With our country in a deep recession and our state looking at deep budget cuts, it will probably be sooner or later before the crisis hits Austin and Mower County. It is times like these when community involvement is important so that our public officials know what their constituents want.

On Wednesday in the City Hall Council Chambers, Austin Mayor Tom Stiehm will give the State of the City address and speak about such pressing issues as the budget and immigration.

The address, which begins at 6 p.m., is scheduled to be run live over Channel 16, with a question-and-answer period to follow.

The public is invited to attend, and we encourage you to do so or to watch on television. Make your voice heard or at the very least be informed about the state of Austin because when it comes down to it, we’re all in this together.