The IAM Wood Pulp & Paper Council (WPPC) held 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 conducted online and featured 20 cooks and teams who participated in various barbecue categories.
The competition included dishes such as pork ribs and cook’s choice entries. Participants aimed to raise funds to support the provision of guide dogs and service dogs for 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 were announced as follows: Nina Flack received the Grand Champion title, Matt Murdaugh placed second, Don Barker took third place, Dave Lehive won Pork Rib Champion, and Brandon Bryant was named Cook’s Choice Champion. Regional winners included Nina Flack (Southern), Brandon Bryant (Western), Andrew Peltier (Midwest), and James Little (Headquarters).
Sponsorship played a significant role in the fundraiser’s outcome. The Title Sponsor at the $5,000 level was International President Brian Bryant. Other major sponsors contributing $1,500 each 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 Prime Sponsors, Select Sponsors, and other donors also contributed to the event.
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 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.
