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, inspiring stories of local businesses that succeed because they innovated, and residents 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 Bethwood neighbors, fit along these fault lines.

For example, in Woodbridge, business leaders have become involved with a ‘Local Economic Stimulation Program’. Spearheaded by local InLineAdz affiliate, Paula Murphy (New Haven County), along with Steve Katz of Katz’s Deli Restaurant and many other community oriented local businesses have stepped forward to provide their neighbors and their business community a chance to stand out, brand themselves, attract more local customers and grow.

And to bring attention to the very rural character of our towns, as well as our roots as farming communities, residents have organized the Tour des Farms.

"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 Woodbridge and Bethany go to the heart of your American Dream.