Northampton County Court of Common Pleas Judge Emil Giordano will return to Northampton Community Center Sept. 12, where it all began several years when he kicked off his successful campaign for a seat on the Northampton County bench.

This election cycle, Giordano said, he is not facing any opposition in seeking re-election to a10-year-term as county judge. Explaining his position at a recent Northampton Borough Council meeting, the affable jurist said, "I'm running against myself."

Giordano is seeking a second full term as judge on a retention basis, whereby no one can seek his office, except himself. Voters will cast ballots for Giordano on a yes or no basis. Only if a sitting judge receives more no votes will another election be held at which the jurist will face opposition. This has not occurred in Northampton County in recent memory.

Judge Richard D. Grifo served as the first county judge for more than two decades to win re-election without any opposition when the retention system was first implemented.

Giordano is no stranger in Northampton. He served as the borough and council solicitor for several years until his election as judge.

He continues to be a familiar face in the borough. He provides the principal address to sixth grade D.A.R.E. students and the parents at the graduation D.A.R.E. program at the Colonel John Siegfried Elementary School in Northampton. Giordano also each December attends the State of the Borough dinner meeting and banquet.

The campaign kickoff at the community center will be informal. It will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Pizza, music and refreshments will also be provided. A large crowd is expected to attend the event.