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• 1st Friday Breakfast on the West Side

  • Start
    January 02, 2026
  •  
  • End
    September 04, 2026
  •  
  • Schedule
    9 sessions
  • Location
    601 Junction Road, Madison

  
  

  
  

  
  

  Where?  Panera Bread,  601 Junction Road, Madison, WI 
  

  When?  Meets on the first Friday of each month from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

  What?  Breakfast with friends, old and new.    To view the menu go to https://www.panerabread.com/en-us/menu.html.
  
  Directions:   Located 1.5 blocks south of Old Sauk Road on Junction Road.
  
  Parking: There is plenty of parking in the adjacent parking lot.  No stairs!
  
  Organizer:  Catherine Masi 
  
  RSVP or Questions?  Email Catherine at catherine.masi@gmail.com  by the Thursday before the breakfast to let her know you are coming.  Also email her if you have any questions.

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• 4th Friday of the Month Coffee

  • Start
    May 22, 2026
  •  
  • End
    August 28, 2026
  •  
  • Schedule
    4 sessions
  • Location
    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 Cafe, 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 Sue Ellerhost at luvcetaceans@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.

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• Nature Walk at Pheasant Branch Conservancy

  • When
    June 11, 2026
  •  
    8:30 AM - 11:00 AM
  • Location
    Parking lot at Orchid Heights Park, 3960 Valley Ridge Road, Middleton.
  • Spaces left
    4

  Register

  

  Free to PLATO members and guests

  Registration Required

  
  

  Join Pheasant Branch Conservancy President Hans Hilbert as we explore some of the most unique land features in the Conservancy.  We’ll discuss human history, ecology, watershed dynamics, and the impacts that development around Pheasant Branch continue to have on the Conservancy.  We will also highlight the Friend’s successes in prairie establishment and habitat improvement. 

  Our walk will include a visit to the Springs and an overview of the newly acquired 160- acre Acker Parcel designed to a Platinum quality prairie and wetlands that will “significantly reduce stormwater volume improve water quality.

  The Walk
  

  This 2 1/2 hour walk and presentation will cover about a 2 1/2 mile stretch of the Conservatory.  The walk is on mostly flat or slightly rolling trails.  We may climb a hill to better view the newly added farm land. 

  About the Conservancy

  Pheasant Branch Conservancy consists of 842 acres owned by three partners: Dane County Parks, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, and the City of Middleton. The Conservancy consists of upland oak savanna and lowland wetland prairies.  The uplands are known for their diverse prairie and mature hardwood stands. The lowlands are traversed by Pheasant Branch Creek.  With its headwaters in the Town of Springfield and Town of Middleton, Pheasant Branch flows through the City of Middleton and the newly acquired (and recontoured) 160 acre farm, into the Pheasant Branch Marsh which provides millions of gallons of water to Lake Mendota and the Yahara Chain of Lakes.

   

  Additional Information:  Several maps of the conservancy are available at the Friends of Pheasant Branch website:  http://www.pheasantbranch.org/ 

  Accessibility:  A 2 1/2 mile walk along a graded path makes this walk one of the more accessible we'll offer this year.  The route may involve a few small hills to view newly added prairie.
  

  Microphone:  Our leader will have a microphone along to assist in delivering his message clearly as possible.

  Driving and Parking Information:  We will use the parking lot at Orchid Heights Park, 3960 Valley Ridge Rd, Middleton.  While the park address is Valley Ridge Road, the parking lot is accessed via Park Trail off of Sedgemeadow Rd. You'll find ample parking. We'll gather at the Park Shelter at 8:30 am. See you at the shelter.

  
  

  For further information, contact PLATO trip leader, Mike Dilorio at  mdiiorio@tds.net or 608-520-4448.
  

  
  

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• 2nd Friday of the Month Coffee

  • Start
    June 12, 2026
  •  
  • End
    August 14, 2026
  •  
  • Schedule
    3 sessions
  • Location
    800 Langdon Street

  
  

  
  

  Meets every 2nd Friday in the summer

  at the Memorial Union!

  
  

  • Where: Memorial Union, 800 Langdon Street
  • Day: Meets on the second Friday of each month

  • Time: 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

  • Drinks/Food:  Peet’s Coffee will be open with bakery and snacks. At 11 or 12 the hot dog stand and other venues will be open. 

