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    • February 14, 2025
    • December 12, 2025
    • 8 sessions
    • 402 W. Lakeside St, Madison, WI


    Meets every 2nd Friday!

    • Where: Lakeside Street Coffee House
    • Day: Meets on the second Friday of each month
    • Time: 9:30 am to 11:30 am
    • A prominent stairway leads to the lower level where our group meets.
    • The menu changes daily. To find out today's menu, please call the restaurant directly - 608 441-7599
    • Place: Lakeside St. Coffee House, 402 W Lakeside St, Madison
    • Directions are pictured on the map below
    • Parking: Street Parking
    • Organizer: Sharon Scrattish
    • RSVP or Questions?: Let Sharon know you're coming the Thursday before the breakfast by email or phone (sscratti@gmail.com or 608-280-8050)
    • COVID Protocol: Wear a mask to the event if you prefer.

    Questions? Sharon's contact information is:  sscratti@gmail.com  or 608-280-8050

    • February 28, 2025
    • May 23, 2025
    • 4 sessions
    • Rotunda Cafe in the Lobby of Lake Ridge Bank, 1965 Atwood Ave., Madison, WI

    COFFEE GATHERING


    Make new friends and meet new PLATO members over a cup of coffee and breakfast snacks

    The Rotunda Ca
    fe, 1965 Atwood Avenue on Madison's near east side


    • Meet on Fourth Friday of each month

    • Time: 9:30 am to 11:30 am

    • Place: Rotunda Cafe, lobby of Lake Ridge Bank, formerly Monona Bank

    • Ambiance: With a unique, large seating area, The Rotunda Cafe is an attractive rotunda in what was once the Monona Bank building at Schenks Corners. Great ambiance with pleasant, soothing background music.

    • Place order at counter, bus own table 

    • Food choices are limited but do include breakfast burritos and doughnuts
    • Parking: (see below)

    • RSVP or Questions? Email Catherine Masi, at cat100tothesea@gmail.com or Donaby Henton at aiexplorer125@gmail.com by Wednesday so they know you are coming. 

    • COVID Protocol: Please continue to use a mask if you desire

    Parking Options:

    • Street parking is available on either side of the bank, on Atwood and on Winnebago and further down both streets.

    • Parking is also available at Trinity Lutheran Church, 904 Winnebago St.  Please note:  The church requests a small good will donation which will be used to benefit a local neighborhood fund.  We will periodically request a few dollars donation for this from our members who use the lot.
    • Parking is also available in the lot behind United Way, 2059 Atwood Ave. Drive all the way in to the unmarked spaces toward the back of the lot.
      • March 16, 2025
      • Milwaukee
      • 8
      Registration is closed


      Sunday, March 16, 2025   2:00 pm Matinee

      Milwaukee Rep - Stackner Cabaret


      World Premiere Event

      Music and great company in an iconic Irish pub

      Step in to one of South Kerry's most welcoming pubs, somewhere along the Dingle peninsula, where stories and songs flow as easy as a whiskey and a pint – with a group of master storyteller-musicians leading the way. From jigs and fairy tales, to drinking songs and war stories, you’ll enjoy good cheer and great company while having some craic along the way. The Irish spirit of love and resilience shines through in classics like “Danny Boy,” “Whiskey in the Jar,” “Star of the County Down” and “The Irish Rover” that’ll have you raising a glass and shouting sláinte by the end of the show!

      Estimated Running Time: 2 hr 15 minutes with intermission


      Our performance will be in the intimate Stackner Cabaret.  You may want to order a drink or dessert from the menu.  The Stackner Cabaret is located at the top of the gold escalators in the Rotunda on the second floor to the left. It can also be accessed via the elevator.  Information about this unique theater venue. 

      The Stackner Cabaret is handicapped accessible to the main level and chairs. Most of our seating will be on staggered tables and chairs set on platform deck flooring that are an easy, shallow step-down/step-up between levels of tables and chairs. The backs of the chairs provide good step-down/step-up support.

      Tickets:  Our Group will be seated at tables of 4's and 8's scattered throughout the small, 186-seat cabaret.

      Group Lunch  is at The Public Market.  We will save tables on the second-floor.  Each person is responsible for ordering, paying for and carrying their own meal from one of the nine unique eateries in the Public Market to the second floor dining area.  In addition to the nine eateries, there is a bakery, wine shop and bar, coffee shop, etc.  An elevator and stairs access the second floor and restrooms near the seating area.  Again, lunch is not included in your registration.


      Our bus will also drop-off and pick-up at the Milwaukee Public Market for lunch alternatives. There are many nearby Third Ward restaurants from which to choose.  Many restaurants have changed over time so please check to see if they will be open and we highly recommend that you make a reservation.

      Historic Third Ward Official Restaurant List - Check to see if they are open.

      Historic Third Ward Official Shopping List - Check to see if they are open.

      Itinerary   

      Bear in mind that our boarding bus route is like Madison Metro or any other municipal bus service.  Please arrive 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.

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

      Leaving Madison

      9:15 AM   Westside: Bus arrives for boarding at Oakwood University Woods, 6205 Mineral Point Road

      9:30 AM   Westside: Bus departs from Oakwood University Woods

      9:50 AM   Central: Bus departs from Capitol Lakes, 333 W. Main St.

      10:20 AM   Eastside: Bus departs from Oakwood Prairie Ridge, 5565 Tancho Drive, Madison.  Leave for Milwaukee (sooner if everyone is aboard).

      In Milwaukee

      11:30 AM   Drop off at the Milwaukee Public Market

      1:25 PM   Pick-up at the Milwaukee Public Market.

      2:00 PM   The Craic begins

      4:15 PM    The Craic performance ends and bus boarding begins. (There will be adequate time for coat check retrieval and restroom use.)

      4:45 PM   Depart for Madison (sooner if everyone is aboard)

      Arrive Madison (Estimated)

      5:55 PM   Bus returns to Oakwood Prairie Ridge

      6:25 PM  Bus returns to Capitol Lakes

      6:45 PM   Bus returns to Oakwood University Woods

      Non-Member Policy:   Members must register their guests. Each PLATO member is entitled to bring one non-member guest per bus trip.  Members may bring more than one guest near the registration deadline date if seats are available.  Check with trip organizer.  Non-member guests pay an additional $1 registration fee.

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

      For further information, contact theater trip organizers:

      Sue Josheff, sooziej@sbcglobal.net  608-770-3828 or 

      Carla Diorio, carlad@tds.net  608-886-4556.

      • March 16, 2025
      • Milwaukee
      • 1
      Registration is closed

      Sunday, March 16, 2025   2:00 pm Matinee

      Milwaukee Rep - Stiemke Studio

      A spine-tingling theatrical event

      Direct from London’s West End comes the chilling and electrifying theatrical event that has kept millions of audiences on the edge of their seats for more than 30 years. Director Robin Herford’s production is a gripping study in atmosphere, illusion and controlled horror. A lawyer obsessed with a curse that he believes has been cast over him and his family by the specter of a woman in black - engages a skeptical young actor to help him tell his terrifying story and hopefully exorcise the fear that grips his soul. As they reach further into his darkest memories, they find themselves ensnared in a world of eerie marshes and moaning winds. What happens next is something you must see to believe!

