PLATO upcoming events

Where History Meets the Mighty Mississippi: Villa Louis & River Cruise (September 15, 2026)

Tue, 15 Sep 2026 12:30:00 GMT

Where History Meets the Mighty Mississippi:

Villa Louis & River Cruise

Tuesday, September 15, 2026

Registration deadline is Friday, August 21

Registration begins Tuesday, July 21

Learn the rich history of the Mississippi River and all of its glory as we cruise the river. We will hear tales of the great Mississippi River’s past, present, and future. We will bask in the splendor of the wilderness of the Mississippi and witness for ourselves exactly how beautiful, powerful, and splendid the great Mississippi is.

Following a lunch buffet, we will walk through the doors of Villa Louis and step into the life of one of Wisconsin’s most historic families – the Dousmans. Located on the beautiful banks of the mighty Mississippi River, this National Historic Landmark offers a panorama of Wisconsin history, from the advent of the first fur traders to the War of 1812, through the splendor of the Victorian era.

In 1870, H. Louis Dousman contracted with the renowned Milwaukee architect E. Townsend Mix to design and construct a new home for the Dousman family. Mix chose the popular Italianate style and the use of Milwaukee pressed brick. When completed in 1871, the home boasted the modern conveniences of indoor plumbing and steam heat, making it comfortable as well as stylish. Today the mansion has been meticulously restored to its historic appearance, standing as a showcase of Victorian architecture and design.

Visiting Villa Louis offers rare access to earlier, lesser-known phases of Wisconsin history. The 25-acre site includes over a dozen historic structures filled with vibrant hues and rich textures reflecting the family’s rise to wealth and leisure.

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Lunch Buffet - Chicken, ham, scalloped potatoes, grilled mix veggies, salad, bread & butter, coffee and milk, and brownies for dessert

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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

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

8:00 a.m. Depart Verona Park & Ride

7:00 p.m. Return Verona Park & Ride

7:30 p.m. Return (East Madison) Dutch Mill Park & Ride (East Lot)

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 Friday, August 21, 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.

3rd Friday Meet-Up on the East Side (September 18, 2026)

Fri, 18 Sep 2026 16:30:00 GMT

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.

A Pop-Up Art Tour at The Chazen (September 18, 2026)

Fri, 18 Sep 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Friday, September 18 from 1:00-2:30

Free to PLATO members and guests.

Registration is required

Join PLATO member Alan Garfield, Professor Emeritus and retired art historian, on Friday, September 18 from 1:00-2:30 pm for an art tour of the Chazen Museum of Art collection which will feature artworks in the new exhibition titled, Recollection: Exhibiting the Collection.

Plan to arrive by 12:45pm to meet in the lobby of the main entrance of The Chazen which is located at 750 University Ave. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes.

There is no entrance fee, though members will need to pay for their own refreshments at the Museum Café when we take a break.

Please send questions about this event to Professor Garfield at AGarfield@dbq.edu.

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Transportation Options:

Bicycle: Bike racks are available

Bus: The Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Route A and Route B buses run every 15 minutes and stop at the Chazen.

Parking: The State Street Campus Garage is closest. The Lake street entrance opened on August 24 after years of being closed for remodeling!

Lecture – The Power of Art in History (September 24, 2026)

Thu, 24 Sep 2026 18:30:00 GMT

The Power of Art in History

Thursday, September 24 from 1:30-3:00 p.m.

In-Person at Oakwood Village University Woods

Arts & Education Center

6205 Mineral Point Road

Registration is Not Required

FREE PARKING

Professor Alan Garfield has a long history of interest in and study of art history, including how art has impacted and reflected history, both ancient and more contemporary. He has also studied pieces of art considered masterpieces with a focus on how and why they have been given that designation. In his lecture he will share slides of art and point out why many are considered masterpieces in the world of art history.

Professor Alan Garfield, Emeritus, was Chair of the Digital Art and Design Department at the University of Dubuque, in Dubuque, Iowa USA. His formal education is eclectic including earning a bachelor’s degree from the University of Iowa, a master’s degree from State University of New York-Binghamton, and completing post graduate work at Wadham College, Oxford. As an art historian, his publications are also diverse, including papers on 2D and 3D animation algorithms, images in contemporary politics, 19th century French philosophies, Holocaust studies, Beat Generation poetry, and challenges in higher education. He recently chaired AI conferences in Cambridge University, Oxford University and Hull University. He now lives in Madison with his wife, Phyllis. They moved to Madison to grandparent their six-year-old and four-year-old grandsons. Because of their travels, they speak several languages (including Irish) and spend summers in Donegal, Ireland.

