PLATO Weekly Update

March 3, 2026

CURRICULUM

SPRING COURSES

Have a question about a Spring Course? Find the full Spring 2026 Course Schedule on the Courses page.

ARE YOU COURSE COORDINATOR CURIOUS?
Do you have an area of expertise you would like to share by offering a PLATO Course? Or perhaps there's a subject you'd like to learn about with fellow PLATO members? PLATO Courses are open to a wide variety of topics and can be structured in a variety of formats – here are the most common:

Lecture + Question & Answer

Group Activity (e.g. read a book or watch a film) + Group Discussion

Hands-On Activities in Creative Arts or Skill Building

If you have an idea to develop for a course offering, the Curriculum Committee is here to assist – check out the Course Coordinator Toolkit to get started and email Kathy Brown or Jayne Fisher with any questions you may have.

HALF-PRICE MEMBERSHIPS
Memberships are half-price (just $30) for new members or lapsed members through March 31, 2026! Visit the Join PLATO webpage for details.

PLATO POP-UP EVENTS
Providing members with new opportunities to connect, learn, and grow!

NEW! PLATO member Donaby Henton will lead a workshop to play with ChatGPT, an artificial intelligence app, on Friday, March 20, 2026, from 10am – 12pm at the Oakwood Village University Woods Campus. Please bring your own smartphone or tablet installed with the ChatGPT application (though assistance on installation will be available if needed.) This session is open to PLATO members only and registration is required by Wednesday, March 18. Register here and contact Donaby Henton with questions.

Click here to learn more or to offer a Pop-Up Event.

SPECIAL EVENTS

THEATER TRIPS

View the Theater Trip Schedule with spring and summer offerings – destinations include Milwaukee, Fort Atkinson, and Chicago.

NEW! A Milwaukee Rep Theater Double Header! PLATO members have two fantastic matinees to choose from, each featuring a cultural icon. Frida... A Self Portrait explores the breathtaking life of Frida Kahlo, and Mrs. Christie is a mystery that would delight Agatha "Queen of Crime" Christie, herself. Registration is required and members may bring a guest. The registration deadline is Thursday, April 2. Learn more about Frida...A Self Portrait and Mrs. Christie.

~  ~  ~

FIELD TRIPS
View the Field Trip Schedule with day trips to interesting sites around Wisconsin through Fall 2026. Note that this is a preliminary list; more will be announced as details are finalized.

Just one spot left! Join us for a tour of the Wisconsin Veterans Museum on Wednesday, April 8, 2026 at 1:30pm. This museum has won awards from the American Alliance of Museums and is affiliated with the Smithsonian! Free to members and their guests, the registration deadline is Monday, April 6. Learn more and register here.

~  ~  ~

LECTURES
View the Lecture Schedule through Spring 2026.

THIS MONTH! Birding: Transitioning from Winter to Spring! Join us on Thursday, March 19, 2026 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Arts and Education Center for this fascinating lecture with Chuck Henrikson, PhD. In his lecture, Dr. Henrikson will share how he got started with his birding adventures in the UW Arboretum, and what makes this post-retirement hobby such a meaningful way of life. Registration for this lecture is not required, guests are welcome, and parking is free. Learn more here.

NEXT MONTH! 
Mark Your Calendar! These April Lectures will be held at the Oakwood Village University Woods Campus Arts & Education Center from 1:30 – 3:00pm:

NEW! Hearing Advice to Make You and Your Ears Smile! Join us on Thursday, April 9, 2026 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Arts and Education Center for this practical lecture with Juliette Sterkens, a professional audiologist. Her lecture will highlight advances in hearing technology, hearing rehabilitation, and assistive listening. She will also share answers to commonly asked questions about hearing loss and rehabilitation, as well as take questions from participants. Registration for this lecture is not required, guests are welcome, and parking is free. Learn more here.

NEW! April 23, 2026 – Wisconsin Vegetables Feed America! Presented by Deana Knuteson, PhD. More details to come.

LECTURES RESOURCES

Download the slides from the Your Voice in Healthcare: How to Prepare and Partner for Better Outcomes lecture and find a link to the recording on PLATO's Past Recordings webpage.

Download this handout from the Protecting Due Process and Immigrants in Our Community lecture.

~  ~  ~

BREAKFAST, LUNCH & COFFEE GATHERINGS

These social events offer members and their guests opportunities to share conversation over coffee or breakfast and lunch options.