      “One of British theatre's biggest – and scariest – hits.” – The Guardian

      “…A marvelous exercise in spine tingling tension, spun from perfectly paced storytelling and stagecraft.” – The Independent

      Recommended age:  12 and up

      Approximate Running Time: 2 hrs with intermission 


      The Stiemke Studio is located on the ground floor of the Associated Bank River Center Rotunda in the northwest corner near the gold escalators. Typically seating just over 200, patrons may be seated in sections with various configurations including thrust, in the round or traditional banks of raked seating. The Stiemke Studio black box is a blank canvas for designers; everything in this space can be changed to suit the director’s concept for the show and no two shows in this space are alike.

      The outer lobby of the Stiemke Studio, where one first enters, includes a Guest Services Desk where you can check out assistive listening devices, check your coat or pick up a large print program. The lobby includes seating, standing cocktail tables, and bar offering drinks and concessions.

      Tickets:  Our Group will be seated throughout the small theater.  Seats will be assigned based on registration date.

      Group Lunch  is at The Public Market.  We will save tables on the  second-floor.  Each person is responsible for ordering, paying for and carrying their own meal from one of the nine unique eateries in the Public Market to the second floor dining area.  In addition to the nine eateries, there is a bakery, wine shop and bar, coffee shop, etc.  An elevator and stairs access the second floor and restrooms near the seating area.  Again, lunch is not included in your registration.


      Our bus will also drop-off and pick-up at the Milwaukee Public Market for lunch alternatives. There are many nearby Third Ward restaurants from which to choose.  Many restaurants have changed over time so please check to see if they will be open and we highly recommend that you make a reservation.

      Historic Third Ward Official Restaurant List - Check to see if they are open.

      Historic Third Ward Official Shopping List - Check to see if they are open.

      This theater trip's patrons with share a bus and group lunch with the patrons attending The Craic.

      Itinerary   

      Bear in mind that our boarding bus route is like Madison Metro or any other municipal bus service.  Please arrive 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.

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

      Leaving Madison

      9:15 AM   Westside: Bus arrives for boarding at Oakwood University Woods, 6205 Mineral Point Road

      9:30 AM   Westside: Bus departs from Oakwood University Woods

      9:50 AM   Central: Bus departs from Capitol Lakes, 333 W. Main St.

      10:20 AM   Eastside: Bus departs from Oakwood Prairie Ridge, 5565 Tancho Drive, Madison.  Leave for Milwaukee (sooner if everyone is aboard).

      In Milwaukee

      11:30 AM   Drop off at the Milwaukee Public Market

      1:25 PM   Pick-up at the Milwaukee Public Market.

      2:00 PM   The Woman in Black begins

      4:00 PM    The Woman in Black performance ends and bus boarding begins. (There will be adequate time for coat check retrieval and restroom use.)

      4:45 PM   Depart for Madison (sooner if everyone is aboard)

      Arrive Madison (Estimated)

      5:55 PM   Bus returns to Oakwood Prairie Ridge

      6:25 PM  Bus returns to Capitol Lakes

      6:45 PM   Bus returns to Oakwood University Woods

      Non-Member Policy:   Members must register their guests. Each PLATO member is entitled to bring one non-member guest per bus trip.  Members may bring more than one guest near the registration deadline date if seats are available.  Check with trip organizer.  Non-member guests pay an additional $1 registration fee.

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

      For further information, contact theater trip organizers:

      Sue Josheff, sooziej@sbcglobal.net  608-770-3828 or 

      Carla Diorio, carlad@tds.net  608-886-4556.

      • March 18, 2025
      • 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM
      • Beloit
      • 2
      Registration is closed


      History & Art with a Vintage Flair!

      Tuesday, March 18, 2025

      Registration deadline is Friday, February 21


      Just 55 miles south of Madison, is a gem of a city. Beloit is an active and vibrant community and the scene of our next great adventure! 


      Since its inception, Beloit has seen nearly 180 years of American history unfold. The town played a role as a way station on the Underground Railroad and actively participated during the Industrial Revolution thanks to the ingenuity of its citizens. Fast-forward a century to find Beloit’s workforce helping to meet production demands during WWII. During this time, the invention of Korn Kurls made big waves in the food industry. Innovation is still thriving in Beloit; only now, there’s a little more fun involved. Tech-savvy, forward-thinking businesses are building their enterprises in the little town that could.


      We begin our day’s adventure with visits to two museums on the Beloit College campus. Beloit College was chartered by a group of educated, innovative New Englanders in 1846—two years before the Wisconsin territory became a state. The collections at the Logan Museum of Anthropology are central to the curriculum of Beloit College and serve as a student laboratory and center of experiential learning. 

      The next campus stop is a visit to the  Wright Museum of Art. Established as a teaching museum in 1894 the museum is a space for experiential learning through a critical engagement with art – one that is visual, tactile, and intellectual. Students assist in curating many of the exhibits and engage in background research and help write the wall texts. They also help design the exhibit layout, frame and hang the artwork, and create marketing and educational materials. The Wright Museum holds approximately 6,000 works of art in its permanent collection. Significant collections include American Impressionism, Modernist paintings, a collection of 19th century plaster casts, German Expressionism, and Japanese Modern prints. 


      Following lunch, we are off to discover more of what Beloit offers. We’ll explore other small business boutiques and stores while discovering downtown Beloit including  Vintage Bliss - Found, Rescued, Reloved a leading antique and home decor store featuring the area's most talented vendors of repurposed items, vintage furniture, and more. 

      As always there will be a ‘surprise stop’ along the way!


      Lunch Options: (Indicate your choice when registering)

        • Turkey Dinner
        • Port Dinner
        • Chopped Beef Dinner
        • Vegetable Stir Fry with Rice
        • Sandwich TBD

          _________________________________________

          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)

          8:00 a.m.  Depart Verona Senior Center, 108 Paoli Street, Verona

          8:30 a.m.   Pick-up (East Madison) Dutch Mill Park and Ride (East Lot)

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

          5:30 p.m.   Return Verona Senior Center

          Departure Locations:

          Verona Senior Center, 108 Paoli Street, Verona

          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 Friday, February 21, 2025.

          Mail-In Registration Form:   Print, Fill-in and Mail this Form.docx  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.

          • April 04, 2025
          • December 05, 2025
          • 9 sessions
          • 724 S. Gammon Road, Madison


          Meets every 1st Friday on the West Side

          beginning April 4


          Make new friends, learn more about PLATO and greet new members at a full service breakfast café.

          • Where?  Pancake Café Madison, 724 S Gammon Rd, Madison, WI 53719
          • When?  Meets on the first Friday of each month from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

          • Directions: Located on Gammon Road, just south of Watts Road, across the street from Woodman’s Market. See the map below.


          • Parking: There is plenty of parking in the lot in front of the café. No stairs!

          • Organizer: Catherine Masi

          • RSVP or Questions?  Email Catherine at  cat100tothesea@gmail.com  to let her know you're coming the Thursday before the breakfast.  Also email her if you have any questions.



            • April 04, 2025
            • 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
            • Virtual via Zoom
            • 77
            Register



            The Benefits of Strength training

            for Life's Journey

            Friday, April 4, 2025

            Registration Deadline is Thursday, April 3


            This one-hour webinar will be presented by Dr. Katie Starr, PhD, RD, Associate Professor of Medicine at Duke University School of Medicine and Research Health Scientist at Durham VA Medical Center.


            Dr. Starr is also Co-Director of the Duke Center for Aging Clinical Nutrition Laboratory, and her research and professional experience focuses on understudied, older adult populations at high risk for chronic health conditions and functional disability. She is also the Chief Scientific Advisor for Vivo, an online fitness program for seniors.


            This complimentary event for PLATO Members requires registration to receive the Zoom link and the deadline is Thursday, April 3.


