Fireside Chat – SMRS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Fireside Chat in Menominee
spotlights Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) — Implications
of harnessing nuclear energy in the Upper Peninsula
MENOMINEE, MI
Guest Presenters: Dr. Molly Kleinman and Dr. Denia Djokić
Date: Monday, May 11, 2026
Time: 10:15–11:15 a.m. CST—NEW TIME 10:15 – 11:45 a.m.
Location: Spies Public Library, 940 1st Street, Menominee, Michigan

The next Menominee County Democratic Party Fireside Chat will be held Monday, May 11,
2026, from 10:15 to 11:15 a.m. at Spies Public Library (art room). The event is free and open
to the public.
As gas and energy prices climb and household budgets tighten, many people are
wondering what the future holds for reliable, dependable, and safe solutions to power our
homes and communities.
Small modular reactors have been proposed as a potential energy option for the Upper
Peninsula to meet current and future demand. This program will explore what nuclear
energy from SMRs could mean for residents and the region, including potential impacts on
jobs, the environment, and public safety.
Dr. Molly Kleinman is the managing director of the Science, Technology, and Public Policy
program at the University of Michigan Ford School of Public Policy. Dr. Denia Djokić is an
assistant research scientist with the University of Michigan’s Fastest Path to Zero Initiative
in the Department of Nuclear Engineering and Radiological Sciences.
This talk will explore two practical questions:

• Why are small modular reactors (SMRs) being considered?
• What challenges and concerns come with utilizing nuclear energy in this way?
  The presentation will be followed by an open question-and-answer period. Participation
  norms will be observed to ensure a respectful and productive conversation.
  Listen. Learn. Share. Come curious—and leave more informed.

A link to the recording will be posted afterward on the
Menominee County Democratic Party website: https://menomineedems.com/news/