The IAM Wood Pulp & Paper Council (WPPC) organized its annual Chillin’ & Grillin’ for GDA Virtual BBQ Competition this year, 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 who participated in barbecue competitions, 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. “Our cooks, sponsors, donors, and judges made this event a true success,” said IAM Wood, Pulp and Paper Council President Matt Murdaugh. “The passion and generosity that make this tradition so meaningful.”
Winners of the competition included Grand Champion Nina Flack, Second Place Matt Murdaugh, Third Place Don Barker, Pork Rib Champion Dave Lehive, and Cook’s Choice Champion Brandon Bryant. Best of Territory awards went to Nina Flack (Southern), Brandon Bryant (Western), Andrew Peltier (Midwest), and James Little (Headquarters).
Sponsorship played a significant role in the fundraiser’s outcome. International President Brian Bryant served as the $5,000 Title Sponsor. Other major sponsors at the $1,500 level included the IAM Wood, Pulp and Paper Council itself, 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 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.
