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    • April 05, 2025
    • 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    • Madison
    • 7
    Register



    Linden Cohousing Tour

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

    Free to PLATO members and guests

    This tour is limited to 20 people and the registration deadline is Wednesday, April 2, 2025

    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 Linden Cohousing Map.pdf ). 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 22, 2025
    • 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM
    • Janesville
    • 6
    Registration is closed



    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
      • 0
      Join waitlist



      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 accessible for people with disabilities.  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
      • 0
      Registration is closed



      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 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.


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



        info@platomadison.org

        Facebook: @platomadison

        608-572-6869

        6209 Mineral Point Road #203
        Madison, WI 53705








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