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PLATO Weekly Update 
Sent via email every Tuesday to PLATO members and  those interested in joining

Be sure to add: PLATO Office Operations and "info@platomadison.org" to your email contacts or approved sender list in order to direct PLATO emails to your Inbox and keep them out of your junk folder.
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  • May 27, 2025 10:38 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)


    PLATO Weekly Update

    May 27, 2025


    CURRICULUM

    SUMMER COURSES
    NEXT WEEK!
     Most Summer Courses will begin the week of June 2 and some of the 14 in-person and virtual courses still have space – find the Summer Course Schedule on the Courses webpage and contact the course coordinator to register.

    COURSES PAGE 


    SPECIAL EVENTS

     FIELD TRIPS

    REMINDER! Registration closes this Sunday, June 1, 2025 for the Circus, Stage and Sips Tour on Thursday, June 19, 2025. This Sauk County summertime adventure will include visits to three destinations: Circus World Museum, AL. Ringling Theatre, and Wollersheim Winery. Organized by PLATO, there will be three pick-up stops in Madison: East Towne Sears, Capital Lakes, and Oakwood Village University Woods. Learn more and register here.

    Milwaukee History in the Making Tour on Wednesday, July 16, 2025 – this field trip is now full. Learn more and join the waitlist here.

    THEATER TRIP

    REMINDER! The registration deadline is this week Thursday, May 29 for The Church Basement Ladies in The Last (Potluck) Supper on Thursday, July 10, 2025 at The Fireside Dinner Theater in Fort Atkinson. Note that PLATO is partnering with the Verona Senior Center and UW Retirement Association on this travel opportunity so pick-up locations are different from PLATO's usual trips. Learn more and register here.

    BREAKFAST & COFFEE GATHERINGS
    These social events offer members and their guests opportunities to share conversation over coffee and breakfast or breakfast snacks. Learn more below including updates on two new summertime locations and one time change!

    First Friday Breakfast – June 6, 9:00-11:00am at Yola's Café on Commerce Drive – note the new summertime location! Learn more and RSVP here.

    Second Friday Breakfast – June 13, 10:00am-12:00pm at the Memorial Union Terrace – note the time change and new summertime location! Learn more and RSVP here.

    LECTURES
    Enjoy past recordings of PLATO Lectures on an array of topics offered by PLATO members and local, national and international speakers.

    BIKE RIDES
    Explore the greater Madison area with self-guided bicycling routes – and, if you are curious, find out where to rent a Madison BCycle (electric bike).

    SPECIAL EVENTS CALENDAR 


    STAY IN THE KNOW ABOUT PLATO

    BIG THANKS to those who attended PLATO's Member Appreciation Annual Meeting 2025! Much information was shared, including this Committee Highlights flyer which features the many accomplishments achieved during this past year. 

    Virtually everything that you enjoy about PLATO – courses, lectures, trips, publications – is available due to the efforts of members like you. Whatever your skills, there is a place for you – we welcome you to get involved!

    HOW TO GET INVOLVED 


    THE AGORA
    The Agora, PLATO’s literary and arts journal, 
    celebrates members’ creativity and diversity of thought.

    View highlights from this past season on the The Agora Features webpage.

    THE AGORA FEATURES 


    SOCIAL JUSTICE EVENTS & READINGS

    Select from a range of topics and formats for your spring viewing or listening pleasure, curated by PLATO's Diversity Awareness Committee.
     

    Visit the Social Justice page to read more about Maydm, PLATO's Education Fund, and past DID YOU KNOW? Features.

    DID YOU KNOW? – spotlighting notable historic events and contributions made by non-mainstream individuals and organizations you might not have learned or read about. Suggestions for inclusions are welcome (send to Kathy at: ksmichaelis@gmail.com).

    SOCIAL JUSTICE PAGE 


  • May 20, 2025 3:15 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)


    PLATO Weekly Update

    May 20, 2025


    CURRICULUM

    SUMMER COURSES
    Registration for Summer Courses continues with 14 courses to choose from including in-person and virtual offerings! Most will begin the week of June 2 and vary in length from 3-10 weeks. Find the Summer Course Schedule on the Courses webpage and contact the course coordinator to register.

    THIS WEEK! Best-selling author Robert Kurson talks writing at the PLATO Writing Workshop on Wednesday, May 21 at 1pm and today is the deadline to register – learn more and register here!

    COURSES PAGE 


    SPECIAL EVENTS

     FIELD TRIPS

    NEW! Register today for the Milwaukee History in the Making Tour on Wednesday, July 16, 2025. Architecture enthusiasts will be awed by the beauty of St. Josaphat's Basilica – Milwaukee's largest church – followed by lunch and a riverboat tour of Milwaukee's sites from the unique perspective along the river and harbor of Lake Michigan. PLATO is partnering with the Verona Senior Center and UW Retirement Association on this travel opportunity so pick-up locations are different from PLATO's usual trips. The registration deadline is Wednesday, June 11. Learn more and register here.

    NEXT MONTH! Register today for the Circus, Stage and Sips Tour on Thursday, June 19, 2025. This Sauk County summertime adventure will include visits to three destinations: Circus World Museum, AL. Ringling Theatre, and Wollersheim Winery. Organized by PLATO, there will be three pick-up stops in Madison: East Towne Sears, Capital Lakes, and Oakwood Village University Woods. The registration deadline is Sunday, June 1, 2025. Learn more and register here.

