up to fire- and earthquake-resistant code. The upgraded

museum will also include six new galleries, and will have double the amount of artifacts on display. While there will be a completely new children’s gallery, some of the well-loved exhibits will remain as is. The reopening will also include a week of activities to celebrate the museum’s 50th anniversary.

The new museum also promises to “address gaps” in inclusivity through its galleries, and cited women in science and Indigenous-led research and innovations as topics that would be expanded on more thoroughly in the renovated museum.

“The redevelopment of the Canadian Science and Technology Museum permitted us to redo the envelope of the museum, along with the mechanical and electrical systems,” said Fern Proulx, chief operating officer of the Canada Science and Technology Museum Corporation in a public video.

“The envelope of the museum has now enhanced the insulation to provide better energy efficiency for the building. So the mechanicalelectrical system will now permit us to have an experience for the visitors, which reflects the expectations of a national museum”.

To keep up with the final year of renovations, you can follow the #MyMuseum2017 tag on Twitter for regular updates.

Diversions Graphics Editor: Kelly Campbell Contact: graphics@themanitoban.com / 474.6775

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Arts & Culture Arts & Culture Editor: Tobi Nifesi Contact: arts@themanitoban.com / 474.6529

The best local albums 2016 had to offer

Check out our picks for standout albums released by Manitobans in 2016 TOBI NIFESI, STAFF

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or local music enthusiasts in Manitoba, the year 2016 had its fair share of excitement as several local artists and bands ignited the music scene with new singles and albums.

Some of these musicians and their catalogs have been critically acclaimed nationally, showing that, indeed, these are exciting times for Manitoba music. The Manitoban has picked out some standout local releases from 2016.

Between Here and the Orbit by Royal Canoe

ously emotive, amusing and rhythmic; they can be heard on their debut full-length bilingual album Perfection Salad.

in Brandon, the band has a knack for writing deep lyrics, creating comforting melodies, and staging energetic live shows that are reminiscent of legendary bands like the Band, the Byrds or Little Feat. The quintet has performed on stages across the prairies and have produced a reputable catalog for themselves. Last year, they built on their success and experience with the release of their album, Captain Tomorrow and The Dream Orphans. Regardless, the band is just getting started and will surely be singing their way into the hearts of many Manitoban classic rock lovers.

Since its inception in 2010, Winnipeg indie pop band Royal Canoe have worked to showcase their unique sound and credibility.

It is rare to find a After five releases, the sextet gave Manitobans one more reason to band that makes an appreciate local music by releasing instant and lasting their long-awaited album Something Got Lost Between Here and the Orbit. impression with The Juno Award-nominated band’s its debut release, latest album is their most colorful and PHOTO PROVIDED BY DUOTANG versatile body of work yet. Despite and it is rare to New Occupation by Duotang being a pop album, it fuses sounds the age of 13 and, last year – at age find a band with a 56 – he released his 20th album titled Formed in 1995, the two-piece from several genres such as hip hop band have garnered a reputation for and soft rock and is a testament to Where the Good Way Lies. On his latest sound as distinct album, the veteran artist showcases their unique ability to fuse modern the growth the band has experienced These are not all of the standout rock sounds with post-punk instru- over the years. his lyrical expertise and his musical albums released by Manitobans and enthralling mentation. From 1996 to 2002, the versatility. He gave us an album that in 2016. Some honourable menas À La Mode’s was laden with truth and set over a tions include Ken Mode’s Nerve band released three albums and Perfection Salad toured across North America and by À La Mode backdrop of masterful instrumenta- EP, Yes We Mystic’s Forgiver, Tin Europe. In 2015, after a 13-year hiatus, tion. Bell is proof that Manitobans Can Bandits’ Rushing River, The It is rare to find a band that makes Duotang began touring again and an instant and lasting impression make good and timeless music.

