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.

BIKE RIDES
Set out to find something new with these self-guided bicycling routes around Madison. 

LECTURES
Beat the heat with recorded PLATO Lectures presented by PLATO members and special guest presenters on a range of interesting topics.

Learn a bit about PLATO's 37 years of history! Visit PLATO's About webpage to learn about member benefits, and PLATO's mission, values and 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 late summer 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 10, 2024

CURRICULUM

FALL COURSES

· Most Fall Courses begin next week – choose from 35 courses with 21 in-person, 12 virtual and 2 hybrid options.

· Many still have availability as they allow an unlimited number of participants – check the Class Size under Course Description.

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

WHAT'S NEW
Check out a few of the new courses this fall:

Added this week: Military History of American Civil War from 1860 - 1865 on Monday mornings at 10am.

Foundations of Modern Art on Wednesday mornings at 10am.

What Confucius Might Have Said on Wednesday afternoons at 1pm.

CURRICULUM SHOWCASE
Weekly Fall Courses Quiz, Week #4 – indulge your joy of learning with fall's course offerings: 

1. If you are a HODOPHILE, in which class will you find likeminded PLATO members?

2. In which course should you enroll if you want to read and discuss one of the greatest works of literature to date?

3. What class will offer a lecture and discussion on Habitable Exoplanets – Worlds beyond our own?

Find answers on the Curriculum Showcase webpage!

SPECIAL EVENTS

THEATER TRIP

Good news – the registration deadline has been extended 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,

BREAKFAST GATHERING
THIS WEEK! Second Friday Breakfast – enjoy conversation, coffee and breakfast snacks with fellow members on Friday, September 13 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.

LECTURE
NEW! History & Stories of Wisconsin's One-room Schools on 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.

BIKE RIDES
Carpe diem! Enjoy the fine late-summer weather with these self-guided bicycling routes around Madison. 

LECTURES
Recorded PLATO Lectures on a wide variety of subjects presented by PLATO members and special guest presenters are available whenever you are ready to settle in at home and learn something new.

HELP SPREAD THE WORD ABOUT PLATO
Forward this newsletter to a friend or invite them to a class or event!

Members are welcome to bring a friend to sample a class or two, or if attending solo, the friend may contact the PLATO office for more information at info@platomadison.org. If bringing a friend, please advise the Course or Event Coordinator so they can prepare. Note that events that require registration fees are not applicable.

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 late summer reading, viewing, or listening pleasure,
curated by PLATO's Diversity Awareness Committee. 

DID YOU KNOW? for September 3 – 16, 2024

Did you know that PLATO's Education Fund supports the UW Odyssey Project? This award-winning UW-Madison program takes a whole family approach to breaking the cycle of generational poverty through access to education, giving adult and youth learners a voice, and increasing confidence through reading, writing, and speaking.

Visit the Social Justice page for more about UW-Madison Odyssey Project, 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).

PLATO Weekly Update

September 3, 2024

CURRICULUM

FALL COURSES
Registration for Fall Courses continues! Find the fall course schedule on the Courses page and contact the course coordinator to register.

Choose from 34 courses including 20 in-person, 12 virtual, and 2 hybrid options.

WHAT'S NEW
Check out a few of the new courses this fall:

– Healthy Aging and Self-Regulation on Tuesday mornings at 10am.

– The Great Society 1964 to 2024: How did it change America on Wednesday afternoons at 1pm.

– A History of Matter in the Universe on Thursday evenings at 7pm.

CURRICULUM SHOWCASE
Weekly Fall Courses Quiz, Week #3 – pique your interest in fall's course offerings: 

1. In what class will you read about the link between Midwestern Dairy Farmers and Mexican Workers? 

2. In what course might you explore time, sleep, critical thinking, and negativity? 

3. Want to know more about Viola and Sebastian, Shylock, Rosalind and Orlando, the Shrew, and Prospero? Which course will answer your questions? 

Find answers on the Curriculum Showcase webpage!

SPECIAL EVENTS

THEATER TRIP

Prelude to a Kiss on Sunday, October 13 at 2:30pm. A hit romantic comedy musical – 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 musical that gives the phrase “for better or worse” new meaning. The registration deadline is tomorrow, Wednesday, September 3!  Learn more and register here,

BREAKFAST GATHERING
NEXT WEEK! Second Friday Breakfast – enjoy conversation, coffee and breakfast snacks with fellow members on Friday, September 13 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.

