PLATO Weekly Update 

March 8, 2022

CURRICULUM

COVID-19 PROTOCOLS FOR COURSES
COVID-19 protocols are now specific to each host site. Find details here or contact your course coordinator.

CANCELLATIONS
Mary Kirn's Illuminated Manuscripts course has been cancelled.

SPECIAL FEATURE
Check out Kathie Berman’s article about what PLATO means to her.

SPECIAL EVENTS

JOIN THE TEAM
Have you enjoyed PLATO theater and field trips in the past? Are you eager to participate in future trips? We need your help to make them happen! As PLATO carefully resumes this kind of activity we need new team members on the Special Events Committee to help us plan and put them together. Without more help they won't take place. Please contact Michael or Carla Di Iorio if you are interested at carlad@tds.net or 608-257-9164.

LECTURES
NEW! On Thursday, April 14th at 1:00pm Jim Lattis, Director of UW Space Place, will lead us in an intriguing exploration of the night skies featuring important eclipses, meteor showers and other astronomical events visible in the near future. Dr. Lattis will provide tips on the astronomical use of telescopes and binoculars appropriate to the amateur. This is a 75-minute virtual lecture and registration is required. 

And, as always, PLATO Lectures on many topics are always available.

BREAKFAST GATHERINGS
THIS FRIDAY! These events offer a delightful opportunity to socialize with PLATO members over a breakfast of your choice. Join us on March 11th at 9:30am at The Marquette Hotel Café, located at 414 South Baldwin Street on Madison's near Eastside. RSVP and other COVID-19 Protocols are required. RSVP and learn more here.

THEATER TRIPS 
Our trip to see a matinee of a Beatles-inspired version of As You Like It at the Milwaukee Rep on Wednesday, March 16, 2022 is full but you can learn more here. COVID-19 protocols are required.

FEATURED AGORA WORKS

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

Our Biweekly Feature for March 8th - March 21st is Morning Call, a painting by Susan Young Hoffman.

SOCIAL JUSTICE EVENTS & READINGS

Select from a range of topics and formats 

for your late Winter reading, viewing, or listening, 

curated by PLATO's Diversity Awareness Committee.

DID YOU KNOW? for March 1 - 14, 2022

Did You Know... Jessie Isabelle Price, was a veterinary microbiologist who studied and worked at the Cornell University Duck Research Laboratory where she identified the cause of the most common life-threatening disease in duck farming in the 1950’s. She then developed preventive vaccines for this and many other avian diseases. 

Price, a black woman, was highly praised for her work in vaccine development which greatly aided commercial duck, turkey, and pigeon farming. She relocated to Madison, Wisconsin in 1977 to work as a research microbiologist at the National Wildlife Health Center, where she focused on diseases in waterfowl and environmental contaminants.

Visit the Social Justice Webpage for much more about Jessie Isabelle Price & past DID YOU KNOW? features.

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

PLATO Weekly Update

February 22, 2022

CURRICULUM

CANCELLATIONS

Please note that two Spring Courses have been cancelled:

· Life Maps with Norm Leer

· Women’s Journeys toward Self-Discovery with Grethe Brix-J Leer

SPRING COURSES

Find everything you need to know on the COURSES webpage. 

REMINDER

These COVID-19 Protocols are required for in-person courses:

· Wear masks inside of Host Location buildings.

· Follow social distancing guidelines.

· Follow any additional guidelines required at Host Locations - visit the Courses Page or check with your course coordinator.

SPECIAL EVENTS

LECTURES
THIS WEEK! On Thursday, February 24th at 2:00pm Professor Joe Salmons will lead us in an intriguing exploration of Wisconsin English including pronunciations, words, associations and grammar. This is a one-hour virtual lecture and registration is required.

As always, PLATO Lectures on many topics are always available.  

BREAKFAST GATHERINGS
These events offer a delightful opportunity to socialize with PLATO members over a breakfast of your choice. Our next gathering will be on March 11th at 9:30am at The Marquette Hotel Café, located at 414 South Baldwin Street on Madison's near Eastside. RSVP and other COVID-19 Protocols are required. RSVP and learn more here.

