PLATO Weekly Update 

April 28, 2026

Registration deadline is this Friday, May 1! Register today for this complimentary member event on Wednesday, May 13 from 2:00-4:00pm at the East Side Club on Monona Drive. Enjoy light refreshments, social opportunities, committee updates, door prizes, and a keynote by Dr. Henrik Schatzinger titled Hidden Money, Visible Power: Super PACs and Dark Money in Wisconsin Politics. Dr. Schatzinger is the Director of the Center for Politics and the People at Ripon College, which is dedicated to the promotion of constructive political debate and informed citizens concerned with good governance. Registration is required and members may bring a guest. Learn more and register here.

CURRICULUM

SUMMER COURSES

NEXT MONTH! Please note these important Summer Courses dates and read the Curriculum Showcase article below about a new pilot registration process for select Summer Courses:

· Registration for Summer Courses will open on Tuesday, May 12, 2026. 

· Most Summer Courses will begin the week of June 8. 

CURRICULUM SHOWCASE
Learn about the Curriculum Committee's efforts to automate PLATO's course registration process in this Curriculum Showcase article by Jayne Fischer. This new process is in response to member feedback and will be tested out in a pilot program this summer with select courses. Stay tuned for additional resources to learn more so that you are up to speed when registration opens.

SPECIAL EVENTS

FIELD TRIPS

NEXT MONTH! Join us on Sunday, May 31 at 4:00pm for a 75-minute historical walking tour of Mansion Hill in downtown Madison. Travel through time to learn about the stately sandstone mansions built by Madison’s early elite, including the Old Governor’s Mansion, home to 17 Wisconsin governors. Led by PLATO Board Member Steve Sparks in collaboration with the Madison Trust for Historic Preservation. Registration deadline is May 28. Learn more and register here.

NATURE WALKS

NEXT WEEK! On Wednesday, May 6 at 10am, enjoy a leisurely one-hour walk through the Oakwood Nature Preserve lead by Barb Littlewood followed by a social hour with lemonade and cookies in the Oaks Community Room. Listening devices will be provided for all participants. Unfortunately, the trail is not accessible to people with disabilities. Registration is required – only two spaces left! Learn more and register here.

~  ~  ~

BREAKFAST, LUNCH & COFFEE GATHERINGS
These social events offer members and their guests opportunities to share conversation over coffee or breakfast and lunch options.

THIS WEEK! First Friday Breakfast Gathering at Panera Bread located at 601 Junction Road on May 1, from 9:30-11:30am. To RSVP, send an email to Catherine Masi, the event coordinator, by the Thursday before the event. Learn more and RSVP here.

~  ~  ~

LECTURES

PLATO Lectures will resume in early September! In the meantime, explore the Past Recordings section below to enjoy various lectures and course sessions on a wide array of important topics – all from the comfort and convenience of home. 

PAST RECORDINGS

Visit the Past Recordings webpage to enjoy:

Healthy Grown – Sustainable produce from Wisconsin! A recent PLATO Lecture featuring Dr. Deana Knuteson who presents the history and requirements of the Healthy Grown program, its acceptance by Wisconsin farmers, and how the purchase of Healthy Grown vegetables benefits the consumers.

Hearing Advice to Make You (and Your Ears) Smile! In this recent PLATO Lecture professional audiologist Juliette Sterkens highlights advances in hearing technology, hearing rehabilitation, and more!

PLATO Weekly Update

 April 21, 2026

ELECTION FOR PLATO BOARD 2026-27

Read the biographies for the nominees!

THIS WEEK! PLATO's Board of Directors Election for 2026-27 will run from April 22 – May 6, 2026. Read about the nominees so you are ready to vote. The Nominating Committee thanks the members who agreed to be listed! Watch for a PLATO email on Wednesday, April 22, with your link to the Ballot. Voting will close on Wednesday, May 6, at midnight.

CURRICULUM

SPRING COURSES
Find the full Spring 2026 Course Schedule on the Courses page.

SUMMER COURSES
NEXT MONTH! Registration for Summer Courses will open on Tuesday, May 12, 2026. Most Summer Courses will begin the week of June 8. 

SPECIAL EVENTS

NOON ZOOMS

TODAY! Talking Earth Day Politics with Spencer Black on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, from 12pm – 1:00pm. This first Noon Zoom features Joy Cardin, retired Wisconsin Public Radio talk show host, who will interview Spencer Black, former state legislator and Sierra Club vice president, about how we can make a difference on environmental issues during this era of deregulation and climate change denial. Member registrants were sent the Zoom link via email. Contact the PLATO office with questions at info@platomadison.org.

~  ~  ~

LECTURES

THIS WEEK! Healthy Grown – Sustainable produce from Wisconsin! Join us on Thursday, April 23, 2026 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Arts and Education Center for this lecture with Dr. Deana Knuteson who will present the history and requirements of the Healthy Grown program, its acceptance by Wisconsin farmers, and how the purchase of Healthy Grown vegetables benefits the consumers. Registration for this lecture is not required, guests are welcome, and parking is free. Learn more here.