            The Zoom link will be emailed to you the morning of Friday, April 4, 2025.


            Please contact Stephanie with questions: info@platomadison.org.

            • April 05, 2025
            • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
            • Madison
            • 12
            Register



            Linden Cohousing Tour

            Saturday April 5, 2025 frm 10:00 am - 12:00 pm

            Free to PLATO members and guests

            Registration is required and is limited to 20 people

            Linden Cohousing is an intentional, self-governing, cooperative community where residents live in privately owned units housed in a 45-unit condo building in east Madison. Neighbors collaboratively plan and manage community activities and shared spaces while maintaining their own income and private lives. Madison is home to four co-housing communities; there are about 200 co-housing communities across the US and more under development. Each community is somewhat unique but shares the principle that cooperative living facilitates interaction among neighbors providing social, practical, economic, and environmental benefits.

            For more information about co-housing in general and Madison’s Linden CoHousing in specific, see Lindencohousing.org

            The tour (10 am- 12 Noon)

            Orientation (10-10:45)

            Tour attendees should enter through the patio doors in the back (see Map to Linden ). We’ll start with a short introduction and overview of co-housing as practiced at Linden and by the co-housing movement across the US.


            Tour of Linden (10:45-11:30)

            Tour will include three residential units, parking garage, gardens (weather permitting), and community rooms. Attendees will be divided into smaller groups of not more than 7/group. We have an elevator for attendees as needed. The actual time for the tour is estimated to take about 30 minutes, with an extra 15 minutes to assemble and regroup.


            11:30-Noon

            Regroup, time for questions/answers and socialize with each other and Linden members. Tour should end by noon.


            Getting to Linden

            Bike – Linden is about 3 blocks away from the Capital City Trail, which connects east and west Madison through the isthmus. There are publicly accessible bicycle racks in the parking lot that Linden shares with Madison Circus Space and Ford’s Gym.

            Bus – The closest bus stop to Linden is about 2 blocks away at Winnebago and Atwood and is served by the C line. Slightly farther away at E. Washington and 4th are the A and B lines (get off at the Fourth Street stop).

            Parking – Linden has a handful of parking spots for visitors available in the parking lot shared with Madison Circus Space (MCS) and Ford’s Gym. Neighborhood street parking can typically be found within 1-2 blocks. See Map to Linden. We ask our guests to try to park only in the Green colored spaces and leave the Ford’s Gym and MCS spots for their customers.

            For further information, contact PLATO trip leader, Cynthia Moore,  eron99c@gmail.com , 608-228-8836.

            • April 10, 2025
            • 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
            • Oakwood Village West Performing Arts Center

                 

            Slavery in "Free" Wisconsin Territory, 1800-1850


            Thursday, April 10 from 1:30-3:00 p.m.


            In-Person at Oakwood Village West Performing Arts Center


            6205 Mineral Point Road


            Registration is Not Required

            FREE PARKING


            Even after the Northwest Ordinance of 1787 made slavery illegal in the territory that later became Ohio, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Wisconsin and part of Minnesota, individuals and legislatures found means to allow slavery to exist in this so-called "free" territory, which was partitioned into states. This was especially true at US military posts and the mining region of Illinois and Wisconsin. Using documentation gathered in the writing of her latest book, Enslaved, Indentured, Free, Mary Elise Antoine will discuss the presence of slavery, in its various forms, in what is now Wisconsin.

            Enslaved, Indentured, Free, published in 2023, received several awards, including the Benjamin Franklin Award in Regional History from the Independent Book Publishers’ Association, the Midwest Independent Publishers Association award. The book also received the Wisconsin Historical Society Board of Curators Book of Merit Award. The award is given annually to an author whose book on Wisconsin history “made the most valuable contribution” to the public’s understanding of Wisconsin's past.

            Mary Elise was born and raised in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin. She has an MA in history museum studies and has worked at historic sites in upstate New York and Wisconsin. She is currently curator at the Villa Louis in Prairie du Chien and president of the Prairie du Chien Historical Society. Mary Elise has written many articles and several books on the history of the upper Mississippi, including The War of 1812 in Wisconsin: the Battle for Prairie du Chien and Frenchtown Chronicles of Prairie du Chien, both published by the Wisconsin Historical Society Press.

                                                                                                                                                                                                           

            __________________________________________

            Transportation Options:


            Bicycle:  Bike racks are available


            Bus: The BRT Route A bus  runs every 15 minutes and stops in front of Oakwood at the Island/Mineral Point station.  


            Car: 

            • Use the Island Drive entrance at 6205 Mineral Point Road.
            •  Veer left and follow the drive to the 2nd driveway with sign “Heritage Oaks Parking Garage.”
            •  Turn right into driveway.
            •   Press the buzzer and the Oakwood desk attendant will buzz you in. There are 70 parking stalls. Park in any visitor or non-reserved stall. Take the elevator up one floor to the main entrance, turn right and walk through the mail box area into the lobby. Ask at the desk for directions to the Performing Arts Center.
            • When you exit the underground parking, the garage door opens automatically.
            • _________________________

            Questions?  Contact lecture organizer Barbara Drake at barbaradrake21@gmail.com

            • April 17, 2025
            • 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
            • Oakwood Village West Performing Arts Center

             

            A Conversation with Chloe Benjamin 


            Thursday, April 17 from 1:30-3:00 p.m.


            In-Person at Oakwood Village West Performing Arts Center


            6205 Mineral Point Road


            Registration is Not Required

            FREE PARKING


            Madison novelist Chloe Benjamin will join us to share information about her journey in becoming a writer of fiction!  She is the author of two novels, The Anatomy of Dreams and The Immortalists and will be interviewed by three members of the Alt-Pinney Book Club, all of whom have read both novels and loved them!  In addition, A Room of One’s Own Bookstore will be at this event with both of Chloe’s books available for purchase.  Best of all, they can be signed by the author!  Purchases may be made with credit or debit cards.

            A Barnes & Noble Discover Great New Writers selection, Library Reads favorite, and #1 Indie Next Pick, The Immortalists was named a best book of 2018 by NPR, The Washington Post, Entertainment Weekly, and others. The Anatomy of Dreams received the Edna Ferber Fiction Book Award and was long listed for the 2014 Center for Fiction First Novel Prize.

            Originally from San Francisco, CA, Chloe is a graduate of Vassar College and received her M.F.A. in fiction at the University of Wisconsin. Her work has been translated into over thirty languages. She lives with her husband and two Maine Coon cats in Madison where she is at work on her third novel.

                                                                                                                                                                                                           



            __________________________________________

            Transportation Options:


            Bicycle:  Bike racks are available


            Bus: The BRT Route A bus  runs every 15 minutes and stops in front of Oakwood at the Island/Mineral Point station.  


            Car: 

            • Use the Island Drive entrance at 6205 Mineral Point Road.
            •  Veer left and follow the drive to the 2nd driveway with sign “Heritage Oaks Parking Garage.”
            •  Turn right into driveway.
            •   Press the buzzer and the Oakwood desk attendant will buzz you in. There are 70 parking stalls. Park in any visitor or non-reserved stall. Take the elevator up one floor to the main entrance, turn right and walk through the mail box area into the lobby. Ask at the desk for directions to the Performing Arts Center.
            • When you exit the underground parking, the garage door opens automatically.
            • _________________________

            Questions?  Contact lecture organizer Barbara Drake at barbaradrake21@gmail.com

            • April 22, 2025
            • 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM
            • Janesville
            • 6
            Register



            Spring into Spring Tour

            Tuesday, April 22, 2025

            Registration Deadline is Friday, March 21


            The Rotary Botanical Gardens is an award winning 20-acre, non-profit botanic showcase with 26 different garden styles and 4,000 varieties of plants. The Gardens is home to many dramatic and internationally themed gardens, including Japanese, Scottish, French Formal, Italian and English Cottage Gardens. Time will be allotted to visit the Cottage Garden Gallery Gift Shop filled with local artisans' works.