THIS WEEK! First Friday Breakfast Gathering at Panera Bread located at 601 Junction Road on March 6, from 9:30-11:30am. To RSVP, send an email to Catherine Masi, the event coordinator, by the Thursday before the event. Learn more and find Catherine's email address here.

~  ~  ~

THEATER TRIPS
View the Theater Trip Schedule with spring and summer offerings – destinations include Milwaukee, Fort Atkinson, and Chicago.

PLATO Weekly Update

February 24, 2026

NEW! Save the Date – Registration for this complimentary event for PLATO members will open on April 7, 2026! The event will take place on Wednesday, May 13, 2026 from 2:00-4:00pm at the East Side Club on Monona Drive.

The keynote speaker will be Dr. Henrik Schatzinger, Director of the Center for Politics and the People at Ripon College, which is dedicated to the promotion of constructive political debate and informed citizens concerned with good governance. The title of his keynote presentation will be Hidden Money, Visible Power: Super PACs and Dark Money in Wisconsin Politics. Learn more about Dr. Schatzinger and read an overview of his upcoming book to be published this fall by Cambridge University Press. Dr. Schatzinger will also be a featured guest on NPR’s Throughlineon February 26 on the history of Super PACs. Stay tuned – more details to come!

CURRICULUM

SPRING COURSES

There's still time to register for some, including 16 Courses that offer unlimited participation – review those courses here and contact the course coordinator to register.

Find the full Spring 2026 Course Schedule on the Courses page.

HALF-PRICE MEMBERSHIPS
Memberships are half-price (just $30) through March 31, 2026! Visit the Join PLATO webpage for details.

SPECIAL EVENTS

FIELD TRIPS
View the Field Trip Schedule with day trips to interesting sites around Wisconsin through Fall 2026. Note that this is a preliminary list; more will be announced as details are finalized.

NEW! Join us for a tour of the Wisconsin Veterans Museum on Wednesday, April 8, 2026 at 1:30pm. This museum has won awards from the American Alliance of Museums and is affiliated with the Smithsonian! Free to members and their guests, the registration deadline is Monday, April 6. Learn more and register here.

~  ~  ~

LECTURES
View the Lecture Schedule through Spring 2026.

THIS WEEK! Global Entries: Anecdotes from My Travels Abroad on Thursday, February 26, 2026 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Arts and Education Center. In his lecture, author Joe Fahey will share his extraordinary adventures while traveling to the ends of the earth and many places in between during his 40-year corporate career working for several multinational companies. Registration for this lecture is not required, guests are welcome, and parking is free. Learn more here.

NEXT MONTH! Birding: Transitioning from Winter to Spring! Join us on Thursday, March 19, 2026 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Arts and Education Center for this fascinating lecture with Chuck Henrikson, PhD. In his lecture, Dr. Henrikson will share how he got started with his birding adventures in the UW Arboretum, and what makes this post-retirement hobby such a meaningful way of life. Registration for this lecture is not required, guests are welcome, and parking is free. Learn more here.

LECTURES RESOURCES

Download the slides from the Your Voice in Healthcare: How to Prepare and Partner for Better Outcomes lecture and find a link to the recording on PLATO's Past Recordings webpage.

Download this handout from the Protecting Due Process and Immigrants in Our Community lecture.

~  ~  ~

BREAKFAST, LUNCH & COFFEE GATHERINGS
These social events offer members and their guests opportunities to share conversation over coffee or breakfast and lunch options.

THIS WEEK! Fourth Friday Coffee at the Rotunda Café on February 27 from 9:30-11:30am. Learn more and RSVP here.

~  ~  ~

THEATER TRIPS
View the Theater Trip Schedule with spring and summer offerings – destinations include Milwaukee, Fort Atkinson, and Chicago.

PLATO Weekly Update

February 17, 2026

CURRICULUM

SPRING COURSES
Many Spring Courses begin this week!

There's still time to register for some, including 16 Courses that offer unlimited participation – review those courses here and contact the course coordinator to register.

Find the full Spring 2026 Course Schedule on the Courses page.

HALF-PRICE MEMBERSHIPS
To renew or to become a member, visit the Join PLATO webpage – now through March 31, memberships are half-price ($30).

SPECIAL EVENTS

LECTURES

PAST LECTURE RESOURCES – Download this handout from the Protecting Due Process and Immigrants in Our Community lecture last month.

Download the PLATO Lecture Schedule through April 2026! 