PAST RECORDINGS

Visit the Past Recordings webpage to enjoy Hearing Advice to Make You (and Your Ears) Smile! In this PLATO lecture recorded on April 9, 2026, professional audiologist Juliette Sterkens highlights advances in hearing technology, hearing rehabilitation, and more!

~  ~  ~

NATURE WALKS

NEXT MONTH! On Wednesday, May 6 at 10am, enjoy a leisurely one-hour walk through the Oakwood Nature Preserve lead by Barb Littlewood followed by a social hour with lemonade and cookies in the Oaks Community Room. Listening devices will be provided for all participants. Unfortunately, the trail is not accessible to people with disabilities. Registration is required – only five spaces left! Learn more and register here.

~  ~  ~

FIELD TRIPS

View the Field Trip Schedule with day trips to interesting sites around Wisconsin through Fall 2026. More will be announced as details are finalized.

LAST WEEK TO REGISTER! Just one spot left! Join us for Adventures in Dubuque on Wednesday, May 13, 2026! Highlights of this trip will include a visit to St. Luke's United Methodist Church which housesthe fifth largest collection of Tiffany-stained glass windows in the world and a ride on the Fenelon Place Elevator which is a narrow-gauge funicular railway. Experience a Progressive Lunch (no, it’s not political) and enjoy time for shopping in the charming downtown area. Note that PLATO is partnering with the Verona Senior Center and UW Retirement Association on this travel opportunity so pick-up locations are different from PLATO's usual trips. Registration deadline is Monday, April 27, 2026. Learn more and register here.

SOLD OUT! The Ten Chimneys in Genesee Depot Tour on Wednesday, June 3, 2026 is full. Review details and join the waitlist here.

~  ~  ~

BREAKFAST, LUNCH & COFFEE GATHERINGS
These social events offer members and their guests opportunities to share conversation over coffee or breakfast and lunch options.

THIS WEEK! Fourth Friday Coffee at the Rotunda Café on April 24 from 9:30-11:30am. Learn more and RSVP here.

Register today for this complimentary member event on Wednesday, May 13 from 2:00-4:00pm at the East Side Club on Monona Drive. Enjoy light refreshments, social opportunities, committee updates, door prizes, and a keynote presentation by Dr. Henrik Schatzinger titled Hidden Money, Visible Power: Super PACs and Dark Money in Wisconsin Politics. Dr. Schatzinger is the Director of the Center for Politics and the People at Ripon College, which is dedicated to the promotion of constructive political debate and informed citizens concerned with good governance. Registration is required and members may bring a guest. Learn more and register here.

PLATO Weekly Update

April 14, 2026

ELECTION FOR PLATO BOARD 2026-27
Read the biographies for the nominees!

NEXT WEEK! PLATO's Board of Directors Election for 2026-27 will run from April 22 – May 6, 2026. Read about the nominees so you are ready to vote. The Nominating Committee thanks the members who agreed to be listed! Watch for a PLATO email next week, Wednesday, April 22, with your link to the Ballot. Voting will close on Wednesday, May 6, at midnight.

CURRICULUM

SPRING COURSES
Have a question about a Spring Course? Find the full Spring 2026 Course Schedule on the Courses page.

SUMMER COURSES 
NEXT MONTH! Registration for Summer Courses will open on Tuesday, May 12, 2026. Most Summer Courses will begin the week of June 8. 

SPECIAL EVENTS

FIELD TRIPS
View the Field Trip Schedule with day trips to interesting sites around Wisconsin through Fall 2026. More will be announced as details are finalized.

Join us for the Ten Chimneys in Genesee Depot Tour on Wednesday, June 3, 2026! Ten Chimneys is the estate lovingly created by Broadway legends Alfred Lunt and Lynn Fontanne. Yes, there really are ten chimneys (and oodles of beautiful, historic rooms). Trip includes a group lunch and a surprise stop. Note that PLATO is partnering with the Verona Senior Center and UW Retirement Association on this travel opportunity so pick-up locations are different from PLATO's usual trips. Registration deadline is Wednesday, May 13, 2026. Learn more and register here.

Join us for Adventures in Dubuque on Wednesday, May 13, 2026! Highlights of this trip will include a visit to St. Luke's United Methodist Church which housesthe fifth largest collection of Tiffany-stained glass windows in the world and a ride on the Fenelon Place Elevator which is a narrow-gauge funicular railway. Experience a Progressive Lunch (no, it’s not political) and enjoy time for shopping in the charming downtown area. Note that PLATO is partnering with the Verona Senior Center and UW Retirement Association on this travel opportunity so pick-up locations are different from PLATO's usual trips. Registration deadline is Monday, April 27, 2026. Learn more and register here.

~  ~  ~

LECTURES

NEXT WEEK! Healthy Grown – Sustainable produce from Wisconsin! Join us on Thursday, April 23, 2026 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Arts and Education Center for this lecture with Dr. Deana Knuteson who will present the history and requirements of the Healthy Grown program, its acceptance by Wisconsin farmers, and how the purchase of Healthy Grown vegetables benefits the consumers. Registration for this lecture is not required, guests are welcome, and parking is free. Learn more here.

