The IAM Wood Pulp & Paper Council (WPPC) organized its annual Chillin’ & Grillin’ for GDA event virtually this year, raising over $20,000 for Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines (GDA | TLC). The event featured 20 cooks and teams who participated in a barbecue competition, presenting dishes such as pork ribs and various cook’s choice entries.
“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. Matt Murdaugh took second place, with Don Barker finishing third. Dave Lehive won the Pork Rib Champion title, while Brandon Bryant was awarded 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 the fundraiser’s outcome. International President Brian Bryant contributed as the $5,000 Title Sponsor. Other major supporters at the $1,500 level included the IAM Wood, Pulp and Paper Council itself, IAM District W2021, IAM District W24, IAM Air Transport Territory, Employee Benefit Systems, and the IAM Southern Territory.
Judges for the competition 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.
Contributions from this event will help provide guide dogs and service dogs to individuals in need.