            Following our garden tour, we'll head to the Italian House for a buffet lunch consisting of two different salads, two sub options, three pasta options, garlic bread and cheese bread, water, coffee, fruit punch and dessert. Bring your appetite!

             

            Next we hop on the bus and head to the Milton House to travel back in time with a tour of Wisconsin's only certified Underground Railroad site open to the public! We will learn about the founding of Milton, the many purposes of the historic Milton House structure, the history of America in the tumultuous years leading up to the Civil War, the importance of the Underground Railroad in the United States, and how the Underground Railroad operated in Milton.

            All areas of the museum are handicap accessible except for the tunnel. The Milton House guides are experienced in handling special needs.


            Then it's back to the present with a stop at the K&W Greenery nursery and giftshop. Their nursery and giftshop is filled with home decor, greeting cards, candles, wind chimes, figurines and much more. Ninety-five percent of annuals, vegetables and perennials are grown by K&W's professional staff. You'll have plenty of time to pick out your spring planting selections!

            As always there will be a ‘surprise stop’ along the way!

              _________________________________________

              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)

              8:00 a.m.  Depart Verona Senior Center, 108 Paoli Street, Verona

              8:30 a.m.   Pick-up (East Madison) Dutch Mill Park and Ride (East Lot)

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

              5:30 p.m.   Return Verona Senior Center

              Departure Locations:

              Verona Senior Center, 108 Paoli Street, Verona

              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 Tuesday, March 11, 2025.

              Mail-In Registration Form:   Print, Fill-in and Mail this Form.docx  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.

              • May 05, 2025
              • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
              • 6209 Mineral Point Road, Madison
              • 14
              Register



              Nature Walk at Oakwood West

              Monday, May 5, 2025 from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm

              Rain Date - Wednesday May 7 from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm

              Free to PLATO members and guests

              Registration is required and is limited to 15 people

              The Oakwood Nature Preserve is an 8 acre conservation park maintained by residents of the Oakwood community and the Oakwood horticulture staff. We will walk along the three-fourths of a mile wood- chipped Rustic Path among tall trees.  The path goes beside Trillium Corner (a spring ephemeral garden), the prairie plots and a vernal pond and there are some short but steep slopes.

              We will have a one-hour walk followed by a social hour with lemonade and cookies in the Oaks Community Room.  There will be listening devices for all participants.  Unfortunately the trail is not handicap accessible.  Bring water, sunglasses, a walking stick if you use one and dress for the weather.  Sandals are not appropriate footwear.   There are restroom facilities at the start and end.

              __________________________________________

              Transportation Options:


              Parking:  Parking will not be in the usual spots for PLATO events at Oakwood since the nature preserve is on the west end of the campus.  Do not enter the underground parking garages.  After entering the Island Drive entrance turn immediately to the right.   Park near The Oaks residence hall on the west end of campus (see map below). There is plenty of surface parking.  Look for signs and somebody showing you where to park. 



              Bicycle:  Bike racks are available


              Bus: The BRT Route A bus  runs every 15 minutes and stops in front of Oakwood at the Island/Mineral Point station.  


              • _________________________

              Nature Walk Coordinator/Leader:  The tour will be led by Barb Littlewood, a PLATO member, Oakwood resident and member of the Oakwood Nature Preserve committee.  If you have questions, contact Barb at barb.littlewood@gmail.com  or 608-283-9905.


              • May 12, 2025
              • 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM
              • East Troy & Williams Bay
              • 9
              Register



              All Aboard!! East Troy Railroad & Yerkes Observatory

              Monday, May 12, 2025

              Registration Deadline is Tuesday, March 25

              We’ll begin the day with a private, one-hour tour of renovated Yerkes Observatory in Williams Bay. Their expert, engaging, and entertaining guides will provide a fascinating program covering the Observatory’s history, architectural detail, astronomical research, and a look inside the 90-foot dome of the 40-inch refractor, still the largest lens-type telescope in the world! You will have the opportunity to visit the gift shop for some unique items found only at Yerkes.

              On our way to Yerkes Observatory, we will hear from Jim Lattis, author of Chasing the Stars: How the Astronomers of Observatory Hill Transformed Our Understanding of the Universe. Jim holds a Ph.D. in History of Science from UW–Madison and helped create UW Space Place, the outreach and public education center of the UW–Madison Astronomy Department and has directed it since its founding. He manages the historic Washburn Observatory; and teaches courses in introductory astronomy and its history.




              Then we’ll board the bus for a short ride to the East Troy Depot for our private chartered, two-hour ride and lunch on the East Troy Electric Railroad. UWRA member Evan Richards will be our guide and conductor.

              Just imagine yourself dining in the luxury of a dinner car with white linen tablecloths, china, silverware, and glassware reminiscent of the elegance of yesteryear. We will enjoy a leisurely ride down to Lower Phantom Lake while enjoying lunch and conversations with our table mates.

              We'll start with a House Salad & Italian dressing, followed by Chicken with Roasted Garlic Parmesan Cream accompanied by Herb Smashed Red Potatoes, Seasonal Vegetable, Dinner Rolls & Butter. Beer, wine, and soft drinks are available for purchase. We’ll make a brief stop to stretch our legs and get some pictures at Indianhead Park in Mukwonago. A delicious slice of Spice Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and dark roast regular coffee, decaf coffee, and hot tea awaits us on the return trip to East Troy. 

              *Individual dietary needs can generally be accommodated.  Vegan and Vegetarian options available.

              As always, the trip will include a surprise stop during the day!   After completing our visits, we head home. 

              Seating is limited, so register soon as the capacity of the dinner car is 50 people!

              Of special note:  The railroad cars were designed and built long before the ADA, therefore they do not meet current standards for accessibility. Passengers must be able to walk up and down steps to get on and off cars. The car is heated and air conditioned and has a restroom.

                _________________________________________

                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)

                8:00 a.m.  Depart Verona Senior Center, 108 Paoli Street, Verona

                8:30 a.m.   Pick-up (East Madison) Dutch Mill Park and Ride (East Lot)

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

                5:30 p.m.   Return Verona Senior Center

                Departure Locations:

                Verona Senior Center, 108 Paoli Street, Verona

                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: $165 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 Tuesday, March 25, 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.

                • May 14, 2025
                • 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
                • East Side Club: 3735 Monona Dr, Madison, WI 53714


                • May 28, 2025
                • 7:00 AM - 7:30 PM
                • Green Bay
                • 10
                Register



                History & Heritage of Green Bay

                Wednesday, May 28, 2025

                Registration Deadline is Thursday, April 17

                Join us as we uncover the rich history of Green Bay, the state's oldest settlement, and embrace the energy of its vibrant, growing community. With nearly 270,000 residents across Green Bay and Brown County, this dynamic destination is ready to welcome us with open arms.

                A step-on tour guide will give us a peek back into the heritage and history of Green Bay, famously known as Wisconsin's first city.  You'll discover the marvels that make it an exceptional place to live, work, play, and visit.  It's a draft-worthy destination where history is always in the starting lineup. 