THEATER TRIPS 
Our trip to see a matinee of a Beatles-inspired version of As You Like It at the Milwaukee Rep on Wednesday, March 16, 2022 is full but you can learn more and join the waitlist here. COVID-19 protocols are required. 

REMINDER 
These COVID-19 Protocols are required for in-person special events:

· Masks are required at all times, except while eating.

· You will need to show: 

o   A picture ID.

o   Proof of COVID-19 vaccination or proof of negative results of a COVID-19 test 72 hours prior to the event. The test must be issued by a medical provider or pharmacy. At home tests will not be accepted. 

· You will not be allowed to join the event without providing acceptable documentation.

· Please stay home if you are not feeling well and contact the trip organizer to inform them of your decision.

HISTORY OF PLATO

"Thirty-five Years of PLATO Courses" is an interesting article about the history of PLATO's courses, updated to include the pandemic era for your edification and enjoyment. Other stories in the Leisurely Walk through PLATO's History series can also be found on PLATO's About webpage.

FEATURED AGORA WORKS

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

Our Biweekly Feature for February 22nd – March 7th is What Time is it Anyway?, a short story written and narrated by Mary De Wolf (a 10.5 minute listen).

SOCIAL JUSTICE EVENTS & READINGS

Select from a range of topics and formats 

for your Winter reading, viewing, or listening, 

curated by PLATO's Diversity Awareness Committee.

NEW BOOK & VIDEO RECOMMENDATIONS – For more on the book “JUST AS I AM: A MEMOIR" by Cicely Tyson and the 2022 mini-series, “WOMEN OF THE MOVEMENT” click the Social Justice Webpage button below. 

DID YOU KNOW? for February 15 – 28, 2022

Did You Know… World War II Navajo code talker Thomas Begay was a teenager playing football near his high school in New Mexico when he heard news of the December 7, 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor. As soon as he could, he went to a recruiting office to join the Marines. Because he was only 17 he had to go home and return with his mother to give permission for his enlistment. This was just the start of his lifelong commitment to public service. 

Begay, now in his late 90’s, is one of only 4 men still alive among the 400-plus Navajo code talkers from World War II.

Visit the Social Justice Webpage for much more about Thomas Begay & past DID YOU KNOW? features.

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

PLATO Weekly Update 

February 15, 2022

CURRICULUM

SPRING COURSES
Most courses begin next week – some will also begin the week of Feb. 28th and later. Be sure to check when the course you registered for will begin! Find these details and more on the COURSES webpage. 

REMINDER

These COVID-19 Protocols are required for in-person courses:

· Wear masks inside of Host Location buildings.

· Follow social distancing guidelines.

· Follow any additional guidelines required at Host Locations - visit the Courses Page or check with your course coordinator.

SPECIAL EVENTS

LECTURES
NEXT WEEK! Join Professor Joe Salmons on Thursday, February 24th at 2:00pm for an interesting one-hour exploration of Wisconsin English including pronunciations, words, associations and grammar. This is a virtual lecture and registration is required.

Also, enjoy archived PLATO Lectures on a variety of topics! 

THEATER TRIPS 
Our trip to see a matinee of a Beatles-inspired version of As You Like It at the Milwaukee Rep on Wednesday, March 16, 2022 is full but you can join the wait list. This production features more than 20 Beatles songs performed live, including "She Loves You" and "I Want to Hold Your Hand". We will take a chartered bus with various stops around Madison. Registration and other COVID-19 protocols are required. Join the wait list and learn more here.

BREAKFAST GATHERINGS
Meet a future friend and enjoy good food and conversation at our next gathering on March 11th at 9:30am at The Marquette Hotel Café, located at 414 South Baldwin Street in the fun and funky Willy Street neighborhood. RSVP and other COVID-19 Protocols are required. RSVP and learn more here.

REMINDER 
These COVID-19 Protocols are required for in-person special events:

· Masks are required at all times, except while eating.

· You will need to show:

o   A picture ID.

o   Proof of COVID-19 vaccination or proof of negative results of a COVID-19 test 72 hours prior to the event. The test must be issued by a medical provider or pharmacy. At home tests will not be accepted. 

· You will not be allowed to join the event without providing acceptable documentation.

· Please stay home if you are not feeling well and contact the trip organizer to inform them of your decision.