     THEATER TRIP

    The Church Basement Ladies in The Last (Potluck) Supper on Thursday, July 10, 2025 at The Fireside Dinner Theater in Fort Atkinson. "It is 1979, the day of the church’s Centennial Celebration, and past parishioners have gathered to share hotdishes, bars, and stories from the last 100 years. As the women work in the kitchen, shared memories burst into life through a series of flashbacks." PLATO is partnering with the Verona Senior Center and UW Retirement Association on this travel opportunity so pick-up locations are different from PLATO's usual trips. The registration deadline is next week Thursday, May 29. Learn more and register here.

    BREAKFAST & COFFEE GATHERINGS
    These social events offer members and their guests opportunities to share conversation over coffee and breakfast or breakfast snacks. Learn more below including updates on two new summertime locations and one time change!

    THIS WEEK! Fourth Friday Coffee – May 23, 9:30-11:30am at Rotunda Café. Learn more and RSVP here.

    First Friday Breakfast
     – June 6, 9:00-11:00am at Yola's Café – note the new summertime location! Learn more and RSVP here.

    Second Friday Breakfast – June 13, 10:00am-12:00pm at the Memorial Union Terrace – note the new summertime location and time change! Learn more and RSVP here.

    LECTURES
    Partake in past recordings of PLATO Lectures on timely topics offered by PLATO members and local, national and international speakers.

    BIKE RIDES
    Explore the greater Madison area with self-guided bicycling routes – and, if you are curious, find out where to rent a Madison BCycle (electric bike).

    SPECIAL EVENTS CALENDAR 


    STAY IN THE KNOW ABOUT PLATO

    BIG THANKS to those who attended PLATO's Member Appreciation Annual Meeting 2025! Much information was shared, including this Committee Highlights flyer which features the many accomplishments achieved during this past year. 

    Virtually everything that you enjoy about PLATO – courses, lectures, trips, publications – is available due to the efforts of members like you. Whatever your skills, there is a place for you – we welcome you to get involved!

    HOW TO GET INVOLVED 


    ELECTION RESULTS FOR PLATO 2025-26 BOARD

    Congratulations to President J. K. Cheema, Vice President MaryJo MacSwain, Treasurer Rod McKenzie, Secretary Edie Urness-Pondillo, and At-Large Director Allen May! The PLATO Board is composed of five officers, standing committee chairpersons, and five At-Large Directors. The new Board’s term starts on July 1, 2025. Learn about PLATO’s structure, policies, and more on the Organizational Documents webpage.

    LEARN ABOUT PLATO 


    THE AGORA
    The Agora, PLATO’s literary and arts journal, 
    celebrates members’ creativity and diversity of thought.

    View highlights from this past season on the The Agora Features webpage.

    THE AGORA FEATURES 




  • May 19, 2025 12:32 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)


    PLATO Weekly Update

    May 13, 2025

    TOMORROW! PLATO's Member Appreciation Annual Meeting 2025 on Wednesday, May 14 from 2:00pm – 4:00pm at the East Side Club. Registered members and guests may review the Schedule of Events hereFeel free to arrive a bit early to get checked in!


    CURRICULUM

    SUMMER COURSES
    Registration for Summer Courses is underway! Most will begin the week of June 2 and vary in length from 3-10 weeks. There are 14 courses to choose from which include in-person and virtual offerings. Find the Summer Course Schedule on the Courses webpage and contact the course coordinator to register.

    CURRICULUM SHOWCASE
    The Curriculum and Diversity Awareness Committees are seeking coordinators for two possible new courses: Classic Films II and Criminal Justice – find descriptions of these potential courses in the Curriculum Showcase.

    NEXT WEEK! Best-selling author Robert Kurson talks writing at the PLATO Writing Workshop on May 21 at 1pm – learn more and register here!

    COURSES PAGE 



    SPECIAL EVENTS

     FIELD TRIP

    NEXT MONTH! Register today for the Circus, Stage and Sips Tour on Thursday, June 19, 2025. This Sauk County summertime adventure will include visits to three destinations: Circus World Museum, AL. Ringling Theatre, and Wollersheim Winery. Organized by PLATO, there will be three pick-up stops in Madison: East Towne Sears, Capital Lakes, and Oakwood Village University Woods. The registration deadline is Sunday, June 1, 2025. Learn more and register here.


    THEATER TRIP

    The Church Basement Ladies in The Last (Potluck) Supper on Thursday, July 10, 2025 at The Fireside Dinner Theater in Fort Atkinson. "It is 1979, the day of the church’s Centennial Celebration, and past parishioners have gathered to share hotdishes, bars, and stories from the last 100 years. As the women work in the kitchen, shared memories burst into life through a series of flashbacks." PLATO is partnering with the Verona Senior Center and UW Retirement Association on this travel opportunity so pick-up locations are different from PLATO's usual trips. The registration deadline is Thursday, May 29. Learn more and register here.

    BREAKFAST & COFFEE GATHERINGS
    These social events offer members and their guests opportunities to share conversation over coffee and breakfast or breakfast snacks. Learn more below including updates on two new summertime locations and one time change!

    NEXT WEEK! Fourth Friday Coffee – May 23, 9:30-11:30am at Rotunda Café. Learn more and RSVP here.

    First Friday Breakfast
     – June 6, 9:00-11:00am at Yola's Café – note the new summertime location! Learn more and RSVP here.

    Second Friday Breakfast – June 13, 10:00am-12:00pm at the Memorial Union Terrace – note the new summertime location and time change! Learn more and RSVP here.

    LECTURES
    Expand your horizons with past recordings of PLATO Lectures on important topics offered by PLATO members and local, national and international speakers.

