Features Editor

Jan. 30, 2001 10 PM

A "Gala"event has been planned for the fun and enjoyment of the "senior" community at 6:30, April 20.

The Senior Gala is a fundraiser to benefit the Colley Senior Complex, but the black-tie affair will be reminiscent of high school Senior Proms that the seniors remember so fondly.

Cleo Thompson, director of the nutrition center at the Colley Senior Complex, said the complex depends on fundraising events and donations to increase its offerings to the area’s senior citizens.

"We thought it would be great to have a night where we could all dress up in formal attire and go out and dance to big band music," Thompson said. "The Senior Gala is going to be a glamourous event and we know that everyone who comes will have a very special time."

The place of the event has yet to be determined ,but will be announced as soon as a decision is made.

"We want a place that can be beautifully decorated because this will be such a ‘gala’ event," Thompson said.

Ticket prices for the "Gala" have been set at $30 for singles and $50 for couples. The price of the ticket will include wine and heavy hors d’oeuvres.

"The Troy State University orchestra will play for the "Gala’ and they feature the big band sounds that are so familiar to all of our seniors," Thompson said.

Prior to the Senior Gala, a silent auction will be held, which will also benefit the Colley Senior Complex. Thompson said the auction will include antiques, services, dinners and household and recreational items.

Only 400 tickets to the "Gala" will be sold, so those who would like to attend are encouraged to get their tickets early.

For more information about the "Gala" or to make reservations, call the Colley Senior Complex at 808-8500.