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    • October 09, 2025
    • 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
    • Fireside Theater in Fort Atkinson
    • 2



    Fireside Theatre, Fort Atkinson

    Thursday, October 9, 2025

    Registration deadline is Monday, September 15

    It's an American classic!  It's the show that first introduced the immortal writing team of Rodgers and Hammerstein! It's the show that ushered in the Golden Age of American Musical Theatre! It's OKLAHOMA! This bright, brassy, boisterous musical comedy is filled with colorful costumes, breathtaking dancing, side-spitting humor, and a musical score featuring such hits as "People Will Say We're In Love," "Surrey With the Fringe On Top," and the rousing title number "Oklahoma!" The original production won a Pulitzer Prize and various Broadway revivals have won multiple Tony Awards. Now The Fireside presents a fresh, new, not to be missed telling of this time-honored musical.

    The meal includes a Scallop Appetizer, freshly baked breads, choice of entree, Double Layer Carrot Cake for dessert, and coffee/tea/milk. Entree choices include:

    • Chicken Florentine:  Pan seared Chicken Breast stuffed with Fresh Spinach and Cheeses, served over a Spinach Cream Sauce and served with Garlic Whipped Potatoes and Roasted Asparagus.
    • Baked Almond Crusted Cod:  Two Northern Cod Fillets coated with Dijon Mustard and crusted with Toasted Almonds, Japanese Breadcrumbs, and Fresh Herbs. Baked to crunchy perfection and served with our decadent Tarragon Sauce and served with Garlic Whipped Potatoes and Roasted Asparagus.   
    • Beef Short Rib:   Slowly braised in beef stock and dressed with a red wine demi-glaze and served with Garlic Whipped Potatoes and Roasted Asparagus.
    • Vegetarian Option:  Vegetarian Manicotti with red sauce

    PLATO is partnering with the Verona Senior Center  and UW Retirement Association on this travel opportunity.  Pick-up locations are different from PLATO's usual trips.  You will be required to fill out the Verona Senior Center New Member Form (no charge) and Verona Senior Center Liability Agreement.  You can fill out these forms in advance or on the day of the trip.

    Schedule (Return times are approximate)

    8:30 a.m. - Depart Verona Park & Ride

    9:00 a.m.  - Pick-up (East side) Dutch Mill Park and Ride (East Lot)

    5:00 p.m. - Return Dutch Mill Park & Ride

    5:30 p.m. - Return Verona Park & Ride


    Departure Locations

    New Verona Departure Location!

    Verona Park & Ride - 2585 Old PB, Verona, WI


    East side (Dutch Mill Park and Ride (East Lot) 

    Map below for those boarding the bus on east side Dutch Mill Park & Ride. Please park in the "east" lot as indicated by the arrow.

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    Cost:  $125 per person and includes bus transportation, driver tip, admission fees, meal, taxes, and gratuities.

    Seating is limited, so register today!  Registrations must be received no later than noon on Monday, September 15, 2025.

    Mail-In Registration Form:   Print, Fill-in, and Mail this Form  for those who wish to register off-line and by check.

    Refund Policy:  PLATO refunds an event fee if cancelled prior to the registration deadline.  Refunds after the registration deadline are only processed if a wait-listed registrant can attend.  Refunds made by check.

    PLATO Membership:  PLATO membership is $60.00/year and all memberships renew on July 1. 

    For further information, contact  trip organizer, Bob Shaw,    robert.e.shaw@gmail.com, 608-255-3486

    • November 05, 2025
    • 8:15 AM - 5:30 PM
    • Fond du Lac
    • 6
    Register



    Autumn Exploration in Fond du Lac

    Wednesday, November 5, 2025

    Registration deadline is Monday, October 13


    Since the hotel’s opening in 1923, Walter Schroeder (the original owner of the hotel) had a vision to create the Hotel Retlaw as one of the finest hotels in the State of Wisconsin. The eight-story neoclassical hotel in red brick with its cornice and façade detailing shows the attention to detail that was not overlooked in buildings of the era. It’s no coincidence that the name Retlaw, if you haven’t guessed it yet, is his first name backwards. While little has changed on the exterior of the hotel over the past 90 years, the interior has undergone several transformations. Hotel Retlaw has been restored to its former historical significance with a remarkable renovation completed in 2019.  To view some images of the interior click on https://www.thehotelretlaw.com/gallery.  The building has been placed on the National Register of Historic Places by the National Park Service. Hotel Retlaw stands today as one of the most richly historic hotels in Wisconsin.

