The finalists pulled out all the stops in their attempt to secure the most sumptuous free food in the most creative and unnerving ways during the 3-hour lunchtime extravaganza.

Bribery was in full-swing as Kate Monster dedicated her post to one of the judges and Carnivorous Cara brought back sandwiches for another two.  And while Kate’s lack of a plan may have led to some embarrassing conversations on the Hill and Cara’s vivid descriptions of tantalizing sandwiches made mouths water, it was Ben “The Quiet Storm” and Zach Attack that seemed to grab the early lead as they collided at a National Gas Roundtable Discussion at the ornate University Club.  While one might have guessed that baked beans and bran muffins would be on the menu, the Quiet Storm’s ability to enjoy crab cakes, a rum and coke, and a brand new comb, all while dropping Juvenile lyrics like they were hot, made the judges think that the Zach Attack could be running out of gas. 

Yet, Zach’s obituary was clearly written too early.  He skipped the gas lunch for a marathon adventure through the DC hotel scene, hitting up three luncheons before the clock struck 2PM.  After feasting on shrimp, Atlantic salmon, littleneck clams, veal scaloppini, gorgonzola ravioli with sautéed sausage and onions, raspberry-caramel-chocolate pyramid, and tiramisu, among other delectable dishes, we all wondered how Zach was able to fit through the Campus Progress door on his way back to the office.

While all of our interns did an amazing job finagling their way into private luncheons and corporate conferences, blogging with equal relish and biting wit, it was the Zach Attack that gave us all heartburn.

As winner of the free-food-a-thon, Zach receives, appropriately, a free lunch.  However, we at Campus Progress doubt we can provide anything close to matching his record of salivating entrees that he devoured in the past week.  In fact, we’re partial to trailing Zach on his next lunch-time adventure, who knows what we’ll find…