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Transportation Options:

Bicycle: Bike racks are available

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

Car:

Use the Island Drive entrance at 6205 Mineral Point Road.
Veer left and follow the drive to the 2nd driveway with sign “Heritage Oaks Parking Garage.”
Turn right into driveway.
Press the buzzer and the Oakwood desk attendant will buzz you in. There are 70 parking stalls. Park in any visitor or non-reserved stall. Take the elevator up one floor to the main entrance, turn right and walk through the mail box area into the lobby. Ask at the desk for directions to the Performing Arts Center.
When you exit the underground parking, the garage door opens automatically.
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Questions? Contact lecture organizer Barbara Drake at barbaradrake21@gmail.com

4th Friday of the Month Coffee (September 25, 2026)

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 14:30:00 GMT

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 in the lot behind United Way, 2059 Atwood Ave. Drive all the way in to the unmarked spaces toward the back of the lot.

Noon Zoom - Talking About the Measles Outbreak, Vaccine Controversies and Other Public Health Concerns with Dr. Patrick Remington (October 01, 2026)

Thu, 01 Oct 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Talking About the Measles Outbreak, Vaccine Controversies and Other Public Health Concerns with Dr. Patrick Remington

Thursday, October 1, 2026

12pm - 1:00pm

Online via Zoom

Registration is required

Members can register a guest

Join retired WPR talk show host Joy Cardin and Dr. Patrick Remington for a Noon Zoom discussion about the measles outbreak, vaccine controversies and other public health concerns on Thursday, October 1 from 12:00 - 1:00.

Public health issues are increasingly at the center of national conversation—and sometimes controversy. Join us for an informative discussion of the recent measles outbreak, the continuing debate over vaccines, and other important public health concerns. We’ll explore what we know, what remains uncertain, and how public health officials, researchers, and the public can navigate conflicting information and make informed decisions. Bring your questions and join the conversation about some of the health issues affecting our communities today.

Noon Zooms are a new PLATO Madison offering available to members. These occasional virtual discussions will feature a host and guest expert discussing an issue in the news with the opportunity for attendees to join in the discussion. The offering is free, but you need to register to receive the Zoom link.

Patrick Remington, MD, MPH is Professor Emeritus at the School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison. After practicing public health for 15 years at the CDC and Wisconsin Division of Public Health, Dr. Remington joined the UW, where he directed the Population Health Institute, Master of Public Health Program, and the Preventive Medicine Residency Program, and served at Associate Dean for Public Health.

His research focuses on developing methods to measure the health of communities and use this information to mobilize action toward community health and health equity. He earned his MD from UW; and completed an Internal Medicine Internship at the Virginia Mason in Seattle, the Epidemic Intelligence Service and Preventive Medicine Residency at the CDC, and an MPH degree from the University of Minnesota. He has authored or co-authored over 300 publications and taught courses on public health to undergraduate, medical, and public health students.

REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED IN ORDER TO OBTAIN THE ZOOM LINK TO ATTEND. PLEASE REGISTER BEFORE THE EVENT STARTS. ORAL AND WRITTEN QUESTIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED DURING THE EVENT.

As this event is online, you can use your computer or smartphone to listen to the conversation and then add your voice to the conversation during the "Question & Comment" time.

If you do not have a computer or smartphone you can also use your regular phone to dial a phone number and listen in.

Questions? Contact lecture organizer, Joy Cardin at cardinjoy@gmail.com

1st Friday Breakfast on the West Side (October 02, 2026)

Fri, 02 Oct 2026 14:30:00 GMT

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.

West Rail Corridor Historic Architecture Walking Tour (October 04, 2026)

Sun, 04 Oct 2026 19:00:00 GMT

West Rail Corridor:

Railroads Transform Madison

Sunday, October 4, 2:00-3:45

Registration is required.

Registration opens September 8

Join us as we collaborate with the Madison Trust for Historic Preservation on a guided walking tour through the historic West Rail Corridor.

