Good morning, Wake Forest.

The Town of Wake Forest will host a drop-in reception on Aug.

15 from 4-6 p.m. at the Wake Forest Renaissance Centre, 405 S. Brooks, to honor retiring Renaissance Centre Director Debbie Dunn. She retires after a 25-year career promoting the creative and performing arts and her last day will be Aug. 20.

Wake Forest and Wake County will host a free event on Tuesday, July 15 that teaches how quickly cars heat up and endanger children and pets.

The event at the Northern Regional Center runs from noon to 3 p.m.—attendees can view a hot car demo, receive car seat checks, and get pet safety tips, with a backup date of July 22 in case of bad weather.

Alder Marin-Sotelo pleaded guilty Tuesday night at a federal courthouse in Greensboro for planning and executing his escape from custody in connection with deputy Ned Byrd’s murder + he will be sentenced on the escape and firearms charges in September while a trial for the murder with his brother is scheduled for September 2026.

Candlelight: Neo-Soul and Hip-Hop Favorites

9 p.m. — The Historic Wakefield Barn — Tickets available — Experience a magical evening of neo-soul and hip-hop classics under candlelight.

Dana Cooper Concert

7:30 p.m. – 1:30 a.m. — The Wake Forest Listening Room — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate the album release of Dana Cooper's latest work with a night of exceptional music.