~  ~  ~

NATURE WALKS

NEXT MONTH! On Wednesday, May 6 at 10am, enjoy a leisurely one-hour walk through the Oakwood Nature Preserve lead by Barb Littlewood followed by a social hour with lemonade and cookies in the Oaks Community Room. Listening devices will be provided for all participants. Unfortunately, the trail is not accessible to people with disabilities. Registration is required and limited to 15 people. Learn more and register here.

~  ~  ~

NOON ZOOMS
PLATO will begin to offer occasional virtual conversations with newsmakers and guest experts that are based on issues in the news and which offer extra time for participants to ask questions and make comments. As the name implies, these one-hour events will be held via the Zoom platform on various days of the week.

NEXT WEEK! Hop online for Talking Earth Day Politics with Spencer Black on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, from 12pm – 1:00pm. This first Noon Zoom features Joy Cardin, retired Wisconsin Public Radio talk show host, who will interview Spencer Black, former state legislator and Sierra Club vice president, about how we can make a difference on environmental issues during this era of deregulation and climate change denial. Registration is open to members only and is required to receive the Zoom link. Learn more and register here.

~  ~  ~

BREAKFAST, LUNCH & COFFEE GATHERINGS
These social events offer members and their guests opportunities to share conversation over coffee or breakfast and lunch options.

THIS WEEK! Third Friday Lunch Gathering at the Great Dane Pub on the East Side on April 17, from 11:30am-1:30pm. Learn more and RSVP here.

Register today for this complimentary member event on Wednesday, May 13 from 2:00-4:00pm at the East Side Club on Monona Drive. Enjoy light refreshments, social opportunities, committee updates, door prizes, and a keynote presentation by Dr. Henrik Schatzinger titled Hidden Money, Visible Power: Super PACs and Dark Money in Wisconsin Politics. Dr. Schatzinger is the Director of the Center for Politics and the People at Ripon College, which is dedicated to the promotion of constructive political debate and informed citizens concerned with good governance. Registration is required and members may bring a guest. Learn more and register here.

PLATO Weekly Update

 April 7, 2026

REGISTRATION IS OPEN!

NEW! Register today for this complimentary member event on Wednesday, May 13 from 2:00-4:00pm at the East Side Club on Monona Drive. Enjoy light refreshments, social opportunities, committee updates, door prizes, and a keynote presentation by Dr. Henrik Schatzinger titled Hidden Money, Visible Power: Super PACs and Dark Money in Wisconsin Politics. Dr. Schatzinger is the Director of the Center for Politics and the People at Ripon College, which is dedicated to the promotion of constructive political debate and informed citizens concerned with good governance. Registration is required and members may bring a guest. Learn more and register here.

CURRICULUM

SPRING COURSES
Have a question about a Spring Course? Find the full Spring 2026 Course Schedule on the Courses page.

SUMMER COURSES 
NEXT MONTH! Registration for Summer Courses will open on Tuesday, May 12, 2026. Most Summer Courses will begin the week of June 8. 

SPECIAL EVENTS

LECTURES

THIS WEEK! Hearing Advice to Make You (and Your Ears) Smile! Join us on Thursday, April 9, 2026 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Arts and Education Center for this practical lecture with Juliette Sterkens, a professional audiologist. Her lecture will highlight advances in hearing technology, hearing rehabilitation, and assistive listening. She will also share answers to commonly asked questions about hearing loss and rehabilitation, as well as take questions from participants. Registration for this lecture is not required, guests are welcome, and parking is free. Learn more here.

THIS MONTH! Healthy Grown – Sustainable produce from Wisconsin! Join us on Thursday, April 23, 2026 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Arts and Education Center for this lecture with Dr. Deana Knuteson who will present the history and requirements of the Healthy Grown program, its acceptance by Wisconsin farmers, and how the purchase of Healthy Grown vegetables benefits the consumers. Registration for this lecture is not required, guests are welcome, and parking is free. Learn more here.

~  ~  ~

NATURE WALK

NEW! On Wednesday, May 6 at 10am, enjoy a leisurely one-hour walk through the Oakwood Nature Preserve lead by Barb Littlewood followed by a social hour with lemonade and cookies in the Oaks Community Room. Listening devices will be provided for all participants. Unfortunately, the trail is not accessible to people with disabilities. Registration is required and limited to 15 people. Learn more and register here.

~  ~  ~

FIELD TRIPS
View the Field Trip Schedule with day trips to interesting sites around Wisconsin through Fall 2026. More will be announced as details are finalized.

