North Carolina native Nina Simone was a classically trained pianist turned singer who blended jazz, blues, classical, gospel and protest music. She also blended music with her fight for civil rights. In Asheville, while in high school, she met poet and playwright Langston Hughes and formed a decades-long friendship and creative partnership. That's the topic of a new book about them both by NC State professor Jason Miller.

In a vote on Tuesday, the CMS School Board fires Superintendent Crystal Hill. Then, the fate of the I-77 toll lanes: After public opposition, the project was voted down. But the state passed a law requiring local governments to repay millions to the N.C. Department of Transportation if that vote stands. That has some municipalities rethinking their decisions. We hear from leaders in the region about what comes next, and about how Charlotte reached its decision.