The IAM Wood Pulp & Paper Council (WPPC) held its annual Chillin’ & Grillin’ for GDA event virtually this year, organizing a barbecue competition that raised over $20,000 for Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines (GDA | TLC).
Twenty cooks and teams participated in the online event, preparing dishes ranging from pork ribs to creative cook’s choice entries. The fundraiser supports the provision of guide and service dogs to people 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.”
Nina Flack won Grand Champion honors at the competition. Matt Murdaugh took second place, while Don Barker finished third. Dave Lehive was named Pork Rib Champion and Brandon Bryant received Cook’s Choice Champion. Best of Territory winners included Nina Flack for Southern territory, Brandon Bryant for Western, Andrew Peltier for Midwest, and James Little representing Headquarters.
Sponsorship played a significant role in the event’s fundraising total. International President Brian Bryant served as Title Sponsor with a $5,000 contribution. Additional support came from organizations such as IAM District W2021, IAM District W24, IAM Air Transport Territory, Employee Benefit Systems, the IAM Southern Territory at the $1,500 level, along with other Prime Sponsors and Select Sponsors.
Judges included Yvette Sheehan and LJ Brown from GDA | TLC as well as Laura Ewan from the IAM Legal Department.
All 33 raffle participants received prizes like cutting boards, watches, GDA | TLC merchandise, and items from Union Sportsmen’s Alliance.