FEATURED AGORA WORKS

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

Our Biweekly Feature for February 8th – February 21st is A Walk in the Woods (during Pandemic), a painting by Jim Albright and a poem by Judith Sokolow – two works of "quiet beauty" that come together to "soothe and nourish our hungry souls".

SOCIAL JUSTICE EVENTS & READINGS

Select from a range of topics and formats 

for your Winter reading, viewing, or listening, 

curated by PLATO's Diversity Awareness Committee.

NEW BOOK & VIDEO RECOMMENDATIONS – For more on the book “JUST AS I AM: A MEMOIR" by Cicely Tyson and the 2022 mini-series, “WOMEN OF THE MOVEMENT” click the Social Justice Webpage button below. 

DID YOU KNOW? for February 15 – 28, 2022

Did You Know… World War II Navajo code talker Thomas Begay was a teenager playing football near his high school in New Mexico when he heard news of the December 7, 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor. As soon as he could, he went to a recruiting office to join the Marines. Because he was only 17 he had to go home and return with his mother to give permission for his enlistment. This was just the start of his lifelong commitment to public service. 

Begay, now in his late 90’s, is one of only 4 men still alive among the 400-plus Navajo code talkers from World War II.

Visit the Social Justice Webpage for much more about Thomas Begay & past DID YOU KNOW? features.

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

PLATO Weekly Update

February 8, 2022

CURRICULUM

 SPRING COURSES

Many Courses still have openings – our selection of 40 Courses is underway with in-person, virtual, email and hybrid options. Find details on the COURSES webpage. 

Also, please help make courses pleasant for all PLATO members by reading this brief article. 

 
REMINDER

These COVID-19 Protocols are required for in-person courses:

· Wear masks inside of Host Location buildings.

· Follow social distancing guidelines.

· Follow any additional guidelines required at Host Locations - visit the Courses Page or check with your course coordinator.

SPECIAL EVENTS

BREAKFAST GATHERINGS
THIS WEEK! Enjoy good food and conversation this Friday, February 11th at 9:30am at The Marquette Hotel Café, located at 414 South Baldwin Street in the fun and funky Willy Street neighborhood. RSVP and other COVID-19 Protocols are required. RSVP and learn more here.

LECTURES
Do you speak Badger? Join Professor Joe Salmons on Thursday, February 24th at 2:00pm for an entertaining one-hour exploration of Wisconsin English including pronunciations, words, associations and grammar. This is a virtual lecture and registration is required.

Also, check out our archived PLATO Lectures on a variety of topics. 

THEATER TRIPS 
Our trip to see a matinee of a Beatles-inspired version of As You Like It at the Milwaukee Rep on Wednesday, March 16, 2022 is full but you can join the wait list. This production features more than 20 Beatles songs performed live, including "She Loves You" and "I Want to Hold Your Hand". We will take a chartered bus with various stops around Madison. Registration and other COVID-19 protocols are required. Join the wait list and learn more here.

REMINDER 
These COVID-19 Protocols are required for in-person special events:

· Masks are required at all times, except while eating.

· You will need to show: 

o   A picture ID.

o   Proof of COVID-19 vaccination or proof of negative results of a COVID-19 test 72 hours prior to the event. The test must be issued by a medical provider or pharmacy. At home tests will not be accepted. 

· You will not be allowed to join the event without providing acceptable documentation.

· Please stay home if you are not feeling well and contact the trip organizer to inform them of your decision.

COVID-19 UPDATE

IMPORTANT! Please read the latest advice from PLATO’s COVID-19 Workgroup which provides masking tips and a link to request free at-home tests from the U.S. Government.

FEATURED AGORA WORKS

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

Our Biweekly Feature for February 8th – February 21st is A Walk in the Woods (during Pandemic), a painting by Jim Albright and a poem by Judith Sokolow – two works of "quiet beauty" that come together to "soothe and nourish our hungry souls".

SOCIAL JUSTICE EVENTS & READINGS

Select from a range of topics and formats 

for your Winter reading, viewing, or listening, 

curated by PLATO's Diversity Awareness Committee.

