Introducing Our New Series About 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.

Unemployment, foreclosures, debt, religion, government and private enterprise all touch on fundamental ways in which we see ourselves and our communities.

At Hillcrest 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.

Sometimes the dreams are realized. Other times dreams change, whether by choice or circumstance. Business owners decide whether to expand. College graduates move back in with their parents because they can't find jobs. Older workers retire earlier than they'd like because they lost their jobs in declining career fields and can't find other work.

At the purely local level, we want to know where Hillcrest Patch residents fit along these fault lines. We've had stories that dealt with the traditional dream that brought so many people to this country. People like , who was a sewing teacher in Russia, moved here and became an entrepreneur by opening Fast Needle alterations shop.

Changing industries and sometimes a personal desire for change are also motivating factors. worked in IT support, office management, paralegal work and event planning before finding what she really wanted to do in starting up Restoration Express in Highland Heights.

Then there are those who dream big, but find joy in the so-called "smaller" things in life such as family. Stephen Johnston's ambition was to be a rock star. He chased that dream to Los Angeles and made a living for a while, but never achieved stardom. Still, that experience prepared him for his latest venture – teaching children what it means to be a performer through his business, Club Rock.

"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 Hillcrest go to the heart of your American Dream.