‘beginning’ at Colley Complex

By JAINE TREADWELL

Features Editor

May 1, 2000 10 PM

If Thursday was "Just the Beginning" for the James Oscar Colley Senior Complex, then certainly the sky is the limit for its future.

More than 200 people attended an open house at the complex and got to see, first hand, what the excitement surrounding the center is all about.

The seniors took the opportunity to display their talents in a show titled "Just the Beginning." The show included paintings, needlework, quilts and ceramics. They put on demonstrations of yoga, aerobics and dancing. The Merry Hearts clowns kept everyone smiling and the Senior Choir opened their hearts in song.

"It was a wonderful day for the Colley Senior Complex and for the City of Troy," said Mary Ann Casey, complex director. "It was a time to celebrate our complex and to honor those who have helped make it a reality."

The first order of the open house was the dedication and unveiling of a portrait of Dr. and Mrs. J.O. Colley, Sr. The complex is named in honor and memory of Dr. J.O. Colley, Sr., who was one of Troy’s most influencial and best loved citizens. He worked diligently to make life better for all citizens of the Troy area and he took a special interest in older adults and children.

Tom Collier, former superintendent of the Baptist Children’s Home in Troy, unveiled the portrait of the Colleys, calling them "two of God’s favorite children."

The Colley family was recognized for its many contributions to the Colley Senior Complex, including the furnishings for the parlor in which the portrait hangs.

Just down the hall of the complex, another dedication was made and another portrait unveiled as Troy Mayor Jimmy Lunsford was honored.

Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr., chancellor of Troy State University, made the presentation naming the conference room of the complex in honor of Lunsford.

Hawkins praised Lunsford for his focus on making Troy "the best place where the best people can do their best work."

Also dedicated was the complex chapel. Dr. Malone Chandler dedicated the chapel as a place of prayer, solitude and contemplation. The chapel was furnished by Riverview Baptist Church.

Following the dedication ceremonies, guided tours of the complex were given and refreshements were served.

The first-time visitors to the complex found it to be an eye-opening experience.

The Colley Senior Complex opened in June 1999 and its growth has been amazing.

"We sincerely have the best group of participants and the best group of volunteers that can be found," Casey said. "The support that we have received from the city administration and the community has been fantastic. I can’t say enough good things about the people of Troy. We are excited about the Colley Senior Complex and what you see here today is just the beginning. The best is yet to come!"