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). This year’s event took place online, with 20 cooks and teams participating in barbecue competitions that included categories such as pork ribs and cook’s choice dishes.
According to organizers, funds raised from the competition will help provide guide dogs and service dogs to individuals in need. The event featured several sponsors, including a $5,000 Title Sponsorship from International President Brian Bryant. Additional support came from organizations such as 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.
“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. Best of Territory awards went to Nina Flack (Southern), Brandon Bryant (Western), Andrew Peltier (Midwest), and James Little (Headquarters).
Judges for the contest were 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.