Join us for Adventures in Dubuque on Wednesday, May 13, 2026! Highlights of this trip will include a visit to St. Luke's United Methodist Church which houses the fifth largest collection of Tiffany-stained glass windows in the worldand a ride on the Fenelon Place Elevator which is a narrow-gauge funicular railway. Experience a Progressive Lunch(no, it’s not political) and enjoy time for shopping in the charming downtown area. Note that PLATO is partnering with the Verona Senior Center and UW Retirement Association on this travel opportunity so pick-up locations are different from PLATO's usual trips. Registration deadline is Monday, April 27, 2026. Learn more and register here.

~  ~  ~

NOON ZOOMS
PLATO will begin to offer occasional virtual conversations with newsmakers and guest experts that are based on issues in the news and which offer extra time for participants to ask questions and make comments. As the name implies, these one-hour events will be held via the Zoom platform on various days of the week.

THIS MONTH! Hop online for Talking Earth Day Politics with Spencer Black on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, from 12pm – 1:00pm. This first Noon Zoom features Joy Cardin, retired Wisconsin Public Radio talk show host, who will interview Spencer Black, former state legislator and Sierra Club vice president, about how we can make a difference on environmental issues during this era of deregulation and climate change denial. Registration is open to members only and is required to receive the Zoom link. Learn more and register here.

~  ~  ~

BREAKFAST, LUNCH & COFFEE GATHERINGS
These social events offer members and their guests opportunities to share conversation over coffee or breakfast and lunch options.

THIS WEEK! Second Friday Breakfast Gathering at the Lakeside Street Coffee House on April 10 from 9:30-11:30am. To RSVP, send an email to Sharon Scrattish, the event coordinator, by the Thursday before the event. Learn more and find Sharon's email address here.

PLATO Weekly Update 

March 31, 2026

HALF-PRICE MEMBERSHIPS
Memberships are half-price (just $30) for new members or lapsed members through March 31, 2026! Visit the Join PLATO webpage for details.

REMINDER: Registration for this complimentary event for PLATO memberswill open on April 7! The keynote presentation will feature Dr. Henrik Schatzinger, Director of the Center for Politics and the People at Ripon College, which is dedicated to the promotion of constructive political debate and an informed citizens concerned with good governance. The event will take place on Wednesday, May 13 from 2:00-4:00pm at the East Side Club on Monona Drive. Stay tuned!

CURRICULUM

SPRING COURSES
Have a question about a Spring Course? Find the full Spring 2026 Course Schedule on the Courses page.

SUMMER COURSES
Registration for Summer Courses will open on Tuesday, May 12, 2026. Most Summer Courses will begin the week of June 8.

SPECIAL EVENTS

THEATER TRIPS

The registration deadline is this Thursday, April 2 – guests are welcome! Note that a handful of additional tickets for Frida... A Self Portrait are now available.

A Milwaukee Rep Theater Double Header – PLATO members have two fantastic matinees to choose from, each featuring a cultural icon:

· Frida... A Self Portrait explores the breathtaking life of Frida Kahlo. Learn more and register here.

· Mrs. Christie is a mystery that would delight Agatha "Queen of Crime" Christie, herself. Learn more and register here.

~  ~  ~

FIELD TRIPS
View the Field Trip Schedule with day trips to interesting sites around Wisconsin through Fall 2026. More will be announced as details are finalized.

Join us for Adventures in Dubuque on Wednesday, May 13, 2026! Highlights of this trip will include a visit to St. Luke's United Methodist Church which housesthe fifth largest collection of Tiffany-stained glass windows in the world and a ride on the Fenelon Place Elevator which is a narrow-gauge funicular railway. Experience a Progressive Lunch (no, it’s not political) and enjoy time for shopping in the charming downtown area. Note that PLATO is partnering with the Verona Senior Center and UW Retirement Association on this travel opportunity so pick-up locations are different from PLATO's usual trips. Registration deadline is Monday, April 27, 2026. Learn more and register here.

Join us for the Exploring Wisconsin's Driftless Area field trip on Wednesday, April 22, 2026. Visit the Driftless Historium in Mount Horeb and Vortex Optics in Barneveld. This trip will include a group lunch and surprise stop. Note that PLATO is partnering with the Verona Senior Center and UW Retirement Association on this travel opportunity so pick-up locations are different from PLATO's usual trips. Registration deadline is Monday, April 6. Learn more and register here.

NEXT WEEK! The Wisconsin Veterans Museum Tour on Wednesday, April 8, 2026 at 1:30pm is now full. Registered members may review field trip details here. 

~  ~  ~

NOON ZOOMS
PLATO will begin to offer occasional virtual conversations with newsmakers and guest experts that are based on issues in the news and which offer extra time for participants to ask questions and make comments. As the name implies, these one-hour events will be held via the Zoom platform on various days of the week.

REGISTRATION IS OPEN! Hop online for Talking Earth Day Politics with Spencer Black on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, from 12pm – 1:00pm. This first Noon Zoom features Joy Cardin, retired Wisconsin Public Radio talk show host, who will interview Spencer Black, former state legislator and Sierra Club vice president, about how we can make a difference on environmental issues during this era of deregulation and climate change denial. Registration is open to members only and is required to receive the Zoom link. Learn more and register here.