    SPECIAL EVENTS CALENDAR 



    ELECTION RESULTS FOR PLATO 2025-26 BOARD

    The annual election is now completed. Congratulations to President J. K. Cheema, Vice President MaryJo MacSwain, Treasurer Rod McKenzie, Secretary Edie Urness-Pondillo, and At-Large Director Allen May. The PLATO Board is composed of five officers, standing committee chairpersons, and five At-Large Directors. The new Board’s term starts on July 1, 2025. Learn about PLATO’s structure, policies, and more on the Organizational Documents webpage.

    LEARN ABOUT PLATO 


    THE AGORA
    The Agora, PLATO’s literary and arts journal, 
    celebrates members’ creativity and diversity of thought.

    View highlights from this past season on the The Agora Features webpage.

    THE AGORA FEATURES 


    SOCIAL JUSTICE EVENTS & READINGS

    Select from a range of topics and formats for your spring viewing or listening pleasure, curated by PLATO's Diversity Awareness Committee.
     

    DID YOU KNOW? for May 6 – 19, 2025

    Aileen Cole Stewart (c.1893 – c.1997) passed her nursing exams in Maryland during the same year that the United States entered World War I. Though the army was in desperate need for nurses, it wasn’t until the1918 influenza epidemic that African American nurses were assigned to active duty.

    Visit the Social Justice page to read more about Aileen Cole Stewart and past DID YOU KNOW? Features.

    DID YOU KNOW? – spotlighting notable historic events and contributions made by non-mainstream individuals and organizations you might not have learned or read about. Suggestions for inclusions are welcome (send to Kathy at: ksmichaelis@gmail.com).

    SOCIAL JUSTICE PAGE 


  • May 06, 2025 12:10 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)


    PLATO Weekly Update

    May 6, 2025


    CURRICULUM


    SUMMER COURSES
    NEW!
     Registration for Summer Courses is now open! Most will begin the week of June 2 and vary in length from 3-10 weeks. With 14 courses to choose from, including in-person and virtual offerings, something is sure to please! Find the Summer Course Schedule on the Courses webpage and contact the course coordinator to register.

    CURRIULUM SHOWCASE
    The Curriculum and Diversity Awareness Committees are seeking coordinators for two possible new courses: Classic Films II and Criminal Justice – find descriptions of these potential courses in the Curriculum Showcase.

    COURSES PAGE 


    SPECIAL EVENTS

     THEATER TRIPS

    NEW! The Church Basement Ladies in The Last (Potluck) Supper on Thursday, July 10, 2025 at The Fireside Dinner Theater in Fort Atkinson. "It is 1979, the day of the church’s Centennial Celebration, and past parishioners have gathered to share hotdishes, bars, and stories from the last 100 years. As the women work in the kitchen, shared memories burst into life through a series of flashbacks." PLATO is partnering with the Verona Senior Center and UW Retirement Association on this travel opportunity so pick-up locations are different from PLATO's usual trips. The registration deadline is Thursday, May 29. Learn more and register here.

     FIELD TRIPS

    Celebrate the advent of summer with the Circus, Stage and Sips Tour on Thursday, June 19, 2025. This Sauk County adventure will include visits to three destinations: Circus World Museum, AL. Ringling Theatre, and Wollersheim Winery! Organized by PLATO, there will be three pick-up stops in Madison: East Towne Sears, Capital Lakes, and Oakwood Village University Woods. The registration deadline is Sunday, June 1, 2025. Learn more and register here.

    REMINDER – East Troy Railroad & Yerkes Observatory Tour on Monday, May 12, 2025Registrants may review event details here.

    BREAKFAST GATHERINGS

    THIS WEEK! Second Friday Breakfast – enjoy conversation, coffee and breakfast snacks with fellow members on Friday, May 9 at 9:30-11:30am at Lakeside Street Coffee House. A prominent stairway leads to the lower level where our group meets. Guests are welcome, so feel free to bring a friend who may be interested in PLATO! Learn more and RSVP here.

    Fourth Friday Coffee – May 23, 9:30-11:30am at Rotunda Café. Learn more and RSVP here.

    First Friday Breakfast – June 6, 9:00-11:00 at Yola's Café (note the new summertime location). Learn more and RSVP here.

    LECTURES
    Peruse past recordings of PLATO Lectures on many interesting subjects offered by members and local, national and international speakers.

    SPECIAL EVENTS CALENDAR 


    ELECTION FOR PLATO 2025-26 BOARD

    Voting is underway and will close on Wednesday, May 7 at midnight

    Read about the nominees by clicking on the Nominee Biographies link below and then cast your vote with the provided link. Note that you will need to login and there is a "forgot password" button if needed. The Nominating Committee thanks the members who agreed to be listed as nominees as well as those who have already voted!

    NOMINEE BIOGRAPHIES 


    THE AGORA
    The Agora, PLATO’s literary and arts journal, 
    celebrates members’ creativity and diversity of thought.

    View highlights from this past season on the The Agora Features webpage.

    THE AGORA FEATURES 




    SOCIAL JUSTICE EVENTS & READINGS

    Select from a range of topics and formats for your spring viewing or listening pleasure, curated by PLATO's Diversity Awareness Committee.
     

    DID YOU KNOW? for May 6 – 19, 2025

    Aileen Cole Stewart (c.1893 – c.1997) passed her nursing exams in Maryland during the same year that the United States entered World War I. Though the army was in desperate need for nurses, it wasn’t until the1918 influenza epidemic that African American nurses were assigned to active duty.

    Visit the Social Justice page to read more about Aileen Cole Stewart and past DID YOU KNOW? Features.

