To say the least, it has been a difficult year for the local government management profession in Oregon.

In 2014, the city of Phoenix, Arizona, was grappling with declining resources, pension issues, and a reduced workforce (down 3,000 positions from the year 2008).

If you put off engaging in activities and experiences that are truly meaningful for you over and over again, you will miss out on the magic and majesty of your life.

Here are key data points on how the status of local and state government employment changed during the past year, mid-2014 to mid-2015.

One in five adults will be age 65 or older by 2030. Answer five easy questions to gauge whether your community is ready, and then read about free resources to help you adapt.