Catamount’s St Nuomatic, and Micah last year released their fourth album, with its debut release, and it is rare Where the Good Way Erenberg’s Poor Mic Toe. If you missed any of these album Captain Tomorrow and New Occupation. Since its fall release, to find a band with a sound as dis- Lies by Steve Bell releases last year, why not start 2017 the 12-track album has topped several tinct and enthralling as À La Mode’s.

Winnipeg-based singer-song- The Dream Orphans Canadian music charts and proves to The Winnipeg quartet produce music writer Steve Bell continues to prove by Sebastian Owl by giving some of these local musibe the band’s best album so far. reminiscent of classics by Metric, the that good music is timeless. One of Sebastian Owl seems like a band cians a listen?

Shins, or Elliot Smith. The band’s Canada’s most accomplished song- from a prior era who just came back Something Got Lost cleverly written songs are simultane- writers, Bell began performing at from a long hiatus. Formed in 2010

The five best films of 2016 MALAK ABAS, STAFF

A

nother year has come and gone, and with it came some great movies. As we head into awards season, here's a rundown of some of the cinematic triumphs of the past year.

5. Christine

One of two films released this year based on the life of Christine Chubbuck, a news reporter who committed suicide live on television, Christine’s genius sits on the unbelievably nuanced performance by Rebecca Hall, who plays the titular Christine. While many critics are pointing to the other film inspired

by Chubbuck’s story, Kate Plays Christine, as the superior film, Hall’s performance is enough to carry any of Christine’s few flaws and more.

The f ilm travels through Chubbuck’s struggles with human connection and mental illness so that while you know how the film is going to end, you’ve grown to at least feel for Christine, and it really hurts to watch anyway.

4. 13th

The only documentary on this list (although it wouldn’t be if this list was longer – Weiner and Cameraperson were also great), and one of only two films on this list that you can watch on Netflix right now. Ava Duvernay (the director of 2015’s Selma ) directed

this powerful unpacking of America’s of horror in American film history, difficult history with mass incarcera- The Witch is such a welcome relief tion and racism. Named after the 13th because, above all, it’s scary. It’s so amendment, this documentary is well scary. This movie has everything: paced and accessible despite being Satanism, a dark and endless forest, incredibly information-dense and original sin, a goat that ends up saypacked full of interviews with aca- ing some creepy stuff, and, of course, demics and activists. witches.

The absurdity of this concept works to the film’s advantage, as that suspension of disbelief allows room for the best dark comedy of the year 3. The Witch

2. The Lobster

As cruel and unrelenting as it is funny and lovable, The Lobster follows a heavier-set mustachioed Colin Farrell as a single man in a world where people who remain single too long are transformed into animals and left to fend for themselves. The absurdity of this concept works to the film’s advantage, as that suspension of disbelief allows room for the best dark comedy of the year. Watching Colin Farrell stumble through reluctant heroism is cathartic and deeply strange.

The Witch (sometimes stylized as The VVitch) follows a 17th cen- 1. Moonlight tury New England family who have If you’ve been following other chosen to distance themselves from “best of ” lists, this may not come as their church and live isolated on a a surprise to you, but Moonlight’s farm due to a difference in certain accolades are absolutely deserved. religious beliefs. In a different film, Moonlight follows Chiron (played this could be the plot of a mundane by three different actors in differTV drama. In this film, their isola- ent stages of his life) as he navigates tion breeds slow-burning paranoia through the world as a queer black that explodes into horrifying violence. man. The film approaches (to say In what may be the worst decade “tackles” is too strong a word, as the

MOONLIGHT. PHOTO PROVIDED BY A24

film fortunately pushes no agenda) critics have claimed it somehow Chiron’s sometimes painful search “transcends” race or sexual orientafor peace and identity in a world that tion, which is incorrect. often confuses and disappoints him.

