This past Saturday saw us gather en masse at the Church of the Incarnation to celebrate that highest of callings: the cooking, eating and rating of Sliders toward the dual causes of fighting Multiple Sclerosis and banishing our summer beach bodies.

We were successful on both counts, raising over $1000 and eating over 11 pounds of beef.

The competition was fierce: Fay's “Halal-a Back Burger,” with its non-traditional fusion of shawarma spices, labne cheese and pickled veggies. Hayden’s “Juicy Lucia,” with its delicate balance of cheese and jalapeño folded inside the beef, and its subtle topping of caramelized onion with a dollop of mustard. Chip’s “Golden Nugget” - a shining example of minimalistic purity, with cheese inside and the democratic option to choose your own toppings.

But there could be only one. And in the end, the coveted Golden Spatula fell to Fay and the “Halal-a Back Burger.” People praised its creative flair, well-harmonized toppings and balanced taste, weighing it in at a whopping 8.88. Hayden followed up with a 7.88, with kudos for the deliciousness of the overall package and the elegant construction and presentation, while Chip took the bronze spatula with a 7.50, with folks enjoying the meat-focused approach and hidden-cheesy-treat, but also wanting more in terms of flair and toppings. Congrats to all the chefs - it was a spectacular event and a major upgrade on all counts from last year.