~  ~  ~

LECTURES
View the Lecture Schedule through Spring 2026.

NEXT WEEK! Hearing Advice to Make You (and Your Ears) Smile! Join us on Thursday, April 9, 2026 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Arts and Education Center for this practical lecture with Juliette Sterkens, a professional audiologist. Her lecture will highlight advances in hearing technology, hearing rehabilitation, and assistive listening. She will also share answers to commonly asked questions about hearing loss and rehabilitation, as well as take questions from participants. Registration for this lecture is not required, guests are welcome, and parking is free. Learn more here.

THIS MONTH! Healthy Grown – Sustainable produce from Wisconsin! Join us on Thursday, April 23, 2026 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Arts and Education Center for this lecture with Dr. Deana Knuteson who will present the history and requirements of the Healthy Grown program, its acceptance by Wisconsin farmers, and how the purchase of Healthy Grown vegetables benefits the consumers. Registration for this lecture is not required, guests are welcome, and parking is free. Learn more here.

PLATO Weekly Update

March 24, 2026

REMINDER: Registration for this complimentary event for PLATO members will open on April 7! The keynote presentation will feature Dr. Henrik Schatzinger, Director of the Center for Politics and the People at Ripon College, which is dedicated to the promotion of constructive political debate and an informed citizens concerned with good governance. The event will take place on Wednesday, May 13 from 2:00-4:00pm at the East Side Club on Monona Drive. Stay tuned!

CURRICULUM

SPRING COURSES
Have a question about a Spring Course? Find the full Spring 2026 Course
Schedule on the Courses page.

CURRICULUM SHOWCASE
Long-time member Rod McKenzie reflects on the impact that PLATO's history courses have had on his thinking over the years in his brief Curriculum Showcase article featuring a recent course on American history.

HALF-PRICE MEMBERSHIPS
Memberships are half-price (just $30) for new members or lapsed members through March 31, 2026! Visit the Join PLATO webpage for details.

SPECIAL EVENTS

FIELD TRIPS

NEW! Join us for Adventures in Dubuque on Wednesday, May 13, 2026! Highlights of this trip will include a visit to St. Luke's United Methodist Church which houses the fifth largest collection of Tiffany-stained glass windows in the world and a ride on the Fenelon Place Elevator which is a narrow-gauge funicular railway. Experience a Progressive Lunch (no, it’s not political) and enjoy time for shopping in the charming downtown area. Note that PLATO is partnering with the Verona Senior Center and UW Retirement Association on this travel opportunity so pick-up locations are different from PLATO's usual trips. Registration deadline is Monday, April 27, 2026. Learn more and register here.

Join us for the Exploring Wisconsin's Driftless Area field trip on Wednesday, April 22, 2026. Visit the Driftless Historium in Mount Horeb and Vortex Optics in Barneveld. This trip will include a group lunch and surprise stop. Note that PLATO is partnering with the Verona Senior Center and UW Retirement Association on this travel opportunity so pick-up locations are different from PLATO's usual trips. Registration deadline is Monday, April 6. Learn more and register here.

The Wisconsin Veterans Museum Tour on Wednesday, April 8, 2026 at 1:30pm is now full. Registered members may review field trip details here. 

~  ~  ~

THEATER TRIPS
View the Theater Trip Schedule with spring and summer offerings – destinations include Milwaukee, Fort Atkinson, and Chicago.

A Milwaukee Rep Theater Double Header! PLATO members have two fantastic matinees to choose from, each featuring a cultural icon:

· SOLD OUT! Frida... A Self Portrait explores the breathtaking life of Frida Kahlo. Learn more and join the waitlist here.

· Mrs. Christie is a mystery that would delight Agatha "Queen of Crime" Christie, herself. Learn more and register here.

Registration is required and members may bring a guest. The registration deadline is Thursday, April 2.

~  ~  ~

NOON ZOOMS
PLATO will begin to offer occasional virtual conversations with newsmakers and guest experts that are based on issues in the news and which offer extra time for participants to ask questions and make comments. As the name implies, these one-hour events will be held via the Zoom platform on various days of the week.

REGISTRATION IS OPEN! Hop online for Talking Earth Day Politics with Spencer Black on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, from 12pm – 1:00pm. This first Noon Zoom features Joy Cardin, retired Wisconsin Public Radio talk show host, who will interview Spencer Black, former state legislator and Sierra Club vice president, about how we can make a difference on environmental issues during this era of deregulation and climate change denial. Registration is open to members only and is required to receive the Zoom link. Learn more and register here.

~  ~  ~

LECTURES
View the Lecture Schedule through Spring 2026.

NEXT MONTH! Hearing Advice to Make You (and Your Ears) Smile! Join us on Thursday, April 9, 2026 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Arts and Education Center for this practical lecture with Juliette Sterkens, a professional audiologist. Her lecture will highlight advances in hearing technology, hearing rehabilitation, and assistive listening. She will also share answers to commonly asked questions about hearing loss and rehabilitation, as well as take questions from participants. Registration for this lecture is not required, guests are welcome, and parking is free. Learn more here.