The film is not about “transcendThe movie approaches everything ing” these factors of ourselves so in Chiron’s life, from his sexuality to crucial to our identity, and in fact his painful interpersonal relation- beautifully explores how these facets ships, with an empathetic eye. His of our being shape our humanity. kind and charismatic father figure is Moonlight is compassionate, haunta drug dealer, his mother is an addict, ing, gorgeous to look at, and required but Moonlight never falls into the for- viewing for any film enthusiast. mulaic traps these characters are too often written as in Hollywood. Many

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2016 sports review

Sports Sports Editor: Ryan Stelter Contact: sports@themanitoban.com / 474.6529

The biggest stories from North American major league sports over the past year ALEX MICHAELS

PHOTO PROVIDED BY JON KOZUB

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wo thousand sixteen was a record- Thompson mirroring his excellence. the already impressive roster. breaking year in sports, with the The 2015-2016 season was historic for Chicago Cubs and the Golden State the team as they won the most regular 3. Ottawa Redblacks Warriors having historic seasons in season games in NBA history, finish- win Grey Cup the MLB and NBA respectively. ing 73-9 to break the Chicago Bulls’ In just the third season since Canadian football had an epic finale, previous 72-10 record. the team’s return to the capital, the and down south “Deflategate” ran Early in the season it seemed Ottawa Redblacks are Grey Cup rampant in the NFL. In hockey, the like they were never going to lose. Champions. Their victory against the Toronto Maple Leafs and Winnipeg They were blowing every team out of Calgary Stampeders proved one of Jets scored big at the NHL draft. the water. Curry and the Warriors the biggest upsets in recent memory.

Here are the Manitoban’s top five defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder The Stampeders were heavy sports stories of 2016. in seven games to advance to the favourites to win the Grey Cup with NBA finals against LeBron James a 15-2-1 regular season record and the 1. Chicago Cubs win World and the Cleveland Cavaliers. Like league’s most valuable player in Bo Series champions early in the season, it looked like the Levi Mitchell, who threw for 5,385 On Nov. 2, the world stopped Warriors were going to roll over the yards and 32 touchdowns. turning for just a minute when the opponent, holding a commanding 3-1 To add to the drama before the Chicago Cubs won a thrilling World lead in the series. LeBron and Kyrie game, the Redblacks’ 41-year-old Series over the Cleveland Indians. Irving had other plans, winning the starting quarterback Henry Burris The Cubs hadn’t won since 1908. fifth game and then the sixth to force limped off the field during warmTo put that into perspective, since a game seven in Oakland. up. Fortunately, former Stampeder the last win the world has seen two Burris was good to go for kickoff. world wars and the formation of the The game itself was a thriller, with The world stopped NBA, NHL, and NFL. Every other Ottawa scoring early and often and Chicago sports team has won a chamforcing Mitchell to turn the ball over turning for just a pionship in the interim. multiple times. Calgary were against The series was a thriller, with the the wall, down 20 points, but refused minute when the Cubs winning in the 10th inning to to give up and slowly clawed their way Chicago Cubs won take home the championship that back to force overtime. had been eluding them for 108 years.

In extra time, the Redblacks took a thrilling World Ben Zobrist was named the World possession of the ball first, scoring a Series over the Series MVP after hitting .357 and quick touchdown thrown by Burris to driving in the winning run. It had receiver Ernest Jackson. This put the Cleveland Indians been a long time coming for Cubs pressure on Mitchell and the Stamps fans and it showed in the parade that offense. They were unsuccessful in followed with approximately five milmoving the chains in their first two lion people watching.

Game seven was a back and forth chances and had one last opportunity. affair with Irving hitting a big-time Mitchell dropped back and threw it 2. Golden State Warriors’ shot late in the game to put the over the middle, but the ball deflected historic season Cavaliers ahead for good. With the up in the air, dropped incomplete, The Golden State Warriors are disappointment of the finals linger- and the game was over. the team to beat in the NBA right ing, the Warriors made the biggest now, with MVP Stephen Curry rain- move of the NBA offseason: signing 4. Tom Brady’s suspension ing down three pointers and Klay star player Kevin Durant to bolster In 2014, New England Patriots

star Tom Brady shut down the Indianapolis Colts, winning 45-7 in the AFC Division championship game. The Patriots then advanced to play and win against the Seattle Seahawks in the Super Bowl. The main story didn’t become that the Pats won the Super Bowl but that they got there using an unfair advantage.

