Hutchinson--The Kansas State Fairgrounds overflowed with food, folks and fun at the 36th annual Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale April 16-17 that raised approximately $386,000 for Mennonite Central Committee.

"I'd like to thank each of the hundreds of volunteers, the City of Hutchinson, the Kansas State Fair and all of the general public for coming out and making this a very successful event," said Rod Chrystie, Kansas Mennonite Relief Sale Chair. "Please know that your donations will be used appropriately by MCC to help people all around the world, 'In the name of Christ.'"

The Quilt Auction raised approximately $110,000 with multiple quilts garnering over $3,500. The top quilt sold for $6,300--titled 9-Patch Trip Around the World. It was made by Rose Wiebe Haury and quilted by the Friendship Circle from Southern Hills Mennonite Church, both of Topeka.

The General Auction featured a rare 1924 Model TT (1-ton) C-cab steel bodied pickup that sold for $23,000. Dick Price, Wichita, purchased the truck. Price also purchased the 1918 Fordson tractor at the 2002 sale. The auction raised about $60,000--an increase of approximately $20,000 from last year.

Other notable amounts include: the Run for Relief, $15,000 (up $5,000) and the Penny Power Challenge, $19,000.

The estimated attendance was 20,000 people--down from 22,500 in 2003.

"I think everyone that came out to join us for the 36th annual Kansas Relief Sale had a wonderful time," said Chrystie. "The weather was very nice both days and it was a joy to be together."