-Editorial
Children in Calexico were filled with wonder and excitement as the iconic REACH helicopter descended onto the Ashley Home Furniture parking lot, marking the start of a heartwarming holiday spectacle. But the magic quickly turned mischievous when the Grinch made a surprise appearance, stirring up laughter and gasps from the crowd. Just as it seemed he might get away with his infamous holiday heist, Santa Claus himself swooped in to save the day, playfully “arresting” the green troublemaker to the cheers and delight of the children, ensuring Christmas would remain safe and joyful.
The Calexico Police Department (CPD) hosted its annual “Kids and Badges” event, a special initiative designed to give back to local children this holiday season. This year, the event has expanded to two days to accommodate more young participants.
The holiday celebration began with a special treat for the children — a delicious breakfast at Denny’s, where they shared smiles, laughter, and the excitement of the day ahead. After their meal, the kids were paraded to the Walmart area in grand fashion, led by the blaring sirens of police and fire vehicles.
The event was part of a larger community celebration spearheaded by Calexico Police Officer Miriam Vega, who reflected on the growth and success of the initiative. “Honestly, I do feel very blessed and, more than anything, grateful for everybody who participated,” said Officer Vega.
This year, Vega and her team expanded the event to a two-day celebration, aiming to bring holiday cheer to more local youth. “We decided to do 30 kids from elementary and junior high on the first day, and the second day will be for teens and badges, which is at the high school level,” Vega explained. The second day saw 22 teens participating in an event hosted at the Imperial Valley Outlets.
“I’m very grateful for all the sponsors and everybody who came together to make this event happen,” Vega added.
Once at Walmart, each child was given a $150 voucher to pick out the toys they had been dreaming of, while teens participating the next day received a $200 voucher to shop for items of their choice.
The event was founded by Retired Calexico Police officer Victor Legaspi, who reflected on its growth and impact. “We wanted to concentrate on our kids here in Calexico,” Legaspi said.
Under Legaspi’s leadership, the event grew into a cherished local tradition, and today it continues to thrive under the direction of Officer Vega. “I think Vega is doing an outstanding job continuing the Kids and Badges legacy,” Legaspi said with pride.
Calexico Police Chief Armando Orozco, who has been involved in the event since its early years, expressed pride in the continued success of the program. “Seeing these kids’ faces reminds me of why we do what we do,” Orozco said. “I’m extremely proud of the hard work that my officers have done throughout the year, and to culminate it with this event — seeing their faces light up when they saw the Grinch come out of the helicopter and Santa Claus arrest him — it makes it all worthwhile.”