In just the third season since the team’s return to the capital, the Ottawa Redblacks are Grey Cup Champions

2016 season. The NFL appealed this decision in March of 2016. The decision was reversed and Brady got suspended for the first four games of the 2016-2017 NFL season.

Following his suspension, Brady picked up right where he left off, throwing for 3,554 yards and 28 touchdowns with just two interceptions in 12 games played. Which leaves an important question: can Brady still win the MVP award having played only 12 games?

5. 2016 NHL draft

The 2016 draft was like Christmas for Leafs and Jets fans. At 20 per cent, the Leafs had the best odds to win the first pick in the draft and that’s exactly what happened. However, the real winners might be the Jets. At 7.5 per cent, they had the sixth best odds to get number one pick, but ended up In what became known as receiving the second pick, four spots Deflategate, it was suggested that in ahead of what was expected. the AFC championship game against On the draft f loor the Leafs the Colts, the Patriots deflated foot- management stepped up to pick balls making it easier to throw. NFL expected number one pick Auston commissioner Roger Goodell began Matthews. Jets general manager an investigation.

Kevin Cheveldayoff then took The findings revealed that the Finnish sniper Patrik Laine. Both footballs used in that game were teams acquired exactly what they deflated. Tom Brady was suspended were looking for: the Leafs got a and the team lost its first and fourth number one centre and the Jets got a round draft picks in the upcoming winger who has the potential to score draft in 2015. The team argued their 40 goals a season. position for months before eventuMatthews has 20 goals and 12 ally conceding. However, Brady assists in 36 games. Patrik Laine has continued to fight the league, taking 19 goals and 12 assists in 39 games. the NFL to court in 2015. He was Both players will be the cornerstone successful in his efforts, preventing for their teams and we will see who himself from getting suspended for can potentially help their team to a the 2015-16 season. deep playoff run in the future.

Brady played the entire 2015-

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Sports

Sports Editor: Ryan Stelter Contact: sports@themanitoban.com / 474.6529

Winnipeg sports resolutions What will the New Year bring for the city’s sports clubs?

JASON PCHAJEK, STAFF

GRAPHIC BY ALDO RIOS

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n every sense, 2016 was an interesting year for sports fans in Winnipeg. The Goldeyes won yet another championship, the Jets were gifted a superstar in the draft, and the Bombers somehow made the playoffs.

Heading into the New Year, things seem to be looking up in a city where disappointing was the adjective for previous sports outings. Here is what you can expect from Winnipeg’s teams in 2017.

Winnipeg Jets

bitten hard by their Achilles heel: their propensity for taking penalties.

Laine has performed as advertised, at one time being the league goalscoring leader and vastly outperforming first overall pick Auston Matthews

2016 highlight: Drafting Patrik Laine second overall and the emergence of Mark Scheifele 2017 resolution: Make the playoffs After making the playoffs a year However, as the season came to an prior, the 2015-16 NHL season rep- end, all was not lost as the Jets went resented a major step back. The Jets on a four-game tear to surge in the finished dead last in the Central divi- standings. Even more promising was sion with 77 points and were left 25th Scheifele’s play through that stretch. in the league. A team that appeared After Bryan Little went down with to be on the edge of great things was a season-ending injury, Scheifele