BIKE RIDES
Discover new local neighborhoods with these self-guided bicycling routes around Madison. 

LECTURES
Peruse our collection of recorded PLATO Lectures which also include past courses featuring political and sustainable living topics presented by PLATO members and special guest presenters.

HELP SPREAD THE WORD ABOUT PLATO
Forward this newsletter to a friend or invite them to a class or event!

Please help spread the word about PLATO by inviting a friend to attend a free class, lecture, breakfast or walk! Members are welcome to bring a friend or, if attending solo, the friend may contact the PLATO office for more information at info@platomadison.org. If bringing a friend, please advise the Course or Event Coordinator so they can prepare. Note that events that require registration fees are not applicable.

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 late summer reading, viewing, or listening pleasure,
curated by PLATO's Diversity Awareness Committee. 

DID YOU KNOW? for September 3 – 16, 2024

Did you know that PLATO's Education Fund supports the UW Odyssey Project?This award-winning UW-Madison program takes a whole family approach to breaking the cycle of generational poverty through access to education, giving adult and youth learners a voice, and increasing confidence through reading, writing, and speaking.

Visit the Social Justice page for more about UW-Madison Odyssey Project, 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).

PLATO Weekly Update

August 27, 2024

CURRICULUM

FALL COURSES

· Registration for Fall Courses continues! Find the fall course schedule on the Courses page and contact the course coordinator to register.

· There are 34 courses to choose from with 20 in-person, 12 virtual, and 2 hybrid options.

WHAT'S NEW
Check out a few of the new courses this fall:

· Social Justice Book Discussion Group on Tuesdays at 1pm.

· What Confucius Might Have Said on Wednesdays at 1pm.

· Who’s Driving the Bus on Fridays at 10am.

CURRICULUM SHOWCASE
Weekly Fall Courses Quiz, Week #2 – explore your options for participation this semester!

1. What class should you enroll in if you want to read a book by the author of The Three Musketeers & The Count of Monte Christo?

2. In what course are you encouraged to "Do your own thing and make a commitment to yourself"?

3. In what course might you hear the terms migration, carbon-free, food choices, and biodiversity?

Find answers on the Curriculum Showcase webpage!

SPECIAL EVENTS

THEATER TRIP

Prelude to a Kiss on Sunday, October 13 at 2:30pm. A hit romantic comedy musical – 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 musical that gives the phrase “for better or worse” new meaning. The registration deadline is next Wednesday, September 3! Learn more and register here,

BREAKFAST GATHERING
NEXT MONTH! Second Friday Breakfast – socialize with fellow members over coffee and breakfast snacks on Friday, September 13 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.

FIELD TRIP

There are only four spaces left for this fascinating Tour of Yerkes Observatoryon Monday, October 7, 2024. Often called "the birthplace of modern astrophysics", this 90-minute tour will touch on a range of topics including astrophysics, architecture, local history, photography, engineering, art and more. Afterward, enjoy two hours in Lake Geneva for lunch and to explore the downtown on your own. The registration deadline is September 22 and members may bring a guest. Learn more and register here.

BIKE RIDES
Get out and about with these self-guided bicycling routes around Madison. 

LECTURES
Explore new topics of importance with PLATO Lectures presented by PLATO members and special guest presenters.

STAY IN-THE-KNOW WITH PLATO

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. 

August's Featured Offering is The Old Man and the Soil, a short story by William Eisinger that introduces a curious cast of characters in a 1950's rural American setting.

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

DID YOU KNOW? for August 13 – September 2, 2024

Warren M. Washington (b. 1936), the second African-American to earn a doctorate in the atmospheric sciences, received the highest scientific honor bestowed by the U.S. President, the National Medal of Science, for his fundamental contributions to the understanding of Earth's coupled climate system through numerical simulation, leadership in U.S. science policy, and inspiring mentorship of young people of all backgrounds and origins.

Visit the Social Justice page for more about Warren Washington
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

August 20, 2024

CURRICULUM

FALL COURSES
NEW! Tuesday, August 20: The fall course schedule is available on the Courses page – contact the course coordinator to register.

Choose from 34 courses: 20 in-person, 12 virtual and 2 hybrid options.