  • Place: Outside at the terrace.  Look for us in the outdoor area behind the Der Rathskellar restaurant.  In case of rain we will meet in the large glassed in room near the terrace.
  • Parking: Best parking is the State Street Campus Garage located at 430 N Frances Street. Two ramps, near each other, are available. It is about a 2 block walk to the Union. 
  • 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.
    

  
  

  
  

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• Fireside Theatre: Million Dollar Quartet

  • When
    June 19, 2026
  •  
    9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
  • Location
    Fort Atkinson
  • Spaces left
    1

  Registration is closed

  
  

  
  

  Fireside Theatre: Million Dollar Quartet

  Friday, June 19, 2026

  Registration deadline is Monday, June 1

  
  

  On December 4, 1956, an extraordinary twist of fate brought Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, and Elvis Presley together at Sun Records in Memphis for what would be one of the greatest jam sessions of all time.

  MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET brings that legendary December night to life with an irresistible tale of broken promises, secrets, betrayal, and celebrations that is both poignant and funny. Relive the era with the smash-hit sensation featuring an incredible score of rock ‘n’ roll, gospel, R&B, and country hits all performed live. Featuring such hit songs as “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Fever,” “Walk the Line,” “Sixteen Tons,” “Great Balls of Fire,” “Folsom Prison Blues,” “Hound Dog,” and many more.

  _________________________________________
  

  Lunch (Indicate your choice when registering)

  The meal includes Jam Session Salad (Spinach, Kale, Arugula, Frisee Lettuce, Hard Boiled Egg, Cucumber, Tomato topped with Sweet Sour Dressing, Bacon Chips and Fried Onion Strings), freshly baked breads, choice of entree, Crème Brûlée for dessert, and coffee/tea/milk.

  • Chicken Cordon Bleu - Boneless Breast of Chicken filled with Jones Cherrywood Smoked Canadian Bacon, Garlic and Herb Cream Cheese, Swiss Cheese, and Dijon Mustard, rolled in our Seasoned Breadcrumbs, sauteed to a golden brown, ad baked to finish. Served on a delicious Creamy Dijon Sauce and accompanied by Garlic Parmesan Orzo and a Parisian Vegetable Mix.
  • Grilled Red Snapper - A Seasoned, Flame-grilled 6 oz. filet of Fresh Red Snapper accompanied by a Smoked Paprika Beurre Blanc Sauce. Served with Garlic Parmesan Orzo and a Parisian Vegetable Mix.
  • Beef Short Rib - A generous 8 oz. portion of Beef Short Rib slowly briased in our own homemade Beef Stock and crowned with a glorious red wine demi-glade served with garlic parmesan orzo and a Parisian vegetable mix.
  • Vegetarian Stuffed Bell Peppers - A classic recipe turned up a notch Two large, assorted Bell Peppers stuffed to the max with a combination of Brown Rice, Quinoa, Plant-based Protein, and our Signature Marinara Sauce topped with Shredded Parmesan Cheese. Served with Garlic Parmesan Orzo and a Parisian Vegetable Mix. 

  _________________________________________

  PLATO is partnering with the Verona Senior Center  and UW Retirement Association on this travel opportunity.  You will be required to fill out the 2026 Verona Senior Center New Member  and Trip Waiver Form   (no charge).  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 MINUTES PRIOR TO DEPARTURE
  

  9:00 a.m.  Depart Verona Park & Ride

  9:30 a.m.  Depart (East Madison) Dutch Mill Park & Ride (East Lot)

  5:00 p.m.   Return (East Madison) Dutch Mill Park & Ride (East Lot)

  5:30 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: $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, June 1, 2026.

  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.  

  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.
  

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• 3rd Friday Meet-Up on the East Side

  • Start
    June 19, 2026
  •  
  • End
    October 16, 2026
  •  
  • Schedule
    5 sessions
  • Location
    876 Jupiter Drive

  at

  
  

  3rd Friday Meet-Up on the East Side at Great Dane East

  
  

  Where?  Great Dane East,  876 Juniper Drive,  Madison  
  

  When?  Meets on the third Friday of each month from 11:30-1:30

  What?  Meet-Up with friends, old and new.   Non-members are welcome.  We will no longer meet in the upstairs room but in the downstairs bar area.  You are welcome to order from the menu or feel free to order just a beer or coffee.  
  