took the top centre spot and proved Winnipeg Blue Bombers he should be considered among the 2016 highlight: A winning season league’s best pivots. He tallied a and a playoff spot league-best 29 primary points over 2017 resolution: Keep momentum the final two months of the season. going from last season Months later, the team’s luck Perhaps the biggest surprise of improved even further. Despite long the year in Winnipeg sports came odds due to their 25th place finish, courtesy of the Winnipeg Blue they moved all the way up to second Bombers. The perpetually disapoverall in the 2016 draft and were able pointing Bombers finally pulled it to select Finnish phenomenon Laine. all together, thanks in large part to Laine has performed as advertised, at numerous high profile signings. If one time being the league goalscoring conventional wisdom says you have leader and vastly outperforming first to spend money to make money, peroverall pick Auston Matthews. haps you have to spend money to win The 2016-17 season has been much football games. better for the Jets, who came out of The Bombers went 11-7 in the 2016 the Christmas break with a win season, their first winning season over the Chicago Blackhawks. The since going 10-8 in 2011 – both times new-look Jets, led by the dynamic got them into the playoffs. Unlike in Ehlers-Scheifele-Laine line, are sit- 2011, where they marched all the way ting a single point off a playoff berth. to the Grey Cup but ultimately lost This year, if the Jets resolve to take to the B.C. Lions, the 2016 Bombers that spot and keep it, they will make were stopped in the west semifinal by Winnipeggers very happy. the Lions by a score of 32-31.

Looking towards the 2017 CFL

season, it seems Winnipeg football fans are only asking one thing of their team: please don’t take a step back. The 10-8 season in 2011 was followed by a 6-12 stinker of a season, so Bombers fans should keep their fingers crossed.

Winnipeg Goldeyes

2016 highlight: Winning the 2016 American Association title 2017 resolution: Keep dominating In 2016 it was another season, another championship for the fish.

The ball club won its third American Association title, beating the Wichita Wingnuts 11-4. This was their second title in five years, and the division win was their ninth in team history.

For the Goldeyes, a New Year’s resolution will be very simple: keep on rolling and maybe bring in some more in ticket sales.

VOL. 103 NO. 17 January 4, 2017

Sports

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Manitoba wins 50th annual Wesmen Classic KELLEN TANIGUCHI, STAFF

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n Friday Dec. 30, the University of Manitoba men’s basketball team defeated the eighth-ranked University of Alberta Golden Bears 86-78, capturing the 50th annual Wesmen Classic Championship.

With the win, the Bisons successfully defended their 2015 tournament win, and have now won nine total Wesmen Classic Championships (1973, 1975, 1976, 1977, 1985, 1986, 1991, 2015, and 2016).

The Bisons successfully defended their 2015 tournament win, and have now won nine total Wesmen Classic Championships PHOTO BY CHANTAL ZDAN

Manitoba began their Wesmen Classic run on Wednesday, as they defeated the University of Regina Cougars 100-79. The Bisons shot the ball well, hitting 55.9 per cent of the shots they took in the game, and were able to hold the Cougars to just 34.6 percent from the field. With the lopsided shooting percentages, the herd took an early 50-35 lead into halftime. Manitoba continued their dominance in the third frame, outscoring Regina 32-20, increasing their lead to 27 points, and never looking back.

The Bisons were able to spread the ball out in their first game of the

tournament, as Joey Nitychoruk led the herd in scoring with 21 points, Justus Alleyn netted another 15, and both Ilarion Bonhomme and James Wagner added 12 more points. The Cougars were led by Samuel Hillis, who was able to knock down 19 points for his squad.

The Bisons advanced to the championship match with their 60-55 victory over the host Wesmen on Thursday. Both sides struggled to shoot the ball for the majority of the game, as both teams connected on just over 25 per cent of their shots.

Manitoba took a 32-24 lead into halftime, with Winnipeg struggling just

a little more in the first half. The more successful from beyond the arc, record of 45 rebounds, a record preWesmen held the Bisons to just 13 hitting nine three-point shots com- viously held by the University of points in the third frame and trailed pared to Alberta’s six. With the upper Winnipeg’s Belaineh Deguefe, who just 45-42 entering the final quarter. hand in shooting, the Bisons were came up with 42 rebounds in 1991.

However, the herd held the Wesmen able to extend their lead, and defeated Nitychoruk also had a stellar tournaoff and went on to win the game.

Alberta 86-78. ment, and was the lone Bison named Justus Alleyn led the Bisons with to the Wesmen Classic All-Star team.

