* State Sen. Fred Smith says students seeking vocational education at state high schools shouldn't be made to feel like "second-class citizens." (NBSJ)

* High school coach Roy Carter kicks off campaign against U.S. Rep. Virginia Foxx Saturday at Forsyth County Democratic headquarters. (Go Blue Ridge)

* James Kerr of N.C. Utilities Commission testifies in Washington, asking Congress to move ahead with plans to dispose nuclear waste in Yucca Mountain, Nev. (Char-O)

* State Sen. Kay Hagan, Chapel Hill investment banker Jim Neal face a 40-year curse against Democrats in U.S. Senate race. Sen. Sam Ervin won last. (W-SJ)