  Directions:   Entrance is a few hundred feet from Cottage Grove Road and conveniently located on Madison Metro's Route C.
  
  Parking: There is plenty of parking in the adjacent parking lot.  No stairs!
  
  Organizer:   Sue Ellerhorst 
  

  RSVP is appreciated but not required.  If you forget to RSVP come anyway.   Email Sue at  nana@orcagranny.com by the Wednesday before the lunch to let her know you are coming.   Also email her if you have any questions.

  
  

  
  

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• Epic's Storybook Campus Tour

  • When
    June 21, 2026
  •  
    1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
  • Location
    Verona, WI
  • Spaces left
    10

  

  Epic's Storybook Campus Tour
  

  Sunday, June 21

  1:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

  
  

  Because of limited slots, this is a Member Only event

  
  

  Registration begins Tuesday, June 9

  
  

  Epic, the health software company in Verona, has a unique corporate headquarters.  Divided into separate campuses with differently themed buildings, Epic aims to create an environment that is comfortable, sparks creativity, has variety, and results in productivity.

  Following up on our 2023 tour of the Wizards Academy Campus, this time we will be taking a tour of the Storybook Campus.   The tour will be led by PLATO members Barb Drake and Bob Shaw using Epic's self-guided handout.

  
  

  Step into a world where imagination comes alive on a guided tour of the remarkable Epic Storybook Campus.  Wander through whimsical buildings inspired by beloved tales and adventures — from Alice in Wonderland and the Land of Oz to the worlds of Jules Verne, mystery novels, science fiction, Grimm fairy tales, and the Chocolate Factory. Along the way, discover stunning artwork, hidden details, playful architecture, and creative spaces that transform an ordinary office campus into an unforgettable experience. Whether you love literature, art, design, or simply exploring unique places, this tour promises surprises, conversation, and a chance to see one of Wisconsin’s most imaginative destinations.

  
  

  Self-Guided Tours:  If you are unable to join our tour or are comfortable touring Epic yourself, you can sign up for a tour at https://www.epic.com/visiting/.  Note that reservations are required and slots fill up rapidly.  Slots open up 30 days in advance.

  Registration:  There is no registration fee and there is a limit of 12 for the tour.

  Parking and Meeting Instructions:   Take Highway 18 to Verona and exit right on Epic Lane (Exit 76).  Cross Verona Avenue and continue on Epic Lane.   After a short distance Epic Lane will intersect with Northern Lights Road.  At that intersection you will see a sign pointing to the left that says: "Epic Visitors, Epic Lane, Deliveries".  DO NOT TAKE THAT LEFT ON EPIC LANE.  Instead continue straight on Northern Lights Road.  After a half-mile turn left at the sign that says "Staff Park A".  You will see a parking lot with solar panels on top.  Park in the visitor's parking lot (Zodiac lot).

  At the northwest part of the parking lot you will see a small Humpty Dumpty sculpture.  Walk up the stairs by the sculpture and follow the signs that say Visitor's Center.  We will be meeting near the visitor's desk in the Andromeda building.

  
  

  You can also view a map by typing in "Epic Visitor Parking Verona" in Google Maps.

  Length, Accessibility,  and Pace of Walk:  We will be walking almost constantly for the 90 minutes at a leisurely pace for a total of almost four miles.  There are a number  of stairs on the tour but there are elevators if you would prefer that over the stairs.

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

  For Further Information contact Epic tour leaders, Barb Drake, barbaradrake21@gmail.com, 608-535-2737  or Bob Shaw,  robert.e.shaw@gmail.com , 608-255-3486 

  
  

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• The Recycling Revealed Tour

  • When
    June 25, 2026
  •  
    10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Location
    Madison, WI
  • Spaces left
    0

  Join waitlist

  
  

  The Recycling Revealed Tour

  Note: Pellitteri has asked us to change the date from June 18 to June 25

  Thursday, June 25 from 10:30-12:00
  

  Free to PLATO members

  Only 8 slots available because of limited parking

  Registration is required

  
  

  Ever wonder what happens to your  recyclables after you drop it in the green bin?  Find out on our tour of the Pellitteri Kipp Street Station material recovery facility which Madison uses to handle its recycling operation. 