DID YOU KNOW? for February 1 - 14, 2022
Dr. Charles E. Anderson was the first black man to receive a PhD in Meteorology (MIT, 1960) and first black man to earn tenure at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He was a Dean at UW-Madison (in the 1970’s and 1980’s), pioneered research and work that involved minimizing contrails of high-altitude aircrafts, worked extensively as a leading expert on severe storms and tornadoes, and made discoveries in the meteorology of other planets. 

Dr. Anderson was not only a distinguished scientist and meteorologist, but also an African American Studies scholar and teacher, serving as Professor of Afro-American Studies for several years at UW-Madison.

Visit the Social Justice Webpage for more about Charles E. Anderson & past DID YOU KNOW? features.

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

PLATO Weekly Update

February 1, 2022

CURRICULUM

 SPRING COURSES

Spring Registration is still open with 40 courses to choose from – 17 are in-person, 22 are virtual and one is via email. Four of these courses are hybrid, meaning there is an in-person or virtual option. Learn more on the COURSES webpage. 

And, please take a moment to review how to help make courses pleasant for all PLATO members by reading this brief article. 

 REMINDER

These COVID-19 Protocols are required for in-person courses:

· Wear masks inside of Host Location buildings.

· Follow social distancing guidelines.

· Follow any additional guidelines required at Host Locations - visit the Courses Page or check with your course coordinator.

SPECIAL EVENTS

LECTURES
NEW! Do you speak Badger? Join Professor Joe Salmons as he leads us in an informative and fun conversation on Wisconsin English – pronunciations, words, associations, and grammar. This is a virtual lecture and registration is required.

Also, explore archived PLATO Lectures on a variety of topics. 

BREAKFAST GATHERINGS
Join us on Friday, February 11th at 9:30am for good company and food at The Marquette Hotel Café, located at 414 South Baldwin Street in the heart of the Willy Street neighborhood. RSVP and other COVID-19 Protocols are required. RSVP and learn more here.

THEATER TRIPS 
Our trip to see a matinee of a Beatles-inspired version of As You Like It at the Milwaukee Rep on Wednesday, March 16, 2022 is now full but you can still join the wait list. Interwoven into Shakespeare’s classic romantic comedy, the production features more than 20 Beatles songs performed live, including "She Loves You" and "I Want to Hold Your Hand". We will take a chartered bus with convenient pick-up/drop-off stops around Madison. Registration and other COVID-19 protocols are required. Join the wait list and learn more here.

REMINDER 
These COVID-19 Protocols are required for in-person special events:

· Masks are required at all times, except while eating.

· You will need to show: 

o   A picture ID.

o   Proof of COVID-19 vaccination or proof of negative results of a COVID-19 test 72 hours prior to the event. The test must be issued by a medical provider or pharmacy. At home tests will not be accepted. 

· You will not be allowed to join the event without providing acceptable documentation.

· Please stay home if you are not feeling well and contact the trip organizer to inform them of your decision.

COVID-19 UPDATE

PLEASE READ the latest advice from PLATO’s COVID-19 Workgroup which provides recommendations about the most effective types of masks and a link to request four free at-home tests from the U.S. Government.

FEATURED AGORA WORKS

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

Our Biweekly Featured Offering for January 25th - February 7th is Coastline, a poem by Nancy Cross Dunham, inspired by a photograph she took on retreat in Hawaii that she calls "a visual meditation on impermanence".

SOCIAL JUSTICE EVENTS & READINGS

Select from a range of topics and formats 

for your Winter reading, viewing, or listening, 

curated by PLATO's Diversity Awareness Committee.

DID YOU KNOW? for February 1 - 13, 2022

Dr. Charles E. Anderson was the first black man to receive a PhD in Meteorology (MIT, 1960) and first black man to earn tenure at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He was a Dean at UW-Madison (in the 1970’s and 1980’s), pioneered research and work that involved minimizing contrails of high-altitude aircrafts, worked extensively as a leading expert on severe storms and tornadoes, and made discoveries in the meteorology of other planets. 

Dr. Anderson was not only a distinguished scientist and meteorologist, but also an African American Studies scholar and teacher, serving as Professor of Afro-American Studies for several years at UW-Madison.

Visit the Social Justice Webpage for more about Charles E. Anderson & past DID YOU KNOW? features.

