ANS MS local section brings message home
"As nuclear professionals, we emphasize the benefits of nuclear power to the surrounding communities. Because this issue is so vitally important, we invited other pro-nuclear supporters to join us in Jackson and Port Gibson for the rally and NRC meeting," explained MS ANS Local Section chair Nancy Mascarella. "We hope that the information provided at these events aids community members in determining the best course of action with regard to nuclear power's role in the area's economy and environment."Industry leaders joined local officials to share their perspectives with the audience and encourage animated support of nuclear power. ANS President Jim Reinsch addressed the crowd. "I came to Mississippi today because you see nuclear energy as an important option to provide clean, safe, affordable electricity to the citizens of this state. Governor Barbour called nuclear "the Clean, Green Power Machine." He says nuclear's time has come. And he's right."
George Williams, Grand Gulf's Site Vice President served as the Master of Ceremonies and introduced Port Gibson Mayor, Amelda Arnold, and Claibourne County Administrator, James Miller. These elected officials assured the cheering audience of the region's ready hospitality for the expansion at Grand Gulf.
Other speakers included Norris McDonald from the African American Environmental Association, Michael Stuart of the North American Young Generation Nuclear, and Scott Peterson, Vice President of Nuclear Energy Institute, who all came to the event to emphasize the need for new nuclear plants and the benefits of expanded use of nuclear energy.
After the rally, the activists traveled the seventy miles to Port Gibson to attend a public meeting of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. The meeting was part of the ESP process and addressed the environmental impact of the proposed expansion of Grand Gulf station. About 200 citizens from within and outside of the state gathered to learn about the process and register their views with the NRC. On behalf of ANS, Reinsch joined local section members in adding to the public comment. "We must have energy security, economic security, and environmental security," he said, reiterating President Bush's support of nuclear expressed in a recent address from Calvert Cliffs. "It is our belief that the only way to assure these is through robust new nuclear programs."
