PLATO Weekly Update

 November 19, 2024

CURRICULUM

FALL COURSES
Find answers to your questions about Fall Courses on the Courses page. 

WINTER COURSES

· Winter courses will be announced on Tuesday, December 10, 2024 and registration for those Winter courses opens the same day.

· Winter Courses begin the week of January 6, 2025

In the spirit of "participation", the Curriculum Committee invites you to submit that new mini-course you’ve considered offering! The Winter Session is an ideal time for new coordinators to host their first 4–6 week course. Perhaps offer a book club around that great novel on your holiday list. Or share what you know about a favorite subject of interest, or lead a crafting project. PLATO members are a curious crew and look forward to connecting around a wide array of topics and activities. Resources are in place to support new course coordinators – read this brief article or check out the Coordinator Toolkit to get started.

SPECIAL EVENTS

COFFEE GATHERING

THIS WEEK! Fourth Friday Coffee on November 22 from 9:30-11:30am at the Rotunda Café on Atwood Ave. Connect with fellow PLATO members over a cup of coffee or tea. Feel free to bring a friend or family member who might be interested in PLATO! Learn more and RSVP here.

FIELD TRIPS

THIS WEEK! The second Tour of the Wisconsin State Capitol on Thursday, November 21 from 12:00-12:55pm is sold out. Registered guests can review details here.

LECTURES

NEXT MONTH! Join us for Travel Lessons: Your Personal Guide to Better Travelwith Glenn Schmidt at Oakwood Village West Performing Arts Center on Tuesday, December 3 from 1:30-3:00pm. Registration is not required and parking is free. Learn more here.

Enjoy recorded PLATO Lectures followed by member discussions on many important local and global subjects.

PLATO GIFT MEMBERSHIPS ARE NOW AVAILABLE
Give the Gift of Knowledge, Connection and Growth

Do you know someone who would enjoy PLATO's many offerings – and you wish they were a member? The New Year is an exciting time to join with a half-year membership. On January 1, anyone can join at half-price ($30) and enjoy membership benefits through July 31. Surprise someone you care about with a gift membership today! Learn more and order PLATO Gift Memberships here.

THE AGORA FEATURES
PLATO's Literary & Fine Arts Journal, The Agora,
celebrates members’ creativity and diversity of thought

Visit The Agora Features webpage for highlights from this past season, created and curated by fellow PLATO members for your enjoyment.

PLATO EDUCATION FUND ANNUAL GIVING
Many thanks to those who have already donated!

If You Are in a Position to Share... Please consider contributing to PLATO's Education Fund which provides scholarships for returning adult students at UW-Madison, and supports the UW- Department of Continuing Education's Badger Ready program, the Odyssey Project, as well as four local community programs. Learn more about this year's scholarship recipients and local community programs, whose logos you see below, and how to donate online or via snail mail.

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

DID YOU KNOW? for November 12 – 25, 2024 

Dr. Isabella Abbott (June 20, 1919 –  October 28, 2010) was a Hawaiian phycologist, educator, and ethnobotanist. As the first Native Hawaiian woman to receive a PhD in science, Abbott went on to discover more than 200 new species of algae and authored over 150 publications. 

Visit the Social Justice page for more about Dr. Isabella Abbott 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).

PLATO Weekly Update 

November 12, 2024

CURRICULUM

FALL COURSES
Find answers to your questions about Fall Courses on the Courses page. 

WINTER COURSES

· Winter courses will be announced on Tuesday, December 10, 2024 and registration for those Winter courses opens the same day.

· Winter Courses begin the week of January 6, 2025

SPECIAL EVENTS

COFFEE GATHERING

NEXT WEEK! Fourth Friday Coffee on November 22 from 9:30-11:30am at the Rotunda Café on Atwood Ave. Connect with fellow PLATO members over a cup of coffee or tea. Feel free to bring a friend or family member who might be interested in PLATO! Learn more and RSVP here.

FIELD TRIPS

SOLD OUT! The second Tour of the Wisconsin State Capitol on Thursday, November 21 from 12:00-12:55pm. Registered guests can review details here.