NEXT WEEK! Global Entries: Anecdotes from My Travels Abroad on Thursday, February 26, 2026 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Arts and Education Center. In his lecture, author Joe Fahey will share his extraordinary adventures while traveling to the ends of the earth and many places in between during his 40-year corporate career working for several multinational companies. Registration for this lecture is not required, guests are welcome, and parking is free. Learn more here.

NEXT MONTH! Birding: Transitioning from Winter to Spring! Join us on Thursday, March 19, 2026 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Arts and Education Center for this fascinating lecture with Chuck Henrikson, PhD. In his lecture, Dr. Henrikson will share how he got started with his birding adventures in the UW Arboretum, and what makes this post-retirement hobby such a meaningful way of life. Registration for this lecture is not required, guests are welcome, and parking is free. Learn more here.

BREAKFAST, LUNCH & COFFEE GATHERINGS
These social events offer members and their guests opportunities to share conversation over coffee or breakfast and lunch options.

THIS WEEK! Third Friday Lunch Gathering at the Great Dane Pub on the East Side on Jupiter Drive on February 20, from 11:30am-1:30pm. Learn more and RSVP here.

NEXT WEEK! Join us to cheer our UW Badgers on to victory! The next (and last) Basketball Watch Party is on Sunday, February 22 at 3pm. RSVP requested but not required – come and leave as desired – guests are welcome! Learn more and RSVP here!

FIELD TRIPS
Download the updated Field Trip Schedule with day trips to interesting sites around Wisconsinthrough Fall 2026. Note that this is a preliminary list; more will be announced as details are finalized.

THEATER TRIPS
Download the updated Theater Trip Schedule with spring and summer offerings – destinations include Milwaukee, Fort Atkinson, and Chicago.

PLATO Weekly Update

 February 10, 2026

NEW! PLATO has a new brochure to share with family and friends! Hard copies will be available at Lectures and Social Gatherings, or you can request copies by emailing info@platomadison.org. You may also download the Digital Brochure. Feel free to share with anyone who might be interested in PLATO!

CURRICULUM

HAVE YOU REGISTERED YET FOR SPRING COURSES?

Now is the time, as many begin next week! Our Winter courses are ending, so consider registering for one or more of our 37 Spring Courses, which include in-person, virtual, and hybrid options. Find a link to the Spring 2026 Course Schedule on the Courses webpage

CHECK OUT THESE COURSES:

· Psychology of Happiness: Mondays, 10am - 12 noon, 10 weeks starting on Feb. 16, Oakwood Village University Woods

· Shots Heard Round the World: History and Mystery of American Revolution: Tuesdays, 1 - 3pm, 4 weeks starting on March 10, Christ Presbyterian Church

· Introduction to Infectious Diseases: Wednesdays, 10 - 11:30am, 8 weeks starting on Feb. 18, via Zoom

· Learning the Language and Logics of Autism: Thursdays, 10am - 12 noon, 8 weeks starting on Feb. 19, Madison Senior Center

HALF-PRICE MEMBERSHIPS
To renew or to become a member, visit the Join PLATO webpage – now through March 31, memberships are half-price ($30).

SPECIAL EVENTS

LECTURES

PAST LECTURE RESOURCES – Download this handout from the Protecting Due Process and Immigrants in Our Community lecture last month.

Download the PLATO Lecture Schedule through April 2026! 

THIS WEEK! Your Voice in Healthcare: How to Prepare & Partner for Better Outcomes on Thursday, February 12 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Arts and Education Center. In her interactive lecture, Angie Ingraham, a Board-Certified, Independent Patient Advocate and founder of True North Patient Advocates, LLC, will identify practical ways to speak up, stay informed, and feel more confident no matter where you are on your healthcare journey.Registration for this lecture is not required, guests are welcome, and parking is free. Learn more here.

THIS MONTH! Global Entries: Anecdotes from My Travels Abroad on Thursday, February 26, 2026 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Arts and Education Center. In his lecture, author Joe Fahey will share his extraordinary adventures while traveling to the ends of the earth and many places in between during his 40-year corporate career working for several multinational companies. Registration for this lecture is not required, guests are welcome, and parking is free. Learn more here.

NEXT MONTH! Birding: Transitioning from Winter to Spring! Join us on Thursday, March 19, 2026 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Arts and Education Center for this fascinating lecture with Chuck Henrikson, PhD. In his lecture, Dr. Henrikson will share how he got started with his birding adventures in the UW Arboretum, and what makes this post-retirement hobby such a meaningful way of life. Registration for this lecture is not required, guests are welcome, and parking is free. Learn more here.