    DID YOU KNOW? – spotlighting notable historic events and contributions made by non-mainstream individuals and organizations you might not have learned or read about. Suggestions for inclusions are welcome (send to Kathy at: ksmichaelis@gmail.com).

    SOCIAL JUSTICE PAGE 


  • April 29, 2025 12:08 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)


    PLATO Weekly Update

    April 29, 2025


    MEMBER APPRECIATION ANNUAL MEETING

    THIS WEEK! The deadline to register is this Friday, May 2This lively social event features keynote speaker John Stofflet, Local Broadcast Legend and 26-time Emmy Winner who will share anecdotes and challenges from his career as a newscaster. Enjoy light refreshments, the annual PLATO business meeting, door prizes and more! This is a complimentary event and members may invite a guest. Find event and registration details here – including the list of door prizes!

    CURRICULUM

    SUMMER COURSES
    NEXT WEEK! Registration for Summer Courses will open on Tuesday, May 6, and most will begin the week of June 2. Courses will vary in length ranging from 3-10 weeks with in-person and virtual offerings. With 12 courses to choose fromsomething is sure to please! Course Schedules are always announced here in the Tuesday Weekly Update and on the Courses webpage.

    COURSES PAGE 


    SPECIAL EVENTS

    LECTURES

    THIS WEEK! Join us to learn about the science and technology involved in coffee production! Dr. Juan Rodrigo Sanz Uribe from UW-Madison will present Espresso Yourself: The Science & Art of Coffee, on Thursday, May 1 from 1:30-3pm at Oakwood Village West's Nakoma/Westmoreland Room. Dr. Uribe will deliver his lecture virtually from the country of Colombia while participants gather in person to sample the wonderful flavors of Colombian coffee. Registration is not required for this lecture, parking is free, and guests are welcome. Learn more here.

    Quench your curiosity with past recordings of PLATO Lectures
     on a variety of timely topics offered by members and local, national and international speakers.

     FIELD TRIPS

    Celebrate the advent of summer with the Circus, Stage and Sips Tour on Thursday, June 19, 2025. This Sauk County adventure will include visits to three destinations: Circus World Museum, AL. Ringling Theatre, and Wollersheim Winery! Organized by PLATO, there will be three pick-up stops in Madison: East Towne Sears, Capital Lakes, and Oakwood Village University Woods. The registration deadline is Sunday, June 1, 2025. Learn more and register here.

    BREAKFAST GATHERINGS

    THIS WEEK! First Friday Breakfast Gathering at the Pancake Café on Gammon Road on Friday, May 2, from 9:00-11:00am. Enjoy good food and conversation with fellow PLATO members. Learn more and RSVP here.

    NEXT WEEK! Second Friday Breakfast – enjoy conversation, coffee and breakfast snacks with fellow members on Friday, May 9 at 9:30-11:30am at Lakeside Street Coffee House. A prominent stairway leads to the lower level where our group meets. Guests are welcome, so feel free to bring a friend who may be interested in PLATO! Learn more and RSVP here.

    NATURE WALK

    REMINDER – Nature Walk at Oakwood West on May 5 at 10am followed by a social hour with lemonade and cookies in the Oaks Community Room. This event is full – find event details here.

    SPECIAL EVENTS CALENDAR 


    ELECTION FOR PLATO 2025-26 BOARD

    Voting is underway and will close on May 7 at midnight

    Read about the nominees by clicking on the Nominee Biographies link below and then cast your vote with the provided link. Note that you will need to login and there is a "forgot password" button if needed. The Nominating Committee thanks the members who agreed to be listed as nominees as well as those who have already voted!

    NOMINEE BIOGRAPHIES 


    THE AGORA
    The Agora, PLATO’s literary and arts journal, 
    celebrates members’ creativity and diversity of thought.

    Big thanks to the many PLATO members who submitted their work for consideration for inclusion in The Agora, Volume 9, which will be published in Fall 2025. With so many high-quality entries, this edition is sure to please!

    To view highlights from this past season, visit The Agora Features.

    THE AGORA FEATURES 

    SOCIAL JUSTICE EVENTS & READINGS
    Select from a range of topics and formats for your spring viewing or listening pleasure, curated by PLATO's Diversity Awareness Committee.
     

    DID YOU KNOW? for April 22 – May 5, 2025

    Visit the Social Justice page to read more about Lussier Community Education Center, PLATO's Education Fund and past DID YOU KNOW? Features.

    DID YOU KNOW? – spotlighting notable historic events and contributions made by non-mainstream individuals and organizations you might not have learned or read about. Suggestions for inclusions are welcome (send to Kathy at: ksmichaelis@gmail.com).

    SOCIAL JUSTICE PAGE 


  • April 22, 2025 1:39 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)


    PLATO Weekly Update

    April 22, 2025


    ELECTION FOR PLATO BOARD 2025-26
    Read the biographies for the nominees!

    THIS WEEK! PLATO's Board of Directors Election for 2025-26 will run from April 23 – May 7, 2025. Read about the nominees by clicking on the Nominee Biographies link below so you are ready to vote. The Nominating Committee thanks the members who agreed to be listed! Watch for a PLATO email tomorrow, Wednesday, April 23, with your link to the Ballot. Voting will close on Wednesday, May 7, at midnight.

    NOMINEE BIOGRAPHIES 


    CURRICULUM

    SPRING COURSES
    Everything you need to know is available on the Courses webpage. 

    SUMMER COURSES
    NEXT MONTH! Registration for Summer Courses will open on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. Most Summer Courses will begin the week of June 2.

