O.C. mayors go head to head in mac and cheese eating contest to support Make-A-Wish

For every kid’s meal sold, Cappy’s donates $1 to the Make-A-Wish Foundation to help support children’s wishes through the organization. 

“We’re raising awareness about Make-A-Wish and what wishes can do,” said Gloria Jetter Crockett, President and CEO of Make-A-Wish Orange County and the Inland Empire. “We currently have 562 wishes that are waiting and it’s community events like this that bring people out to see what we’re doing to make sure all wishes are granted in a very timely fashion.” 

The competition’s referee was Make-A Wish alum of Anaheim Hills, Zach Mauldin, who had his wish granted to meet Los Angeles Angeles baseball player Mike Trout. Mauldin, who was diagnosed with thyroid cancer at age 12, says meeting Mike Trout was a day he will never forget. 

“I’ve been a lifelong Angels fan growing up here in Orange County,” Mauldin said. “So when I was able to meet my hero Mike Trout, it was a day I will never forget and an opportunity I will never forget.” 

Mayor Pro Tem O’Neill came out victorious after eating two full bowls of mac and cheese while Mayor Blom only finished one bowl. 

“We’re supporting Make-A-Wish Foundation, which is a phenomenal organization,” he said. “Just so proud to be here. If you don’t know about Make-A-Wish, please find out a lot more. They make wishes come true for kids in tough situations. It’s a great organization and we’re just so happy to be here.” 

Make-A-Wish Orange County and the Inland Empire have granted over 7,900 local wishes to date.