The story fell into place when Catherine Minnitt and Eartha Cole , more than 20 years difference in age , were eager to share their stories — showing the difference Colony Senior Center has played over a span of time : short as well as lengthy .
Catherine Minnitt , who is 80 years old and has been a member of the Colony Senior Center since she retired in 2006 , couldn ’ t wait to articulate how Colony Senior Center has brightened her own retirement years .
“ Twenty-two years ! Can you believe that ? That ’ s how long I have been coming here . I guess time flies when you are having fun ,” said Minnitt with a twinkle in her eye .” As Rhonda [ Brewer ] always says . “ If it ain ’ t fun , we aren ’ t doing it !”
And if you really want to see some fun in action , just pop in at the Colony Senior any day of the week . You might see them dancing , singing , or even playing a mean game of beanbag baseball . “ What I love most about this center is the people ,” said Brewer . “ They really do make life so much fun .”
No surprise — there : just like Minnitt said , “ The Colony ’ s senior center motto is , “ If ain ’ t fun , we ain ’ t doing it .”
Minnitt , who has also been a participant under the direction of three different senior center managers , said she is loving the newest Colony Senior manager , Brewer .
“ She is a blast ,” said Minnitt . ” We ’ ve always had a great time together here at Colony , but Rhonda has brought so much life to our center , adding a zest to our activities in a way I can ’ t even explain .”
And Minnitt , who moved to Colony from Morris when she was just 7-years-old , has always had a deep love and admiration for her community .
Seniors at Colony Senior Center enjoy a special celebration for their 45th birthday of food and fellowship in February .
Born on September 17 , 1942 , Catherine and her family didn ’ t make their way to Colony until her father was offered a job by Mr . Vester Whitfield . “ My daddy had experience working in the lumber yard , so Mr . Whitfield wanted my dad to come and help him on the farm . And he did . The rest is history .”
She also shared that she found it intriguing that the Colony Senior Center was actually opened during the month of February — Black History Month .
“ This center has lived almost 5 decades and has grown over the years , displaying so many changes in so many different aspects . I just think it is neat that I have been able to be a part of it for more than 2 decades ,” Minnitt said .
Listening intently to the conversation with Minnitt , Eartha Cole , who is 67-years-old and has been a participant at Colony Senior Center for two years , interjected with her thoughts on Colony Senior Center .
“ I love the fact [ Catherine ] has been an active member here for more than 22 years and I have been here now for two ,” she said . “ I guess you could say she is not only a great friend , but more like a mentor . We have such a great time together .”
Cole also said she just loves getting up every morning , knowing something fun is going to be happening at the senior center . It ’ s just a great place to be .
“ Ever since I have retired , I have been able to be an active part and well , Rhonda she makes it so much fun for us . There really is a never dull moment . I ’ ve been able to make friends who have become more like family . Actually , to be honest , we really are one big family .”
Reflecting back over the 45th celebration , Eartha said one of her favorite memories will always be the bulletin board that Brewer created .
Laughing she said , “ Can you believe she gave us homework ?”
Colony Senior Center celebrated 45 years in February .
CULLMAN COUNTY SENIOR MAGAZINE SUMMER 2023 | 17