    COURSE UPDATE
    PLEASE NOTE
    : There's been a change to the Film History schedule – the last date this course will meet for the Spring Term is tomorrow, Wednesday, April 23.

    CURRICULUM SHOWCASE
    Best-selling author Robert Kurson talks writing at the PLATO Writing Workshop on May 21 at 1pm – learn more and register in this brief article!

    COURSES PAGE 


    SPECIAL EVENTS

    FIELD TRIPS

    NEW! Celebrate the advent of summer with the Circus, Stage and Sips Tour on Thursday, June 19, 2025. This Sauk County adventure will include visits to three destinations: Circus World Museum, AL. Ringling Theatre, and Wollersheim Winery! Organized by PLATO, there will be three pick-up stops in Madison: East Towne Sears, Capital Lakes, and Oakwood Village University Woods. The registration deadline is Sunday, June 1, 2025. Learn more and register here.


    LECTURES

    NEXT WEEK! Join us to learn about the science and technology involved in coffee production! Dr. Juan Rodrigo Sanz Uribe from UW-Madison will present Espresso Yourself: The Science & Art of Coffee, on Thursday, May 1 from 1:30-3pm at Oakwood Village West's Nakoma/Westmoreland Room. Dr. Uribe will deliver his lecture virtually from the country of Colombia while participants gather in person to sample the wonderful flavors of Colombian coffee. Registration is not required for this lecture, parking is free, and guests are welcome. Learn more here.

    PAST RECORDINGS
    Check out two new offerings on PLATO's Past Recordings webpage:

    The Benefits of Strength Training for Life's Journey, a webinar presented for PLATO members by Dr. Katie Starr, Associate Professor of Medicine at Duke University School of Medicine. Learn how staying strong boosts mood, sleep, and memory and get tips for how to incorporate strength training into your routine.

    Senior Living Options, a presentation recorded during a Money Skills for Retirees class session. Charlene Avery and Mary Erdman share information on considerations around aging in place versus moving to senior living communities. For those who will move, several Dane County senior living options are discussed.

    COFFEE & BREAKFAST GATHERINGS

    THIS WEEK! Fourth Friday Coffee Gathering on Friday, April 25, from 9:30-11:30am at the Rotunda Café. Note that Sue Ellerhost has replaced Catherine Masi to co-host these Fourth Friday events events along with Donaby Henton. Learn more and RSVP by contacting Sue or Donaby here.

    NEXT WEEK! Catherine Masi has launched a new First Friday Breakfast Gathering at the Pancake Café on Gammon Road. The next event will be on Friday, May 2, from 9:00-11:00amLearn more and RSVP here.


    REGISTRATION CONTINUES!
    PLATO's 2025 Member Appreciation Annual Meeting

    Members are invited to attend this lively social event which features keynote speaker John Stofflet, Local Broadcast Legend and 26-time Emmy Winner who will share anecdotes and challenges from his career as a newscaster. Enjoy light refreshments, the annual PLATO business meeting, door prizes and more! This is a complimentary event and members may invite a guest. Registration is required and will close on Friday, May 2. Learn more and register here.

    SPECIAL EVENTS CALENDAR 


    THE AGORA

    The Agora, PLATO’s literary and arts journal, 
    celebrates members’ creativity and diversity of thought.

    Big thanks to the many PLATO members who submitted their work for consideration for inclusion in The Agora, Volume 9, which will be published in Fall 2025. With so many high-quality entries, this edition is sure to please!

    To view highlights from this past season, visit The Agora Features.

    THE AGORA FEATURES 


    SOCIAL JUSTICE EVENTS & READINGS

    Select from a range of topics and formats for your spring viewing or listening pleasure, curated by PLATO's Diversity Awareness Committee.
     

    DID YOU KNOW? for April 22 – May 5, 2025

    Visit the Social Justice page to read more about Lussier Community Education Center, PLATO's Education Fund and past DID YOU KNOW? Features.

    DID YOU KNOW? – spotlighting notable historic events and contributions made by non-mainstream individuals and organizations you might not have learned or read about. Suggestions for inclusions are welcome (send to Kathy at: ksmichaelis@gmail.com).

    SOCIAL JUSTICE PAGE 


  • April 15, 2025 10:53 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)


    PLATO Weekly Update

     April 15, 2025


    ELECTION FOR PLATO BOARD 2025-26

    Read the biographies for the nominees!

    NEXT WEEK! PLATO's Board of Directors Election for 2025-26 will run from April 23 – May 7, 2025. Read about the nominees by clicking on the Nominee Biographies link below so you are ready to vote. The Nominating Committee thanks the members who agreed to be listed! Watch for a PLATO email next week, Wednesday, April 23, with your link to the Ballot. Voting will close on Wednesday, May 7, at midnight.

    NOMINEE BIOGRAPHIES 


    CURRICULUM

    SPRING COURSES
    Everything you need to know is available on the Courses webpage. 

    SUMMER COURSES
    NEXT MONTH! Registration for Summer Courses will open on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. Most Summer Courses will begin the week of June 2.


    COURSE UPDATE
    There's been a change in the Film History schedule  the last date this course will meet for the Spring Term is next week Wednesday, April 23.

    CURRICULUM SHOWCASE
    NEW! Best-selling author Robert Kurson talks writing at the PLATO Writing Workshop on May 21 at 1pm – learn more in this brief article!