LECTURES

NEXT MONTH! Join us for Travel Lessons: Your Personal Guide to Better Travel with Glenn Schmidt at Oakwood Village West Performing Arts Center on Tuesday, December 3 from 1:30-3:00pm. Registration is not required and parking is free. Learn more here.

Enjoy recorded PLATO Lectures followed by member discussions on many important local and global subjects.

PLATO GIFT MEMBERSHIPS ARE NOW AVAILABLE
Give the Gift of Knowledge, Connection and Growth

NEW! Do you know someone who would enjoy PLATO's many offerings – and you wish they were a member? The New Year is an exciting time to join with a half-year membership. On January 1, anyone can join at half-price ($30) and enjoy membership benefits through July 31. Surprise someone you care about with a gift membership today! Learn more and order PLATO Gift Memberships here.

THE AGORA FEATURES
PLATO's Literary & Fine Arts Journal, The Agora,
celebrates members’ creativity and diversity of thought

Visit The Agora Features webpage for highlights from this past season, created and curated by fellow PLATO members for your enjoyment.

PLATO EDUCATION FUND ANNUAL GIVING
Many thanks to those who have already donated!

If You Are in a Position to Share... Please consider contributing to PLATO's Education Fund which provides scholarships for returning adult students at UW-Madison, and supports the UW- Department of Continuing Education's Badger Ready program, the Odyssey Project, as well as four local community programs. Learn more about this year's scholarship recipients and local community programs, whose logos you see below, and how to donate online or via snail mail.

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

DID YOU KNOW? for November 12 – 25, 2024 

Dr. Isabella Abbott (June 20, 1919 –  October 28, 2010) was a Hawaiian phycologist, educator, and ethnobotanist. As the first Native Hawaiian woman to receive a PhD in science, Abbott went on to discover more than 200 new species of algae and authored over 150 publications. 

Visit the Social Justice page for more about Dr. Isabella Abbott 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).

PLATO Weekly Update

November 5, 2024

CURRICULUM

FALL COURSES
Find answers to your questions about Fall Courses on the Courses page. 

WINTER COURSES
It's not too late to submit your ideas for a Winter Course! The Winter Session is a great time for new coordinators to host for the first time. The Curriculum Committee is here to help – check out the Coordinator Toolkit to get started!

MARK YOUR CALENDAR
Registration for Winter Courses opens Tuesday, December 10, 2024 and courses begin the week of January 6, 2025.

SPECIAL EVENTS

FIELD TRIPS

THIS WEEK! Sold-out Tour of the Wisconsin State Capitol on Thursday, November 7 from 12:00-12:55pm. Registered guests can review details here.

NEW! Due to high demand, there is a second Tour of the Wisconsin State Capitol on Thursday, November 21 from 12:00-12:55pm. Guided by PLATO Board member Steve Sparks, who is a Capitol Tour Guide. Learn more and register here.

LECTURES

NEXT MONTH! Join us for Travel Lessons: Your Personal Guide to Better Travelwith Glenn Schmidt at Oakwood Village West Performing Arts Center on Tuesday, December 3 from 1:30-3:00pm. Registration is not required and parking is free. Learn more here.

Recorded PLATO Lectures presented by PLATO members and their special guest presenters offer opportunities to learn about timely topics, such as Digital Misinformation and Disinformation, with Dr. Rachel E. Moran, a postdoctoral scholar at University of Washington Center for an Informed Public, which was recorded in the Fall of 2022 and remains pertinent today.

BREAKFAST GATHERING

THIS WEEK! Second Friday Breakfast – enjoy conversation, coffee and breakfast snacks with fellow members on Friday, November 8 from 9:30-11:30am at Lakeside Street Coffee House. Seating is on both the main floor and downstairs levels. You will need to climb a flight of steps in order to be seated on the downstairs level. Guests are welcome, so feel free to bring a friend who may be interested in PLATO! Learn more and RSVP here.