                Oneida is a cultural haven, home to the Oneida Nation. With its rich heritage and natural beauty, Oneida is a truly unique destination. 


                Of course, the most recognizable feature of the city is its football team. It wouldn't be a visit to Green Bay if there wasn't a visit to the home of the legendary Green Bay Packers, the third oldest team still active in the NFL.  In addition to a lunch buffet at the stadium, we will have a champion stadium tour and plenty of time for souvenir shopping!   

                  _________________________________________

                  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)

                  7:00 a.m.  Depart Verona Senior Center, 108 Paoli Street, Verona

                  7:30 a.m.   Pick-up (East Madison) Dutch Mill Park and Ride (East Lot)

                  7:00 p.m.   Return Dutch Mill Park & Ride

                  7:30 p.m.   Return Verona Senior Center

                  Departure Locations:

                  Verona Senior Center, 108 Paoli Street, Verona

                  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: $130 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 Thursday, April 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.

                  • June 13, 2025
                  • August 08, 2025
                  • 3 sessions
                  • 800 Langdon St, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI 53706-1419

                   

                  We're Outside June 13, July 11, August 8

                  at The Memorial Union Terrace

                  and at a new time: 10 am


                  We will meet outside on the Memorial Union Terrace in the area behind the Rathskeller. Pete’s Coffee opens at 7am, serves bakery and small snacks – view their menu here. The Rathskeller, the hot dog stand, The Daily Scoop, and others open at 11am. The Strata will open later in the season.

                  • NEW! Time: 10:00 am
                  • NEW! Place: Memorial Union Terrace
                  • Parking: The State Street Campus Garage, Lake Street structure, located at 415 N. Lake St. is  closed during redevelopment, severely limiting available parking in the area. The Francis Street side of the State Street Garage remains open during construction.
                  • Organizer: Sharon Scrattish – look for Sharon setting up tables and chairs for the gathering.
                  • Rain Considerations: If it rains, we'll move inside the Union. Look for Sharon who will be in the large glass-enclosed dining area.
                  • RSVP or Questions? Let Sharon know you're coming the Thursday before the breakfast by email or phone (sscratti@gmail.com or 608-280-8050). 
                  • COVID Protocol: Wear a mask to the event if you prefer.

                  Questions? Contact Sharon: sscratti@gmail.com or 608-280-8050.