    COURSES PAGE 


    SPECIAL EVENTS

    LECTURES

    THIS WEEK! A Conversation with Chloe Benjamin on Thursday, April 17, 2025, from 1:30-3:00pm at the Oakwood Village West Performing Arts Center. The Alt-Pinney Book Club will interview the award-winning author of The Immortalists and The Anatomy of Dreams who is now based in Madison, Wisconsin. Registration is not required, parking is free, and guests are welcome. Learn more here.

    NEXT MONTH! Join us to learn about the science and technology involved in coffee production! Dr. Juan Rodrigo Sanz Uribe from UW-Madison will present Espresso Yourself: The Science & Art of Coffee, on May 1 from 1:30-3pm at Oakwood Village West's Nakoma/Westmoreland Room. Dr. Uribe will deliver his lecture virtually from the country of Colombia while participants gather in person to sample the wonderful flavors of Colombian coffee. Registration is not required for this lecture, parking is free, and guests are welcome. Learn more here.


    COFFEE & BREAKFAST GATHERINGS

    NEXT WEEK! Fourth Friday Coffee Gathering on Friday, April 25, from 9:30-11:30am at the Rotunda Café. Note that Sue Ellerhost has replaced Catherine Masi to co-host these Fourth Friday events events along with Donaby Henton. Learn more and RSVP by contacting Sue or Donaby here.

    NEXT MONTH! Catherine Masi has launched a new First Friday Breakfast Gathering at the Pancake Café on Gammon Road. The next event will be on Friday, May 2, from 9:00-11:00amLearn more and RSVP here.

    NATURE WALK
    Registration is full – for the one-hour Nature Walk at Oakwood West on May 5 at 10am lead by Barb Littlewood which will be followed by a social hour with lemonade and cookies in the Oaks Community Room. Learn more and join the waitlist here.

    FIELD TRIP
    Registration is full – for the History & Heritage of Green Bay Tour on Wednesday, May 28, 2025 to uncover the rich history of the Oneida Nation and Green Bay topped off with a tour of Lambeau Field and a group lunch in the stadium! PLATO is partnering with the Verona Senior Center and UW Retirement Association on this travel opportunity. Learn more and join the waitlist here.  


    REGISTRATION CONTINUES!

    PLATO's 2025 Member Appreciation Annual Meeting

    Members are invited to attend this lively social event which features keynote speaker John Stofflet, Local Broadcast Legend and 26-time Emmy Winner who will share anecdotes and challenges from his career as a newscaster. Enjoy light refreshments, the annual PLATO business meeting, door prizes and more! This is a complimentary event and members may invite a guest. Registration is required and will close on Friday, May 2. Learn more and register here.

    SPECIAL EVENTS CALENDAR 


  • April 08, 2025 1:41 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)


    PLATO Weekly Update

    April 8, 2025


    REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN

    PLATO's 2025 Member Appreciation Annual Meeting

    Members are invited to attend this lively social event which features keynote speaker John Stofflet, Local Broadcast Legend and 26-time Emmy Winner who will share anecdotes and challenges from his career as a newscaster. Enjoy light refreshments, the annual PLATO business meeting, door prizes and more! This is a complimentary event and members may invite a guest. Registration is required and will close on Friday, May 2. Learn more and register here.


    CURRICULUM

    SPRING COURSES
    Everything you need to know is available on the Courses webpage. 

    SUMMER COURSES
    Registration for Summer Courses will open on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. Most Summer Courses will begin the week of June 2.


    Interested in offering a summer course? PLATO's Curriculum Committee created a Course Coordinator Toolkit to help get you started! Summertime is a great time to offer a new course because courses typically run just 4-6 weeks.

    COURSES PAGE 


    SPECIAL EVENTS


    LECTURES

    NEW! Join us to learn about the science and technology involved in coffee production! Dr. Juan Rodrigo Sanz Uribe from UW-Madison will present Espresso Yourself: The Science & Art of Coffeeon May 1 from 1:30-3pm at Oakwood Village West's Nakoma/Westmoreland RoomDr. Uribe will deliver his lecture virtually from the country of Colombia while participants gather in person to sample the wonderful flavors of Colombian coffee. Registration is not required for this lecture, parking is free, and guests are welcome. Learn more here.

    THIS WEEK! Slavery in "Free" Wisconsin Territory, 1800-1850 on Thursday, April 10, 2025, from 1:30-3:00pm at the Oakwood Village West Performing Arts Center. Using documentation gathered in the writing of her latest book Enslaved, Indentured, Free: Five Black Women on the Upper Mississippi 1800-1850, historian and author Mary Elise Antoine will discuss the history of slavery in Wisconsin. Registration is not required for this lecture, parking is free, and guests are welcome. Learn more here.

    NEXT WEEK! A Conversation with Chloe Benjamin on Thursday, April 17, 2025, from 1:30-3:00pm at the Oakwood Village West Performing Arts Center. The Alt-Pinney Book Club will interview the award-winning author of The Immortalists and The Anatomy of Dreams who is now based in Madison, Wisconsin. Registration is not required, parking is free, and guests are welcome. Learn more here.

    BREAKFAST GATHERINGS

    THIS WEEK! Second Friday Breakfast – enjoy conversation, coffee and breakfast snacks with fellow members on Friday, April 11, at 9:30-11:30am at Lakeside Street Coffee House. A prominent stairway leads to the lower level where our group meets. Guests are welcome, so feel free to bring a friend who may be interested in PLATO! Learn more and RSVP here.

    UPDATE! Sue Ellerhost is stepping up to replace Catherine Masi to co-host the Fourth Friday Coffee Gatherings along with Donaby Henton. The next event will be on Friday, April 25, from 9:30-11:30am at the Rotunda Café. Learn more and RSVP here.  

