The IAM Wood Pulp & Paper Council (WPPC) organized its annual Chillin’ & Grillin’ for GDA event as a virtual barbecue competition this year. The fundraiser, which benefited Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines (GDA | TLC), brought together 20 cooks and teams who competed in various barbecue categories.
According to organizers, the event raised over $20,000 to support the provision of guide 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.”
Participants prepared dishes ranging from pork ribs to other specialties in the cook’s choice category. Nina Flack was named Grand Champion of the competition. Matt Murdaugh took second place while Don Barker finished third. Dave Lehive won the Pork Rib Champion title, and Brandon Bryant was recognized as Cook’s Choice Champion. Additional honors for Best of Territory went to 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 served as a $5,000 Title Sponsor. Other 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 event were Yvette Sheehan and LJ Brown from GDA | TLC as well as Laura Ewan from the IAM Legal Department.
All 33 raffle participants received prizes such as cutting boards, watches, merchandise from GDA | TLC, and items from Union Sportsmen’s Alliance.