                Past events

                February 27, 2025 Lecture - The Sinking of the Edmund Fitzgerald
                January 30, 2025 CANCELLED - US Immigration Policy: Background and Current Status
                January 22, 2025 The Malibu of the Midwest Tour
                December 09, 2024 Milwaukee Holiday Tour
                December 04, 2024 Miracle on 34th Street
                December 03, 2024 Travel Lessons: Your personal guide to better travel
                November 21, 2024 Tour of the Capitol
                November 07, 2024 Tour of the Capitol
                October 22, 2024 History & Stories of Wisconsin's One Room Schools
                October 13, 2024 Prelude to a Kiss a Musical - A Milwaukee Rep World Premiere Presentation at the Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Arts
                October 11, 2024 Madison Metropolitan Sewer District Treatment Plant Tour
                October 07, 2024 Yerkes Observatory and Lake Geneva Field Trip
                August 29, 2024 The Virgin Queen Entertains Her Fool @ American Players Theatre
                August 25, 2024 Self-Guided Bicycling Routes Around Madison
                August 15, 2024 Forest Products Laboratory 9:30 am Tour
                August 15, 2024 Forest Products Laboratory 9:15 am Tour
                August 07, 2024 Madison Youth Arts Center (MYArts) Tour
                June 14, 2024 2nd Friday Breakfast on the Memorial Union Terrace
                June 10, 2024 WYSO Center for Music Tour
                May 24, 2024 4th Friday of the Month Coffee
                May 14, 2024 PLATO Member Appreciation Lunch & Annual Meeting 2024
                May 10, 2024 2nd Friday of the Month Breakfast
                May 05, 2024 Nina Simone: Four Women at Milwaukee Rep's Quadracci Powerhouse Theater
                May 02, 2024 Rain MakeUp: Walk in Donald Park With Retired Geologist, Ken Bradbury
                April 06, 2024 (copy) Summer Walk in the Woods: Stewart Lake County Park
                April 05, 2024 A Virtual Screening: An Overview of the Rise of Authoritarians
                March 27, 2024 The Chosen at Milwaukee Rep's Quadracci Powerhouse Theater
                March 12, 2024 A Fireside Chat with Mike Leckrone
                December 08, 2023 SCROOGE the Musical
                December 05, 2023 From the Holocaust to Civil Rights
                November 06, 2023 Early Childhood Education: The Importance of Nutrition & Trauma-Informed Care
                October 16, 2023 Community Conservation: From Wisconsin to the World
                October 10, 2023 Walk: UW Lakeshore Nature Preserve: History and Future Plans
                September 12, 2023 Walk: Faville Grove Sanctuary: A Lost Landscape Returning to Life
                August 01, 2023 Walk Camrock Trail Along Koshkonong Creek
                July 28, 2023 4th Friday of July Breakfast
                June 14, 2023 2023 PLATO Annual Meeting And Refreshments
                May 25, 2023 We Gotta Get Out of this Place: The Soundtrack of the Vietnam War
                May 19, 2023 Walk the Woods, Marshes & Prairies of Pheasant Branch Concervancy
                April 23, 2023 God of Carnage at Milwaukee Rep
                April 19, 2023 The History of Latino Migration to Wisconsin on Zoom
                March 29, 2023 Wisconsin Waters and Wisconsin State Parks
                February 08, 2023 On Fourth Lake: A Social History of Lake Mendota
                November 17, 2022 Stones in His Pockets @ American Players Theatre
                November 15, 2022 A Reckoning with the History of Slavery Across America
                November 09, 2022 Her Stories: Daytime Soap Opera and US Television History
                November 08, 2022 Walk the Woods & Prairies of Pheasant Branch
                October 25, 2022 Walk the Woods of Donald Park
                October 16, 2022 Titanic the Musical
                October 11, 2022 The Latest Research: Wisconsin Registry for Alzheimer's Prevention
                October 11, 2022 A Fall Walk at Pope Farm Conservancy
                October 04, 2022 Forest Hill Cemetery: A Walk Through Madison History
                September 09, 2022 Summer Walk in the Woods: Stewart Lake County Park
                April 14, 2022 Eyes on the Skies with Jim Lattis
                March 16, 2022 As You Like It
                February 24, 2022 Wisconsin English, a Conversation with Joe Salmons
                January 14, 2022 2021/22 PLATO Breakfast Get-Togethers
                December 10, 2021 Wisconsin Cocktails
                December 02, 2021 Tending Our Grief: A Self-Care Workshop
                December 01, 2021 Virtual Theater Trips
                October 26, 2021 What is Critical Race Theory and why is it controversial?
                October 19, 2021 Walk: The Mystery of Aztalan Mounds with Robert Birmingham
                September 23, 2021 “Ask the Weather Guy!”
                August 25, 2021 Walk: Indian Lake County Park
                August 17, 2021 Walk: Pheasant Branch Creek Corridor Trail
                August 04, 2021 Walk: Yahara Heights Park @ Cherokee Marsh
                July 20, 2021 Morning Walk: Lakeshore Nature Preserve with Amy Rosebrough
                June 11, 2021 Walk Olin-Turville Point Conservation Park
                May 11, 2021 Walk Camrock Trail Along Koshkonong Creek
                May 06, 2021 The Birds & the Bees: How To Get Involved in Citizen Science through Your Garden
                April 06, 2021 Hidden in Plain Sight: Native American Cultural Landscape
                March 18, 2021 Life’s A Daring Adventure and You’re Not Done Yet!
                March 05, 2021 Spring 2021 PLATO VIRTUAL Breakfast Get-Togethers
                February 18, 2021 Madison College’s Role Promoting Social Justice in the Community
                February 10, 2021 What We Need to Know About Corona Virus Vaccines
                January 27, 2021 Exploring Art & History: Max Beckmann’s [Paris] Society at Weimar’s End (1925, 1931, 1947)
                January 14, 2021 Let’s Talk Hearing - Advice to Make Your Ears Smile!
                December 03, 2020 Hygge, Health and Happiness
                November 18, 2020 Patrick J. Lucey: A Lasting Legacy
                November 10, 2020 Whither the State: 2020 Election Recap
                October 29, 2020 We Stand on Their Shoulders: A History of Wisconsin Women and Voting
                October 15, 2020 Deciding What's True in a Polarized Society
                September 17, 2020 How Computing May Change Our World
                September 10, 2020 PLATO COVID-19 Online Town Hall
                September 04, 2020 Fall 2020 PLATO VIRTUAL Breakfast Get-Togethers
                August 06, 2020 A Guide to Bicycling the Blackhawk Path/Lake Mendota Drive/Lakeshore Nature Preserve Loop
                August 01, 2020 A Guide to Bicycling the Southwest Commuter Path/Capital City State Trail Loop
                July 22, 2020 POSTPONED - Frida Kahlo 2020
                July 06, 2020 A Guide to Bicycling the McFarland Loop
                June 28, 2020 A Guide to Bicycling the Cannonball Path/Arboretum Loop
                June 18, 2020 A Guide to Bicycling Around Lake Monona
                June 17, 2020 CANCELLED - 42nd Street @ Lyric Opera of Chicago
                June 05, 2020 Summer 2020 PLATO VIRTUAL Breakfast Get-Togethers
                May 22, 2020 Marsh Haven Nature Center Online Tour
                May 20, 2020 CANCELLED - 2020 PLATO Annual Meeting & Buffet Lunch
                May 13, 2020 CANCELLED - Destiny of Desire @ Milwaukee Rep Quadracci Powerhouse Theater
                May 08, 2020 May 2020 PLATO VIRTUAL Breakfast Get-Togethers
                May 01, 2020 CANCELLED - Global Hotspots: “American Foreign Policy in an Age of Nationalist Sentiment"
                May 01, 2020 CANCELLED-Luncheon (prior to Global Hotspots)
                April 27, 2020 Self-Guided Walks Dane County in the Days of COVID-19
                April 27, 2020 Exploring Wisconsin on Foot: an ICE AGE TRAIL Resource
                April 09, 2020 CANCELLED - Gourmet Luncheon and Tour, Madison College Culinary Arts Program
                April 03, 2020 CANCELLED - Global Hotspots: “The Past, Present, and Future of Rainstorms and Floods in Wisconsin and around the World"
                April 03, 2020 CANCELLED - Luncheon (prior to Global Hotspots)
                March 25, 2020 CANCELLED - Eclipsed @ Milwaukee Rep Quadracci Powerhouse
                March 19, 2020 CANCELLED - Olbrich Botanical Gardens: Your Garden, Your Community
                February 19, 2020 PLATO Spring 2020 Open House
                February 07, 2020 Global Hotspots: “Understanding and Addressing the Rise of Vaccine Hesitancy"
                February 07, 2020 Luncheon (prior to Global Hotspots)
                January 23, 2020 Prof. Bilge Mutlu: Designing Robots for Human Interaction
                January 09, 2020 Steve Paulson and Jack Mitchell: The Long Difficult Birth of Public Radio
                December 10, 2019 Former Gov. Martin J. Schreiber, LEARNING, COPING & SURVIVING AS AN ALZHEIMER’S CAREGIVER