    NEXT MONTH! Catherine Masi has launched a new First Friday Breakfast Gathering at The Pancake House on Gammon Road. The next event will be onFriday, May 2, from 9:00-11:00amLearn more and RSVP here.

    NATURE WALK
    REGISTRATION IS FULL –
     for the one-hour Nature Walk at Oakwood West on May 5 at 10am lead by Barb Littlewood which will be followed by a social hour with lemonade and cookies in the Oaks Community Room. Learn more and join the waitlist here.

    FIELD TRIP
    REGISTRATION IS FULL –
    for the History & Heritage of Green Bay Tour on Wednesday, May 28, 2025 to uncover the rich history of the Oneida Nation and Green Bay topped off with a tour of Lambeau Field and a group lunch in the stadium! PLATO is partnering with the Verona Senior Center and UW Retirement Association on this travel opportunity. Learn more and join the waitlist here.  

    SPECIAL EVENTS CALENDAR 


    THE AGORA
    The Agora, PLATO’s literary and arts journal, 
    celebrates members’ creativity and diversity of thought.

    Big thanks to the many PLATO members who submitted their work for consideration for inclusion in The Agora, Volume 9, which will be published in Fall 2025. With so many high-quality entries, this edition is sure to please!

    To view highlights from this past season, visit The Agora Features.

    THE AGORA FEATURES 



    SOCIAL JUSTICE EVENTS & READINGS

    Select from a range of topics and formats for your spring viewing or listening pleasure, curated by PLATO's Diversity Awareness Committee.
     

    DID YOU KNOW? for April 8 – 21, 2025

    Dr. Patricia Bath (Nov. 4, 1942 – May 30, 2019) was a pioneer in the field of ophthalmology. Dr. Bath is recognized as the first Black woman physician to receive a medical patent as the inventor of the Laserphaco Probe, a device and technique to remove cataracts. It performed all steps of cataract removal: making the incision, destroying the lens and vacuuming out the fractured pieces. 

    Visit the Social Justice page to read more about Dr. Patricia Bath and past DID YOU KNOW? Features.

    DID YOU KNOW? – spotlighting notable historic events and contributions made by non-mainstream individuals and organizations you might not have learned or read about. Suggestions for inclusions are welcome (send to Kathy at: ksmichaelis@gmail.com).

    SOCIAL JUSTICE PAGE 


  • April 02, 2025 1:54 PM | Anonymous member (Administrator)


    PLATO Weekly Update

    April 1, 2025


    REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN

    PLATO's 2025 Member Appreciation Annual Meeting

    Members are invited to attend this lively social event which features keynote speaker John Stofflet, Local Broadcast Legend and 26-time Emmy Winner who will share anecdotes and challenges from his career as a newscaster. Enjoy light refreshments, the annual PLATO business meeting, door prizes and more! This is a complimentary event and members may invite a guest. Registration is required and will close on Friday, May 2. Learn more and register here.


    CURRICULUM

    SPRING COURSES
    Have a question about a Spring Course? Find answers on the Courses webpage. 

    SUMMER COURSES
    Registration for Summer Courses will open on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. Most Summer Courses will begin the week of June 2. Interested in offering a Summer Course? Read on for details...


    COURSE COORDINATOR TOOLKIT

    If you're interested in offering a new course, PLATO's Curriculum Committee created a Course Coordinator Toolkit to help get you started! Summertime is a great time to offer a new course because courses typically run just 4-6 weeks.

    COURSES PAGE 


    SPECIAL EVENTS

    NEW! History & Heritage of Green Bay Tour on Wednesday, May 28, 2025. Join us as we uncover the rich history of the Oneida Nation and Green Bay topped off with a tour of Lambeau Field and a group lunch in the stadium! PLATO is partnering with the Verona Senior Center  and UW Retirement Association on this travel opportunity. Registration deadline is Thursday, April 17Learn more and register here.

    BREAKFAST GATHERINGS

    THIS WEEK! The very first First Friday Breakfast on the West Side! Join fellow PLATO members and guests for breakfast and conversation at the Pancake Café on Gammon Road. Held the first Friday of each month from 9:00-11:00amthe first event will be on Friday, April 4, 2025. This venue provides the comfort of a private dining room and the convenience of a large parking lot. Bring a friend! Like all Breakfast and Coffee Gatherings, everyone is responsible for their own tab. Learn more and RSVP here.

    NEXT WEEK! Second Friday Breakfast – enjoy conversation, coffee and breakfast snacks with fellow members on Friday, April 11 at 9:30-11:30am at Lakeside Street Coffee House. A prominent stairway leads to the lower level where our group meets. Guests are welcome, so feel free to bring a friend who may be interested in PLATO! Learn more and RSVP here.

    WEBINAR

    THIS WEEK! The Benefits of Strength Training for Life's Journey by Vivo on Friday, April 4 at 2:00pm. This one-hour webinar features a presentation by Dr. Katie Starr, PhD, RD, Associate Professor of Medicine at Duke University School of Medicine, followed by an interactive demo and Q&A session. This complimentary event requires registration to receive the Zoom link – the deadline is Thursday, April 3. Learn more and register here

    FIELD TRIPS

    There are a few spots left for the Linden Cohousing Tour on Saturday April 5, 2025, at 10:00am. Fun fact: there are about 200 cohousing communities across the United States and Madison is home to four of them! Come learn how cooperative living can facilitate interaction among neighbors to provide social, practical, economic, and environmental benefits. This is a complimentary two-hour tour for PLATO members and their guests and registration is required by this Thursday, April 3. Learn more and register here.

