By Aidan Mortensen | KOAL News

Excitement was in the air on Wednesday, June 11, at Castle Country Radio as the organization prepared for its annual Kickin’ Country Pie Auction. Featuring 46 pies donated by businesses, local leaders and citizens, the auction raised $19,620 for the station’s fuel card program and the Thomas B. Anderson scholarship.

“We cannot do this without the pies that businesses and individuals have donated. The swag, the certificates, its businesses and individuals that make this event a success,” said Ann Anderson, the driving force behind the auction.

Entering the auction, the goal was to raise at least $17,000 to help provide fuel cards for the year. That goal was surpassed and then some, with not a single pie going for less than $150.

Outside of those who donated pies or items to be auctioned off, several individuals and businesses opted to donate money directly to the cause. Thirteen separate groups provided $2,650 in cash donations, helping bolster the total amount raised.

The money raised from the auction helps fund the station’s fuel card program, which provides residents of the Castle Country diagnosed with cancer with $100 fuel cards to help offset the travel cost for treatments. All the fuel cards for this program are purchased locally through Market Express Sinclair and Pierce Oil Sinclair. 

“You hear a lot of businesses that are buying these pies. You hear a lot of businesses that are donating these pies. Support those businesses; it’s that type of support that makes it so they can support this effort,” said Castle Country Radio Owner Paul Anderson.

The most expensive pie of the evening went to the KARB Kickin’ Country “Somewhere in My Car Mel Apple Pie Cheesecake,” which went for an outstanding $3600.

“Thank you again to everyone who came in,” said Ann Anderson at the closing moment of the auction. Unfortunately, we know so many people who have had this diagnosis. I’m just so blessed we live in our little but mighty Price, which does so much for our community.

The $19,620 total marks a near $3000 increase from the 2024 Pie Auction, meaning Castle Country Radio will be able to provide more assistance throughout the year to area residents fighting cancer.

Castle Country Radio would like to thank all those who participated in the 2025 Kickin’ Country Pie Auction. Without your support, this event wouldn’t have been possible.

For more information on the Castle Country Radio fuel card program, call 637-1167.