Most fall courses will begin the week of September 16.

CURRICULUM SHOWCASE
Partake in our "Weekly Fall Courses Quiz" to explore your options for participation this semester:

1. In what class will you discuss Required Minimum Distributions?

2. By what other name(s) is the Lunyu known?

3. Are you a music afficionado? Do you see the influences of your favorite music genre in modern American popular music? In what class can you have a lively discussion on the topic? 

Find answers on the Curriculum Showcase webpage!

SPECIAL EVENTS

THEATER TRIP

Prelude to a Kiss on Sunday, October 13 at 2:30pm. Don't miss this hit romantic comedy musical! The registration deadline is just around the corner on Wednesday, September 3. Learn more and register here,

COFFEE GATHERING
THIS WEEK! Fourth Friday Coffee on August 23 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.

NEXT MONTH: Second Friday Breakfast Gatherings will resume meeting at Lakeside Street Coffee House on September 13th. Details to come!

FIELD TRIP

Register today for this fascinating Tour of Yerkes Observatory on Monday, October 7, 2024.Often called "the birthplace of modern astrophysics", this 90-minute tour will touch on a range of topics including astrophysics, architecture, local history, photography, engineering, art and more. Afterward, enjoy two hours in Lake Geneva for lunch and to explore the downtown on your own. The registration deadline is September 22 and members may bring a guest. Learn more and register here.

LECTURES
Expand your knowledge on a variety of important subjects with recorded PLATO Lectures presented by PLATO members and special guest presenters.

STAY IN-THE-KNOW WITH PLATO

NEWS UPDATE! PLATO is encouraging new members to join through promotions on Facebook and Wisconsin Public Radio! Please, help us spread the word to Join PLATO!

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. 

August's Featured Offering is The Old Man and the Soil, a short story by William Eisinger that introduces a curious cast of characters in a 1950's rural American setting.

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

DID YOU KNOW? for August 13 – 26, 2024

Warren M. Washington (b. 1936), the second African-American to earn a doctorate in the atmospheric sciences, received the highest scientific honor bestowed by the U.S. President, the National Medal of Science, for his fundamental contributions to the understanding of Earth's coupled climate system through numerical simulation, leadership in U.S. science policy, and inspiring mentorship of young people of all backgrounds and origins.

Visit the Social Justice page for more about Warren Washington
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

August 13, 2024

CURRICULUM

FALL COURSES

· NEXT WEEK! Tuesday, August 20: The fall course schedule will be posted to the Courses page and registration will begin. 

· September 16 – 20: Most fall courses will begin.

SPECIAL EVENTS

THEATER TRIP
NEW! Register today for A Prelude to a Kiss on Sunday, October 13 at 2:30pm – don't miss this hit romantic comedy musical presented by the Milwaukee Rep at the Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Performing Arts' Harris Theater in Brookfield, Wisconsin. The registration deadline is just around the corner on Wednesday, September 3. Learn more and register here,

FIELD TRIPS
THIS WEEK! Forest Products Laboratory Tour on Thursday, August 15 at 9:15am and 9:30am. Registration is full for both tours. Find trip details here.

OCTOBER! Registration continues for a 90-minute Tour of Yerkes Observatory on Monday, October 7, 2024. Often called "the birthplace of modern astrophysics", this tour will touch on a range of fascinating topics including astrophysics, architecture, local history, photography, engineering, art and more. Afterward, enjoy two hours in Lake Geneva for lunch and to explore the downtown on your own. The registration deadline is September 22 and members may bring a guest. Learn more and register here.

COFFEE GATHERING
NEXT WEEK! Fourth Friday Coffee on August 23 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.

LECTURES
Recorded PLATO Lectures offer on-demand learning opportunities on a wide array of subjects presented by PLATO members and special guest presenters.

STAY IN-THE-KNOW WITH PLATO
Enhance Your Summer Reading List

As a membership benefit, PLATO Members are eligible to receive a complimentary UW-Madison Library Courtesy Card ($50 value) which offers borrowing privileges at all UW-Madison Libraries! Friendly reminder: Your Library Courtesy Card must be renewed each year. Learn how to apply 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. 

August's Featured Offering is The Old Man and the Soil, a short story by William Eisinger that introduces a curious cast of characters in a 1950's rural American setting.