  Recycling plays a vital role in conserving natural resources, reducing landfill waste, and protecting the environment for future generations. By reusing materials like paper, metals, plastics, and glass, we decrease the need for raw resource extraction, which in turn saves energy and reduces pollution. Recycling also helps limit greenhouse gas emissions, making it an important part of addressing climate change. On a community level, it supports local economies by creating jobs in collection, processing, and manufacturing. Ultimately, recycling is a simple but powerful way for individuals and organizations to contribute to a more sustainable and responsible use of our planet’s resources.

  The tour begins in the Education Room, where you’ll get a behind-the-scenes view of how recycling really works. From this vantage point, you can watch state-of-the-art systems in action as they separate, sort, and prepare materials for their next life. You’ll also overlook the busy tipping floor, where truckloads of recyclables arrive and begin their journey through the facility. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a short, informative presentation and video that bring the process to life and highlight the impact of recycling in our community.”

  
  

  ____________________________________

  Safety Rules:

  • All visitors must be accompanied by a Pellitteri employee.
  • Tour participants must wear long pants and closed-toed shoes.
    
  • No visitor will be allowed to tour the working floor of the facility.
  • All visitors are to follow the instructions listed for vehicle restrictions, safe vehicle entry, enter through the center door of the building and stay within the enclosed office space and educational room
  • In the event of a fire, please exit the stairwell nearest the parking lot. In the event of a tornado, please exit the stairwell by the TV and go to the hallway by the bathrooms located between the lunchroom and utility room.

  There is a No Media policy at the facility; taking videos or photos on personal devices is not allowed. This is out of respect for the employees as well as for proprietary reasons.  

  
  

  Directions:  Because parking at the recycling facility is limited to two cars for our group, we will be meeting at a nearby lot and carpooling the 1.3 miles to the recycling site.  Meet at 10:30 in the parking lot of the McFarland Ice Arena, 4812 Marsh Road.   

  The trip leader will be taking her car and we need one more car to transport registrants.  If you would be willing to use your car to carpool registrants from the McFarland Ice Arena to the recycling facility, indicate that when you register.

  
  

  
  

  For further information, contact Joyce Knutson at k2pmw@sbcglobal.net or 608-238-4279.

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• From Chimneys to Iconic Wings

  • When
    July 23, 2026
  •  
    7:45 AM - 6:30 PM
  • Location
    Milwaukee and Greendale
  • Spaces left
    1

  Register

  
  

  
  

  From Chimneys to Iconic Wings

  Thursday, July 23, 2026

  Registration deadline is Monday, June 29

  Registration opens on Tuesday, June 2

  Each chimney has a story of its own that means something special to the owner.  We will hear these stories during our historic and folk-art chimney tour.  There are hundreds of decorated Greendale original home chimneys!

  The decor of the chimneys relates to many of Greendale's "alphabetized streets" All streets in the "A section" begin with the letter A, etc. So, apricots hang on Apricot Coutt chimneys... azaleas bloom on Azalea Court chimneys...berries ripen on Berry Court, and naturally, balsam branches on Balsam Court. Other sculptures reflect the homeowners' lives and personal experiences.

  Two Brewer fans, a couple married at Miller Park, sport a ball and glove logo on their chimney; a film director displays an old camera projector on his. Whether a lover of country, a beach comber, a bird watcher, or UW grad, each chimney has its own story, and you will discover many of them on our tour.

  
  

  Following lunch and some time in Greendale's Historic Downtown Center, we're off to the Milwaukee Art Museum,  the largest art museum in the state of Wisconsin, housing a collection of more than 30,000 works and hosting an impressive lineup of internationally regarded exhibitions. The Museum sees almost 400,000 visitors each year, with nearly 21,500 holding annual Museum memberships. The Museum's stellar art education program serves over 50,000 youth each year through programs, tours, and internships.

  A surprise stop will end our day's event.

  _________________________________________
  

  Lunch (Indicate your choice when registering)

  Lunch includes coffee or fountain soft drink.

