The American Dream: How Does Dunedin Measure Up?

We're excited to announce a new series for our readers: "Dispatches: The Changing American Dream."

The media is full of stories about how American families, businesses and neighbors are adjusting to these trying times. So many dizzying changes: unemployment, foreclosures, debt, religion, government and private enterprise. They all touch the fundamental ways in which we see our communities and ourselves.

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 believe people are working toward a multitude of American Dreams. Looking across nearly 900 Patch sites nationwide, we see businesses holding their breath deciding whether to close or 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 small businesses that succeed because they innovated, and residents who've taken these times as a signal to engage more, not less, in their government.

We want to know where we, as Dunedin neighbors, fit along these national fault lines.

• Nationally, there's a debate about jobs. Unemployment rates are increasing. In Dunedin, commissioners and business owners are looking ahead together at ensuring the city's longterm economic prosperity. A project is underway to create a branding strategy and capitalize on a time and opportunity in which businesses have poised the city to become a real tourist destination.
  
• Nationally, there's a debate about energy. People want cleaner fuel sources and more independence from foreign oil. It goes to the heart of preserving opportunities for our children to obtain their own American Dream. In Dunedin, consumers are buying green and buying local from community gardeners and businesses that use re-purposed materials. They are also traveling light: by bike, trolley or on foot.  

"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 Dunedin go to the heart of your American Dream.