                December 06, 2019 Global Hotspots:“The Unexpected Origins of the Division of Korea: How Korea Was Divided and Why It Matters”
                December 06, 2019 Luncheon (prior to Global Hotspots)
                November 27, 2019 2019/20 PLATO Breakfast Get-Togethers
                November 20, 2019 Conversation with Retired Senior U.S. Diplomat, J.K. Cheema
                November 15, 2019 Luncheon (Following Global Hotspots)
                November 15, 2019 Global Hotspots:“Cryptocurrencies — Where Are They Gaining Real Traction?”
                November 08, 2019 A Doll's House, Part 2 @ American Players Theatre
                October 30, 2019 Dr. Amy Gilman, CHAZEN MUSEUM OF THE ARTS HIGHLIGHTS
                October 28, 2019 David Grunke on Federal Health Care Reform
                October 18, 2019 Global Hotspots:“The Economic Consequences of Trump’s War on Multilateralism”
                October 18, 2019 Luncheon (prior to Global Hotspots)
                October 16, 2019 Guided Walk: Indigenous Earthwork (Indian Mound) on Lake Mendota's North Shore
                September 20, 2019 Bill Miller in Concert: Storyteller and Musician
                September 16, 2019 Walk Wilkie Gorge of the Cross Plains National Scientific Reserve
                September 15, 2019 2 Pianos 4 Hands @ Milwaukee Rep Stackner Cabaret
                August 21, 2019 Walk the Indian Mounds of Pheasant Branch with Amy Rosebrough
                August 14, 2019 Come From Away TICKETS ONLY at the Cadillac Palace Theatre, Chicago
                August 14, 2019 REINSTATED - Hamilton: An American Musical Theater Trip @ CIBC Theatre, Chicago
                July 26, 2019 Summer Walk in the Woods: Stewart Lake County Park
                July 11, 2019 Frankenstein @ Lookingglass Theatre, Chicago (Water Tower Place)
                June 14, 2019 Summer 2019 PLATO Breakfast Get-Togethers
                June 10, 2019 Walk the Woods of Donald Park
                June 02, 2019 Next to Normal (Musical) @ Writers Theatre
                May 29, 2019 Walk Through Quarry and Hoyt Parks
                May 22, 2019 West Side Story @ Lyric Opera of Chicago
                May 17, 2019 Tour the Sauk Prairie State Recreation Area with its Founders
                May 08, 2019 2019 PLATO Annual Meeting & Buffet Lunch
                May 07, 2019 Walk Through Turville Point Conservation Park
                May 05, 2019 Two Trains Running @ Milwaukee Rep at Quadracci Powerhouse
                May 01, 2019 From Military Facility to Green Space: The Amazing Transformation of the Badger Army Ammunition Plant
                April 26, 2019 Global Hotspots:“American Foreign Policy in an Age of Nationalist Sentiment”
                April 26, 2019 Luncheon (prior to Global Hotspots)
                April 17, 2019 Hamilton 2016 Wait List Theater Trip 3 @ CIBC Theatre, Chicago
                April 09, 2019 R E S C H E D U L E D Wilkie Gorge of the Cross Plains National Scientific Reserve
                March 26, 2019 Book Talk: "The Making of Pioneer Wisconsin - Voices of Early Settlers"
                March 22, 2019 Global Hotspots:“Viral Markets: Economics, the Environment, and Emerging Disease in the 20th Century"
                March 22, 2019 Luncheon (prior to Global Hotspots)
                March 12, 2019 Madison’s Gail Ambrosius and her Award winning chocolate business
                March 10, 2019 Mark Twain's River of Song @ Milwaukee Rep Stackner Cabaret
                February 22, 2019 Global Hotspots:“In Harm's Way: The Changing Landscape of War Reporting in the 21st Century”
                February 22, 2019 Luncheon (prior to Global Hotspots)
                February 20, 2019 PLATO Spring 2019 Open House
                February 06, 2019 Junk @ Milwaukee Rep at Quadracci Powerhouse
                January 13, 2019 The All Night Strut @ Milwaukee Rep Stackner Cabaret
                December 05, 2018 Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley @ Milwaukee Rep Quadracci Powerhouse Theater
                December 05, 2018 LUNCH prior to Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley @ Milwaukee Rep Quadracci Powerhouse Theater
                November 16, 2018 Global Hot Spots: “Human Trafficking and Slavery in Japan”
                November 16, 2018 Luncheon (prior to Global Hotspots)
                November 14, 2018 Hamilton 2016 Wait List Theater Trip 2 @ CIBC Theatre, Chicago
                November 13, 2018 Lecture: "Midterm Election Results & Implications."
                November 09, 2018 Engaging Shaw @ American Players Theatre
                November 08, 2018 The Power to Change Lives
                October 31, 2018 C A N C E L L E D: Stewart Lake County Park
                October 17, 2018 Lecture: "Midterm Elections 2018: Wisconsin and the Nation."
                October 14, 2018 Walk: Olin Park, Turville Point Conservation Park
                October 10, 2018 In The Heights @ Milwaukee Rep Quadracci Powerhouse Theater
                September 26, 2018 Walk: Lakeshore Nature Preserve: Effigy Mounds and Bird Migration
                September 20, 2018 PLATO Fall Open House
                September 16, 2018 Songs for Nobodies @ Milwaukee Rep Stackner Cabaret
                September 14, 2018 Global Hot Spots: “Global Health in Obstetrics & Gynecology: Engagement, Outreach, and Opportunities”
                September 14, 2018 Luncheon (prior to Global Hotspots)
                September 14, 2018 2018/19 PLATO Breakfast Get-Togethers
                September 12, 2018 Volunteer Cafe: Madison-area Urban Ministry
                September 05, 2018 Lecture: “The Science of the Origin of Life”
                August 28, 2018 Walk: Schumacher Farm Park
                August 14, 2018 Born Yesterday @ American Players Theatre
                August 13, 2018 Walk: Edna Taylor Conservancy & Aldo Leopold Nature Center
                July 25, 2018 Walk: Pleasant Valley Conservancy SNA
                July 11, 2018 As You Like It @ American Players Theatre
                July 09, 2018 Walk: Indian Lake County Park
                June 19, 2018 Walk: Pleasant Valley Conservancy SNA
                June 13, 2018 Hamilton 2016 Wait List Theater Trip 1 @ CIBC Theatre, Chicago
                June 10, 2018 Buried Child @ Writers Theatre
                June 08, 2018 PLATO Breakfast Get-Togethers
                June 06, 2018 Walk the (new) Lower Yahara River Trail
                May 29, 2018 2018 PLATO Annual Meeting & Buffet Lunch
                May 23, 2018 Importance of Early Childhood Learning and Its Influence on Success Throughout Life
                May 20, 2018 Always...Patsy Cline @ Milwaukee Rep Stackner Cabaret
                May 10, 2018 Volunteer Cafe - May 10, 2018
                May 09, 2018 Jesus Christ Superstar @ Lyric Opera of Chicago
                May 09, 2018 PLATO is the Most Powerful Organization in Dane County
                May 08, 2018 Lecture: History and Future of Patrick Marsh Wildlife Area
                May 07, 2018 A Walk around Patrick Marsh Wildlife Area
                May 03, 2018 Walking the Parks and Trails of Dane County
                April 27, 2018 Global Hot Spots: “American Foreign Policy in an Age of Nationalist Sentiment”
                April 27, 2018 Luncheon (prior to Global Hotspots)
                April 18, 2018 Doubt: A Parable @ Milwaukee Chamber Theatre, Cabot Theatre
                April 17, 2018 Lecture: "Well-being and Resilience in Aging"
                April 08, 2018 Guess Who's Coming to Dinner @ Court Theater, University of Chicago
                March 23, 2018 Global Hot Spots: “Science and Fake News”
                March 23, 2018 Luncheon (prior to Global Hotspots)
                March 14, 2018 One House Over @ Milwaukee Rep Quadracci Powerhouse Theater
                March 07, 2018 Clearing Misconceptions About ISLAM & Current Community Challenges
                February 21, 2018 PLATO Spring Open House
                February 18, 2018 Black Pearl Sings @ Milwaukee Rep Stackner Cabaret
                February 16, 2018 Luncheon (prior to Global Hotspots)
                February 14, 2018 Victorian's Secrets: The Revealing History of Women's Underwear
                January 30, 2018 Volunteer Cafe - January 2018
                January 17, 2018 Hurricanes, Wildfires & Climate Change . . . ?Cause & Effect???
                January 14, 2018 Murder for Two @ Milwaukee Rep Stackner Cabaret
                January 07, 2018 Hard Times @ Lookingglass Theatre, Chicago (Water Tower Place)
                December 10, 2017 Moving Past Hate
                December 06, 2017 Holmes and Watson @ Milwaukee Rep Quadracci Powerhouse Theater
                November 17, 2017 Luncheon (prior to Global Hotspots)
                November 15, 2017 “We Gotta Get Out of This Place: The Soundtrack of the Vietnam War”
                October 27, 2017 Forest Hill Cemetery: A Walk Through Madison History
                October 25, 2017 The Who and The What @ Milwaukee Rep Stiemke Studio
                October 18, 2017 PLATO's 30th Anniversary
                October 13, 2017 PLATO Breakfast Get-Togethers