FIELD TRIPS
Download the updated Field Trip Schedule with day trips to interesting sites around Wisconsinthrough Fall 2026. Note that this is a preliminary list; more will be announced as details are finalized.

THEATER TRIPS
Download the updated Theater Trip Schedule with spring and summer offerings – destinations include Milwaukee, Fort Atkinson, and Chicago.

BREAKFAST, LUNCH & COFFEE GATHERINGS
These social events offer members and their guests opportunities to share conversation over coffee or breakfast and lunch options.

THIS WEEK! Second Friday Breakfast Gathering at the Lakeside Street Coffee House on February 13 from 9:30-11:30am. To RSVP, send an email to Sharon Scrattish, the event coordinator, by the Thursday before the event. Learn more and find Sharon's email address here.

NEXT WEEK! Third Friday Lunch Gathering at the Great Dane Pub on the East Side on Jupiter Drive on February 20, from 11:30am-1:30pm. Learn more and RSVP here.

PLATO Weekly Update

February 3, 2026

CURRICULUM

SPRING COURSES
Registration for Spring Courses continues! There are 37 Spring Courses to choose from including in-person, virtual, and hybrid options. Find a link to the Spring 2026 Course Scheduleon the Courses webpage. 

NEW COURSES
Check out these Spring Courses being offered at Oakwood Village University Woods

· Great English Manor Homes and Gardens: A four-week course on Mondays from 1:30 - 3:00pm (starts in March)

Musical Evolution of the Beatles: An eight-week course on Tuesdays from 1:30 - 3:00pm (starts on Feb. 24). Watch a brief "intro" video!

America’s National Parks: A Video Journey: A four-week course on Fridays from 10am - 12pm (starts in March) 

REMINDER – while most Courses will begin the week of February 16, these two will begin early:  

History of the Hollywood Musical starts today, Tuesday, February 3

Native Wisconsin starts on Tuesday, February 10

REGISTRATION TIPS
Some courses fill up quickly so if you see a course that interests you, try to sign up right away. If you find out that a course is full, ask if there's a waiting list you could join. Also, there are frequently a variety of courses that offer unlimited participation, so those are a sure bet. 

PLEASE NOTE! Courses that meet virtually or offer a hybrid virtual option will now list the platform they will use under "Location" in their course description. So if you need to download the Zoom app in advance, you will have plenty of time to do so. Learn more in the "Announcements" section at the top of the Spring 2026 Course Schedule webpage. 

CURRICULUM SHOWCASE
NEW! Learn about Allen May's recent Course Why Free Speech is Not a Free Pass in the latest article in the Curriculum Showcase. 

PLATO POP-UP EVENTS
Providing members with new opportunities to connect, learn, and grow!

NEXT WEEK! PLATO Pop-Up Men’s Group Discussion – There is a widely shared sense among PLATO members (both men and women) that American boys and men are on a downward trajectory. The disturbing metrics on education, family, work, societal status, etc. all tell the same story. And there is growing literature about this story. If true, what are the causes? And how can we work toward a solution? Enrollment is limited to 20 men.

When: Thursday, February 12, 2026
Time: 10am – 12pm
Where: Covenant Presbyterian Church @ 326 S. Segoe Rd.
Facilitators: Baxter Richardson and Tim Otis
Registration: Complete this form to register by Wednesday, February 11

Click here to learn more or to offer a Pop-Up Event.

SPECIAL EVENTS

DATE CORRECTIONS – Please note the correct dates for these two events and find complete details below.

Lecture: Global Entries: Anecdotes from My Travels Abroad – Thursday, February 26

Theater Trip: Million Dollar Quartet – Friday, June 19

FIELD TRIPS
NEW! Download the updated Field Trip Schedule with day trips to interesting sites around Wisconsin through Fall 2026. Note that this is a preliminary list; more will be announced as details are finalized.

THEATER TRIPS
NEW! Download the updated Theater Trip Schedule with spring and summer offerings – destinations include Milwaukee, Fort Atkinson, and Chicago.

BREAKFAST, LUNCH & COFFEE GATHERINGS

These social events offer members and their guests opportunities to share conversation over coffee or breakfast and lunch options.

THIS WEEK! First Friday Breakfast Gathering at Panera Bread located at 601 Junction Road on February 6, from 9:30-11:30am. To RSVP, send an email to Catherine Masi, the event coordinator, by the Thursday before the event. Learn more and find Catherine's email address here.

