The JD-Next exam, a fully online, noncredit course designed to train potential JD students in case reading and analysis skills, has been found to be a valid and reliable predictor of law school performance. The study, which included a diverse national sample and partnerships with 17 law schools, suggests that JD-Next may reduce racial and ethnic disparities in admissions compared to legacy exams like the LSAT and GRE. The findings indicate that JD-Next could provide a significant advantage for law schools, particularly those ranked outside the Top 50, by offering a more equitable admissions tool.

In Kananaskis Country, located west of Calgary, Alberta, tensions are rising over industrial activities such as a planned clear-cut logging operation. Despite the area's design for coexistence of industry and nature, advocates from Take A Stand for Kananaskis are concerned about the environmental impacts. Nearby in Canmore, the Three Sisters Mountain Village development is controversially set to double the town's population, following a 31-year legal battle and a $161 million lawsuit against the town by the developer. The Narwhal's Drew Anderson is monitoring these developments as part of the broader conversation about land management in the Rockies.

Ontario's Experimental Lakes Area is a unique outdoor research facility dedicated to studying the effects of pollutants, climate change, and other environmental factors on freshwater ecosystems. Managed by the International Institute for Sustainable Development, the area has been pivotal in shaping policies like the ban on phosphates in detergents. The facility collaborates with Indigenous communities and focuses on long-term data collection to understand and mitigate environmental impacts. Recent research includes studying the effects of acid rain, mercury, pharmaceuticals, and oil spills. The creation of the Canada Water Agency signals a growing recognition of the importance of freshwater conservation.

Canada experienced a record-breaking wildfire season in 2023, with 6,517 fires burning 18.5 million hectares of land. Experts warn that climate change is disrupting the natural fire cycle, leading to more frequent and severe wildfires. This could permanently alter Canada's boreal forests, which serve as significant carbon sinks. Strategies such as national coordination, Indigenous-led prescribed burning, and rethinking community planning are suggested to mitigate future risks. The article emphasizes the need for long-term investments and new approaches to forest management in response to the evolving wildfire landscape.

Canada experienced a record-breaking wildfire season in 2023, with 6,517 fires burning 18.5 million hectares of land. Experts warn that climate change is disrupting the natural fire cycle, leading to more frequent and severe wildfires. This could permanently alter Canada's boreal forests, which serve as significant carbon sinks. Strategies such as national coordination, Indigenous-led prescribed burning, and rethinking community planning are suggested to mitigate future risks. The transformation of forests from carbon sinks to carbon sources could exacerbate climate change, creating a feedback loop. Immediate and long-term investments in forest management are crucial.

Anticipation is high for the upcoming total solar eclipse, with the Ontario Eclipse Task Force (OETF) leading preparations. The OETF, comprising scientists and educators, has been preparing for years to ensure public safety and inspire interest in astronomy. Key figures like Dr. Ilana MacDonald and Victoria Kramkowski emphasize the importance of experiencing the eclipse safely and the educational opportunities it presents. The task force has distributed solar eclipse glasses and conducted workshops, while also coordinating with municipalities to manage the expected influx of visitors. Despite uncertainties like potential cloud cover, the task force remains optimistic about the event's impact on public interest in science.

Hong Kong's top court has ordered media tycoon Jimmy Lai back into custody, questioning a previous decision to release him on bail. Lai, a prominent democracy activist, faces charges under the national security law imposed by Beijing, which critics argue is aimed at suppressing dissent. The ruling has sparked concerns about judicial independence and the erosion of freedoms in Hong Kong. Lai, who recently stepped down as chairman of Next Digital, is due back in court for another bail hearing. The case has drawn significant attention and criticism from Western governments and rights groups.

The City of Edmonton has launched its 2024 construction season with over 200 planned infrastructure projects, including transportation, facility, LRT expansion, and open space projects. Key projects include the Warehouse Park, Centennial Plaza, Yellowhead Trail freeway conversion, and Valley Line West LRT. Mayor Amarjeet Sohi and city officials emphasize the importance of these projects for the city's growth and appreciate residents' patience during construction. The initiatives are part of the City Plan, aiming to prepare Edmonton for a population of two million.

Hundreds gathered in Toronto for Earth Dreams, an event organized by Nocturnal Medicine to address climate anxiety through a sensory experience. The event featured meditative journeys, dancing, and moments of contemplation, aiming to help participants process their feelings about climate change. Key figures like Larissa Belcic and Michelle Shofet of Nocturnal Medicine, and Dr. Duke Redbird of the Saugeen Ojibway Nation, contributed to the event. Attendees shared their experiences of climate grief and the importance of community in addressing these emotions.

Hundreds gathered in Toronto for Earth Dreams, an event organized by Nocturnal Medicine to address climate anxiety and eco-grief through a sensory experience. The event featured meditative journeys, collective solidarity, and moments of contemplation. Key figures like Larissa Belcic and Michelle Shofet from Nocturnal Medicine, and Dr. Duke Redbird from the Saugeen Ojibway Nation, contributed to the event. Attendees shared their feelings about climate change, emphasizing the importance of community and emotional processing in facing environmental crises.