Dispatches: The Changing American Dream

Today Patch is launching a new series for our 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 the current economic climate. A dizzying number of national changes seem to occur each and every week: national debates about unemployment, foreclosures, debt, religion, government and private enterprise all touch on the ways in which we see ourselves and our communities. Let's explore that conversation here in Renton so we can better understand how our neighbors are adjusting to the challenges and opportunities that surround us.

There is no one American Dream. 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 renting out rooms in their homes to help pay the 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. 

On the local level, how does this affect Renton? 

Already this year, we've reported on Richard LeMieux, a Bremerton man who became homeless after the dot com bubble burst. Although he's not from Renton, he shared his story — now a book — with the . LeMieux's story is unique in that he was willing to share it with others. He is, by no means, the only person who has gone through ups and downs. What's your story? We'd like to hear it.

The American Dream is more than all the negative things happening in our world; it's also about the way our communities are changing. According to the , Renton's . Patch will continue to reach out and cover all corners of this community, including the upcoming .

"Dispatches" will be built upon the compelling vignettes and snapshots we unearth right here in Renton.

And, of course, we want your help: Tell us what issues and what stories are at the heart of your American Dream.