Author Event: Stephanie Dray

Page 158 Books invites you to an exclusive evening with New York Times bestselling author Katherine Center as she celebrates the release of her latest novel, The Shippers. This event offers readers an opportunity to hear directly from one of the most popular voices in contemporary romantic comedy. During the session, Katherine Center will discuss her transition from writing hits like The Bodyguard and The Rom-Commers to her new story set on a cruise ship. Attendees will gain insights into her creative process, the inspiration behind her complex characters, and the themes of second chances and reconnection that define her work. The presentation will be followed by a chance to engage with the author. This event is perfect for fans of heartwarming fiction and anyone interested in contemporary storytelling. The atmosphere will be welcoming and relaxed, providing a great space for book lovers to connect. Join us for an energetic discussion about love, destiny, and the art of the modern romantic comedy. Please check our official website for registration details and secure your spot today.

Page 158 Books invites you to an engaging author discussion featuring Steve Bergsman as he presents his new biography, Have Mercy Baby: The Life of Clyde McPhatter. This event explores the life and legacy of the iconic tenor who helped shape early rock and soul music. David Menconi will join Bergsman in conversation to dive deep into McPhatter’s musical contributions and personal journey. Attendees will gain insight into McPhatter’s career, from his early work with the Dominoes to his role in founding the Drifters. Bergsman draws on exclusive interviews to provide a comprehensive portrait of this influential artist. The discussion will cover McPhatter’s impact on American music, his two inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and the complex challenges he faced behind the scenes. This event is ideal for music historians, fans of mid-century rhythm and blues, and anyone interested in the pioneers of rock and roll. Join us for this enlightening conversation to learn more about a true music legend. Please visit the Page 158 Books website for venue details and registration information.

Page 158 Books invites you to a special author event featuring Chef Toya Boudy. She will present her new cookbook, Cooking from Scratch, which explores heritage recipes and personal resilience. This session celebrates the release of her latest work and offers guests a chance to engage with the author. Toya Boudy is a noted chef and storyteller known for her appearances on national television. During this event, she will discuss her creative process, the inspiration she drew from Malinda Russell, and how she reimagined seventy soul-satisfying recipes. Attendees will learn about the stories behind dishes like her signature Jamaican Curry and African Spinach Stew. She will also touch on the twenty natural remedies included in her book that aim to nourish the body and spirit. This event is perfect for home cooks, food enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the intersection of cooking and personal storytelling. The atmosphere will be welcoming, professional, and insightful. Join us at the store to meet the author, ask questions, and celebrate the healing power of cooking from scratch. We look forward to seeing you there.

The Fine Arts League of Cary proudly presents the 16th Annual Wake County Teen Art Exhibition, a vibrant celebration of creativity showcasing over 100 works by talented student artists from across Wake County. On view May 6–27, 2026, at the Frankie G. Weems Gallery on the campus of Meredith College, this professionally curated exhibition highlights the exceptional achievements of young artists selected by their teachers. Join the community for a special public reception and awards ceremony on May 10, 2026, from 2:00–4:00 p.m., where $20,000 in prizes will be awarded to students and their schools. Sponsored by Cary Family Dental and supported by local arts organizations and Meredith College, the exhibition not only honors artistic excellence but also reinvests in school art programs, helping foster the next generation of creative thinkers. Now in its 16th year, this inspiring event underscores the importance of arts education while offering students a meaningful opportunity to exhibit their work in a gallery setting. All are welcome to attend and experience the creativity, imagination, and talent of Wake County’s young artists.

Animazement is the premier Japanese animation and culture convention held annually in Raleigh. This event serves as a central hub for fans to celebrate anime, manga, and traditional Japanese culture through diverse programming and community engagement. Attendees can experience a wide variety of activities including live concerts, educational workshops, and panel discussions featuring industry experts. The convention floor hosts an extensive marketplace offering limited edition merchandise and unique artwork from independent creators. Guests also have access to interactive gaming areas, cosplay events, and cultural demonstrations designed to provide a comprehensive look at both modern and traditional Japanese arts. This event is perfect for casual viewers, dedicated fans, and cultural enthusiasts who appreciate high quality entertainment and immersive environments. The atmosphere is welcoming and inclusive, encouraging attendees to connect with like minded individuals in a vibrant setting. Whether you are looking to learn something new, discover rare collectibles, or simply enjoy a weekend of festivities, Animazement offers a structured and engaging experience. We invite you to join us in Raleigh for this celebration of creativity and community. Secure your tickets now to participate in this unique gathering.

