The IAM Wood Pulp & Paper Council (WPPC) held 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 conducted online and featured 20 cooks and teams competing in various barbecue categories. The funds raised will help provide guide dogs and service dogs to individuals in need.
Participants competed in several categories, including pork ribs and cook’s choice dishes. Winners 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. Regional “Best of Territory” winners were also recognized: Nina Flack (Southern), Brandon Bryant (Western), Andrew Peltier (Midwest), and James Little (Headquarters).
“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.”
Sponsorship played a significant role in the fundraiser’s outcome. The $5,000 Title Sponsor was International President Brian Bryant. Additional support came from Choice Sponsors at the $1,500 level: 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. Other Prime Sponsors, Select Sponsors, and donors contributed to the event.
Judges for the competition included Yvette Sheehan and LJ Brown from GDA | TLC along with Laura Ewan from the IAM Legal Department.
All 33 raffle entrants received prizes such as cutting boards, watches, GDA | TLC merchandise, and items from Union Sportsmen’s Alliance.
