It is easy to see why the Mardi Gras Gala Ball is known as ‘the party of the year.’ The Cattleman’s building was dressed in purple, green and gold and was filled with music and dancing.

The First Generation Band had everyone off their feet and onto the dance floor.

“Let the good times roll!” said Krissy Pinkard, president of the board of the Colley Senior Complex. The gala was sold out for the first time and even had to turn people away. “It was truly amazing.”

“I’m really amazed by how many people showed up,” said Rhonda Hebert. It was her first time attending the gala. “The music is fantastic, and the whole setup is wonderful.”

“I come to support the Colley Center and their activities,” said Vicki Robinson. Robinson attends the ball each year. “I enjoy the band and the food. Anything to help the city of Troy, I’ll do it.”

The money raised at the gala helps support new programs and maintain current activities at the Colley Senior Complex. The Complex hosts programs such as line dancing, pottery classes, etc.

“It helps their minds and bodies stay active,” Pinkard said.

“I appreciate all the support from the corporate sponsors and from the citizens in our community as well as all of the volunteers who came together to put together the event,” said Catherine Jordan, director of the Colley Senior Complex.

“It’s just one evening but it takes countless hours, minds and bodies to orchestrate the type of event that we held.”

“Everybody just came together and made the event special,” Pinkard said.

The Colley Senior Complex sold raffle tickets to win a Jeep. Tickets were sold before and during the event, and the winner was announced at the gala.

Rep. Alan Booth won the jeep and drove it home the next day.

The Mardi Gras Gala Ball was an event to remember, and it will be remembered until it rolls around next year.

“We look forward to seeing them again next year,” Pinkard said.