Welcome to Seagull Street – That Summer in Ocean City

Join Maryland writer Alissa Arford for a conversation about her debut novel, “Welcome to Seagull Street,” a contemporary beach-town story set in Ocean City in 2023 that blends romance, mystery, humor, and drama while capturing a memorable summer season of post-pandemic life on the Maryland shore. Arford will lead a lively discussion about the characters, setting, summer vacation memories, and the inspiration behind the story. She will share a behind-the-scenes look at writing and publishing the novel, followed by a preview of Book 2, coming later this summer, which returns to Ocean City with a story that includes a flashback to the summer of 1989.
There will be time for questions, conversation, and book signing. Whether you’ve read the book or simply enjoy local fiction and Ocean City memories, all are welcome.

About the Presenter

Arford is a Maryland-based writer and marketing communications consultant. She earned both her journalism and Executive MBA degrees at the University of Maryland and spent nearly two decades working at the university.

Welcome to Seagull Street is her debut novel with the next book in the series set for release later in 2026. Alissa’s work—both in business and in fiction—is rooted in storytelling, bringing together people, place, and perspective in ways that resonate and connect.

Residents are asked to register and pay the $5 fee here on the CLL website. Residents unable to pay on the website may sign in and pay the $5 fee at the door by cash or check, payable to The Center for Lifelong Learning.