About fifty people filled the seats of Manhattan’s Public Library to screen Eric Nadler and Robert Coen’s film, “Anthrax-War.” Sponsored by the Manhattan Alliance for Peace and Justice, NO NBAF and private citizens, the film was specifically chosen because of Manhattan’s possibility of housing a new NBAF facility.

“I think there will inevitably be a breakdown in the containment system because we are all prone to human error,” said Christopher Renner, who coordinated the film’s screening.  “And so at some point, the students are going to be exposed to some things. Even though the kids are only going to school at this place for four years, they might, 20 years later, be suffering consequences from an exposure to something here. So that is why they need to be really attentive to what is being put in their backyard.”

The film begins following the Sept. 11 attacks when letters mailed to prominent media and lawmakers contained anthrax. It continues through to probe the $57 billion bio-terrorism industry. Along the way, the film makes stops around the U.S., the United Kingdom, Russia and South Africa interviewing experts and journalists about local germ weapons research and warfare.

“[The film] took us on an interesting odyssey into a very secret and murky world of germ warfare internationally with unexplained deaths from the deadliest pathogens known to man and lots of money in the new bio-defense world we see around us,” said Eric Nadler, co-director of the film.

Following the film, Nadler led a question and answer session regarding NBAF and Manhattan. The majority in attendance were opposed to the building of NBAF in Manhattan as some of the comments made obvious.

“I worry terribly about my grandchildren,” said Charlotte MacFarland, associate professor of communication studies, theater and dance. “I’m thinking very seriously that my husband and I – when I finally retire – I don’t want to stay in this town because of NBAF and because of my deep concerns. But most of the people I am around are not concerned. In fact, their biggest concern is that it won’t come.”

Charlotte and her husband, Dave MacFarland, both said it seemed too late for Manhattan to do anything about the arrival of NBAF.

The film will be shown in the K-State Student Union Ballroom today at 8 p.m. Eric Nadler will be on hand to introduce the film and will host a question and answer session following the conclusion. 

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