Will County Gazette

Stephen Balich said taking a break from politics to celebrate the holiday season is good for all.

The Will County Board member who is seeking re-election for 7th District seat, which includes Homer Glen, Lockport, unincorporated Homer Township and New Lenox north of Interstate 80, told the Will County Gazette the parties and small get-togethers are a great time of year for him.

“However, so much of the discussion when people get together is based in politics since our lives are so impacted by decisions of our elected officials,” Balich, a retired 30-year Teamster running again for a four-year term, said.

Balich said though the subject of politics is still prevalent, the recent constituent calls he has received were about much more.

“The ones today started and ended with Merry Christmas indicating people still recognize the celebration of the birth of Jesus as important and what Christmas is all about,” Balich said.

It’s also about family, he said, adding food is also a big part of the festivities.

“The best thing for me is being with my children, my brother and my sisters,” Balich said, adding he usually blows his diet this time of year. 

But before dessert comes Italian fare, he said.

“Our traditions are changing because life changes,” Balich said. “At some point I make homemade pizza, sausage and peppers, and the best sauce using neck bones. My meatballs are to die for.”

The whole month of December is a blessing, Balich said.

“The party with my sisters and brother is the first week of December so everyone can come from all over the country,” Balich said. “We get real loud, dogs and babies all over the place, and plenty of traditional Italian food alongside polish food for my sister’s husband and kids.”

Silent time is reserved for midnight mass.

“I do feel so thankful for all God has given me,” Balich said. “I understand problems or bad happenings are just a gift from God to make me a stronger person with a better character.”

The season is summed up in song, he said.

“The song ‘Mary Did You Know’ is my favorite because Mary said yes knowing the suffering of her son was necessary for the redemption of all of us,” Balich said. “Jesus gave his life to save us, so Christmas becomes a time of giving. Giving is so personal, but it does make one feel so good especially during Christmas.”