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

DID YOU KNOW? for August 13 – 26, 2024

Warren M. Washington (b. 1936), the second African-American to earn a doctorate in the atmospheric sciences, received the highest scientific honor bestowed by the U.S. President, the National Medal of Science, for his fundamental contributions to the understanding of Earth's coupled climate system through numerical simulation, leadership in U.S. science policy, and inspiring mentorship of young people of all backgrounds and origins.

Visit the Social Justice page for more about Warren Washington
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 

August 6, 2024

Also, new members may join by following the "Get Started" instructions on the Join PLATO page. Membership dues remain at $60 and are valid from August 1, 2024 through July 31, 2025. For assistance, please contact the PLATO office at info@platomadison.org or 608-572-6869.

CURRICULUM

FALL COURSES
MARK YOUR CALENDARS with these important dates:

· Tuesday, August 20: The fall course schedule will be posted to the Courses page and registration will begin. 

· September 16 – 20: Most fall courses will begin.

SPECIAL EVENTS

FIELD TRIPS
NEW! Join us on Monday, October 7, 2024 for a 90-minute Tour of Yerkes Observatory! Often called "the birthplace of modern astrophysics", this tour will touch on a range of fascinating topics including astrophysics, architecture, local history, photography, engineering, art and more. Afterward, enjoy two hours in Lake Geneva for lunch and to explore the downtown on your own. Registration deadline is September 22 and members are welcome to invite a guest. Learn more and register here.

THIS WEEK! Madison Youth Arts Center (MYArts) Tour on Wednesday, August 7 from 2:00-3:15pm. Completed in 2021, the $29 million dollar, four-story building is home to Madison Youth Choirs, the Children’s Theater of Madison, and over 25 more arts and community groups. This tour is free to PLATO members and their guests. Registration is required and there are only a couple of spots left! Learn more and register here.

NEXT WEEK! Forest Products Laboratory Tour on Thursday, August 15 at 9:15am and 9:30am. Registration is now full for both tours – check next Tuesday's Weekly Update for any last-minute openings due to cancellations. Learn more here.

BREAKFAST GATHERING
THIS WEEK! Second Friday Breakfast – Join us outdoors on August 9 at 10am at the UW-Memorial Union Terrace to connect with fellow PLATO members over a cup of coffee and breakfast snacks. Lunch items are available after 11am. Feel free to bring a guest! Learn more and RSVP here.

LECTURES
Recorded PLATO Lectures on a variety of interesting subjects are available 24/7 for your viewing pleasure from the comfort of home.

STAY IN-THE-KNOW WITH PLATO
Enhance Your Summer Reading List

As a membership benefit, PLATO Members are eligible to receive a complimentary UW-Madison Library Courtesy Card ($50 value) which offers borrowing privileges at all UW-Madison Libraries! Friendly reminder: Your Library Courtesy Card must be renewed each year. Learn how to apply 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. 

August's Featured Offering is The Old Man and the Soil, a short story by William Eisinger that casts the reader back to a curious cast of characters in a 1950's rural American setting.

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

DID YOU KNOW? for July 30 – August 12, 2024

Visit the Social Justice page for 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).

PLATO Weekly Update 

July 30, 2024

MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL 2024-25
MANY THANKS to members who have already renewed!

Membership dues remain at $60 and are valid from August 1, 2024 through July 31, 2025. Renewing members, check your email inbox for your dues renewal invoice or visit the  Join PLATO page. Also, new members may join by following the "Get Started" instructions on the Join PLATO page. For assistance, please contact the PLATO office at info@platomadison.org or 608-572-6869.

CURRICULUM

SUMMER COURSES
Have a question about a Summer Course? Find answers on the Courses Page or contact your Course Coordinator.

FALL COURSES
MARK YOUR CALENDARS with these important dates!

· Tuesday, August 20: The fall course schedule will be posted to the Courses page and registration will begin. 

· September 16 – 20: Most fall courses will begin.

SPECIAL EVENTS

FIELD TRIP TOURS

NEXT WEEK! Madison Youth Arts Center (MYArts) Tour on Wednesday, August 7 from 2:00-3:15pm. Completed in 2021, the $29 million dollar, four-story building is home to Madison Youth Choirs, the Children’s Theater of Madison, and over 25 more arts and community groups. This tour is free to PLATO members and their guests. Registration is required. Learn more and register here.