The annual STAR-TIDES event in April at George Mason University’s Mason Square Campus in Arlington, VA, is worth at least a visit to its exhibitions. For about 15 years, Port of Harlem has covered or visited the events recalling demonstrations of converting wastewater into drinking water, constructing modular homes in a day, and various solar cooking equipment.

Participants are free to ask questions and often able touch and explore the exhibitions.

STAR-TIDES is a global research network that grew from a Department of Defense initiative and is now coordinated at George Mason University. It supports populations in post-war, post-disaster, and impoverished environments.

This year’s theme is “Reimagining Resilience: Empowering Local Communities in a Time of Uncertain Federal Support.” The conference will explore the question: How can state and local actors prepare for, withstand, recover from, and adapt to increasingly severe natural disasters amid reductions or redirection of Federal funding?

The event takes place April 13-14 (Mon-Tue) at GMU’s Mason Square Campus in Arlington, VA, and April 15- 16 (Wed-Thu) in the Pentagon. The Pentagon event has entrance requirements.