In the 19th century, the West Rail Corridor area was a hotbed of businesses that depended on the railroad to transport raw materials and finished products, as well as businesses that served railroad passengers and workers. This area, birthplace of a number of long-term Madison businesses, includes repurposed historic buildings that are home to offices, businesses, and residents. This will be a nostalgic, up-close look at Madison's railroad history through many architectural gems.

Leading the tour will be PLATO Board member Steve Sparks. The tour will accommodate up to 18 pre- registered guests. It will last approximately 1 ¾ hours and involves walking about one mile. While this tour is on sidewalks and the bike path, some sections are uneven and we will be crossing busy streets.

Comfortable shoes for walking are strongly recommended. Tour participants are encouraged to bring water with them as the tour will be taking place entirely outdoors and shade will vary. Walking tours will happen rain or shine. In the case of inclement weather, consider bringing an umbrella. There are no restrooms on the tour.

To improve the guest experience on this tour, an audio headphone system will be used. The tour will start near the Brittingham Boathouse and begin promptly at 2 p.m., Sunday October 4.

Leading the tour will be PLATO Board member Steve Sparks. A certified Toastmaster, he holds a master's degree in journalism and mass communication. In retirement Steve is doing consulting work in communications and indulging his interest in history by working as a tour guide at the Wisconsin State Capitol and as a docent for the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Monona Terrace and for Historic Architecture Walking Tours through the Madison Trust for Historic Preservation.

Registration: Cost is $20/person with all the registration money donated to the Madison Trust for Historic Preservation.

The registration deadline is Friday, October 2. 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.

A tour may be cancelled for extreme weather or lightning. We will alert guests at least four hours in advance by email. Purchased tickets will be refunded.

Parking: You can park in the Brittingham Boathouse parking lot (701 W. Brittingham Place) or a nearby street.

Questions? - Contact tour organizer Steve Sparks at swsparks@charter.net

Lecture – Forgiveness as a Way of Improving Well-Being (October 08, 2026)

Thu, 08 Oct 2026 18:30:00 GMT

Thursday, October 8 from 1:30-3:00 p.m.

In-Person at Oakwood Village University Woods

Arts & Education Center

6205 Mineral Point Road

Registration is Not Required

FREE PARKING

What if one of the greatest gifts you could give yourself—and others—is forgiveness? Join Dr. Robert Enright, a world-renowned University of Wisconsin–Madison professor and pioneer in the science of forgiveness, for an inspiring and uplifting presentation on how forgiveness can bring greater peace, hope, and healing to our lives. Drawing on decades of research and real-life experiences from around the world, Dr. Enright will share how forgiveness can strengthen relationships, ease emotional burdens, improve well-being, and even help heal divided communities. Whether you're facing a personal challenge, looking for ways to enrich your relationships, or simply curious about the power of forgiveness, you'll leave with fresh insights, practical ideas, and a deeper appreciation for how forgiveness can make a meaningful difference in your own life—and in our world.

Dr. Robert Enright holds the Aristotelian Professorship in Forgiveness Science within the Department of Educational Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, is a licensed psychologist, and founder of the International Forgiveness Institute, a non- profit organization dedicated to disseminating knowledge about forgiveness and community renewal through forgiveness. He was the first to publish an empirically based journal article on the topic of person-to-person forgiveness in 1989. For his innovative research on forgiveness, he received in 2022 what the American Psychological Association calls “psychology’s highest awards,” the APF Gold Medal Award for Impact in Psychology.

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Transportation Options:

Bicycle: Bike racks are available

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

Car:

Use the Island Drive entrance at 6205 Mineral Point Road.
Veer left and follow the drive to the 2nd driveway with sign “Heritage Oaks Parking Garage.”
Turn right into driveway.
Press the buzzer and the Oakwood desk attendant will buzz you in. There are 70 parking stalls. Park in any visitor or non-reserved stall. Take the elevator up one floor to the main entrance, turn right and walk through the mail box area into the lobby. Ask at the desk for directions to the Performing Arts Center.
When you exit the underground parking, the garage door opens automatically.
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Questions? Contact lecture organizer Barbara Drake at barbaradrake21@gmail.com

2nd Friday Breakfast at Lakeside St. Coffee House (October 09, 2026)

Fri, 09 Oct 2026 14:30:00 GMT

Meets every 2nd Friday!

