Newport Beach's Waffle Showdown: A Charitable Feast of Friendly Rivalry

Newport Beach officials were in for a delicious surprise on Saturday as Cappy's Cafe hosted a National Waffle Day event in partnership with Make-A-Wish Orange County and the Inland Empire. The challenge pitted the Newport Beach Fire Department against the Newport Beach Police Department in a friendly waffle-eating contest, all in the name of raising funds to grant wishes for children with critical illnesses.

Fueling Dreams, One Waffle at a Time

Igniting a Charitable Spark

The event was more than just a friendly competition; it was a heartwarming display of community spirit and a shared commitment to making a difference. The cafe and the family of Make-A-Wish alumnus Jacob Grimstead each donated for every waffle eaten, and when Newport Beach City Councilwoman Robyn Grant announced an additional donation of 0 per waffle, the stakes were raised even higher. This generous outpouring of support not only fueled the competitive spirit of the participants but also highlighted the true purpose of the event – to raise funds and awareness for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

A Clash of Heroic Appetites

The waffle-eating contest was a spectacle to behold, with Assistant Fire Chief Justin Carr and Deputy Police Chief Javier Aguilar leading their respective teams in the quest to devour the most waffles. The competition was fierce, as both teams battled it out, determined to emerge victorious. Spectators cheered on their favorite first responders, captivated by the sheer determination and good-natured rivalry on display.

A Tie-Breaker for the Ages

When the dust settled, the contest ended in a tie, leaving the judges and the audience eager for a final showdown. Enter Jacob Grimstead, the Make-A-Wish alumnus and the event's judge, who called for a last-minute challenge between Police Chief Joe Cartwright and Fire Chief Jeff Boyles. The two chiefs faced off, each aiming to be the fastest to finish a single waffle. In a dramatic finale, Boyles and the Newport Beach Fire Department emerged victorious, adding an extra layer of excitement and triumph to the already remarkable event.

Honoring a Brave Warrior's Journey

The waffle-eating contest was more than just a friendly competition; it was a celebration of the resilience and bravery of young Jacob Grimstead. Grimstead, a Make-A-Wish alumnus, shared his inspiring story of how the organization's support helped him during his cancer diagnosis. His message resonated with the attendees, including Assemblywoman Diane Dixon of the 72nd District, who witnessed the heartwarming event firsthand.

A Community United in Sweetness

The National Waffle Day event at Cappy's Cafe was a testament to the power of community, charity, and the unifying force of good food. By bringing together first responders, local officials, and the Make-A-Wish community, the event not only raised over ,200 for a worthy cause but also fostered a spirit of camaraderie and goodwill that will linger long after the last waffle crumb has been cleared. It was a delicious and heartwarming celebration of the values that make Newport Beach a truly special place.