THEATER TRIP

NEXT MONTH! Register today  – there is only one seat left for Miracle on 34^th Street on Wednesday, December 4, 2024 at The Fireside Theatre in Fort Atkinson. Kris Kringle – a jolly, kind man who claims that he is the real Santa Claus – has to prove his claim in court and teach his cynical neighbor and her daughter to believe in the goodness and love of Christmas. Registration includes a theater ticket and your choice of entrée for lunch. Registration closes next week Monday, November 11 at Noon! Learn more and register here.

PLATO EDUCATION FUND ANNUAL GIVING
Many thanks to those who have already donated!

If You Are in a Position to Share... Please consider contributing to PLATO's Education Fund which provides scholarships for returning adult students at UW-Madison, and supports the UW- Department of Continuing Education's Badger Ready program, the Odyssey Project, as well as four local community programs. Learn more about this year's scholarship recipients and local community programs, whose logos you see below, and how to donate online or via snail mail.

THE AGORA FEATURES
PLATO's Literary & Fine Arts Journal, The Agora,
celebrates members’ creativity and diversity of thought

Visit The Agora Features webpage for highlights from this past season, created and curated by fellow PLATO members for your enjoyment.

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

DID YOU KNOW? for October 29 ­– November 11, 2024 

James McCune Smith (1813 – 1865) was the first African American to earn a medical degree. He earned his degree from the University of Glasgow, since no American university would admit him due to his race. 

Visit the Social Justice page for more about James McCune Smith 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).

PLATO Weekly Update

October 29, 2024

CURRICULUM

FALL COURSES
Have a question about a Fall Course? Find answers on the Courses page. 

WINTER COURSES
Despite the record temperatures outside, winter is on its way. The Curriculum Committee invites you to submit that new PLATO course you’ve always wanted to offer! The Winter Session is a great time for new coordinators to host their first course. Check out the Coordinator Toolkit to get started!

MARK YOUR CALENDAR
Registration for Winter Courses opens Tuesday, December 10, 2024 and courses begin the week of January 6, 2025.

SPECIAL EVENTS

LECTURE

NEW! Join us for Travel Sessions: Your Personal Guide to Better Travelwith Glenn Schmidt at Oakwood Village West Performing Arts Center on Tuesday, December 3 from 1:30-3:00pm. Registration is not required and parking is free. Learn more here.

Learn something new with recorded PLATO Lectures on many important subjects.

BREAKFAST GATHERING

NEXT WEEK! Second Friday Breakfast – enjoy conversation, coffee and breakfast snacks with fellow members on Friday, November 8 from 9:30-11:30am at Lakeside Street Coffee House. Seating is on both the main floor and downstairs levels. You will need to climb a flight of steps in order to be seated on the downstairs level. Guests are welcome, so feel free to bring a friend who may be interested in PLATO! Learn more and RSVP here.

THEATER TRIP

Miracle on 34^th Street on Wednesday, December 4, 2024 at The Fireside Theatre in Fort Atkinson. Kris Kringle – a jolly, kind man who claims that he is the real Santa Claus – has to prove his claim in court and teach his cynical neighbor and her daughter to believe in the goodness and love of Christmas. Registration includes a theater ticket and your choice of entrée for lunch. Only a handful of seats remain and registration closes at Noon on Monday, November 11, 2024! Learn more and register here.

SPECIAL EVENTS BRAINSTORMING SESSION
RSVP by Friday, November 1

Please help identify future offerings for trips, walks, and lectures! Join us at Capitol Lakes Senior Living on Friday, November 15 from 1-3pm for light refreshments and lively conversation – if you answer yes to any of the following:

Do you enjoy theater performances? (Perhaps you would enjoy choosing theater outings for PLATO members.)

Do you enjoy walks and tours? (You might enjoy planning nature walks and trips to interesting destinations.)

Do you enjoy thought provoking talks? (Maybe selecting topics or speakers for PLATO lectures would be fun for you.)

RSVP by Friday, November 1 by sending an email to info@platomadison.org!