    Schroeder developed several other noteworthy hotels in Wisconsin, which included: The Schroeder Hotel (now the Hilton Milwaukee), The Astor on the Lake (now The Astor Hotel), and Hotel Wisconsin —all in Milwaukee. In addition, he was the driving force behind Hotel Northland in Green Bay; Hotel Loraine (now Loraine Condominiums) in Madison; Hotel Wausau (now the Landmark Building) in Wausau and the Hotel Duluth (now called Greysolon Plaza) in Duluth, MN.

    Our next stop will be at Faris Gourmet Popcorn & Treats which produces over 350 varieties of gourmet popcorn flavors and mixes. Their products are available in their brick & mortar outlet store, online store, as well as approximately 3,000 box stores nationwide. With no other companies like it in Southeastern Wisconsin, Faris Gourmet Popcorn & Treats was created with the intent to introduce the community to new, unique, and delicious flavors available at an affordable price, so everyone has the opportunity to enjoy it!


    At Lakeside Park you can enjoy a magnificent view from the 40-foot-high observation deck of the lighthouse!  Climb your way to the top for a spectacular view of Lakeside Park and Lake Winnebago. The Lighthouse is the city’s signature attraction and most photographed structure in town. Built in 1933 during the Great Depression, the bottom 10 feet consists of a flagstone covered base, while the upper section of the tower is of frame construction. By 1965, the lighthouse had fallen into disrepair. After the lighthouse was restored, a celebration was held on July 3, 1968. A plaque on a stone near the lighthouse reads: “Saved 1967, Restored 1993. Fond du Lac Evening Optimist Club". A wooden staircase attached to the interior walls of the lighthouse winds up through the tower, permitting visitors to reach the observation deck, where an amazing view of Lakeside Park awaits you.

    Finally The Kristmas Kringle Shoppe is an enchanting two-story Bavarian-style shop with an interior resemblance to quaint European shops.  It is a Midwest favorite and has long been a destination for shoppers of all ages! . The shop has more than 70 themed trees and gifts for all occasions.  A perfect place to start your holiday shopping! 

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    Lunch

    Family-style luncheon of baked ham, roast turkey, mashed potatoes with gravy, green beans and beverage.

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    PLATO is partnering with the Verona Senior Center  and UW Retirement Association on this travel opportunity.  Pick-up locations are different from PLATO's usual trips.  You will be required to fill out the 2025 Verona New Member Form  (no charge) and 2025 Verona trip waiver Form.  You can fill out these forms in advance or on the day of the trip.

    Schedule:  (Return times are approximate)

    TRAVELERS ARE REQUESTED TO ARRIVE 15-20 MINUTES PRIOR TO DEPARTURE

    8:15 a.m.  Depart Verona Park & Ride

    8:35 a.m.   Depart (East Madison) Dutch Mill Park & Ride (East Lot)

    5:00 p.m.   Return Dutch Mill Park & Ride

    5:30 p.m.   Return Verona Park & Ride

    Departure Locations:

    New Verona Departure Location!

    Verona Park & Ride - 2585 Old PB, Verona, WI


    East Side (Dutch Mill Park & Ride (East Lot))

    Map below for those boarding the bus on east side Dutch Mill Park & Ride. Please park in the "east" lot as indicated by the arrow. (east of Arby's)


    Cost: $75 per person and includes bus transportation, driver tip, admission fees, meal, taxes, and gratuities.

    Seating is limited, so register today!  Registrations must be received no later than noon on Monday, October 13, 2025.

    Mail-In Registration Form:   Download, Print, and Mail-in-Form for those who wish to register off-line and by check

    Refund Policy:  PLATO refunds an event fee if cancelled prior to the registration deadline.  Refunds after the registration deadline are only processed if a wait-listed registrant can attend.  Refunds made by check.

    PLATO Membership:  PLATO membership is $60.00/year and all memberships renew on July 1. 

    For further information, contact PLATO trip coordinator, Bob Shaw,  robert.e.shaw@gmail.com , 608-255-3486.

    • November 18, 2025
    • American Players Theatre, Spring Green, Wisconsin
    • 13
    Register


    THE 39 STEPS

    American Players Theatre - Touchstone Theatre

    TUESday, NOVEMBER 18, 2025  1:00 pm matinee

    MEMBER Registration Deadline October 29, 2025

    non-member registration October 23-29, 2025


    A Hitchcock parody in 2 ACTS / 4 actors / 100 characters!

