H. Y. Griffin, a Washington resident who works as a community organizer through AmeriCorps, achieved a big dream with a little celebrity inspiration a lot of community support.

The District has a $600 million budget deficit and several agencies are facing budget cuts under Mayor Vincent Gray's plan. Social service programs are no exception, but commentator Ash Kosiewicz says the mayor needs to look beyond the numbers. Kosiewicz is Communications and Advocacy director for the Latino Economic Development Corporation.

James Woody is a native Washingtonian and the executive director of D.C.'s Bishop John T. Walker School for Boys. Woody had the opportunity to learn about influencing the next generation from one of his personal heroes.

It's budget season in the District of Columbia. Mayor Vincent Gray has released his vision of a spending plan -- to close a budget gap of more than $300 million. Now the D.C Council must reevaluate it's priorities. Commentator Peg Hacskaylo, executive director of the nonprofit District Alliance for Safe Housing, is asking the city to remember victims of domestic violence.

I don't know whether it more closely resembles the gladiators, who pummeled each other to amuse the ancient Roman emperors, or the cockfights, which were popular in the Middle Ages, or the dog fights, which sent Michael Vick to jail. But frankly I'm appalled and ashamed and a little revolted when I hear that mixed martial arts is one of the fastest-growing sports in America.

The bond between a mother and her daughter is a special one, but as commentator Ciara Smith notes, it's also one that can make honest communication sometimes difficult.