THE AGORA FEATURES
PLATO's Literary & Fine Arts Journal, The Agora,
celebrates members’ creativity and diversity of thought

Visit The Agora Features webpage for highlights from this past season, created and curated by fellow PLATO members for your enjoyment.

October's Featured Offering is Celebrate Life, a poem by Don Tubesing, who shares in his poem, and in a brief video, how important it is to take time to reflect on the joyful moments of life as we age – especially when we are struggling with challenges. Choosing to do so can have such a positive impact on our overall well being!

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

DID YOU KNOW? for October 29 ­– November 11, 2024 

James McCune Smith (1813 – 1865) was the first African American to earn a medical degree. He earned his degree from the University of Glasgow, since no American university would admit him due to his race. 

Visit the Social Justice page for more about James McCune Smith 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).

PLATO Weekly Update

October 22, 2024

CURRICULUM

FALL COURSESHave a question about a Fall Course? Find answers on the Courses page. 
MARK YOUR CALENDARRegistration for Winter Courses opens Tuesday, December 9, 2024 and courses begin the week of January 6, 2025.

SPECIAL EVENTS

LECTURE

TODAY! History & Stories of Wisconsin's One Room Schools on Tuesday, October 22 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Campus. A retired teacher and educator, Susan Apps-Bodilly, will take us back to the long-ago days when Wisconsin's rural children attended a one room school. During this interactive talk, Susan will also share about how she researched and gathered stories for the book. Registration is not required and parking is free. Members may bring a guest! Learn more here.

Check out recorded PLATO Lectures on a variety of topics.

COFFEE GATHERING

THIS WEEK! Fourth Friday Coffee on October 25 from 9:30-11:30am at the Rotunda Café on Atwood Ave. Connect with fellow PLATO members over a cup of coffee or tea. Feel free to bring a friend or family member who might be interested in PLATO! Learn more and RSVP here.

THEATER TRIP

Miracle on 34^th Street on Wednesday, December 4, 2024 at The Fireside Theatre in Fort Atkinson. Kris Kringle – a jolly, kind man who claims that he is the real Santa Claus – has to prove his claim in court and teach his cynical neighbor and her daughter to believe in the goodness and love of Christmas. Registration includes a theater ticket and your choice of entrée for lunch. Seating is limited and registration closes at Noon on Monday, November 11, 2024. If registration is full, please sign-up on the waitlist as we hope to extend registration and add a second bus. Learn more and register here.

FIELD TRIP
SOLD OUT! Milwaukee Holiday Tour on Monday, December 9, 2024 – A narrated tour with stops at the Pabst Mansion, Wauwatosa Christmas Market, and local bakeries and shops. Registered guests can review details here.

SPECIAL EVENTS BRAINSTORMING SESSION
Help identify future offerings for trips, walks, and lectures!

Please join us in downtown Madison at Capitol Lakes Senior Living on Friday, November 15 from 1-3pm – if you answer yes to any of the following:

Do you enjoy theater performances? (Perhaps you would enjoy choosing theater outings for PLATO members.)

Do you enjoy walks and tours? (You might enjoy planning nature walks and trips to interesting destinations.)

Do you enjoy thought provoking talks? (Maybe selecting topics or speakers for PLATO lectures would be fun for you.)

RSVP by Friday, November 1 by sending an email to info@platomadison.org if you are interested in joining us for this fun brainstorming session!

THE AGORA FEATURES
PLATO's Literary & Fine Arts Journal, The Agora,
celebrates members’ creativity and diversity of thought

Visit The Agora Features webpage for highlights from this past season, created and curated by fellow PLATO members for your enjoyment.

October's Featured Offering is Celebrate Life, a poem by Don Tubesing, who shares in his poem, and in a brief video, how important it is to take time to reflect on the joyful moments of life as we age – especially when we are struggling with challenges. Choosing to do so can have such a positive impact on our overall well being!

