The IAM Wood Pulp & Paper Council (WPPC) organized its annual Chillin’ & Grillin’ for GDA Virtual BBQ Competition, raising over $20,000 for Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines (GDA | TLC). The event was held online and featured 20 cooks and teams competing in categories such as pork ribs and cook’s choice dishes.
Funds raised from the competition will help provide guide dogs and service dogs to individuals in need. According to Matt Murdaugh, President of the IAM Wood, Pulp and Paper Council, “Our cooks, sponsors, donors, and judges made this event a true success. The passion and generosity that make this tradition so meaningful.”
Winners included Nina Flack as Grand Champion, with Matt Murdaugh taking second place and Don Barker third. Dave Lehive won Pork Rib Champion while Brandon Bryant earned Cook’s Choice Champion. Best of Territory winners were Nina Flack (Southern), Brandon Bryant (Western), Andrew Peltier (Midwest), and James Little (Headquarters).
Sponsors played a significant role in supporting the fundraiser. International President Brian Bryant contributed as a $5,000 Title Sponsor. Other Choice Sponsors at the $1,500 level included the IAM Wood, Pulp and Paper Council itself along with IAM District W2021, IAM District W24, IAM Air Transport Territory, Employee Benefit Systems, and the IAM Southern Territory.
Judges for the competition were Yvette Sheehan and LJ Brown from GDA | TLC as well as Laura Ewan from the IAM Legal Department.
A raffle was also held during the event with all 33 entrants receiving prizes such as cutting boards, watches, GDA | TLC merchandise, and items from Union Sportsmen’s Alliance.
