Yes, it’s September, and I’m still wondering where the last three months of summer went to — and so quickly. At this rate, it’ll be Christmas in another hour or so! I know, too early.

Given all of the activity throughout the borough these summer months — from the celebration of our nation’s 250th birthday, Paw Prints on the Canal and the farmers market to Northampton Community Days, Movies in the Park, swimming pool activities and many others outdoor offerings — I now more understand why time flew by as it did. We certainly had plenty of events to keep us from a boring summer. While some ill-timed severe weather may have dampened some events, the spirit of our community to still brave the weather and support these activities was overwhelming and much appreciated.

Speaking of time flying by, do I have a great event to help you get a jump on your Christmas shopping while supporting local vendors and crafters! That’s right, the 37th annual Uptown Northampton Street Fair is arriving 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Sept. 12. This year’s fair, again hosted by our Northampton Area Chamber of Commerce, features a diverse variety of more than 100 vendors, including local merchants, crafters and tasty food choices supplied by an army of food trucks. Complementing the tasty food available, there will be a selection of beer and adult beverages to enjoy responsibly, so don’t forget your ID. Of course, this family-oriented event also includes plenty of activities for your kids to enjoy.

Along with the array of vendors lining Main Street, from 21st Street south to the Gin Mill, there’ll be an assortment of musical talent to keep you dancing and your feet tapping. You’ll have fine time immersing yourself in the sounds of these talented, local musicians as you explore the event.

As much as I’ll be out and about the entirety of “uptown” Main Street throughout the day, you can also find me assisting our police department provide children’s safety ID cards to parents. While we certainly hope no parent will ever need to access this card, it’s a great wealth of information should you need to reference it in an emergency. The card is free and the process quick and simple. Chief Kadingo or an officer will take a photograph of your child, a fingerprint and vital information that is then printed on a credit card-sized plastic card for safekeeping. I encourage all our parents with young children to take this opportunity to get an ID card and ensure you have the added peace of mind.

Joining our police, our Northampton Fire Department showcases its firefighting apparatus, along with handing out treats to the kids. It’s always an enjoyable experience when your children can see the firetrucks up close and personal, with an opportunity to actually sit inside the truck and see what our firefighters experience firsthand.

Additionally, I’d like to thank all of the sponsors, local businesses that have stepped up to support the fair and without whom this fair would not entail the size and scope that it does. They are Xfinity, Horwith Trucks, A&M Service Center, Gilboy Automotive Group, Precision Medical Inc., Amrize, PennStar Lubricants, The Roxy Theatre, Foster Jewelers, The Gin Mill and Grille and All Things Framed. Thank you, one and all!

If you are interested in becoming a food or merchandise vendor for this year’s fair, there’s still time to get an application. You can contact the ever-delightful Caitlin Hamlin by email at caitlinh@lehighvalleychamber.org or calling 610-739-1520, and she’ll take it from there.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to support local businesses, enjoy delicious food and beverages and create lasting memories with your family and friends.

Lastly, I’m sure you’ve heard about the loss of funding for the Northampton Borough Senior Center and the angst it’s causing our seniors who use and depend on the center. Since the loss, I’ve teamed up with state Sen. Nick Miller (D-14th) and Northampton County Executive Tara Zrinski, exploring ways to secure that steady stream of funding. Know that the senator and executive have been tirelessly working to solve this imbalance. To keep the center operational for the foreseeable future, I’ve been in regular contact with both of them, discussing any updates or opportunities to close this gap. Third Ward Councilmen Trevor Stone and Ron Glassic are now also participating. I can confidently say that our efforts are certainly moving in a positive direction, of which I hope to give you more concrete details in my next message. Our seniors deserve our best efforts and then some.

So, for now, enjoy each day, as I look forward to seeing you on “uptown” Main Street Sept. 12!