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

DID YOU KNOW? for October 15 ­– 28, 2024 

William Eldon "Willie" O'Ree (born on October 15, 1935) is considered to be a pioneer, or "the Jackie Robinson of hockey", for being the first black player in the National Hockey League. Despite the racism he faced, starting in the mid-1950's O'Ree played for the Kitchener Canucks, the Quebec Aces and eventually the Boston Bruins. O'Ree went on to receive many awards and honors. 

Visit the Social Justice page for more about William Eldon "Willie" O'Ree 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).

PLATO Weekly Update

October 15, 2024

CURRICULUM

FALL COURSES
Have a question about a Fall Course? Find answers on the Courses page. 

WANT TO OFFER A COURSE?
Now is a good time to start thinking about that new PLATO course you’ve always wanted to offer! The Winter Session is a great time for new coordinators to host their first course as it is shorter than Spring and Fall. Check out the Coordinator Toolkit at the top of this webpage to get started!

SPECIAL EVENTS

THEATER TRIP

NEW! Miracle on 34^th Street on Wednesday, December 4, 2024 at The Fireside Theatre in Fort Atkinson. Kris Kringle – a jolly, kind man who claims that he is the real Santa Claus – has to prove his claim in court and teach his cynical neighbor and her daughter to believe in the goodness and love of Christmas. Registration includes a theater ticket and your choice of entrée for lunch. Seating is limited and registration closes at Noon on Monday, November 11, 2024. If registration is full, please sign-up on the waitlist as we hope to extend registration and add a second bus. Learn more and register here.

FIELD TRIPS
NEW! Milwaukee Holiday Tour on Monday, December 9, 2024 – Experience the magic of Milwaukee this holiday season! This will be a narrated tour with stops at the Pabst Mansion, Wauwatosa Christmas Market, and local bakeries and shops to learn about the history of Christmas traditions from various cultural groups, including the Greek, Polish, German, Italian and Irish. Let the festive stories and cheerful sights make your holiday season unforgettable. Seating is limited and registration closes on November 15, 2024. Learn more and register here.

SOLD OUT! Tour of the Wisconsin State Capitol on Thursday, November 7 from 12:00-12:55pm. Guided by PLATO Board member Steve Sparks, who is also a Capitol Tour Guide. Registered guests can review details here.

LECTURE

NEXT WEEK! History & Stories of Wisconsin's One Room Schools on Tuesday, October 22 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Campus. A retired teacher and educator, Susan Apps-Bodilly, will take us back to the long-ago days when Wisconsin's rural children attended a one room school. During this interactive talk, Susan will also share about how she researched and gathered stories for the book. Registration is not required and parking is free. Members may bring a guest! Learn more here.

Learn new things at your own pace with recorded PLATO Lectures.

COFFEE GATHERING
NEXT WEEK! Fourth Friday Coffee on October 25 from 9:30-11:30am at the Rotunda Café on Atwood Ave. Connect with fellow PLATO members over a cup of coffee or tea. Feel free to bring a friend or family member who might be interested in PLATO! Learn more and RSVP here.

SPECIAL EVENTS BRAINSTORMING SESSION
Help identify future offerings for trips, walks, and lectures!

Please join us in downtown Madison at Capitol Lakes Senior Living on Friday, November 15 from 1-3pm – if you answer yes to any of the following:

Do you enjoy theater performances? (Perhaps you would enjoy choosing theater outings for PLATO members.)

Do you enjoy walks and tours? (You might enjoy planning nature walks and trips to interesting destinations.)

Do you enjoy thought provoking talks? (Maybe selecting topics or speakers for PLATO lectures would be fun for you.)

RSVP by Friday, November 1 by sending an email to info@platomadison.org if you are interested in joining us for this fun brainstorming session!

THE AGORA FEATURES
PLATO's Literary & Fine Arts Journal, The Agora,
celebrates members’ creativity and diversity of thought

Visit The Agora Features webpage for highlights from this past season, created and curated by fellow PLATO members for your enjoyment.

October's Featured Offering is Celebrate Life, a poem by Don Tubesing, who shares in his poem, and in a brief video, how important it is to take time to reflect on the joyful moments of life as we age – especially when we are struggling with challenges. Choosing to do so can have such a positive impact on our overall well being!