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

PLATO Weekly Update 

January 25, 2022

CURRICULUM

SPRING COURSES
Spring Registration continues with 40 courses available! 17 are in-person, 22 are virtual and one is via email. Four of these courses are hybrid, meaning there is an in-person or virtual option. Learn more on the newly formatted COURSES webpage. 

Also, please read this article about how to help make courses pleasant for everyone – it offers some ideas for contributing to a congenial setting. 

REMINDER

These COVID-19 Protocols are required for in-person courses:

· Wear masks inside of Host Location buildings.

· Follow social distancing guidelines.

· Follow any additional guidelines required at Host Locations - visit the Courses Page or check with your course coordinator.

SPECIAL EVENTS

THEATER TRIPS 
NOW is the time to sign up! Join us to see a matinee of a Beatles-inspired version of As You Like It at the Milwaukee Rep on Wednesday, March 16, 2022. We will take a chartered bus with convenient pick-up/drop-off stops around Madison. Although the sign-up deadline is February 15, if sufficient numbers don't register by February 8 (or if COVID interferes), the trip may be cancelled. Interwoven into Shakespeare’s classic romantic comedy, the production features more than 20 Beatles songs performed live, including "She Loves You" and "I Want to Hold Your Hand". Registration and other COVID-19 protocols are required. Register and learn more here.

BREAKFAST GATHERINGS
Join us next month for good company and food on Friday, February 11th at 9:30am at The Marquette Hotel Café, located at 414 South Baldwin Street in the heart of the Willy Street neighborhood. RSVP and other COVID-19 Protocols are required. RSVP and learn more here.

REMINDER 
These COVID-19 Protocols are required for in-person special events:

· Masks are required at all times, except while eating.

· You will need to show: 

o   A picture ID.

o   Proof of COVID-19 vaccination or proof of negative results of a COVID-19 test 72 hours prior to the event. The test must be issued by a medical provider or pharmacy. At home tests will not be accepted. 

· You will not be allowed to join the event without providing acceptable documentation.

· Please stay home if you are not feeling well and contact the trip organizer to inform them of your decision.

LECTURES
Peruse our archive of PLATO Lectures on a variety of topics.

COVID-19 UPDATE

PLEASE READ the latest advice from PLATO’s COVID-19 Workgroup featuring recommendations about the most effective types of masks and a link to request four free at-home tests from the U.S. Government.

CALL FOR BOARD NOMINATIONS

LAST CALL! Each year we need members to serve on the board of directors. This is your opportunity to suggest names of members who you think might help lead our organization. The Nominating Committee seeks names for one at-large board position (3-year term) and for vice-president. Please send your suggestions to info@platomadison.org with the subject line "BoardNominations" by January 31. Remember, PLATO depends on volunteers to make its programs successful!

EATURED AGORA WORKS

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

Our Biweekly Featured Offering for January 25th - February 7th is Coastline, a poem by Nancy Cross Dunham, inspired by a photograph she took on retreat in Hawaii that she calls "a visual meditation on impermanence".

SOCIAL JUSTICE EVENTS & READINGS

Select from a range of topics and formats 

for your Winter reading, viewing, or listening, 

curated by PLATO's Diversity Awareness Committee.

BOOK LISTING – HELL OF A BOOK" by Jason Mott is one of The Washington Post's 50 Notable Works of Fiction and The Philadelphia Inquirer’s Best Books of 2021. For more on this acclaimed novel, click the Social Justice Webpage button below.

DID YOU KNOW? for January 18 – 31, 2022

Did You Know…Zaila Avant-Garde,14 years old, spelled “m-u-r-r-a-y-a”, a genus of tropical Asiatic and Australian trees, to clinch a victory at last year’s (2021) Scripps National Spelling Bee. Avant-Garde is the first Black American champion in the competition’s 96 year history. Spelling is not Avant-Garde’s only talent….

Visit the Social Justice Webpage for more about
Zaila Avant-Garde & past DID YOU KNOW? features.

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

PLATO Weekly Update

January 18, 2022

CURRICULUM

SPRING COURSES
NEW – Spring Registration is now open! Choose from 40 courses this Spring – 17 in person, 22 virtual and one via email. Four of these courses are hybrid, meaning there is the option to attend in person or virtually. Find everything you want and need to know here on the new COURSES webpage. 