Where: Lakeside Street Coffee House
When: Meets on the second Friday of each month
Time: 9:30 am to 11:30 am
A prominent stairway leads to the lower level where our group meets.
The menu changes daily. To find out today's menu, please call the restaurant directly - 608 441-7599
Place: Lakeside St. Coffee House, 402 W. Lakeside St., Madison
Directions are pictured on the map below
Parking: Street Parking
Organizer: Sharon Scrattish
RSVP or Questions?: If you are new to the Lakeside Coffee gathering please RSVP Sharon by email or phone (sscratti@gmail.com or 608-280-8050)

3rd Friday Meet-Up on the East Side (October 16, 2026)

Fri, 16 Oct 2026 16:30:00 GMT

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

Milwaukee Art Museum Tour with Alan Garfield (October 21, 2026)

Wed, 21 Oct 2026 14:30:00 GMT

Milwaukee Art Museum Tour with Alan Garfield

Wednesday, October 21, 2026

Registration Deadline is October 6

The Milwaukee Art Museum houses more than 34,000 artworks dating from antiquity to today, including American and European painting, sculpture, and decorative arts; conceptual and minimalist art; prints and drawings; photography and new media; modern and contemporary design as well as folk art. From its roots in Milwaukee’s first art gallery in 1888, the museum has grown to be Wisconsin’s largest art institution.

This year MAM is celebrating the 25 th anniversary of the Quadracci Pavilion which is defined by the Burke Brise Soleil, a moveable sunscreen with a 217-foot wingspan that unfolds and folds daily at noon. Our tour will start with viewing the opening and closing of those wings.

Following that, participants will experience two tours of the museum. A museum docent will lead an hour-long tour featuring highlights of the art collection.

Our second tour will allow participants to choose between a tour of the Shaker art exhibition with Alan Garfield or a self-guided audio tour of the museum. Alan Garfield will be leading a tour of "The Shakers: a World in the Making. Opening in late September, it is the first major traveling exhibition to place extraordinary Shaker objects alongside the contemporary artists and designers they continue to inspire. The exhibition brings together more than 150 historic objects and contemporary installations in a landmark exploration of design, ideas, and how we live. For those doing a self-guided tour of the museum, bring your headphones and mobile devices to access the free audio guides on mam.org/guide.

Upon arrival and after viewing the opening and closing of the wings we will break into two groups with a maximum of 15 in each group.

Group 1 12:15-1:00 Lunch and explore on your own

1:00-2:00 Highlights of the museum with a docent

2:00 - 2:15 Break

2:15-3:00 Shaker Exhibit with Alan Garfield or self-

guided tour

Group 2 12:15-1:00 Shaker Exhibit with Alan Garfield or self-

guided tour

1:00- 2:00 Lunch and explore on your own

2:00 - 3:00 Highlights of the museum with a docent

Professor Emeritus Alan Garfield was Chair of the Digital Art and Design Department at the University of Dubuque, in Dubuque, Iowa USA. His formal education is eclectic including earning a bachelor’s degree from the University of Iowa, a master’s degree from State University of New York-Binghamton, and completing post graduate work at Wadham College, Oxford. As an art historian, He now lives in Madison with his wife, Phyllis, and is actively engaged with the art scene in the city.

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Lunch

Lunch is on your own at the museum's Lakeshore Cafe and is not included in your registration fee.

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Miscellaneous

Cost: $75 per person and includes bus transportation, driver tip, and admission fees. If you want to pay by check, register for the event online and then send your check to: PLATO, ATTN: Milwaukee Art Museum Tour, 6209 Mineral Point Road #203, Madison, WI 53705.

Registration Policy: PLATO will refund an event fee if cancelled prior to the registration deadline of October 6. Refunds after the registration deadline are only processed if a wait-listed registrant can attend or there are extenuating circumstances. We encourage you to register early so we know if we have enough people to make the trip financially feasible.

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

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

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

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Bus and Travel Details

We will have a 56-passenger Van Galder/CoachUSA bus. Please arrive early at your boarding stop so you don’t miss the bus. When everyone is aboard and seated, we leave. Arrive early and we will all arrive at our destination on time to begin our adventure.

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

- Our bus is equipped with WiFi and toilet facilities.

- Social Distancing will not be available on the bus.