  • BURGER:  1/4lb Burger Topped with Lettuce & Tomato. Served on a Brioche Bun, and Side of Homemade Chips
  • APPLE WALNUT SALAD: Spring Mix, Apples, White Cheddar, Walnuts, Dried Cranberries, Served with Raspberry Honey Vinaigrette and Grilled Chicken
  • APPLE WALNUT SALAD: Spring Mix, Apples, White Cheddar, Walnuts, Dried Cranberries, Served with Raspberry Honey Vinaigrette and Crispy Chicken
    
  • CHICKEN SALAD WRAP: Chopped Grilled Chicken, Apples, Walnuts, Celery, Lettuce, Tomato, & Mayo. Serviced With Side of Homemade Chips

  _________________________________________

  PLATO is partnering with the Verona Senior Center  and UW Retirement Association on this travel opportunity.  You will be required to fill out the 2026 Verona Senior Center New Member  and Trip Waiver Form   (no charge).  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 MINUTES PRIOR TO DEPARTURE
  

  7:45 a.m.  Depart Verona Park & Ride

  8:30 a.m.  Depart (East Madison) Dutch Mill Park & Ride (East Lot)

  6:00 p.m.   Return (East Madison) Dutch Mill Park & Ride (East Lot)

  6:30 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: $120 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, June 29, 2026.

  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.  

  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.
  

  Show details
• From Wood to Watercraft: Dugout Canoes of Wisconsin

  • When
    August 03, 2026
  •  
    1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
  • Location
    1615 Sherman Avenue
  • Spaces left
    12

  
  

  
  

  From Wood to Watercraft:

  Dugout Canoes of Wisconsin

  Monday, August 3, 2026

  Registration deadline is Friday, July 31

  Registration will open July 7

  Sissel Schroeder, Professor of Anthropology at UW Madison, will educate us about the Wisconsin Dugout Canoe Survey Project.  The talk will take place on an MSCR Pontoon boat where, if the weather permits, we will hover over where dugout canoes were discovered in Lake Mendota a few years ago.

  The goals of the Wisconsin Dugout Canoe Survey include locating, identifying, and documenting dugouts across the state.  When this project started in 2018, 11 dugout canoes were documented in Wisconsin, ranging in age from about 150 years old to a fragment from Kenosha County that is 1,850 years old. By February 2024, there were 95 reports of dugouts in the state (the research team has confirmed and documented 73 of them). These discoveries put Wisconsin second in eastern North America for the number of reported dugout canoes. The Wisconsin sample of dugouts has two of the 10 oldest dugouts in eastern North America that range between 4,000 and 6,000 years old.

  Don't miss this fascinating lecture and opportunity to glimpse the front lines of Wisconsin history as it's being made.

   Sissel Schroeder received her PhD from The Pennsylvania State University and is currently a Professor in the Department of Anthropology. She is also an affiliate of the Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies, the Center for Culture, History, and the Environment, the American Indian and Indigenous Studies Program, and the Material Culture Studies Program. Her current research is focused on issues of sociopolitical complexity, climate change impacts, and historical ecology among ancient Native American societies of the southeastern and midwestern United States.

  
  

  
  

  The talk will given on an MSCR Pontoon boat while we are travelling Lake Mendota.  You will be required to sign a Pontoon Program Liability Waiver before boarding.  There will be no bathroom breaks for the 90 minute pontoon ride.  There are Porta Potties at the departure point.  Bring your own water and snacks and dress appropriately for the weather.  It is often windier and cooler on the lake.

  Meeting Point: Tenney Park, 1615 Sherman Ave

  Boat trips to either Monona or Mendota (dependent on lake accessibility) depart from the Tenney Park Boat House. 

  
  

  Cost: $30 per person.

  Seating is limited, so register today!  Registrations must be received no later than noon on Friday, July 31, 2026.

  Mail-In Registration Form:   
  

  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.  

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

  For further information, contact PLATO trip coordinators, Bob Shaw,  robert.e.shaw@gmail.com , 608-255-3486 or Liz Coleman, liz_coleman@msn.com, 608-320-4480
  

  Show details
• Fearless Science Tour

  • When
    August 06, 2026
  •  
    10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Location
    330 N. Orchard Street
  • Spaces left
    25

  
  

  Fearless Science Tour

  Thursday, August 6 from 10:00 AM-12:00 PM

  Free to PLATO Members and Guests

  Registration is Required

  Registration opens Tuesday, June 30

  
  

  Join us for a Fearless Science Tour at the Morgridge Institute for Research – a private, nonprofit research institute dedicated to interdisciplinary biomedical research in partnership with the University of Wisconsin–Madison. 

  This 2-hour tour is designed to introduce individuals and groups to the curiosity-driven research and STEM education/engagement work accomplished at the Morgridge Institute.