And please, let’s make PLATO courses pleasant for everyone – this article offers some ideas for how to contribute to creating a congenial atmosphere. 

REMINDER

These COVID-19 Protocols are required for in-person courses:

· Wear masks inside of Host Location buildings.

· Follow social distancing guidelines.

· Follow any additional guidelines required at Host Locations - visit the Courses Page or check with your course coordinator.

SPECIAL EVENTS

THEATER TRIPS 
Live theater trips are back! Hop our chartered bus to a matinee at the Milwaukee Rep on Wednesday, March 16, 2022, for a Beatles-inspired version of As You Like It. Interwoven into Shakespeare’s classic romantic comedy, the production features more than 20 Beatles songs performed live, including "She Loves You" and "I Want to Hold Your Hand". Registration and other COVID-19 protocols are required. Register and learn more here

BREAKFAST GATHERINGS
Our first Breakfast Gathering of the year was a great success. Join us next month on Friday, February 11th at 9:30am at The Marquette Hotel Café, located at 414 South Baldwin Street in the heart of the Willy Street neighborhood. RSVP and other COVID-19 Protocols are required. RSVP and learn more here.

REMINDER 
These COVID-19 Protocols are required for in-person special events:

· Masks are required at all times, except while eating.

· You will need to show: 

o   A picture ID.

o   Proof of COVID-19 vaccination or proof of negative results of a COVID-19 test 72 hours prior to the event. The test must be issued by a medical provider or pharmacy. At home tests will not be accepted. 

· You will not be allowed to join the event without providing acceptable documentation.

· Please stay home if you are not feeling well and contact the trip organizer to inform them of your decision.

LECTURES
Peruse our archive of PLATO Lectures on a variety of topics.

CALL FOR BOARD NOMINATIONS

PLATO depends on volunteers to make its programs successful. Each year we need members who wish to be considered for service on the board of directors. This is your opportunity to suggest names to the Nominating Committee of members who you think might help lead the organization. The Nominating Committee is seeking names for one at-large board position (3-year term) and for vice-president. Please send your suggestions to info@platomadison.org with the subject line BoardNominations by January 31.

FEATURED AGORA WORKS

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

Our Biweekly Featured Offering for January 11th - 24th is Brother Older Than Myself, a poem by Barbara Carson, which celebrates the special relationship that siblings can share.

SOCIAL JUSTICE EVENTS & READINGS

Select from a range of topics and formats 

for your Winter reading, viewing, or listening, 

curated by PLATO's Diversity Awareness Committee.

NEW BOOK LISTING – HELL OF A BOOK" by Jason Mott is one of The Washington Post's 50 Notable Works of Fiction and The Philadelphia Inquirer’s Best Books of 2021. For more on this acclaimed novel, click the Social Justice Webpage button below.

DID YOU KNOW? for January 18 – 31, 2022

Did You Know…Zaila Avant-Garde,14 years old, spelled “m-u-r-r-a-y-a”, a genus of tropical Asiatic and Australian trees, to clinch a victory at last year’s (2021) Scripps National Spelling Bee. Avant-Garde is the first Black American champion in the competition’s 96 year history. Spelling is not Avant-Garde’s only talent….

Visit the Social Justice Webpage for more about
Zaila Avant-Garde & past DID YOU KNOW? features.

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

PLATO Weekly Update 

January 11, 2022

CURRICULUM

SPRING COURSES
Spring Course Registration begins next week Tuesday, January 18th, with in-person, virtual and hybrid options available. 

REMINDER

These COVID-19 Protocols are required for in-person courses:

· Wear masks inside of Host Location buildings.

· Follow social distancing guidelines.

· Follow any additional guidelines required at Host Locations - visit the Courses Page or check with your course coordinator.

SPECIAL EVENTS

BREAKFAST GATHERINGS
THIS WEEK! Join us on Friday, January 14th at 9:30am for our first Breakfast Gathering of 2022 at The Marquette Hotel Café, located at 414 South Baldwin Street in the heart of the Willy Street neighborhood. RSVP and other COVID-19 Protocols are required. RSVP and learn more here.