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

DID YOU KNOW? for October 15 ­– 28, 2024 

William Eldon "Willie" O'Ree (born on October 15, 1935) is considered to be a pioneer, or "the Jackie Robinson of hockey", for being the first black player in the National Hockey League. Despite the racism he faced, starting in the mid-1950's O'Ree played for the Kitchener Canucks, the Quebec Aces and eventually the Boston Bruins. O'Ree went on to receive many awards and honors. 

Visit the Social Justice page for more about William Eldon "Willie" O'Ree 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).

PLATO Weekly Update

October 8, 2024

CURRICULUM

FALL COURSES
Have a question about a Fall Course? Find answers on the Courses page. 

WANT TO OFFER A COURSE?
Now is a good time to start thinking about that new PLATO course you’ve always wanted to offer! The Winter Session is a great time for new coordinators to host their first course as it is shorter than Spring and Fall. Check out the Coordinator Toolkit to get started – the Curriculum Committee is here to help!

FRIENDLY REMINDER
If you are new to PLATO and have sampled the first class or two of a course, please be sure to become a member by paying your dues – please visit the Join PLATO webpage for details. 

SPECIAL EVENTS

BREAKFAST GATHERING

THIS WEEK! Second Friday Breakfast on Friday, October 11 at 9:30am at Lakeside Street Coffee House – seating is on both the main floor and downstairs levels. You will need to climb a flight of steps in order to be seated on the downstairs level. Guests are welcome, so feel free to bring a friend who may be interested in PLATO! Learn more and RSVP here.

FIELD TRIPS

THIS WEEK! It's not too late to register for this free tour of the Madison Metropolitan Sewer District Treatment Plant on Friday, October 11 from 1:00-2:15pm. MMSD's treatment plant handles about 40 million gallons a day! Learn how those 40 million gallons can be recycled into reusable water and nutrients for plants and soil in a 75-minute tour. The tour will encourage you to think about responsible water use, the products we use, and how everyday choices can help protect our water. Registration is required and members may bring a guest. Learn more and register here.

SOLD OUT! Tour of the Wisconsin State Capitol on Thursday, November 7 from 12:00-12:55pm. Guided by PLATO Board member Steve Sparks, who is also a Capitol Tour Guide. Registered guests can review details here.

LECTURE

History & Stories of Wisconsin's One Room Schools on Tuesday, October 22 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Campus. A retired teacher and educator, Susan Apps-Bodilly, will take us back to the long-ago days when Wisconsin's rural children attended a one room school. During this interactive talk, Susan will also share about how she researched and gathered stories for the book. Registration is not required and parking is free. Members may bring a guest! Learn more here.

As always, recorded PLATO Lectures are available 24/7 for your convenience.

PLATO EDUCATION FUND ANNUAL GIVING
Many thanks to those who have already donated!

Please consider contributing to PLATO's Education Fund which provides scholarships for returning adult students at UW-Madison, and supports the UW- Department of Continuing Education's Badger Ready program, the Odyssey Project, as well as four local community programs. Learn more about this year's scholarship recipients and local community programs and how to donate online or via snail mail. 

THE AGORA FEATURES
PLATO's Literary & Fine Arts Journal, The Agora,
celebrates members’ creativity and diversity of thought

Visit The Agora Features webpage for highlights from this past season, created and curated by fellow PLATO members for your enjoyment.

October's Featured Offering is Celebrate Life, a poem by Don Tubesing, who shares in his poem, and in a brief video, how important it is to take time to reflect on the joyful moments of life as we age – especially when we are struggling with challenges. Choosing to do so can make such a powerful, positive impact on our overall well being!

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

DID YOU KNOW? for October 1 ­– 14, 2024 

Elijah McCoy (May 2, 1844 – October 10, 1929) was born in Canada, to parents who had fled slavery. McCoy trained as an engineer in Scotland as a teenager. Unable to find an engineering position in the United States, he worked for a railroad and later invented a lubrication device to make railroad operations more efficient.

