There is a lot of mystery surrounding east of the river. Just when you finish explaining where River East/East of the River/Washington East is (and clarifying Anacostia is just a small neighborhood in Ward 8) the next question always is "Who?"

As in, "Who are the people in the know?"

"Who should I talk to?"
"Who are the people are getting things done and how are they doing it?"

East of the River can be a hard place to know who is doing what and why they are so good at doing it. Some of the leadership is packed into cliques (and they are very finicky about accepting new membership), some of the go-getters are more online than in the streets, and then there are those that are working so hard that they don't really want to bring a lot of attention to themselves -- it is more about doing the work.

So that being said, I am asking you my dear readers to nominate who you think are the "rising stars" East of the River. People who impressive you with their work, their energy, their spirit, or a service they provide. People who you think are making a positive impact on communities in Ward 7 or Ward 8 (or both). They don't have to be a leader of an organization, a politician, or a business owner. They can just be someone you admire.

Lets get the word out about these folks and show them we appreciate them and perhaps give them a little support in the process!

I am really looking forward to reading your comments!