LECTURES

MARK YOUR CALENDAR! Birding – Transitioning from Winter to Spring! on Thursday, March 19, from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Arts and Education Center.

PAST LECTURE RESOURCES – Download this handout from the Protecting Due Process and Immigrants in Our Community lecture last month.

Download the PLATO Lecture Schedule through April 2026! 

NEXT WEEK! Your Voice in Healthcare: How to Prepare & Partner for Better Outcomes on Thursday, February 12 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Arts and Education Center. In her interactive lecture, Angie Ingraham, a Board-Certified, Independent Patient Advocate and founder of True North Patient Advocates, LLC, will identify practical ways to speak up, stay informed, and feel more confident no matter where you are on your healthcare journey.Registration for this lecture is not required, guests are welcome, and parking is free. Learn more here.

THIS MONTH! Global Entries: Anecdotes from My Travels Abroad on Thursday, February 26, 2026 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Arts and Education Center. In his lecture, author Joe Fahey will share his extraordinary adventures while traveling to the ends of the earth and many places in between during his 40-year corporate career working for several multinational companies. Registration for this lecture is not required, guests are welcome, and parking is free. Learn more here.

THIS MONTH! Join us to cheer our UW Badgers on to victory! The next (and last) Basketball Watch Party is on Sunday, February 22 at 3pm. RSVP requested but not required – come and leave as desired – guests are welcome! Learn more and RSVP here!

PLATO Weekly Update

January 27, 2026

CURRICULUM

SPRING COURSES
Registration for Spring Courses is underway! There are 37 Spring Courses to choose from including in-person, virtual, and hybrid options. Find a link to the Spring 2026 Course Scheduleon the Courses webpage. 

NEW COURSES
Check out these new Courses coming this Spring: 

The Psychology of Happiness: Mondays from 10am-12pm at Oakwood Village University Woods.

Introduction to Infectious Diseases: Wednesdays from 10am-11:30am Virtually via Zoom.

Living in 1984: Fridays from 10am-11:30am Virtually via Google Meet.

Also, while most Courses will begin the week of February 16, these two will begin early:  

History of the Hollywood Musical starts on Tuesday, February 3

Native Wisconsin starts on Tuesday, February 10

REGISTRATION TIPS
Some courses fill up quickly so if you see a course that interests you, try to sign up right away. If you find out that a course is full, ask if there's a waiting list you could join. Also, there are frequently a variety of courses that offer unlimited participation, so those are a sure bet. 

PLEASE NOTE! Courses that meet virtually or offer a hybrid virtual option will now list the platform they will use under "Location" in their course description. So if you need to download the Zoom app in advance, you will have plenty of time to do so. Learn more in the "Announcements" section at the top of the Spring 2026 Course Schedule webpage.

WINTER COURSES
Have a question about a Winter Course? Find answers on the Courses webpage. 

CURRICULUM SHOWCASE
NEW! Learn about Allen May's recent Course Why Free Speech is Not a Free Pass in the latest article in the Curriculum Showcase. 

PLATO POP-UP EVENTS
Providing members with new opportunities to connect, learn, and grow!

NEW! PLATO Pop-Up Men’s Group Discussion – There is a widely shared sense among PLATO members (both men and women) that American boys and men are on a downward trajectory. The disturbing metrics on education, family, work, societal status, etc. all tell the same story. And there is growing literature about this story. If true, what are the causes? And how can we work toward a solution? Enrollment is limited to 20 men.

When: Thursday, February 12, 2026
Time: 10am – 12pm
Where: Covenant Presbyterian Church @ 326 S. Segoe Rd.
Facilitators: Baxter Richardson and Tim Otis
Registration: Complete this form to register by Wednesday, February 11

Click here to learn more or to offer a Pop-Up Event.

SPECIAL EVENTS

BREAKFAST, LUNCH & COFFEE GATHERINGS
These social events offer members and their guests opportunities to share conversation over coffee or breakfast and lunch options.

NEXT WEEK! First Friday Breakfast Gathering at Panera Bread located at 601 Junction Road on February 6, from 9:30-11:30am. To RSVP, send an email to Catherine Masi, the event coordinator, by the Thursday before the event. Learn more and find Catherine's email address here.

LECTURES

Download the PLATO Lecture Schedule through April 2026!

