Dispatches, the Changing American Dream

We're excited to inaugurate a new series for our Patch Readers: "DisPatches: The Changing American Dream."

Every day, the national media is full of stories about how American families, businesses, and neighbors are adjusting to these trying times. There are so many changes happening so fast that it's dizzying: national debates about unemployment, foreclosures, debt, religion, government and private enterprise all touch on fundamental ways in which we see ourselves and our communities. At Patch, we want to explore that conversation so we can better understand how our neighbors are adjusting to the challenges and opportunities that surround us.

We don't think there's one American Dream, but a multitude of American Dreams, which a multitude of people are working toward. Looking out across nearly almost 900 Patch sites, we see businesses holding their breath deciding whether to expand; college graduates returning home because they can't find jobs; and senior citizens bringing boarders into their homes to help pay their bills. We also see bold new volunteer efforts, inspiring stories of local businesses that succeed because they innovated, and locals who've taken these trying times as a signal to engage more, not less, in their government.

Here at home what is affecting you? Do you find yourself attending church more often for a different type of answer? Are you seeking a more active role in town government or your children's schooling? Certainly the debate over whether or not to build a and to change the configuration was partially based on our changing times.

The real estate market has been affected with homes staying on the market longer and selling for less. The McBride group is well aware of what it takes to be successful in today's market. Read more about it .

"DisPatches" will be built upon the compelling vignettes and snapshots we unearth across all of our Patch sites. And, of course, we want your help: Tell us what issues and what stories in this community go to the heart of your American Dream. Email Editor Faith Mayer at Faith594@msn.com and let us know your thoughts.