Log-A-Load for Kids Auction raises funds for WVU Children’s Hospital

ELKINS -- The Mountain Loggers Group hosted its annual Ted Harriman Memorial Log-A-Load for Kids Auction Thursday at Newlons International Sales on the Beverly Five-Lane.

The event is held each year during the Mountain State Forest Festival, with all proceeds going directly to the Log-A-Load Kids Fund and the WVU Foundation to benefit WVU Medicine Children's Hospital.

Donors attending the event include forestry and wood products companies, as well as individuals from throughout the state.

"Every year we have many of the same people show up and give to this great cause," Mountain Loggers Group President Danny Sines said. "These loggers come out and spend money out of their paycheck on these logs, when on a pretty day like today, they could be out logging. But instead they take time to come out and contribute to this. To me that's selfless and that's big hearts."

More than 70 companies and individuals raised more than $170,000 at last year's event. Since 2006, the loggers have raised a total of $2,272,202 to WVU Children's Hospital.

"It's grown over the years and I think the first year we raised $27,000," Sines said. "We are at about $2.3 million now since 2006, and what we were able to do last year with the new hospital makes it all worth it."

Funds raised at the last three events have gone to a host of items at the new hospital, including Interior Theming for MRI, CT Scanner, and Mobile X-Ray Units, which were made possible from last year's donations.

"You guys have supported us through toys, easter baskets, surgical caps and I could go on and on," Rachel Blaski, WVU Children's Hospital Vice President of Operation, told the large group gathered for the event Thursday. "We are very, very thankful for all that you have done, so on behalf of the leadership, faculty and staff, and most importantly our patients, thank you for your contributions and all that you have done."

Plaques were presented to the top four contributors from the 2022 auction. Headlining the list was Heritage Hardwoods. The second-largest contributor was JC Lumber Company, while Columbia Forest Products was third. Wilson Forest Products rounded out the list in fourth place.

Curt Hassler was honored with the President's Service Award.

Maid Silvia Anna Marie Ruf and her Maids of Honor, Miriam Fath and Sophia Shoemaker, were present for the event. They were joined by members of the MSFF Board of Directors.

"Thank you everyone for having us today and we are so excited about Forest Festival week so far," Ruf said. "It's been pretty busy, and as the weekend approaches it's going to get even more crazy, but fun. We hope you all enjoy the rest of the Festival this week."