NEXT MONTH! Healthy Grown – Sustainable produce from Wisconsin! Join us on Thursday, April 23, 2026 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Arts and Education Center for this lecture with Dr. Deana Knuteson who will present the history and requirements of the Healthy Grown program, its acceptance by Wisconsin farmers, and how the purchase of Healthy Grown vegetables benefits the consumers. Registration for this lecture is not required, guests are welcome, and parking is free. Learn more here.

~  ~  ~

BREAKFAST, LUNCH & COFFEE GATHERINGS
These social events offer members and their guests opportunities to share conversation over coffee or breakfast and lunch options.

THIS WEEK! Fourth Friday Coffee at the Rotunda Café on Friday, March 27, from 9:30-11:30am. Learn more and RSVP here.

PLATO Weekly Update

March 17, 2026

CURRICULUM

SPRING COURSES
Have a question about a Spring Course? Find the full Spring 2026 Course
Schedule on the Courses page.

CURRICULUM SHOWCASE
Long-time member Rod McKenzie reflects on the impact that PLATO's history courses have had on his thinking over the years in his brief Curriculum Showcase article featuring a recent course on American history.

HALF-PRICE MEMBERSHIPS
Memberships are half-price (just $30) for new members or lapsed members through March 31, 2026! Visit the Join PLATO webpage for details.

SPECIAL EVENTS

ANNOUNCING... PLATO NOON ZOOMS!

NEW! A monthly special event for members only: Noon Zooms! These hour-long, virtual conversations with newsmakers and other guest experts differ from lectures in that they are conversations between a host and speaker that are based on issues in the news and offer more time for questions and comments from participants. As the name implies, these events will be held via the Zoom platform.

SAVE THE DATE! Join us for Talking Earth Day Politics with Spencer Black on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, from 12pm – 1:00pm. This first Noon Zoom will feature Joy Cardin, retired Wisconsin Public Radio talk show host, who will interview Spencer Black, former state legislator and Sierra Club vice president, about how we can individually and collectively make a difference on environmental issues during this era of deregulation and climate change denial on the federal level. Registration will open on Tuesday, March 24, 2026. Learn more about this members-only event here.

~  ~  ~

LECTURES
View the Lecture Schedule through Spring 2026.

THIS WEEK! Birding: Transitioning from Winter to Spring! Join us on Thursday, March 19, 2026 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Arts and Education Center for this fascinating lecture with Chuck Henrikson, PhD. In his lecture, Dr. Henrikson will share how he got started with his birding adventures in the UW Arboretum, and what makes this post-retirement hobby such a meaningful way of life. Registration for this lecture is not required, guests are welcome, and parking is free. Learn more here.

NEXT MONTH! 
Mark Your Calendar! These April Lectures will be held at the Oakwood Village University Woods Campus Arts & Education Center from 1:30 – 3:00pm:

Hearing Advice to Make You and Your Ears Smile! Join us on Thursday, April 9, 2026 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Arts and Education Center for this practical lecture with Juliette Sterkens, a professional audiologist. Her lecture will highlight advances in hearing technology, hearing rehabilitation, and assistive listening. She will also share answers to commonly asked questions about hearing loss and rehabilitation, as well as take questions from participants. Registration for this lecture is not required, guests are welcome, and parking is free. Learn more here.

Healthy Grown – Sustainable produce from Wisconsin! Join us on Thursday, April 23, 2026 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Arts and Education Center for this lecture with Dr. Deana Knuteson who will present the history and requirements of the Healthy Grown program, its acceptance by Wisconsin farmers, and how the purchase of Healthy Grown vegetables benefits the consumers. Registration for this lecture is not required, guests are welcome, and parking is free. Learn more here.

~  ~  ~

FIELD TRIPS
View the Field Trip Schedule with day trips to interesting sites around Wisconsin through Fall 2026. Note that this is a preliminary list; more will be announced as details are finalized.

Join us for the Exploring Wisconsin's Driftless Area field trip on Wednesday, April 22, 2026. Visit the Driftless Historium in Mount Horeb and Vortex Optics in Barneveld. This trip will include a group lunch and surprise stop. Note that PLATO is partnering with the Verona Senior Center and UW Retirement Association on this travel opportunity so pick-up locations are different from PLATO's usual trips. Registration deadline is Monday, April 6. Learn more and register here.

The Wisconsin Veterans Museum Tour on Wednesday, April 8, 2026 at 1:30pm is now full. Registered members may review field trip details here. 

~  ~  ~

THEATER TRIPS
View the Theater Trip Schedule with spring and summer offerings – destinations include Milwaukee, Fort Atkinson, and Chicago.

A Milwaukee Rep Theater Double Header! PLATO members have two fantastic matinees to choose from, each featuring a cultural icon:

SOLD OUT! Frida... A Self Portrait explores the breathtaking life of Frida Kahlo. Learn more and join the waitlist here.

Mrs. Christie is a mystery that would delight Agatha "Queen of Crime" Christie, herself. Learn more and register here.