NEXT MONTH! March your calendar for these February lectures:

NEXT MONTH! Your Voice in Healthcare: How to Prepare & Partner for Better Outcomes on Thursday, February 12 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Arts and Education Center. In her interactive lecture, Angie Ingraham, a Board-Certified, Independent Patient Advocate and founder of True North Patient Advocates, LLC, will identify practical ways to speak up, stay informed, and feel more confident no matter where you are on your healthcare journey.Registration for this lecture is not required, guests are welcome, and parking is free. Learn more here.

NEXT MONTH! Global Entries: Anecdotes from My Travels Abroad on Thursday, February 26, 2026 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Arts and Education Center. In his lecture, author Joe Fahey will share his extraordinary adventures while traveling to the ends of the earth and many places in between during his 40-year corporate career working for several multinational companies. Registration for this lecture is not required, guests are welcome, and parking is free. Learn more here.

THIS WEEK! Join us to cheer our UW Badgers on to victory! The next Basketball Watch Party is on Saturday, January 31 at 1pm. Registration is not required and guests are welcome – learn more here!

THEATER TRIPS
SAVE THE DATES! Review this updated schedule for theater trips that will be offered later this spring – destinations include Milwaukee, Fort Atkinson and Chicago!

FIELD TRIPS
COMING SOON! Planning is underway for a variety of exciting field trips so please stay tuned to upcoming Weekly Updates for full details.

PLATO Weekly Update

January 20, 2026

CURRICULUM

SPRING COURSES
THIS WEEK! Registration for Spring Courses is now open! There are 37 Spring Courses to choose from including in-person, virtual, and hybrid options. Find a link to the Spring 2026 Course Schedule on the Courses webpage. Also, while most will begin the week of February 16, these two will begin early:  

History of the Hollywood Musical starts on Tuesday, February 3

Native Wisconsin starts on Tuesday, February 10

REGISTRATION TIPS
Some courses fill up quickly so if you see a course that interests you, try to sign up right away. If you find out that a course is full, ask if there's a waiting list you could join. Also, there are frequently a variety of courses that offer unlimited participation, so those are a sure bet. 

NEW! Courses that meet virtually or offer a hybrid virtual option will now list the platform they will use under "Location" in their course description. So if you need to download the Zoom app in advance, you will have plenty of time to do so. Learn more in the "Announcements" section at the top of the Spring 2026 Course Schedule.

WINTER COURSES
Have a question about a Winter Course? Find answers on the Winter Courses Schedule.

HALF-PRICE MEMBERSHIPS
To renew or to become a member, visit the Join PLATO webpage – now through March 31, memberships are half-price ($30).

SPECIAL EVENTS

LECTURES

THIS WEEK! Protecting Due Process & Immigrants in Our Community on Thursday, January 22from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Arts and Education Center. In his lecture, Grant Sovern, a founding attorney and board president of Madison's Community Immigration Law Center, will focus on the challenges of protecting due process rights and the immigrants living in our community. Registration for this lecture is not required, guests are welcome, and parking is free. Learn more here.

NEXT WEEK! Lisa Rickert, a fellow PLATO member who presented a lecture last fall on the power of forgiveness based on her experiences working with death row inmates, invites PLATO members to join her for a complimentary monthly conversation to explore ways to heal from anger and resentment and learn the elements of a forgiveness practice. The first informational Forgiveness Cafe will take place on Monday, January 26, from 10:00–11:30am at Oakwood Village University Woods Campus in the Nakoma-Westmoreland Room located at the Heritage Oaks Main Entrance. Registration is not required and parking is free – find more about this location and parking options here. Please email Lisa with any questions you may have at lisa.ann.rickert@gmail.com.

NEXT MONTH!
March your calendar for these February lectures:

Thursday, February 12: Your Voice in Healthcare: How to Prepare and Partner for Better Outcomes, Presented by Angie Ingraham, M.D.

Thursday, February 26, 2026: Global Entries: Anecdotes from My Travels Abroad, Presented by Joe Fahey

Download the PLATO Lecture Schedule through April 2026!

BREAKFAST, LUNCH & COFFEE GATHERINGS
These social events offer members and their guests opportunities to share conversation over coffee or breakfast and lunch options.

THIS WEEK! Fourth Friday Coffee at the Rotunda Café on January 23 from 9:30-11:30am. Learn more and RSVP here.

NEXT MONTH! First Friday Breakfast Gathering at Panera Bread located at 601 Junction Road on February 6, from 9:30-11:30am. To RSVP, send an email to Catherine Masi, the event coordinator, by the Thursday before the event. Learn more and find Catherine's email address here.

