If we can borrow a phrase from a traditional wedding ceremony, it is time for voters in Pennsylvania to "speak now or forever hold their peace."

With the presidential primary now less than a week away and the Democratic race between Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama seemingly growing closer and more significant with each passing day, voters in the Commonwealth -- at least those who have registered as Democrats -- have an opportunity that seemed unlikely just months ago.

In fact, it seems light years ago that some officials in Pennsylvania proposed moving up the date of the state's election to ensure it played a key role in the primary process.

It was a foolhardy proposition then -- just ask Democratic voters in Florida and Michigan -- and looks even more so now.

But as Pennsylvania voters bask in the national spotlight, it is imperative that we make the most of this opportunity for our voices to be heard.

That means not just taking the time to go to the polls on Tuesday, but to do so as informed and impassioned voters who cast their ballots, not based on personalities and emotions fueled by television ads and 15-second clips on the evening news, but on a thorough knowledge of the issues and of which candidate's stand on those issues most closely mirrors our own.

Those who fail to seize this opportunity effectively forfeit their right to complain -- be it about the choices we may have in the general election in November or who ultimately becomes the next to call the White House home.

There are, of course, other races to consider on Tuesday, some of which could have a even more direct impact on the region than the presidential battle.

Those races, too, should be considered in a thoughtful and informed manner.

But with the majority of candidates in the airport area running unopposed in the primary, the brightest spotlight will undoubtedly shine on the Democratic presidential race.

As voters we can and should share that spotlight and make he most of our opportunity to help shape the future of our country.