Paint and Sip with Cats is a creative evening class held at the local cat cafe where participants paint a customizable portrait of a feline companion. Led by local artist Taylor Varron, this guided event provides a relaxed environment for attendees to express their creativity while interacting with resident cats. The experience is designed to be accessible to everyone regardless of prior painting skill levels. Each ticket includes step-by-step professional instruction and all necessary art supplies, including a pre-drawn canvas. Beyond the painting workshop, guests enjoy dedicated playtime with the cats throughout the evening. This structured session ensures you have everything needed to complete your masterpiece while enjoying a unique social atmosphere. A portion of every ticket sale directly benefits Safe Haven for Cats, supporting local animal welfare efforts. This event is perfect for art enthusiasts, cat lovers, and anyone looking for a fun evening out. The atmosphere is casual, welcoming, and intended for those seeking a creative way to unwind. Space is limited, so please secure your tickets early to join us for this artistic and charitable gathering.

The Fine Arts League of Cary proudly presents the 16th Annual Wake County Teen Art Exhibition, a vibrant celebration of creativity showcasing over 100 works by talented student artists from across Wake County. On view May 6–27, 2026, at the Frankie G. Weems Gallery on the campus of Meredith College, this professionally curated exhibition highlights the exceptional achievements of young artists selected by their teachers. Join the community for a special public reception and awards ceremony on May 10, 2026, from 2:00–4:00 p.m., where $20,000 in prizes will be awarded to students and their schools. Sponsored by Cary Family Dental and supported by local arts organizations and Meredith College, the exhibition not only honors artistic excellence but also reinvests in school art programs, helping foster the next generation of creative thinkers. Now in its 16th year, this inspiring event underscores the importance of arts education while offering students a meaningful opportunity to exhibit their work in a gallery setting. All are welcome to attend and experience the creativity, imagination, and talent of Wake County’s young artists.

The Unhinged Coffee and Co Ribbon Cutting Block Party is an official grand opening celebration held in Knightdale. This event marks the launch of a new community space designed to provide coffee and connection for all residents. The celebration will feature local food trucks and a vendor block party highlighting small businesses and local makers. Guests can enjoy breakfast from the Good Mornings NC food truck starting at seven in the morning. A lunch menu from Dom Tacos will be available from noon until three-thirty in the afternoon. The official ribbon cutting ceremony with Mayor Jessica Day takes place at eleven in the morning. The vendor market will remain open from nine in the morning until two in the afternoon. This event is intended for the entire Knightdale community. The space aims to offer an inclusive environment where anyone can feel welcome regardless of their day. Attendees are encouraged to bring friends, family, or colleagues to help mark this milestone. We look forward to seeing the community gather to support this new local business as it opens its doors to the public.

The Bailey Drive Gateway Groundbreaking celebrates the official start of construction for a new community space designed to improve local connectivity and outdoor recreation. This project will transform the area into a welcoming hub for residents and families to gather and enjoy nature. Attendees will explore the planned layout for the new community space, which includes a covered pavilion and a dedicated grill area. The design also features comfortable seating and a scenic wetlands overlook. A major highlight is the new sidewalk connection that will link Walnut Creek Wetland Park with Fuller Elementary School along Bailey and Boaz Drive. Project leaders will be on site to share details about the timeline and how these improvements will benefit the neighborhood infrastructure and public access. This event is intended for local residents, school families, and anyone interested in city park development. The atmosphere will be informative and community focused, offering a great chance to see future neighborhood enhancements firsthand. We encourage everyone to join us to learn how these new spaces will support an active and connected community environment.