Registration is required and members may bring a guest. The registration deadline is Thursday, April 2.

~  ~  ~

BREAKFAST, LUNCH & COFFEE GATHERINGS
These social events offer members and their guests opportunities to share conversation over coffee or breakfast and lunch options.

THIS WEEK! Third Friday Lunch Gathering at the Great Dane Pub on the East Side on Jupiter Drive on March 20, from 11:30am-1:30pm. Learn more and RSVP here.

PLATO Weekly Update

March 10, 2026

CURRICULUM

SPRING COURSES

Have a question about a Spring Course? Find the full Spring 2026 Course Schedule on the Courses page.

ARE YOU COURSE COORDINATOR CURIOUS?
Do you have an area of expertise you would like to share by offering a PLATO Course? Or perhaps there's a subject you'd like to learn about with fellow PLATO members? PLATO Courses are open to a wide variety of topics and can be structured in a variety of formats – here are the most common:

– Lecture + Question & Answer

– Group Activity (e.g. read a book or watch a film) + Group Discussion

– Hands-On Activities in Creative Arts or Skill Building

If you have an idea to develop for a course offering, the Curriculum Committee is here to assist – check out the Course Coordinator Toolkit to get started and email Kathy Brown or Jayne Fischer with any questions you may have.

HALF-PRICE MEMBERSHIPS
Memberships are half-price (just $30) for new members or lapsed members through March 31, 2026! Visit the Join PLATO webpage for details.

SPECIAL EVENTS

FIELD TRIPS

View the Field Trip Schedule with day trips to interesting sites around Wisconsin through Fall 2026. Note that this is a preliminary list; more will be announced as details are finalized.

NEW! Join us for the Exploring Wisconsin's Driftless Area field trip on Wednesday, April 22, 2026. Visit the Driftless Historium in Mount Horeb and Vortex Optics in Barneveld. This trip will include a group lunch and surprise stop. Note that PLATO is partnering with the Verona Senior Center and UW Retirement Association on this travel opportunity so pick-up locations are different from PLATO's usual trips. Registration deadline is Monday, April 6. Learn more and register here.

The Wisconsin Veterans Museum Tour on Wednesday, April 8, 2026 at 1:30pm is now full. Registered members may review field trip details here. 

~  ~  ~

THEATER TRIPS
View the Theater Trip Schedule with spring and summer offerings – destinations include Milwaukee, Fort Atkinson, and Chicago.

A Milwaukee Rep Theater Double Header! PLATO members have two fantastic matinees to choose from, each featuring a cultural icon:

– Frida... A Self Portrait explores the breathtaking life of Frida Kahlo (just three spots left!). Learn more and register here.

– Mrs. Christie is a mystery that would delight Agatha "Queen of Crime" Christie, herself. Learn more and register here.

Registration is required and members may bring a guest. The registration deadline is Thursday, April 2.

~  ~  ~

LECTURES
View the Lecture Schedule through Spring 2026.

NEXT WEEK! Birding: Transitioning from Winter to Spring! Join us on Thursday, March 19, 2026 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Arts and Education Center for this fascinating lecture with Chuck Henrikson, PhD. In his lecture, Dr. Henrikson will share how he got started with his birding adventures in the UW Arboretum, and what makes this post-retirement hobby such a meaningful way of life. Registration for this lecture is not required, guests are welcome, and parking is free. Learn more here.

NEXT MONTH! 
Mark Your Calendar! These April Lectures will be held at the Oakwood Village University Woods Campus Arts & Education Center from 1:30 – 3:00pm:

Hearing Advice to Make You and Your Ears Smile! Join us on Thursday, April 9, 2026 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Arts and Education Center for this practical lecture with Juliette Sterkens, a professional audiologist. Her lecture will highlight advances in hearing technology, hearing rehabilitation, and assistive listening. She will also share answers to commonly asked questions about hearing loss and rehabilitation, as well as take questions from participants. Registration for this lecture is not required, guests are welcome, and parking is free. Learn more here.

NEW! Healthy Grown – Sustainable produce from Wisconsin! Join us on Thursday, April 23, 2026 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Arts and Education Center for this lecture with Dr. Deana Knuteson who will present the history and requirements of the Healthy Grown program, its acceptance by Wisconsin farmers, and how the purchase of Healthy Grown vegetables benefits the consumers. Registration for this lecture is not required, guests are welcome, and parking is free. Learn more here.

LECTURES RESOURCES

– Download the slides from the Your Voice in Healthcare: How to Prepare and Partner for Better Outcomes lecture and find a link to the recording on PLATO's Past Recordings webpage.

– Download this handout from the Protecting Due Process and Immigrants in Our Community lecture.

~  ~  ~

BREAKFAST, LUNCH & COFFEE GATHERINGS
These social events offer members and their guests opportunities to share conversation over coffee or breakfast and lunch options.

THIS WEEK! Second Friday Breakfast Gathering at the Lakeside Street Coffee House on March 13 from 9:30-11:30am. To RSVP, send an email to Sharon Scrattish, the event coordinator, by the Thursday before the event. Learn more and find Sharon's email address here.