THEATER TRIPS 
Live theater trips are back! Hop our chartered bus to a matinee at the Milwaukee Rep on Wednesday, March 16, 2022, for a Beatles-inspired version of As You Like It. Interwoven into Shakespeare’s classic romantic comedy, the production features more than 20 Beatles songs performed live, including "She Loves You" and "I Want to Hold Your Hand". Registration and other COVID-19 protocols are required. Register and learn more here.

REMINDER 
These COVID-19 Protocols are required for in-person special events:

· Masks are required at all times, except while eating.

· You will need to show: 

o   A picture ID.

o   Proof of COVID-19 vaccination or proof of negative results of a COVID-19 test 72 hours prior to the event. The test must be issued by a medical provider or pharmacy. At home tests will not be accepted. 

· You will not be allowed to join the event without providing acceptable documentation.

· Please stay home if you are not feeling well and contact the trip organizer to inform them of your decision.

LECTURES
Peruse our archive of PLATO Lectures on a variety of topics.

CALL FOR BOARD NOMINATIONS

PLATO depends on volunteers to make its programs successful. Each year we need members who wish to be considered for service on the board of directors. This is your opportunity to suggest names to the Nominating Committee of members who you think might help lead the organization. The Nominating Committee is seeking names for one at-large board position (3-year term) and for vice-president. Please send your suggestions to info@platomadison.org with the subject line BoardNominations by January 31.

FEATURED AGORA WORKS

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

Our Biweekly Featured Offering for January 11th - 25th is Brother Older Than Myself, a poem by Barbara Carson, which celebrates the special relationship that siblings can share.

SOCIAL JUSTICE EVENTS & READINGS

Select from a range of topics and formats 

for your Winter reading, viewing, or listening, 

curated by PLATO's Diversity Awareness Committee.

DID YOU KNOW? for January 4 - 17, 2022

Did You Know…The inventor of the first home security system was Marie Van Brittan Brown, a black woman from New York. She is also credited with the invention of the first closed circuit television. The patent for the invention was filed in 1966 and it later influenced modern home security systems that are still used today.

Visit the Social Justice Webpage for more about
Marie Van Brittan Brown & past DID YOU KNOW? features.

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

PLATO Weekly Update

January 4, 2022

CURRICULUM

WINTER COURSES
NEW! Film History begins this week; three more Winter Courses will start next week. 

SPRING COURSES
Spring Course Registration will open on Tuesday, January 18th.

REMINDER

These COVID-19 Protocols are required for in-person courses:

· Wear masks inside of Host Location buildings.

· Follow social distancing guidelines.

· Follow any additional guidelines required at Host Locations - visit the Courses Page or check with your course coordinator.

SPECIAL EVENTS

THEATER TRIPS 
NEW! Live theater trips are back! Join our bus to a matinee at the Milwaukee Rep on Wednesday, March 16, 2022, for a Beatles-inspired version of As You Like It. Interwoven into Shakespeare’s classic romantic comedy, the production features more than 20 Beatles songs performed live, including "She Loves You" and "I Want to Hold Your Hand". Registration and other COVID-19 protocols are required. Register and learn more here.

REMINDER 
These COVID-19 Protocols are required for in-person special events:

· Masks are required at all times, except while eating.

· You will need to show:

o   A picture ID.

o   Proof of COVID-19 vaccination or proof of negative results of a COVID-19 test 72 hours prior to the event. The test must be issued by a medical provider or pharmacy. At home tests will not be accepted. 

· You will not be allowed to join the event without providing acceptable documentation.

· Please stay home if you are not feeling well and contact the trip organizer to inform them of your decision.

BREAKFAST GATHERINGS
Join us for our first Breakfast Gathering of the new year on Friday, January 14th at 9:30am at The Marquette Hotel Café, located at 414 South Baldwin Street in the heart of the Willy Street neighborhood. RSVP and other COVID-19 Protocols are required. RSVP and learn more here.

VIRTUAL LECTURES

Enjoy recordings of PLATO Lectures on a variety of topics. 

FEATURED AGORA WORKS

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

Our Biweekly Featured Offerings will continue next week, January 11th. In the meantime, check out the digital version of The Agora, Volume 7, 2021!