  
  

  Fearless Science Tour Timeline

  • Introduction Presentation (30 min)
  • • Overview & History of the Morgridge Institute
  • Scientist Visit 1 (30 min)
  • • Scientist visits are typically a combination of a short presentation, opportunity for questions, and perhaps a quick look inside the lab
  • Scientist Visit 2 (30 min)
  • Principal Investigator (PI) Presentation (30 min)
  • • Values of Curiosity-Driven Research
    • Their perspective on the value of Morgridge as an institute/why they choose to work here
    • Q&A as time allows

  
  

  Logistics:  The PLATO tour of the Morgridge Institute on Thursday, August 6 will be held from 10 am - 12 pm, beginning and ending in the Researcher's Link Room on the 2^nd floor of the Discovery Building. On the attached map, the elevator is highlighted (next to the Welcome Desk). The closest building entrance to the space is Door E, at the corner of Orchard St. & University Ave, though it’s accessible no matter which entrance to the Discovery Building you use. Card access is required to use the elevator and there will be a staff member stationed at the elevators to welcome us and scan us up to the 2nd floor.  

  
  

  Transportation/Parking:  

  The Discovery Building is located near several city of Madison Metro Transit bus stops and UW-Madison bicycle routes.

  Although onsite parking is not available, three UW-managed lots (17, 20 and 80) are nearby. Due to construction around the engineering campus and Randall Ave., Lot 17 is only accessible coming from the north (University Ave. & Johnson St.) and has a different, less direct (but clearly marked!) walking route to the Discovery Building. However, it seems that Lot 17 usually has more open parking spaces than the other two nearby options. Each of the links for the three UW-managed lots (17, 20 and 80), has a real-time update of the number of open spaces to help plan your route as you’re headed to campus.

  Questions? - Contact tour organizer Bob Shaw at robert.e.shaw@gmail.com or 608-255-3486

  Show details
• Green Bay/Oneida Nation Tour

  • When
    August 11, 2026
  •  
    7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
  • Location
    Green Bay
  • Spaces left
    10

  
  

  
  

  Green Bay/Oneida Nation Tour

  Tuesday, August 11, 2026

  Registration deadline is Tuesday, July 28

  Registration opens on Tuesday, June 30

  It’s going to be a great day in Green Bay!!  We’ll start our day at the Discover Green Bay Welcome Center and learn a bit about the city’s history.

  Next, we’ll head to the Oneida Nation to visit their new museum which opened in June where we will learn about the Oneida culture, government, and economy.  Experience the history through the exhibits of basketry, beadwork, contemporary art, music, children's hands-on-area and other programming.  

  The Oneida Nation reservation spans parts of two counties west of the Green Bay metropolitan area. Their property includes the museum, a Long House Village, Buffalo Overlook, Veteran’s Wall and more.   

  After our visit, we’re off to lunch at the 1919 Kitchen & Tap Restaurant  at Lambeau Field.  Here we’ll experience the excitement of Lambeau Field while we savor and sip local food and drinks.  After lunch you will have a chance to visit the ProShop.

  On our way home we will swing by LaClare Creamery to pick up dinner and visit their baby goats.

  And don't forget there will be surprise stop during the day.

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  Lunch (Indicate your choice when registering)

  Lunch includes beverage

  • Wisco Burger with chips, Wisconsin cheddar, lettuce, tomato
  • Turkey Club with chips, Shaved turkey, smoked gouda, lettuce, tomato, peppered bacon, chive mayo, ale mustard, sourdough
  • Cobb Salad, Butter crunch bibb, peppered bacon, red onion, sweet corn, tomato, bleu cheese, avocado, buttermilk parsley dressing,
    
  • Hickory Smoked Pulled Pork with chips, Maple coleslaw, house BBQ sauce

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  PLATO is partnering with the Verona Senior Center  and UW Retirement Association on this travel opportunity.  You will be required to fill out the 2026 Verona Senior Center New Member  and Trip Waiver Form   (no charge).  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 MINUTES PRIOR TO DEPARTURE
  

  7:00 a.m.  Depart Verona Park & Ride

  7:30 a.m.  Depart (East Madison) Dutch Mill Park & Ride (East Lot)

  6:30 p.m.   Return (East Madison) Dutch Mill Park & Ride (East Lot)

  7:00 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: $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 Tuesday, July 28, 2026.

  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.  

  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.
  

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