Itinerary

Leave Madison

9:15 AM Bus arrives at Oakwood Village University Woods, 6205 Mineral Point Rd

9:30 AM Departs Oakwood Village University Woods

10:15 AM Departs East Towne (the old Sears parking lot - across from Culvers under Lamp Post 10)

Milwaukee

11:45 AM Arrives Milwaukee Art Museum

3:15 PM Departs Milwaukee Art Museum for Madison

Arrive Madison (Estimated)

4:45 PM East Towne Mall

5:30 PM Oakwood Village University Woods

For further information, contact trip organizer, Barb Drake, barbaradrake21@gmail.com or 608-535-2737.

Fireside Theatre: Come From Away (October 22, 2026)

Thu, 22 Oct 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Fireside Theatre: Come From Away

Thursday, October 22, 2026

Registration deadline is Monday, October 5

Registration opens Tuesday, September 8

This exhilarating Tony Award-winning musical was born out of the tragedy of September 11, 2001. In the remarkable true story of COME FROM AWAY, what started as an average morning in the small town of Gander, Newfoundland turned into an international sleepover, when 38 planes carrying 7,000 people from around the globe were diverted to their airstrip. The travelers found themselves stranded in a small town far from home. Many of these passengers were in the state of shock and confusion because of the events unfolding in the United States. The story shows moments of fear and uncertainty, but also important moments of unexpected joy and friendship.

Undaunted by culture clashes and language barriers, the people of Gander cheered the stranded travelers with music, an open bar, and the recognition that we’re all part of a global family. Experience this joyous story with a dynamic score and a vibrant, fast-paced narrative as both hosts and visitors form friendships that will stay with them forever.

The central message of the show is to celebrate the humanity shown by residents of Gander and its orbiting communities. They are just one example of the unsung heroes of 9/11 - showing that even in a time of immense crisis, the best of humanity can still shine through.

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Lunch (Indicate your choice when registering)

The meal includes Roasted Sweet Corn Chowder, freshly baked breads, choice of entree, Blueberry Crisp for dessert, and coffee/tea/milk.

Chicken Piccata - A Supreme Cut Chicken Breast, lightly breaded and sauteed to a golden brown, resting on a Lemon Cream Veloute Sauce, garnished with Caper Buds and French-Fried Parsley. Served with Tri-color Fingerling Potatoes and Roasted Broccoli and Cauliflower.
Sliced Pork Tenderloin - Slow Roasted Pork Tenderloin, sliced into juicy medallions, crowned with our made from scratch rich Pork Stock Gravy. Served with Tri-color Fingerling Potatoes and Roasted Broccoli and Cauliflower.
Seared Halibut - A healthy 6 oz. filet of Halibut seared to a perfect golden crust, brused with a Limon Butter Sauce and accompanied by a Lemon Cream Veloute Sauce. Served with Tri-color Fingerling Potatoes and Roasted Broccoli and Cauliflower.
Vegetarian Penne Alfredo - Penne Noodles gently tossed with Broccoli Florets and our House-made Garlic Alfredo Sauce, topped with Parmesan Cheese and our Homemade Asiago Cheese Crostini.

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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. If you want to pay by check, register for the event online and then send your check to: PLATO, ATTN: Come From Away, 6209 Mineral Point Road #203, Madison, WI 53705.

Seating is limited, so register today! Registrations must be received no later than noon on Monday, October 5, 2026.

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.

Lecture – Equity for All: CLIMB USA’S Movement to Promote Democratic Capitalism as an Economic Empowerment Framework (October 22, 2026)

Thu, 22 Oct 2026 18:30:00 GMT

Equity for All: CLIMB USA’S Movement to Promote Democratic Capitalism as an Economic Empowerment Framework

Thursday, October 22 from 1:30-3:00 p.m.

In-Person at Oakwood Village University Woods

Arts & Education Center

6205 Mineral Point Road

Registration is Not Required

FREE PARKING

CLIMB is an acronym for “Communities Learning to Invest and Mobilize for Business.” This nonprofit organization is committed to helping youth, families and communities attain financial literacy, investment education, leadership skills, and capital markets engagement. CLIMB USA works to inspire individuals to build generational wealth and long-term economic stability.