Visit the Social Justice page for more about Elijah McCoy 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).

PLATO Weekly Update

October 1, 2024

CURRICULUM

FALL COURSES

· Have a question about a Fall Course? Find everything you need to know on the Courses page. 

· 12 of our Fall Courses have unlimited participation and may still accept registrations – email the PLATO office for this course list and contact the course coordinator to register.

SPECIAL EVENTS

FIELD TRIP

NEW! Tour of the Wisconsin State Capitol on Thursday, November 7 from 12:00-12:55pm. Join us for a free guided tour at the Wisconsin State Capitol. Learn about the purpose of the spaces, the architecture, the artwork, the stone, and the history of the building. Guided by PLATO Board member Steve Sparks, who is also a Capitol Tour Guide! Registration is required and members may bring a guest. Learn more and register here.

NEXT WEEK! Madison Metropolitan Sewer District Treatment Plant Tour on Friday, October 11 from 1:00-2:15pm. MMSD's treatment plant handles about 40 million gallons a day! Learn how those 40 million gallons can be recycled into reusable water and nutrients for plants and soil in a 75-minute tour. The tour will encourage you to think about responsible water use, the products we use, and how everyday choices can help protect our water. Registration is required and members may bring a guest. Learn more and register here.

LECTURE

History & Stories of Wisconsin's One Room Schools on Tuesday, October 22 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Campus. A retired teacher and educator, Susan Apps-Bodilly, will take us back to the long-ago days when Wisconsin's rural children attended a one room school. During this interactive talk, Susan will also share about how she researched and gathered stories for the book. Registration is not required and parking is free. Members may bring a guest! Learn more here.

BREAKFAST GATHERING 
NEXT WEEK! Second Friday Breakfast – enjoy conversation, coffee and breakfast snacks with fellow members on Friday, October 11 from 9:30 - 11:30am at Lakeside Street Coffee House. Seating is on both the main floor and downstairs levels. You will need to climb a flight of steps in order to be seated on the downstairs level. Guests are welcome, so feel free to bring a friend who may be interested in PLATO! Learn more and RSVP here.

LECTURES
Explore recorded PLATO Lectures on many interesting topics!

PLATO EDUCATION FUND ANNUAL GIVING
Watch your mailbox – materials coming soon!

Please consider contributing to PLATO's Education Fund which provides scholarships for returning adult students at UW-Madison, and supports the UW- Department of Continuing Education's Badger Ready program, the Odyssey Project, as well as four local community programs. Learn more about this year's scholarship recipients and local community programs and how to donate online or via snail mail. Many thanks to those who have already donated!

THE AGORA FEATURES
PLATO's Literary & Fine Arts Journal, The Agora,
celebrates members’ creativity and diversity of thought

Visit The Agora Features webpage for highlights from this past season, created and curated by fellow PLATO members for your enjoyment.

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

DID YOU KNOW? for October 1 ­– 14, 2024 

Elijah McCoy (May 2, 1844 – October 10, 1929) was born in Canada, to parents who had fled slavery. McCoy trained as an engineer in Scotland as a teenager. Unable to find an engineering position in the United States, he worked for a railroad and later invented a lubrication device to make railroad operations more efficient.

Visit the Social Justice page for more about Elijah McCoy 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).

PLATO Weekly Update

 September 24, 2024

CURRICULUM

FALL COURSES

This fall semester features 35 courses with 21 in-person, 12 virtual and 2 hybrid options.

 It's not too late to register for some, including 12 of our courses which offer unlimited participation – email the PLATO office for this course list.

Find the fall course schedule on the Courses page and contact the course coordinator to register.

CURRICULUM SHOWCASE
Check out PLATO Everywhere, a brief article by Curriculum and Agora Committee member Bob Eisinger, who shares how hybrid technology has allowed him to stay so active in PLATO after moving out of state almost five years ago!

