The IAM Wood Pulp & Paper Council (WPPC) recently 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 took place online, with 20 cooks and teams participating in various barbecue categories such as pork ribs and cook’s choice dishes.
According to the organizers, funds raised from the competition will go toward providing 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 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 awards were given 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 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 several IAM districts and territories, 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 entrants received prizes such as cutting boards, watches, GDA | TLC merchandise, and items from Union Sportsmen’s Alliance.
