Back in 1956 the Kalona community was preparing for a new “home for the aged,” as it was described by local church leaders. 

The need for elderly care was evident, and to prepare for such a facility, a Benefit Sale was held to raise funds for the organization which would become Pleasantview Home.

The first resident moved in in 1958; today nearly 150 people reside in Independent Living or in the facility today.

That first Benefit Sale set the stage for 63 subsequent events, and this year – on Nov. 1 and 2 – the 64th annual sale will take place.

Initially held at the Kalona Sales Barn, it now takes place on the campus of Hillcrest Academy (formerly Iowa Mennonite School). The school is located northwest of Kalona at 1421 540th St. SW.

A turkey tenderloin meal kicks off the weekend at 4 p.m., Friday, serving until 7:30 p.m.; the meal is donation only. 

A silent auction also begins at 4 p.m., lasting until 6:30 p.m. The meal will be served in the school cafeteria, with the auction in the gymnasium.

From 6:35-10 p.m., a live auction will take place in the gymnasium, featuring quilts, in-home meals, cheese, bologna, locally-grown meat, baked goods, gift certificates, hand-crafted items, furniture, local art and more. Area auctioneers donate their services in calling the auction.

Also Friday evening, local group The Great Bluegrass Herons, will provide entertainment from 5:45-6:35 p.m.

After an overnight break, an all-you-can-eat breakfast of pancakes, sausage, coffee, juice and milk will be served in the cafeteria from 7-10 a.m., again by donation.

The live auction in the gymnasium will resume at 8:30 a.m., typically running until noon.

A bake sale runs through the evening Friday, beginning at 5 p.m., and from 8:30 a.m. through the end of the benefit on Saturday. Concession stand items will also be sold during the auction on Friday.

Proceeds from the two-day event will support Pleasantview’s plans to create facilities for Memory Care and Assisted Living.