SPECIAL EVENTS

FIELD TRIP

NEW! Madison Metropolitan Sewer District Treatment Plant Tour on Friday, October 11 from 1:00-2:15pm. MMSD's treatment plant handles about 40 million gallons a day! Learn how those 40 million gallons can be recycled into reusable water and nutrients for plants and soil in a 75-minute tour. The tour will encourage you to think about responsible water use, the products we use, and how everyday choices can help protect our water. Registration is required and members may bring a guest. Learn more and register here.

LECTURE

NEXT MONTH! History & Stories of Wisconsin's One Room Schoolson Tuesday, October 22 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Campus. Susan Apps-Bodilly, a retired teacher and educator, will take us back to the long-ago days when Wisconsin's rural children attended a one room school. During this interactive talk, Susan will also share about how she researched and gathered stories for the book. Registration is not required and parking is free. Members may bring a guest! Learn more here.

COFFEE GATHERING
THIS WEEK! Fourth Friday Coffee on September 27 from 9:30-11:30am at the Rotunda Café on Atwood Ave. Connect with fellow PLATO members over a cup of coffee or tea. Feel free to bring a friend or family member who might be interested in PLATO! Learn more and RSVP here.

BIKE RIDES
Enjoy delightful autumn days exploring Madison with self-guided bicycling routes. 

LECTURES
Recorded PLATO Lectures on an array of timely topics for your viewing pleasure!

WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT PLATO?
Learn a bit about PLATO's 37 years of history!

THE AGORA FEATURES
PLATO's Literary & Fine Arts Journal, The Agora,
celebrates members’ creativity and diversity of thought

Visit The Agora Features webpage for highlights from this past season, created and curated by fellow PLATO members for your enjoyment. 

September's Featured Offering is Remember, a self portrait painted by Heather Williams to memorialize the spark of her personal essence which has guided her lifelong exploration of her true self through unconditional love.

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

DID YOU KNOW? for September 17 – 30, 2024

The western hemisphere, the lands between the Atlantic and the Pacific, have been occupied and cultivated from coast to coast for millennia. Ned Blackhawk has documented the stories of these indigenous citizens in The Rediscovery of America: Native Peoples and the Unmaking of U.S. History. Blackhawk has produced a comprehensive history that carefully presents the facts of indigenous people living on the North American continent before contact with European settlers.

Visit the Social Justice page for more about Ned Blackhawk 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).

PLATO Weekly Update

September 17, 2024

CURRICULUM

FALL COURSES

– Most Fall Courses begin this week – there are 35 courses with 21 in-person, 12 virtual and 2 hybrid options to choose from.

– It's not too late to register for those that still have space!

– Find the fall course schedule on the Courses page and contact the course coordinator to register.

CURRICULUM SHOWCASE
NEW! Check out this brief article written by Curriculum and Agora Committee member Bob Eisinger, who shares how hybrid technology has allowed him to stay so active in PLATO after moving out of state almost five years ago!

SPECIAL EVENTS

THEATER TRIP

Tickets are still able for registrations for this hit comedy musical!

Prelude to a Kiss on Sunday, October 13 at 2:30pm. When Peter and Rita are approached by a mysterious guest at their storybook wedding, the boundaries of true love are tested, taking them on a fantastic journey of self-discovery. Adapted from the Tony-nominated play and with a breathtaking score, you’ll love this moving storyline that gives the phrase “for better or worse” new meaning. Learn more and register here.

COFFEE GATHERING
NEXT WEEK! Fourth Friday Coffee on September 27 from 9:30-11:30am at the Rotunda Café on Atwood Ave. Connect with fellow PLATO members over a cup of coffee or tea. Feel free to bring a friend or family member who might be interested in PLATO! Learn more and RSVP here.

LECTURE
NEXT MONTH! History & Stories of Wisconsin's One-room Schoolson Tuesday, October 22 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Campus. Susan Apps-Bodilly, a retired teacher and educator, will take us back to the long-ago days when Wisconsin's rural children attended a one-room school. During this interactive talk, Susan will also share about how she researched and gathered stories for the book. Registration is not required and parking is free. Bring a guest! Learn more here.