    Grab your gummy bears and buckle up for a fall-down funny thriller, as a charming everyman is swept up in romance and ridiculous twists. Launched into an intrigue he didn’t know he needed, our Mr. Hannay navigates femmes fatales, villains and clowns with dashing, theatrical flair. It’s a seductive spy story based on all the best noir, with a hearty comic twist – think North by Northwest, but by Noël Coward. All brought to gleeful life by four incredible actors playing over 100 characters. It’s the thrilling escape we’ve all been craving – a special event in the intimate Touchstone Theatre that will leave you in stitches.

    From the novel by John Buchan and the movie by Alfred Hitchcock

    Estimated running time: 2 hours, 30 minutes (includes intermission)

    Cost: $98 per person for members and their guests. Non-members may register during a limited time at the same rate. Lunch is not included. Bus driver tip is included.

    Seating: The 39 Steps will be staged in APT's 201-seat indoor Touchstone Theatre, where every seat is a good one. It's about a 5-minute stroll from the parking lot, up a gentle slope (though there is a shuttle available if you prefer to ride). The path leads through the prairie to a beautiful, modern, intimate, and climate-controlled facility. Once inside, you'll find a gift shop, concession stand and restrooms--the same amenities as the Hill Theatre (but to slightly smaller scale). More information about this theater.

    lunch

    We will arrive early in Spring Green to lunch at Riverside Bar and Grill, located on the Wisconsin River. The price is not included in your ticket. Prices range from $10 for soup and salad to $12-$14 for sandwiches, plus beverages.

    Itinerary (note only 2 pickup locations)

    Bear in mind that our boarding bus route is like Madison Metro or any other municipal bus service. Please arrive 15 minutes early at your boarding stop so you don't miss the bus. When everyone is aboard and seated, we leave. 

    Don't be late. We can wait just 5 minutes at any one location.

    Leave Madison - Please arrive 15 minutes before departure

    9:20 AM Bus arrives at East Towne Mall, old Sears parking lot (across from Culvers and under Lamppost 10)

    9:30 AM  Bus departs East Towne

    10:00 AM  Bus arrives at Oakwood Village University Woods (West), 6205 Mineral Point Road, Madison, WI 53705

    10:10 AM  Bus departs Oakwood Village

    Spring Green/American Players 

    11:00 AM  Bus arrives at Riverside Bar & Grill

    12:10 PM  Bus departs for American Players Theatre

    12:25 PM  Bus arrives at American Players Theatre

    1:00 PM    The 39 Steps  begins

    3:30 PM  The 39 Steps ends

    3:50 PM  Bus departs for Madison (there will be ample time for restroom stops and returning to the parking lot)

    Arrive Madison (estimated)

    4:50 PM  Bus arrives at Oakwood Village University Woods

    5:30 PM  Bus arrives at East Towne Mall

    ACCESSIBILITY POLICY

    On the bus you must be able to climb steps to board and exit. If you need assistance, we require that you bring a friend to give you a hand.

    guest & Non-Member policy

    Members must register their guests. Each PLATO member is entitled to bring one non-member guest per trip; fees are the same. (Members may bring more than one near the registration deadline date if seats are available. Check with trip organizer.) Non-members may only register during a limited time period. PLATO membership is $60.00/year. Memberships renew each July 1. 

    Mail-in registration form

    If you are not registering online, you can print, complete, and mail in this Registration Form with your check.

    Contact information 

    For further information, contact the theater trip organizer(s);

    Carla DiIorio: carlad@tds.net or 608-886-4556

    Mike DiIorio: mdiiorio1234@gmail.com or 608-520-4448

    • December 10, 2025
    • 7:30 AM - 8:00 PM
    • Oshkosh
    • 10



    Holiday of Lights Tour in Oshkosh

    Wednesday, December 10, 2025

    Registration deadline is Monday, November 17, 2025

    Registration coming soon!


    The Oshkosh Public Museum (OPM) offers visitors an inspiring glimpse into local history, art, and culture—all set within a beautifully preserved historic mansion. From engaging exhibitions to permanent collections rooted in the stories of Oshkosh and its residents, the museum is a must-see Wisconsin destination for anyone interested in the connections between people, place, and the past.  In addition to its rotating exhibits, the OPM is home to original Tiffany-stained glass windows and one of the last known examples of an original Tiffany Studios interior commission. The historic Sawyer home includes two one-of-a-kind stained-glass windows—a rare treasure among Tiffany collections. While many museums display Tiffany pieces, OPM is one of only four known in-situ interiors, one of just two original commissions, and the only one currently open to the public, making it a truly exceptional cultural experience in northeast Wisconsin.

