Jill Slaughter has been working for the YMCA for 18 years. She started part time at the YMCA membership department. But as time went on she grew into new roles. She currently holds the position of director at the Y Ausherman Arts Center in Frederick, Maryland. She enjoys her role there explaining "everyday is different" and improving the success of classes offered can be challenging "like a puzzle". One of her goals is to make the YAAC into a creative hub with "something always going on", offering things you can't find anywhere else. During our interview, Jill explains how she has been driving attention towards the building through the YAAC Show, concerts and drop in classes. Join us as we learn more about Jill, her background, goals, aspirations and her plans for the YAAC and its future.

We sit down with Demetrius—a hip-hop artist from Frederick, Maryland. Debuting in 2020, Demetrius has become a key figure in Frederick's hip-hop scene. His artistry and community involvement were spotlighted in the Frederick News-Post in 2023, where his journey and impact were highlighted. In addition to his music, Demetrius curates the monthly Real Rap Show and frequently collaborates with Benefactor Events to bring live hip-hop experiences to the community.

Lori Rounds is an award-winning visual artist whose practice includes painting, printmaking, and photography. A lifelong creator, she began pursuing art full time in 2019 following her retirement from a successful career in information technology.

Lori is currently an artist-in-residence at the Y Arts Center and an active member of several arts organizations, including the Maryland State Arts Council, Frederick Arts Council, Frederick County Art Association, Delaplaine Visual Arts Center, and the Rehoboth Art League. She also volunteers remotely with the Smithsonian Institution, providing support for its online studio art and art history courses.

Her accomplishments include receiving an Individual Artist Award from the National Endowment for the Arts, in partnership with the Frederick Arts Council, and being selected for a prestigious year-long Smithsonian Artist at Work exhibition in Washington, D.C. Lori's work is featured in permanent collections across the country, reflecting her growing national recognition.