Introducing 'Dispatches: The Changing American Dream'

We're excited to inaugurate a new series for our Morristown 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 on a daily basis 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, , and locals who've taken these trying times as a signal to engage more, not less, in their government.

At the purely local level, we want to know where we, as Morristown residents, fit along these fault lines.

Earlier this year, we met the Garrity family, who after the parents divorced, had to spend time in a shelter in Morris Township. But, because daughter Mackenzie gave a contest on the Regis & Kelly television show a shot,

And, we have discussed the ongoing flux of –and –in Morristown.

Of course, we want your help: Tell us what issues and what stories in Morristown go to the heart of your American Dream. Email john.dunphy@patch.com, or leave your comments below.