The IAM Wood Pulp & Paper Council (WPPC) held its annual Chillin’ & Grillin’ for GDA event virtually this year, organizing a BBQ competition to raise funds for Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines (GDA | TLC). The event featured 20 cooks and teams who participated in various categories, including pork ribs and cook’s choice dishes.
The virtual fundraiser collected over $20,000, which will be used to provide guide and service dogs to individuals in need. According to the organizers, the community spirit remained strong despite the online format.
“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.”
Nina Flack was named Grand Champion of the competition. Other winners included 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 went to Nina Flack (Southern), Brandon Bryant (Western), Andrew Peltier (Midwest), and James Little (Headquarters).
Sponsorship played a significant role in supporting the fundraiser. International President Brian Bryant served as the $5,000 Title Sponsor. Other key sponsors at the $1,500 level included several IAM districts and territories as well as Employee Benefit Systems.
Judges for the competition were Yvette Sheehan and LJ Brown from GDA | TLC alongside Laura Ewan from the IAM Legal Department.
All 33 raffle entrants received prizes such as cutting boards, watches, branded merchandise from GDA | TLC, and items from Union Sportsmen’s Alliance.
