Photos by Patrick Shea The Grinch who Stole Christmas tried to steal ornaments from the Christmas tree in downtown Center before the Kiwanis Christmas Parade on Dec. 17. Center Police Department officers Adam Fresquez and Kendra Adolph ensured the safety of Christmas spirit at the Kiwanis Christmas Parade on Dec. 17. Children shared their wish lists with Santa Claus at Casa Blanca Memorial Park after the Center Kiwanis Christmas Parade on Dec. 17. Flagbearers led the Center Kiwanis Christmas Parade on Dec. 17.

CENTER — Before the Center Kiwanis Christmas Parade began on Dec. 17, the Grinch who Stole Christmas tried to steal Christmas tree ornaments from the decorated stoplight downtown. Scolded by officials and heartened by the parade, his heart then grew three sizes.

Center police cars, ambulances, and fire trucks rolled down Worth Street along with flag bearers, the Center Key Club, a Jones Oil tanker, and other decorated trucks.

Residents flocked to Casa Blanca Memorial Park after the parade passed. They mingled, met with Santa Claus, and received gifts. Meanwhile, a reformed, green Grinch offered illuminated “Don’t be a Grinch” buttons to everyone in attendance.