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    We will then visit the Paine Art Center to view the "Nutcracker in the Castle".  There will be a mesmerrizing array of sights, sounds, and surprise.  Each elaborately decorated room of the historic Paine mansion reveals a new chapter of the story.

    From the opening party scene with a giant Christmas tree to the Land of Sweets and beyond, follow the aventure of Clara and the Nutcracker Prince.  As part of your journey, visit the Sugar Plum Fairy's Cupcake Cafe for a scrumptious treat!

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    Our next stop will be at the Bergstrom-Mahler Museum of Glass which operates exclusively as a glass art museum featuring nine galleries, a classroom, a glass studio, a museum shop and extensive grounds.  With over 5,000 objects, the Museum’s glass collection is known for containing the largest representative collection of antique to contemporary glass paperweights, the Mahler collection of Germanic vessels, Victorian Era decorative glass, and a significant collection of contemporary glass sculpture. Ranked in the top five glass museums in the country, it is the only glass museum in Wisconsin and is nationally accredited by the American Alliance of Museums.

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    Our trip would not be complete without holiday lights! The Celebration of Lights is a beloved annual event in Oshkosh that showcases millions of twinkling lights! This festive display attracts over 16,000 vehicles each season! Enjoy another year of Oshkosh COL sights and activities which include the 100-foot tree, 120+ plus trees filled with lights, sculptured scenes, animated light displays, visits with Santa, special event nights, wagon rides and so much more.

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    Lunch Options: Includes coffee, tea, or soda (Indicate your choice when registering)

    • Chopped Sirloin with onion rings, salad, potato
    • Grilled Chicken breast with asparagus spears & melted mozzarella cheese, salad, potato
    • Pan-fried Haddock (GF), salad, potato
    • Fried Shrimp (GF), salad, potato
    • Roasted Veggie Wrap with fresh spinach, cucumber, sun-dried tomato pesto aioli & mozzarella cheese, French Fries (GF)

    Boxed Dinner: Includes bottled water & chips (Indicate your choice when registering)

    • Roast beef Crisper (on Italian bread with tomatoes, green peppers & onions topped with mozzarella cheese)
    • Roast Turkey Crisper (on Italian bread with tomatoes, green peppers & onions topped with mozzarella cheese)
    • Vegetable Crisper (on Italian bread with tomatoes, green peppers & onions topped with mozzarella cheese)
    • Breaded Chicken Tenders (4 tenders served with barbeque sauce)
    • Roasted Veggie Wrap with fresh spinach, cucumber, sun-dried tomato pesto aioli & mozzarella cheese, french fries (GF)

      _________________________________________

      PLATO is partnering with the Verona Senior Center  and UW Retirement Association on this travel opportunity.  Pick-up locations are different from PLATO's usual trips.  You will be required to fill out the 2025 Verona New Member Form  (no charge) and 2025 Verona trip waiver Form.  You can fill out these forms in advance or on the day of the trip.

      Schedule:  (Return times are approximate)

      TRAVELERS ARE REQUESTED TO ARRIVE 15-20 MINUTES PRIOR TO DEPARTURE

      7:30 a.m.  Depart Verona Park & Ride

      7:50 a.m.   Depart (East Madison) Dutch Mill Park & Ride (East Lot)

      7:30 p.m.   Return Dutch Mill Park & Ride

      8:00 p.m.   Return Verona Park & Ride

      Departure Locations:

      Verona Park & Ride - 2585 Old PB, Verona, WI


      East Side (Dutch Mill Park & Ride (East Lot))

      Map below for those boarding the bus on east side Dutch Mill Park & Ride. Please park in the "east" lot as indicated by the arrow. (east of Arby's)


      Cost: $110 per person and includes bus transportation, driver tip, admission fees, meal, taxes, and gratuities.

      Seating is limited, so register today!  Registrations must be received no later than noon on Monday, November 17, 2025.

      Mail-In Registration Form:   Print, Fill-in, and Mail this form for those who wish to register off-line and by check

      Refund Policy:  PLATO refunds an event fee if cancelled prior to the registration deadline.  Refunds after the registration deadline are only processed if a wait-listed registrant can attend.  Refunds made by check.

      PLATO Membership:  PLATO membership is $60.00/year and all memberships renew on July 1. 

      For further information, contact PLATO trip coordinator, Bob Shaw,  robert.e.shaw@gmail.com , 608-255-3486.



    PLATO is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization supported in part by:



    info@platomadison.org

    Facebook: @platomadison

    608-572-6869

    6209 Mineral Point Road #203
    Madison, WI 53705








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