NEXT WEEK! Join us to cheer our UW Badgers on to victory! The next Basketball Watch Party is on Saturday, January 31 at 1pm. Registration is not required and guests are welcome – learn more here!

THEATER TRIPS
SAVE THE DATES! Review this updated schedule for theater trips that will be offered later this spring – destinations include Milwaukee, Fort Atkinson and Chicago! Please note that the Fireside Dinner Theatre trip in June will be on Friday June, 19 (there was a typo in last week's email).

FIELD TRIPS
COMING SOON! Planning is underway for a variety of exciting field trips so please stay tuned to upcoming Weekly Updates for full details.

PLATO POP-UP EVENTS
Providing members with new opportunities to connect, learn, and grow!

Click here to learn more or to offer a Pop-Up Event.

PLATO Weekly Update

January 13, 2026

CURRICULUM

WINTER COURSES
Winter Courses are underway! If you have a question about a Winter Course, find the Winter Course Schedule on the Courses webpage. 

SPRING COURSES
NEXT WEEK! Registration for Spring Courses opens on Tuesday, January 20! There will be 37 Spring Courses to choose from, with in-person, virtual, and hybrid options. Most Spring Courses will begin the week of February 16.  

REGISTRATION TIPS
Some courses fill up quickly so if you see a course that interests you, try to sign up right away. If you find out that a course is full, ask if there's a waiting list you could join. Also, there are frequently a variety of courses that offer unlimited participation, so perhaps expand your horizons by signing up for one of those in the meantime?

HALF-PRICE MEMBERSHIPS
To renew or to become a member, visit the Join PLATO webpage – now through March 31, memberships are half-price ($30).

SPECIAL EVENTS

LECTURES

SAVE THE DATES – Download the PLATO Lecture Schedule through April 2026!

THIS WEEK! Memories of My Childhood on Badger Creek on Thursday, January 15 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Arts and Education Center. In her lecture, Peggy Prilaman Marxen will discuss her book, The Farm on Badger Creek: Memories of a Midwest Girlhood, which shares her memories of a rustic childhood in rural northern Wisconsin. Registration for this lecture is not required, guests are welcome, and parking is free. Learn more here.

NEXT WEEK! Protecting Due Process & Immigrants in Our Community on Thursday, January 22 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Arts and Education Center. In his lecture, Grant Sovern, a founding attorney and board president of Madison's Community Immigration Law Center, will focus on the challenges of protecting due process rights and the immigrants living in our community. Registration for this lecture is not required, guests are welcome, and parking is free. Learn more here.

PAST RECORDINGS
Pique your curiosity with recorded PLATO Lectures offered by PLATO members and local, national, and international special guest presenters.

BREAKFAST, LUNCH & COFFEE GATHERINGS
These social events offer members and their guests opportunities to share conversation over coffee or breakfast and lunch options.

THIS WEEK! Third Friday Lunch Gathering at the Great Dane Pub on the East Side on Jupiter Drive on January 16, from 11:30am-1:30pm. RSVP via email to Sue Ellerhorst, the event coordinator, by the Thursday before the event. Learn more and find Sue's email address here.

THIS WEEK! Join us to cheer our UW Badgers on to victory! The next Basketball Watch Party is on Saturday, January 17 at 1pm. Registration is not required and guests are welcome – learn more here!

THEATER TRIPS
SAVE THE DATES! Review this revised schedule for theater trips that will be offered later this spring – destinations include Milwaukee, Fort Atkinson and Chicago!

FIELD TRIPS
COMING SOON! Planning is underway for a variety of exciting field trips so please stay tuned to upcoming Weekly Updates for full details.

PLATO POP-UP EVENTS
Providing members with new opportunities to connect, learn, and grow!

Click here to learn more or to offer a Pop-Up Event.

PLATO Weekly Update

January 6, 2026

HALF-PRICE PLATO MEMBERSHIPS

To renew or to become a member, visit the Join PLATO webpage. And be sure to tell your family and friends that Half-Year Memberships ($30) are available for January 1 – July 31, 2026!

CURRICULUM

WINTER COURSES
Most Winter Courses begin this week – review the Winter Course Schedule on the Courses webpage. Also, please note that Fictional Detectives has been cancelled for this term and Gentle Chair Yoga for Stress Reduction, a drop-in course on Friday afternoons, is still accepting registrations.