PLATO Weekly Update

March 3, 2026

CURRICULUM

SPRING COURSES

Have a question about a Spring Course? Find the full Spring 2026 Course Schedule on the Courses page.

ARE YOU COURSE COORDINATOR CURIOUS?
Do you have an area of expertise you would like to share by offering a PLATO Course? Or perhaps there's a subject you'd like to learn about with fellow PLATO members? PLATO Courses are open to a wide variety of topics and can be structured in a variety of formats – here are the most common:

Lecture + Question & Answer

Group Activity (e.g. read a book or watch a film) + Group Discussion

Hands-On Activities in Creative Arts or Skill Building

If you have an idea to develop for a course offering, the Curriculum Committee is here to assist – check out the Course Coordinator Toolkit to get started and email Kathy Brown or Jayne Fisher with any questions you may have.

HALF-PRICE MEMBERSHIPS
Memberships are half-price (just $30) for new members or lapsed members through March 31, 2026! Visit the Join PLATO webpage for details.

PLATO POP-UP EVENTS
Providing members with new opportunities to connect, learn, and grow!

NEW! PLATO member Donaby Henton will lead a workshop to play with ChatGPT, an artificial intelligence app, on Friday, March 20, 2026, from 10am – 12pm at the Oakwood Village University Woods Campus. Please bring your own smartphone or tablet installed with the ChatGPT application (though assistance on installation will be available if needed.) This session is open to PLATO members only and registration is required by Wednesday, March 18. Register here and contact Donaby Henton with questions.

Click here to learn more or to offer a Pop-Up Event.

SPECIAL EVENTS

THEATER TRIPS

View the Theater Trip Schedule with spring and summer offerings – destinations include Milwaukee, Fort Atkinson, and Chicago.

NEW! A Milwaukee Rep Theater Double Header! PLATO members have two fantastic matinees to choose from, each featuring a cultural icon. Frida... A Self Portrait explores the breathtaking life of Frida Kahlo, and Mrs. Christie is a mystery that would delight Agatha "Queen of Crime" Christie, herself. Registration is required and members may bring a guest. The registration deadline is Thursday, April 2. Learn more about Frida...A Self Portrait and Mrs. Christie.

~  ~  ~

FIELD TRIPS
View the Field Trip Schedule with day trips to interesting sites around Wisconsin through Fall 2026. Note that this is a preliminary list; more will be announced as details are finalized.

Just one spot left! Join us for a tour of the Wisconsin Veterans Museum on Wednesday, April 8, 2026 at 1:30pm. This museum has won awards from the American Alliance of Museums and is affiliated with the Smithsonian! Free to members and their guests, the registration deadline is Monday, April 6. Learn more and register here.

~  ~  ~

LECTURES
View the Lecture Schedule through Spring 2026.

THIS MONTH! Birding: Transitioning from Winter to Spring! Join us on Thursday, March 19, 2026 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Arts and Education Center for this fascinating lecture with Chuck Henrikson, PhD. In his lecture, Dr. Henrikson will share how he got started with his birding adventures in the UW Arboretum, and what makes this post-retirement hobby such a meaningful way of life. Registration for this lecture is not required, guests are welcome, and parking is free. Learn more here.

NEXT MONTH! 
Mark Your Calendar! These April Lectures will be held at the Oakwood Village University Woods Campus Arts & Education Center from 1:30 – 3:00pm:

NEW! Hearing Advice to Make You and Your Ears Smile! Join us on Thursday, April 9, 2026 from 1:30-3:00pm at Oakwood Village University Woods Arts and Education Center for this practical lecture with Juliette Sterkens, a professional audiologist. Her lecture will highlight advances in hearing technology, hearing rehabilitation, and assistive listening. She will also share answers to commonly asked questions about hearing loss and rehabilitation, as well as take questions from participants. Registration for this lecture is not required, guests are welcome, and parking is free. Learn more here.

NEW! April 23, 2026 – Wisconsin Vegetables Feed America! Presented by Deana Knuteson, PhD. More details to come.

LECTURES RESOURCES

Download the slides from the Your Voice in Healthcare: How to Prepare and Partner for Better Outcomes lecture and find a link to the recording on PLATO's Past Recordings webpage.

Download this handout from the Protecting Due Process and Immigrants in Our Community lecture.

~  ~  ~

BREAKFAST, LUNCH & COFFEE GATHERINGS

These social events offer members and their guests opportunities to share conversation over coffee or breakfast and lunch options.

THIS WEEK! First Friday Breakfast Gathering at Panera Bread located at 601 Junction Road on March 6, from 9:30-11:30am. To RSVP, send an email to Catherine Masi, the event coordinator, by the Thursday before the event. Learn more and find Catherine's email address here.

~  ~  ~

THEATER TRIPS
View the Theater Trip Schedule with spring and summer offerings – destinations include Milwaukee, Fort Atkinson, and Chicago.