Author Event: Toya Boudy

Page 158 Books invites you to an exclusive author event featuring Tommy Hays as he celebrates the release of his latest novel, The Marriage Bed. This evening offers readers a chance to engage with an acclaimed Southern writer and gain firsthand insights into his newest literary work. The story follows Asa Flowers, a poetry professor who must navigate a sudden family tragedy and the unraveling of his long-term marriage. Through multiple perspectives, the novel explores themes of identity, parenthood, and personal transformation in the wake of unexpected life changes. During the event, Tommy Hays will discuss his creative process, the inspiration behind his latest story, and his extensive career in Southern literature. As a former director of the Great Smokies Writing Program, Hays brings a unique depth and perspective to his readings. This event is perfect for book lovers, local literature enthusiasts, and anyone interested in contemporary fiction. Join us for an engaging discussion about storytelling and the complexities of human relationships. We look forward to welcoming you for this special literary presentation.

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.

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.

This hands-on workshop teaches participants how to create custom wooden signs using professional routing techniques. You will learn the entire process of transforming raw wood into a personalized decorative piece through guided instruction. Students will gain practical experience in wood preparation and design transfer methods. The curriculum focuses on the safe and accurate operation of a router to carve letters and patterns into your wood surface. You will also learn professional sanding techniques to ensure your sign has a smooth and refined finish. By the conclusion of the session, you will complete a unique, custom sign ready for final finishing or immediate display. This class is ideal for woodworkers of all skill levels who want to build their routing proficiency. The environment is collaborative, focused, and designed to help you master essential manual crafting tools in a controlled setting. Whether you are looking to learn a new hobby or improve your existing shop skills, this workshop provides the foundational knowledge necessary to succeed. Join us to build your own custom sign and gain the confidence to pursue future woodworking projects on your own.

Boris Lurie: Echoes of Memory is a multidisciplinary program honoring the legacy of Holocaust survivor and NO! art movement founder Boris Lurie. This event explores how trauma and identity shape creative expression through a thoughtful blend of visual art, live music, and historical analysis. It serves as a space for reflection on artistic responses to the Holocaust and the enduring impact of Lurie’s work. The performance features violinist Ilana Zaks-Nederlander, who will present a curated selection of works by Jewish composers impacted by the Holocaust. Beyond the musical program, the event includes opening remarks and a post-event discussion. These segments provide critical historical context, connecting Lurie’s art to broader cultural narratives and the themes presented in the Off the Wall series. This program is ideal for students, history enthusiasts, and art lovers interested in the intersection of personal experience and creative activism. Attendees can expect a professional, moving, and thought-provoking environment designed to facilitate deep engagement with complex subject matter. We invite you to join this unique tribute to understand how art preserves memory and challenges historical silence.

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.

Experience the joy of literature and the beauty of nature combined with the May StoryWalks series across Wake County Parks. This engaging program invites families to read a featured children book page by page as they stroll along scenic park trails. It is a wonderful way to foster a love for reading in young children while encouraging physical activity and outdoor exploration in our local natural spaces. We are thrilled to feature several new stories this month at Beech Bluff, Crowder, Harris Lake, Oak View, Yates Mill, and Sandy Pines. Each location offers a unique atmosphere where families can immerse themselves in stories like I Love Strawberries or Finding Wild while enjoying the fresh air. Whether you are a regular park visitor or looking for a new weekend activity, these trails provide the perfect setting for a wholesome and educational outing. We encourage you to visit your nearest participating park location throughout the month of May to discover these delightful tales. Pack your walking shoes and prepare for a rewarding journey through these captivating outdoor libraries that celebrate literacy and our vibrant community environment.

Join the vibrant community at The Bunny Hive for an engaging and social stroller walk designed for parents and little ones alike. We invite you to gather at our location before embarking on a gentle stroll spanning approximately half a mile toward a local coffee shop. This outing provides a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the fresh air, connect with fellow parents, and indulge in a relaxing coffee break before returning to our facility. Upon our return, children are invited to enjoy supervised outdoor play in our secure, fenced, and turf-covered backyard. This space offers a safe environment for kids to explore and interact while you continue your conversations with other members of our community. This event is entirely complimentary and open to participants of all ages, making it the perfect way to spend a morning. Space is limited, so we kindly ask that you register in advance to ensure we have an accurate headcount for our group. We look forward to welcoming you and your family for a morning of activity, socialization, and fun at The Bunny Hive.