SPRING COURSES
NEW! Mark your calendar:

· Registration for Spring Courses opens on Tuesday, January 20

· Most Spring Courses will begin the week of February 16

SPECIAL EVENTS

THEATER TRIPS

NEXT WEEK! There are three spaces left! Join us for BEEHIVE on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at The Fireside Dinner Theater in Fort Atkinson to celebrate the powerful female voices of the 1960's. 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. The registration deadline is this Thursday, January 8. Learn more and register here. 

BREAKFAST, LUNCH & COFFEE GATHERINGS
These social events offer members and their guests opportunities to share conversation over coffee or breakfast and lunch options.

THIS WEEK! Second Friday Breakfast Gathering at the Lakeside Street Coffee House on January 9 from 9:30-11:30am. If you are new to this gathering, please RSVP via email to Sharon Scrattish, the event coordinator, by the Thursday before the event. Learn more and find Sharon's email address here.

NEXT WEEK! Third Friday Lunch Gathering at the Great Dane Pub on the East Side on Jupiter Drive on January 16, from 11:30am-1:30pm. RSVP via email to Sue Ellerhorst, the event coordinator, by the Thursday before the event. Learn more and find Sue's email address here.

LECTURES

SAVE THE DATES – Download the PLATO Lecture Schedule through April 2026!

NEXT WEEK! Memories of My Childhood on Badger Creek on Thursday, January 15 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Arts and Education Center. In her lecture, Peggy Prilaman Marxen will discuss her book, The Farm on Badger Creek: Memories of a Midwest Girlhood, which shares her memories of a rustic childhood in rural northern Wisconsin. Registration for this lecture is not required, guests are welcome, and parking is free. Learn more here.

THIS MONTH! Protecting Due Process & Immigrants in Our Community on Thursday, January 22 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Arts and Education Center. In his lecture, Grant Sovern, a founding attorney and board president of Madison's Community Immigration Law Center, will focus on the challenges of protecting due process rights and the immigrants living in our community. Registration for this lecture is not required, guests are welcome, and parking is free. Learn more here.

PAST RECORDINGS
Learn something new with recorded PLATO Lectures offered by PLATO members and local, national, and international special guest presenters.

PLATO POP-UP EVENTS
Providing members with new opportunities to connect, learn, and grow!

Click here to learn more or to offer a Pop-Up Event.

THIS MONTH! Join us to cheer our UW Badgers on to victory! The next Basketball Watch Party is on Saturday, January 17 at 1pm. Registration is not required and guests are welcome – learn more here!

PLATO Weekly Update

December 30, 2025

CURRICULUM

To renew or to become a member, visit the Join PLATO webpage. And be sure to tell your family and friends that Half-Year Memberships ($30) are available for January 1 – July 31, 2026!

WINTER COURSES
Registration for Winter Courses is underway – there are now 12 courses with in-person and virtual options to choose from! Find the Winter Course Schedule on the Courses webpage and contact the course coordinator to register.

Most Winter Courses run 2-7 weeks and will begin the week of January 5. 
PLEASE NOTE: Fictional Detectives has been cancelled for this term.

REGISTRATION TIPS
Some courses fill up quickly so if you see a course that interests you, try to sign up right away. If you find out that a course is full, ask if there's a waiting list you could join. Also, there are three courses that offer unlimited participation, so perhaps expand your horizons by signing up for one of these in the meantime:

· Drawing as a Sacred Activity – Monday at 11am

· Women Artists from Baroque to Modern Period – Monday at 1pm

· Gentle Chair Yoga for Stress Reduction – Friday at 2pm

SPECIAL EVENTS

BREAKFAST, LUNCH & COFFEE GATHERINGS
These social events offer members and their guests opportunities to share conversation over coffee or breakfast and lunch options.

THIS WEEK! First Friday Breakfast Gathering at Panera Bread located at 601 Junction Road on January 2, from 9:30-11:30am. To RSVP, send an email to Judy Groth, the event coordinator, by the Thursday before the event.  Learn more and find Judy's email address here.

NEXT WEEK! Second Friday Breakfast Gathering at the Lakeside Street Coffee House on January 9 from 9:30-11:30am. To RSVP, send an email to Sharon Scrattish, the event coordinator, by the Thursday before the event. Learn more and find Sharon's email address here.

THEATER TRIPS

Join us for BEEHIVE on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at The Fireside Dinner Theater in Fort Atkinson to celebrate the powerful female voices of the 1960's. 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. The registration deadline is Thursday, January 8. Learn more and register here.

LECTURES

SAVE THE DATES – Download the PLATO Lecture Schedule through April 2026!