SOCIAL JUSTICE EVENTS & READINGS

Select from a range of topics and formats 

for your Winter reading, viewing, or listening, 

curated by PLATO's Diversity Awareness Committee.

DID YOU KNOW? for January 4 - 17, 2022

Did You Know…The inventor of the first home security system was Marie Van Brittan Brown, a black woman from New York. She is also credited with the invention of the first closed circuit television. The patent for the invention was filed in 1966 and it later influenced modern home security systems that are still used today.

Visit the Social Justice Webpage for more about
Marie Van Brittan Brown & past DID YOU KNOW? features.

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

PLATO Weekly Update 

December 21, 2021

CURRICULUM

WINTER COURSES
Winter Course Registration continues – review our course offerings and contact the course coordinator via phone or email to register. Please note that Spring Course Registration will open on Tuesday, January 18th.

REMINDER

These COVID-19 Protocols continue to be in place for in-person participants:

· Wear masks inside of Host Location buildings.

· Follow social distancing guidelines.

· Follow any additional guidelines required at Host Locations - visit the Courses Page or check with your course coordinator.

SPECIAL EVENTS

NEW! Theater Trips and Breakfast Gatherings will resume in 2022! Please note that these COVID-19 Protocols are required to attend these in-person events:

· Masks are required at all times, except while eating.

· You will need to show: 

o   A picture ID.

o   Proof of COVID-19 vaccination or proof of negative results of a COVID-19 test 72 hours prior to the event. The test must be issued by a medical provider or pharmacy. At home tests will not be accepted. 

· You will not be allowed to join the event without providing acceptable documentation.

· Please stay home if you are not feeling well and contact the trip organizer to inform them of your decision.

BREAKFAST GATHERINGS

NEW! Join us for a Breakfast Gathering on Friday, January 14th at 9:30am at The Marquette Hotel Cafe, located at 414 South Baldwin Street in the heart of the fun and funky Willy Street neighborhood. This will be the first of what we intend to be monthly breakfasts in several locations during 2022. All participants must follow PLATO's COVID-19 Protocols for in-person events listed above and RSVP. Find more details and RSVP information here.

THEATER 

NEW! Madison Savoyards presents An Evening with Gilbert and Sullivan, premiering at 2:30pm on December 26th. Recorded for the University League's Candlelight Concert, this free YouTube offering includes a Christmas version of Three Little Maids from School and other favorites from this delightful duo. 

Also, check out these Virtual Theater Trips which are frequently updated.

LECTURES

Enjoy archived Recordings of PLATO Lectures on a variety of topics. 

HOLIDAY SCHEDULE

PLEASE NOTE - In light of the holidays, there will be no Weekly Update next week; the Weekly Update will resume on Tuesday, January 4th. Sending best wishes for a safe, happy and healthy holiday season! 

EDUCATION FUND UPDATE

YEAR-END GIVING - Please consider including PLATO's Education Fund in your charitable gift giving plans to help PLATO continue to provide scholarships for returning adult students at UW-Madison, as well as supporting the Odyssey Project and other local community programs. Since 2012, PLATO has raised more than $205,000, with this year's member donations providing $34,000 to support these educational efforts. Learn more and donate online at PLATO's Donate webpage and send questions to Rod McKenzie: rod.mckenzie@mail.tds.net.

FEATURED AGORA WORKS

The digital version of The Agora, Volume 7, 2021 is now online!

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

Our Featured Offering through January 4th is Bridge a photograph by Bill Eisinger, an apt metaphor for these challenging times.

SOCIAL JUSTICE EVENTS & READINGS

Select from a range of topics and formats 

for your Winter reading, viewing, or listening, 

curated by PLATO's Diversity Awareness Committee.

DID YOU KNOW? December 14 - January 4, 2022

Did You Know… Patsy Matsu Takemoto Mink of Hawaii, was the first woman of color and the first Asian-American woman to serve in the U.S. Congress. She was also the first Asian-American to run for President.

Mink is known for writing bills like Title IX (later named the Patsy T. Mink Equal Opportunity in Education Act), the Early Childhood Education Act, and Women’s Educational Equity Act.

Visit the Social Justice Webpage for more about
Patsy Matsu Takemoto Mink & past DID YOU KNOW? features.

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