Omoerah set a tournament single-game record, as he grabbed 25 22 points in the game, and Ilarion The Bisons won their last two rebounds in the contest; he also led Bonhomme netted another 15. games before the winter break, and the Bisons with 17 points. AJ Basi put Omoerah also came up big, posting went 3-0 during their Wesmen up another 14 points for Manitoba, a double-double of 10 points and 12 Classic run. Now with five straight and Narcisse Ambanza led the rebounds. Alberta was able to keep wins, Manitoba will look to carry Wesmen with 15 points in the game. the game close, thanks in large part their momentum into the second half The first half of the championship to Brody Clarke, as he led his team of Canada West division play. game featured a lot of back and forth with 21 points. play, with the herd taking a 40-37 Omoerah was named tournament lead into halftime. The herd was also MVP and set a Wesmen Classic

Can the Jays still compete without big hitter Edwin Encarnacion?

KELLEN TANIGUCHI, STAFF

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n Dec. 22, the Toronto Blue him something that the Blue Jays Jays lost a key contributor to lack, and that is World Series experithe team’s recent success: desig- ence. Morales was a key part of the nated hitter and first baseman Edwin 2015 Kansas City Royals championEncarnacion signed a three-year deal ship team, and also won the Edgar with the Cleveland Indians, reign- Martinez award as the American ing American League champions. League’s best designated hitter that Toronto’s management previously same year. After a slow start to the offered Encarnacion a deal, but once 2016 season, Morales finished the year it was rejected the Blue Jays decided strong as the Royals’ home run leader. they could not wait on Encarnacion, Encarnacion had a batting averand went out and signed a couple age of .263, hit 42 homers, and drove of free agents of their own. With in 127 RBIs in the 2016 season for Encarnacion being a constant con- the Blue Jays. Morales also held an tributor and big hitter, Toronto had average of .263, hit 30 home runs, some big shoes to fill, and they may and accounted for 93 RBIs this past have done so with the signing of season for the Royals. Morales has Kendrys Morales. a slight drop off in production comMorales was signed to a three-year pared to Encarnacion, but fills the USD$33 million deal, and he fills part needed designated hitter spot as well of the position that Encarnacion left as anyone else could, with his stellar behind, as he is a very impactful des- stats and championship experience. ignated hitter. Morales brings with The Jays lineup has been known

for containing a lot of power and right and depth at the position, as he aver- used to be either. The Jays will have to hand hitters, and when the power aged .288, hit 13 homers, and also had decide if they want to retain Bautista’s hitters weren’t hitting big shots, the 35 RBIs in his 85 games in the 2016 clutch bat, or maybe go after another team faltered. Jays management season which he split as a member contact hitter who fields the ball betwanted to find of the Baltimore ter in the outfield.

Orioles and So can the Jays still compete at the a left-handed contact hitTa mpa Bay same level as the past couple of years?

The presence of ter, and that is Rays.

They still have the same solid pitching Morales and Pearce exactly what T he one rotation, and most of the other hitters they have found question still still in the lineup. With players such at least keeps them themselves with lingering over as Josh Donaldson, Troy Tulowitzki, their free agent the Blue Jays is and Russell Martin still in the lineup, where they would signing of first whether or not the presence of Morales and Pearce at be if they still had basemen Steve they will re-sign least keeps them where they would be Pearce. Toronto Jose Bautista. if they still had Encarnacion. Morales Encarnacion signed Pearce Bautista has can replace Encarnacion’s power, and to a two-year struggled in Pearce can take his spot at first base USD$12.5 million deal, in hopes the field at times, but his bat always and be the contact hitter the organithat he will fill the first base spot that seemed to come up big in crunch zation has been searching for. All the Encarnacion left open. The Jays have time, as everyone must remember pieces seem to be in place for the Jays Justin Smoak, who hit a .217 aver- the iconic bat flip in 2015. He hit a to make another run at the World age last season, at first base as well. .234 average, 22 homers, and 69 RBIs Series come the 2017 MLB season.

Pearce definitely increases the skill last season, so his bat is not where it