Edwardsville Mayor Hal Patton, a Republican candidate in the 56th Senate district, said he and his family like to focus on giving over the holiday season.
“The thing that we like to do this time of year is reflect back on the success of the year and how hard everybody worked. But then the season is about giving and being with others so I enjoy that aspect of it as well,” Patton told the Metro East Sun. “Our kids in this life are pretty well off and it is nice to give to others and think about those that aren’t as fortunate. That is what the Pattons’ do this time of year.”
One of the traditions that the family has is to invite friends and neighbors for a get-together.
Edwardsville Mayor Hal Patton
“Anybody that is a friend or a neighbor that doesn’t have specific plans we like to invite over for appetizers on Christmas Eve. Then we do a $10 gift exchange where you can trade gifts with the person before you," he said. “It is just evening catching up with neighbors and friends, really relaxing and enjoying the spirit of Christmas.”
Patton also said when he was gathering with his family he had two favorite Christmas dishes.
“My favorite Christmas food is my sister’s cookies," he said. "She makes sugar cookies with icing on top. In the past she has made them in the shape of reindeer with a little red hot for the nose.
“We have another that we named Sneaky. It is chocolate with coconut cookie. It got that name since we all tried to sneak in and steal them before Christmas Eve,” h said.
Despite the treats and good company, Patton said he felt it was important to remember the reason for the season, “The birth of Jesus and what he did in his lifetime. It is this great thing to emulate being kind to everyone and helping the poor and making sure we appreciate the good things that we all have.”
Patton is running for the seat held by Sen. Bill Haine (D-Alton), who is not seeking re-election. The district includes O’Fallon, Collinsville, Edwardsville, Wood River, Alton and Godfrey.
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