Smart Talk: Surveillance on anti-fracking protestors; Reading schools

What to look for on Smart Talk Thursday, February 5, 2015:

StateImpact Pennsylvania reporter Marie Cusick appears on Thursday’s Smart Talk to discuss law enforcement surveillance of anti-fracking protestors and activists.

Marie reported earlier this week on the Marcellus Shale Operators Crime Committee, an intelligence-sharing network between law enforcement and the gas industry.  It allows the industry to share information with federal and state law enforcement about activists, protests, and potential threats.

Marie profiled activists who were visited by a Pennsylvania State Police Trooper about their activities.  One was asked about eco-terrorism and pipe bombs.

The activists feel they were targeted even though they say they were just exercising their First Amendment rights of free speech. 

The gas industry is concerned about security.

Also, Reading School District Superintendent Dr. Khalid Mumin joins us to talk about the challenges facing large urban districts like his and what they need to prosper.