                October 05, 2017 Volunteer Cafe
                October 04, 2017 Guys and Dolls (Musical) @ Milwaukee Rep Quadracci Powerhouse Theater
                September 20, 2017 PLATO Fall Course Preview
                September 17, 2017 Five Guys Named Moe (Musical) @ Court Theatre, University of Chicago
                September 15, 2017 Luncheon (prior to Global Hotspots)
                September 13, 2017 BOOST YOUR BRAIN HEALTH: Reduce Your Risk of Alzheimer's and Dementia
                September 13, 2017 Bascom Hill History Tour
                August 30, 2017 A Walk Along Koshkonong Creek in CamRock County Park
                August 29, 2017 PLATO Night in Sun Prairie
                August 27, 2017 Moby Dick @ Lookingglass Theatre, Chicago (Water Tower Place)
                August 14, 2017 A Morning Walk at Cherokee Marsh
                July 12, 2017 Walk Lake Shore Preserve
                July 11, 2017 A Flea in Her Ear @ American Players Theatre, Spring Green
                June 30, 2017 A Walk in Donald Park
                June 23, 2017 Morning on the Terrace
                June 18, 2017 Parade (Musical) @ Writers Theatre
                June 12, 2017 A Walk in Lodi Marsh State Wildlife Area
                June 02, 2017 Walk Pheasant Branch Conservancy
                May 17, 2017 2017 PLATO Annual Meeting
                May 17, 2017 Walk Lake Farm Park - Prior to Annual Meeting
                May 10, 2017 Jane Eyre @ Milwaukee Rep Quadracci Powerhouse Theater
                April 21, 2017 Luncheon (prior to Global Hotspots)
                April 12, 2017 WISCONSIN'S ADOPTED SONS: CONSERVATIONISTS JOHN MUIR & ALDO LEOPOLD
                March 30, 2017 Campus Tour: Institutes of Discovery and Geology Museum
                March 10, 2017 Global Hotspots: International Implications of Brexit in the EU and around the World
                March 10, 2017 Luncheon (prior to Global Hotspots)
                March 08, 2017 Grounded @ Milwaukee Rep Stiemke Studio
                February 24, 2017 PLATO Breakfast at Elie's Family Restaurant
                February 15, 2017 PLATO Spring Course Preview
                February 10, 2017 Global Hotspots: "Is Civic Culture Dead? A Comparative Analysis of the United States, Mexico, Colombia, and Brazil"
                February 10, 2017 Luncheon (prior to Global Hotspots)
                February 08, 2017 Disgraced @ Milwaukee Rep Quadracci Powerhouse Theater
                February 03, 2017 The use of Immunotherapy & Stem Cell Transplant Therapies to Treat Cancer
                January 29, 2017 Blues for an Alabama Sky @ Court Theatre, University of Chicago
                January 23, 2017 Long Term Care: Planning for My Future Needs
                January 18, 2017 Going for Wisconsin Gold; Stories of Our State Olympians
                December 07, 2016 Hamilton: An American Musical @ Private Bank Theatre, Chicago Field Trip
                November 16, 2016 WRAP UP of DIVERSITY COMMITTEE'S PLATO BIG READ PROJECT: EVICTED
                November 11, 2016 Global Hot Spots: “Shakespeare around the World: Caliban’s Land Ethic in The Tempest”
                November 11, 2016 Luncheon (prior to Global Hotspots)
                November 09, 2016 Tour and Lunch at the New MatC Culinary Arts Facility
                November 05, 2016 Lunch Prior to Encore Viewing of "An Evening with Evicted Author Matthew Desmond"
                November 05, 2016 Added Events to Enrich Your Big Read Experience
                November 03, 2016 Health and Resource Fair
                November 02, 2016 WARF: The Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation: Investing in Research, Making a Difference for 90 Years+
                November 02, 2016 The Royale @ Milwaukee Rep Stiemke Studio
                October 30, 2016 Lady Day at Emerson's Bar and Grill @ Milwaukee Rep's Stackner Cabaret
                October 14, 2016 The PLATO Kaffeeklatsch @ Memorial Union Terrace
                October 12, 2016 Man of La Mancha @ Milwaukee Rep Quadracci Powerhouse Theater
                October 07, 2016 Global Hot Spots: “Beyond the Left-Right Divide: Ideological Hot Spots in a Polarized America”
                October 07, 2016 Luncheon (prior to Global Hotspots)
                October 04, 2016 Fitting the Pieces Together with Medicare
                October 03, 2016 Medicare Prescription Drug Coverage (Part D)
                September 21, 2016 PLATO Fall Course Preview
                September 20, 2016 Olbrich Gardens Daytime Stroll
                September 16, 2016 Global Hot Spots: “Fighting Zika and Other Emerging Viruses”
                September 16, 2016 Luncheon (prior to Global Hotspots)
                September 09, 2016 The PLATO Kaffeeklatsch @ Memorial Union Terrace
                August 26, 2016 UW-Madison Campus Mini-Coach Tour 2016 - August 26
                August 14, 2016 War Paint (A World Premier Musical) @ Goodman Theatre, Chicago Field Trip
                August 12, 2016 The PLATO Kaffeeklatsch @ Memorial Union Terrace
                July 29, 2016 UW-Madison Campus Mini-Coach Tour 2016 - July 29
                July 20, 2016 Walk the Gardens at EPIC Systems with Jeff Epping
                July 09, 2016 Walk Indian Lake County Park
                July 08, 2016 The PLATO Kaffeeklatsch @ Memorial Union Terrace
                July 06, 2016 A Walk Along Table Bluff in Cross Plains
                June 28, 2016 A Walk in Cherokee Marsh
                June 24, 2016 UW-Madison Campus Trolley Tour 2016 - June 24
                June 17, 2016 A Walk Through the Brooklyn State Wildlife Area
                May 25, 2016 Forest Hill Cemetery: A Walk Through Madison History
                May 20, 2016 University Senior Guest Auditor Workshop
                May 12, 2016 A Walk Along the Madison Segment of the Ice Age Trail
                May 11, 2016 Fences @ Milwaukee Rep Powerhouse Theater
                May 10, 2016 End of Life Preparedness Lecture (Part II)
                May 03, 2016 End of Life Preparedness Lecture (Part I of II)
                April 26, 2016 Owning Your Future: Resources to Assist as we Age
                April 22, 2016 Global Hot Spots: Biodiversity Conservation in Developing Countries
                April 22, 2016 Luncheon (prior to Global Hotspots)
                April 07, 2016 American Song @ Milwaukee Rep
                March 18, 2016 Global Hot Spots: An Update from Paris: Climate Change Summit
                March 18, 2016 Luncheon (prior to Global Hot Spots)
                March 11, 2016 Library Electronic Resources Primer @ Madison Public Library
                March 09, 2016 The Invisible Hand @ Milwaukee Rep - Stiemke Studio
                February 28, 2016 The Devil's Music: The Life and Blues of Bessie Smith @ Stackner Cabaret
                February 19, 2016 Global Hot Spots: American Foreign Policy and the Changing Middle East
                February 19, 2016 Luncheon (prior to Global Hot Spots)
                February 10, 2016 Library Electronic Resources Primer @ Madison Public Library
                January 20, 2016 Wednesday Night @ the Lab: Nitraites in Wisconsin's Groundwater
                January 13, 2016 Wednesday Night @ the Lab: DNA & Waistlines
                January 06, 2016 Wednesday Night @ the Lab: Walking and Strokes
                December 09, 2015 The Mousetrap @ Milwaukee Rep
                December 03, 2015 UW Showcase Series
                November 20, 2015 Global Hot Spots: “Market Reforms and Water Wars”
                November 04, 2015 The Lion @ Milwaukee Rep - Stiemke Studio
                October 27, 2015 On Fourth Lake: A Social History of Lake Mendota Book Talk
                October 14, 2015 Dreamgirls @ Milwaukee Rep
                September 16, 2015 PLATO Fall Course Preview
                September 15, 2015 Back-to-School Primer @ Madison Public Library
                September 10, 2015 Crimes of the 21st Century: Scams Targeting Seniors
                August 26, 2015 Afternoon Tour: The Henry Vilas Zoo
                August 26, 2015 Morning Tour: The Henry Vilas Zoo
                August 26, 2015 PLATO's Farewell to Summer Picnic @ Vilas Park Shelter, Madison
                August 14, 2015 The PLATO Kaffeeklatsch @ Memorial Union Terrace
                July 09, 2015 The PLATO Kaffeeklatsch @ Memorial Union Terrace
                June 24, 2015 Drive-to PLATO Lecture & Visit at the Milwaukee Art Museum: Van Gogh to Pollock: Modern Rebels Exhibition
                May 03, 2015 End of Life Preparedness (Parts I & II)
                April 23, 2015 End of Life Preparedness
                April 16, 2015 End of Life Preparedness
                April 01, 2015 Five Presidents @ Milwaukee Rep
                February 18, 2015 PLATO Spring Course Preview
                December 10, 2014 Harvey @ Milwaukee Rep
                October 22, 2014 The Color Purple (The Musical about Love)
                October 04, 2014 Epic Systems Campus 2


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                Madison, WI 53705








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