    LECTURES

    NEXT WEEK! Slavery in "Free" Wisconsin Territory, 1800-1850 on Thursday, April 10, 2025, from 1:30-3:00pm. Using documentation gathered in the writing of her latest book Enslaved, Indentured, Free: Five Black Women on the Upper Mississippi 1800-1850, historian and author Mary Elise Antoine will discuss the history of slavery in Wisconsin. Registration is not required for this lecture, parking is free, and guests are welcome. Learn more here.

    A Conversation with Chloe Benjamin on Thursday, April 17, 2025, from 1:30-3:00pm. The Alt-Pinney Book Club will interview the award-winning author of The Immortalists and The Anatomy of Dreams. Registration is not required, parking is free, and guests are welcome. Learn more here.

    NATURE WALK
    REGISTRATION IS FULL – 
    but you may join the waitlist for this one-hour walk through the Oakwood Nature Preserve lead by Barb Littlewood followed by a social hour with lemonade and cookies in the Oaks Community Room. Listening devices will be provided for all participants. Unfortunately, the trail is not accessible to people with disabilities. Learn more and join the waitlist here.

    SPECIAL EVENTS CALENDAR 


    THE AGORA
    The Agora, PLATO’s literary and arts journal, 
    celebrates members’ creativity and diversity of thought.

    Big thanks to the many PLATO members who submitted their work for consideration for inclusion in The Agora, Volume 9, which will be published in Fall 2025. With so many high-quality entries, this edition is sure to please!

    To view highlights from this past season, visit The Agora Features.

    THE AGORA FEATURES 

  • March 25, 2025 10:14 AM | Anonymous member (Administrator)


    PLATO Weekly Update

    March 25, 2025


    CURRICULUM

    SPRING COURSES
    Have a question about as Spring Course? Find answers on the Courses webpage. 

    ANNOUNCEMENTS
    The PLATO Travel Group's Spring Syllabus 
    has had a few updates – find the revised syllabus posted on the Course Description webpage.

    COURSE COORDINATOR TOOLKIT

    Summertime is a great time to offer a new course because courses typically run just 4-6 weeks. Most Summer Courses begin the week of June 2. If you're wondering how to start planning a new course, PLATO's Curriculum Committee is here to help – find what you need in the Coordinator Toolkit

    COURSES PAGE 


    SPECIAL EVENTS

    FIELD TRIPS

    Join us for the Linden Cohousing Tour on Saturday April 5, 2025, at 10:00am. There are about 200 cohousing communities across the United States and Madison is home to four of them! Come learn how cooperative living can facilitate interaction among neighbors to provide social, practical, economic, and environmental benefits. This is a complimentary two-hour tour for PLATO members and their guests and registration is required by Thursday, April 3Learn more and register here.

    NATURE WALK

    NEW! Enjoy a leisurely one-hour walk through the Oakwood Nature Preserve lead by Barb Littlewood followed by a social hour with lemonade and cookies in the Oaks Community Room. Listening devices will be provided for all participants. Unfortunately, the trail is not accessible to people with disabilities. Registration is required and limited to 15 people. Learn more and register here.


    LECTURES

    A Conversation with Chloe Benjamin on Thursday, April 17, 2025, from 1:30-3:00pm. The Alt-Pinney Book Club will interview the award-winning author of The Immortalists and The Anatomy of Dreams. Registration is not required, parking is free, and guests are welcome. Learn more here.

    Slavery in "Free" Wisconsin Territory, 1800-1850 on Thursday, April 10, 2025, from 1:30-3:00pm. Using documentation gathered in the writing of her latest book Enslaved, Indentured, Free: Five Black Women on the Upper Mississippi 1800-1850, historian and author Mary Elise Antoine will discuss the history of slavery in Wisconsin. Registration is not required for this lecture, parking is free, and guests are welcome. Learn more here.

    BREAKFAST GATHERINGS

    THIS WEEK! Fourth Friday Coffee on March 28 from 9:30-11:30am at the Rotunda Café on Atwood Ave. Connect with fellow PLATO members over a cup of your favorite morning beverage. Feel free to bring a friend or family member who might be interested in PLATO! Learn more and RSVP here.

    NEXT WEEK! The very first First Friday Breakfast on the West Side! Join fellow PLATO members and guests for breakfast and conversation at the Pancake Café on Gammon Road. Held the first Friday of each month from 9:00-11:00amthe first event will be on Friday, April 4, 2025. This venue provides the comfort of a private dining room and the convenience of a large parking lot. Bring a friend! Like all Breakfast and Coffee Gatherings, everyone is responsible for their own tab. Learn more and RSVP here.

    WEBINAR

    NEXT WEEK! The Benefits of Strength Training for Life's Journey by Vivo on Friday, April 4 at 2:00pm. This one-hour webinar features a presentation by Dr. Katie Starr, PhD, RD, Associate Professor of Medicine at Duke University School of Medicine, followed by an interactive demo and Q&A session. This complimentary event requires registration to receive the Zoom link – the deadline is Thursday, April 3. Learn more and register here

    SPECIAL EVENTS CALENDAR 


    THE AGORA
    The Agora, PLATO’s literary and arts journal, 
    celebrates members’ creativity and diversity of thought.

    Big thanks to the many PLATO members who submitted their work for consideration for inclusion in The Agora, Volume 9, which will be published in Fall 2025. With so many high-quality entries, this edition is sure to please!

    To view highlights from this past season, visit The Agora Features.

    THE AGORA FEATURES 







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