Presentations

Coffee with the Mayor | First Tuesday of Each Month at 9:30am | FREE

Join Sun Prairie’s mayor, Steve Stocker for his monthly meeting with the public at Colonial Club. No RSVP required.

Causes and Treatment Options for Common Shoulder Injuries | Present by Dr. Carpiaux | Tuesday April 7th at 10am | RSVP

Dr. Carpiaux is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine. His practice includes knee, hip, and shoulder joint replacement, fracture care, and sports-related injuries. He uses a shared decision-making approach and has advanced training in robotic-assisted joint replacement and arthroscopic surgery to tailor care to each patient’s goals.

Join us to welcome Dr. Carpiaux of the Orthopedic and Spine Centers of Wisconsin to Colonial Club as he explains some of the most common causes of shoulder pain, their symptoms, and the various treatment options available to manage these conditions. He will highlight the causes behind these injuries, such as overuse, trauma, and arthritis, and discuss conservative vs. surgical treatment options available to treat your pain.

Unheard, Untold, and Unusual WWII Stories | Presentation by Bob Block | RSVP

Part 1 - Tuesday April 14th at 10am Part 2 - Tuesday April 28th at 10am Part 3 - Monday May 4th at 10am Part 4 - Monday May 11th at 10am

Please RSVP for these talks by the Friday before the presentation.

Step beyond the familiar history books and uncover the lesser-known, surprising, and sometimes strange stories of World War II in this four-part series. You’ll explore events and perspectives that are often overlooked - stories that are unusual, unexpected, and deeply fascinating. You’ll fly alongside the all-women Soviet aviation regiment known as the Night Witches as they carried out daring nighttime attacks. You’ll examine the staggering human cost of the war, including the Soviet Union’s loss of approximately 25 million lives and the devastating impact on Poland, which lost about 17% of its population. You’ll also discover how wartime innovation shaped everyday life, giving rise to inventions still used today, such as microwave ovens, duct tape, and super glue. You’ll learn about the only battle fought between the United States and Japan on U.S. soil, test your knowledge by matching WWII-era military slang, and uncover which well-known celebrities served in the military - and what roles they played. This engaging four-part series offers a broad and compelling look at the events, lives, battles, and lasting consequences of a global war, inviting you to see World War II from fresh and unexpected angles.

A Culinary Journey - Titanic

Presented by Veronica Hinke | May 13th at 2:30pm

Delve into letters that first class Titanic passengers wrote to loved ones at home, describing the elaborate lunch feasts and other delicacies. Study the distinctly different menus from first, second and third class. How were they different? What items are still enjoyed today, and what items raise eyebrows today? The foods passengers and crew members ate are glimpses into the past. They are footnotes in history that provide insight into how people lived and experienced life during a distinct period in time known as the Edwardian era. Hear stories of Wisconsin residents who were aboard the Titanic, like Daniel (“Popcorn Dan”) Coxon, and more. Throughout the presentation, nibble on seasonal foods that Titanic passengers ate, including the assorted cheeses that were offered on the first class luncheon buffet each day.

Tickets for this event need to be pre-purchased and there is a limited about of tickets available. Please note that these tickets are non-refundable once purchased (this is an experience presentation). Tickets can be purchased at the main office. RSVP deadline is Friday May 8th. If you purchase a ticket by April 30th, $10 for Club 301 members and $15 for non-club members. If you purchase a ticket between May 1st and May 8th, $15 for Club 301 members and $20 for non-club members

Veronica Hinke is author of many historical books including “The Last Night on the Titanic,” and “Titanic - The Official Cookbook: 40 Timeless Recipes for Every Occasion.” She shares her love of early 20th century and late 19th century history, culinary arts and most of all... people. “Every food story I’ve ever written always, at the core of each one, ended up being about the people, and that doesn’t seem to change. This book is no different. Those stories of hope and resilience…I think that’s why the Titanic story is still alive today.” Her mouthwatering books, short stories and magazine articles explore food history and the delicious culinary narratives that take you back in time. Her heart calls to writing and speaking about the early 20th century and late 19th century drinking and dining experience and personalities of those era. *Books will be available to purchase after the presentation.

Stay Steady, Stay Independent: Simple Ways to Prevent Falls

Presentation by Gina Collins | Wednesday May 20th at 1pm

A fall can change everything but many falls can be prevented with simple changes and increased awareness. Many falls are linked to things like lighting, medications, balance changes, or small hazards around the home. Join Gina Collins from AgeBetter for an engaging presentation on common fall risk factors, practical ways to improve safety at home, and strategies to stay active, independent, and confident as you age. You’ll also learn about Safe at Home, a free program that offers home safety assessments for older adults in Dane County. Participants receive personalized safety recommendations and helpful resources to help them remain safe and independent at home.

Mental Health and Somatic Wellness

Thursday May 28th at 9am

Join Tracy, from the Sun Prairie Wellness Coalition, to learn about multiple different ways to calm your nervous system and support your overall wellness. We will explore using our sense of smell, sense of sound and our breath as tools for relaxation. You will experience these techniques along with some mindfulness practices and visualization processes. A handout will be provided with notes for you to continue to use the practices on your own and will include more information on ways to use a variety of techniques to support your mental health. This will be both interactive and provide you with quick useful strategies to use on a regular basis. This is a free program. RSVP by Friday May 22nd

Camp Randall: Civil War to “On, Wisconsin”

Presentation by Bob Block | Wednesday June 3rd at 10am

Step back in time and explore the remarkable 175-year history of Camp Randall - one of Wisconsin’s most significant historic sites. In this presentation, you’ll trace Camp Randall’s transformation from a Civil War training ground to one of the most iconic college football stadiums in the nation. You’ll learn how Madison became Wisconsin’s capital in 1848 and how land once used for state fairs was repurposed during the Civil War to train Union soldiers under Governor Alexander Randall. Discover the powerful stories of the more than 70,000 Wisconsin soldiers who trained at Camp Randall, as well as the Confederate prisoners of war who were held there and whose final resting place remains in Madison today. As you move beyond the Civil War era, you’ll follow Camp Randall’s transition into a University of Wisconsin athletic facility. Relive the excitement of early Badger football, including the historic 1917 victory over the University of Minnesota, and see how the stadium evolved through decades of expansion and renovation. You’ll also experience the traditions that make Camp Randall legendary—from game day rituals like “Jump Around” to the post-game “5th Quarter.” By the end of this presentation, you’ll have a deeper appreciation for how Camp Randall became a symbol of Wisconsin history, resilience, and Badger pride. RSVP by Friday May 29th.

Down Size with Ease | Presentation with Jess Lex | June 11th and September 10th at 1pm | RSVP

Downsizing is a BIG topic. Thinking about it probably brings up a lot of emotions. Maybe your don’t know where to start. How do you declutter decades of collections in a way that won’t be wasteful or cause sadness? In this presentation, you will gain valuable tips and information about the downsizing process that you can use to create a plan that fits your needs, the needs of your friend or your parents. Welcome Jess Lex, a local real estate agent, to take the first step foward.