The IAM Wood Pulp & Paper Council (WPPC) held its annual Chillin’ & Grillin’ for GDA Virtual BBQ Competition, raising over $20,000 to support Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines (GDA | TLC). The event took place online and featured 20 cooks and teams who participated in various barbecue categories, including 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 WPPC President Matt Murdaugh, “Our cooks, sponsors, donors, and judges made this event a true success. The passion and generosity that make this tradition so meaningful.”
Winners of the competition included Nina Flack as Grand Champion, Matt Murdaugh in second place, Don Barker in third place, Dave Lehive as Pork Rib Champion, and Brandon Bryant as 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 the fundraiser’s outcome. The $5,000 Title Sponsor was International President Brian Bryant. Choice Sponsors at the $1,500 level included the IAM Wood, Pulp and Paper Council, IAM District W2021, IAM District W24, IAM Air Transport Territory, Employee Benefit Systems, and the IAM Southern Territory. Additional support came from Prime Sponsors, Select Sponsors, and other donors.
Judges for the competition were Yvette Sheehan and LJ Brown from GDA | TLC and Laura Ewan from the IAM Legal Department.
All 33 raffle entrants received prizes such as cutting boards, watches, GDA | TLC merchandise, and Union Sportsmen’s Alliance items.
