They say it's been eerily quiet. They say there aren't any big issues.

On the first point, "they" might have a point. Since Labor Day, the Philadelphia mayor's race hasn't exactly been a cascade of memorable moments. On the second point, "they" are wrong.

If you live in this city, love this city, the issues hit you daily in the gut, as you get your kids off to school, walk out your front door or head for work. The good news is Republican Sam Katz and Democrat John Street aren't ducking the issues - from schools to abandoned cars to business taxes.

Their positions have meaningful differences, which should come into sharper focus as a slate of broadcast debates rolls out. The Editorial Board's Citizen Voices project, in cooperation with the Philadelphia Compact, will contribute to the dialogue with two events.

This Saturday, about 200 citizens who have spent the year delving into the issues will gather for the project's Fall Issues Convention. They'll review the candidates' positions and draft questions to be asked of Mr. Street and Mr. Katz at an afternoon forum.

That forum, from 3 to 4:30 p.m. in the Annenberg Center, 3680 Walnut St., is open to the public. WHYY-FM (90.9) will broadcast excerpts throughout next week on its news programs.

At 10 a.m. Oct. 17, a televised debate with Citizen Voices as questioners will be broadcast from the same site by WPVI-TV (Channel 6). Marc Howard will moderate. The Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce and League of Women Voters are co-sponsors of that event.

Now, a month from Election Day, is no time for cheap cynicism about politics. The stakes are high. The choice is interesting. Let's pay attention.