The Science and Entertainment Exchange
For anyone that has ever squirmed at the liberties Hollywood sometimes takes with science, there’s the Science and Entertainment Exchange. The Exchange is a National Academies of Sciences program that keeps the movies real by connecting scientists with film and TV writers. Don’t care much how the facts are portrayed? The Exchange also hosts film screenings, panel discussions, and has a bundle of entertaining info on its website.


Firewise Toolkit
There’s no need to go looking hither and yon for your favorite Firewise resources any more—they’ve all been neatly collected in the Firewise Toolkit. The kit, which can be downloaded in whole or in part, is great for referring friends or just bookmarking for your next fire prevention project weekend. A Guide to Firewise Principles and the Firewise Tips Checklist for Homeowners are among the publications included.


National Strategy for Biosurveillance
The nation edged closer to a plan to keep Americans safe from biological threats with the release of this strategy earlier this month. The strategy emphasizes early detection of biothreats, regardless of if they stem from terrorist action, infectious disease, or food-borne illness. The first-ever strategy will also serve as a guide to build partnerships and inform decision making in a time of threat.


The Green Recovery and Reconstruction Toolkit
After disaster strikes, those tasked with rebuilding homes and businesses might not have the time and energy to consider building back sustainably. With this toolkit, they won’t need much. The kit was created to be delivered in a one-day workshop and contains all the materials needed in ten modules—a trainer’s guide, training materials, PowerPoint slides, and other resources.


Wall of Wind
If you haven’t stopped by Florida International University’s Wall of Wind site lately, you might be surprised what’s blown into the facility at the International Hurricane Research Center. The project just unveiled its latest 12-fan wall of wind, capable of mimicking a Category 5 hurricane. Talk about the WoW effect—and just in time to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Andrew, too.