In his lecture, Robert Wynn will outline the key tenets of democratic capitalism and explain how CLIMB USA’s Launchpad Program provides a viable pathway for youth, families, and communities to collectively build wealth and thrive within the capitalist framework

Robert Wynn is the founder and president of CLIMB USA. Prior to opening his own businesses, Mr. Wynn was the financial Education Officer for the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions. In that capacity he created a number of ground-breaking financial programs including the statewide network of Money Conferences, the Millionaires Club, the Finance and Investment Challenge Bowl and the Intelligent Arts Showcase. Mr. Wynn also produced the first ever “Governor’s Summit on Venture Capital” which helped to enhance the private equity infrastructure in Wisconsin.

In April 2026, Mr. Wynn was awarded the Wealth Liberator Award. This award is given to individuals who have committed their lives to helping people economically through financial education, economic empowerment, investment awareness, and access.

Mr. Wynn earned his undergraduate degree at the University of North Carolina where he was a Morehead Scholar, and his law degree from the University of Michigan. He is a former board member of BetterInvesting and a former member of the Federal Reserve’s Consumer Advisory Council. Until recently he served on the board of directors of the North Carolina General Alumni Association and American Players Theater.

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Transportation Options:

Bicycle: Bike racks are available

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

Car:

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

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

4th Friday of the Month Coffee (October 23, 2026)

Fri, 23 Oct 2026 14:30:00 GMT

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 in the lot behind United Way, 2059 Atwood Ave. Drive all the way in to the unmarked spaces toward the back of the lot.

Lecture – Camp Randall: From the Civil War to “On Wisconsin!” (November 05, 2026)

Thu, 05 Nov 2026 19:30:00 GMT

Thursday, November 5 from 1:30-3:00 p.m.

In-Person at Oakwood Village University Woods

Arts & Education Center

6205 Mineral Point Road

Registration is Not Required

FREE PARKING

Bob Block's lecture features his presentation on the 175-year history of Camp Randall, one of the nation’s most iconic football stadiums. He will trace its remarkable history from its beginnings as a Civil War training camp to its place as one of college football’s most iconic stadiums. The audience will learn why Camp Randall remains a lasting symbol of Wisconsin’s history, resilience and pride!

A resident of Oregon, Wisconsin, Bob spent 34 years with the Wisconsin Crime Laboratory in Madison, retiring as head of the Drug Identification Unit. Over the course of his career, he testified as an expert witness 500 times. Today, Bob channels that same commitment into his work as a public historian. He brings decades of expertise and a deep passion for Wisconsin history to his presentations. As a member of the Oregon Historical Society, he has developed a collection of twelve engaging presentations on significant Wisconsin and American historical events, people and places. His programs are known for their strong research foundation, compelling storytelling, and accessible style.

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Transportation Options:

Bicycle: Bike racks are available

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

Car:

Use the Island Drive entrance at 6205 Mineral Point Road.
Veer left and follow the drive to the 2nd driveway with sign “Heritage Oaks Parking Garage.”
Turn right into driveway.
Press the buzzer and the Oakwood desk attendant will buzz you in. There are 70 parking stalls. Park in any visitor or non-reserved stall. Take the elevator up one floor to the main entrance, turn right and walk through the mail box area into the lobby. Ask at the desk for directions to the Performing Arts Center.
When you exit the underground parking, the garage door opens automatically.
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Questions? Contact lecture organizer Barbara Drake at barbaradrake21@gmail.com

1st Friday Breakfast on the West Side (November 06, 2026)

Fri, 06 Nov 2026 15:30:00 GMT

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.

Fearless Science Tour (November 10, 2026)

Tue, 10 Nov 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Fearless Science Tour

Tuesday, November 10 from 10:00 AM-12:00 PM

Free to PLATO Members and Guests

Registration is Required

Because our August Fearless Science Tour filled up within hours when registration opened, we are scheduling another one on November 10.

Registration opens Tuesday, October 13

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 Tuesday, November 10 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.

Note that the Morgridge Institute in the Discovery Building is in a different building than Morgridge Hall, the new computer, data, and information sciences building. They are in adjacent buidings; however the Discovery building is at 330 N. Orchard street and Morgridge Hall is at 1205 University Avenue.

Transportation/Parking:

The Discovery Building at 330 N. Orchard 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

2nd Friday Breakfast at Lakeside St. Coffee House (November 13, 2026)

Fri, 13 Nov 2026 15:30:00 GMT

Meets every 2nd Friday!

Where: Lakeside Street Coffee House
When: Meets on the second Friday of each month
Time: 9:30 am to 11:30 am
A prominent stairway leads to the lower level where our group meets.
The menu changes daily. To find out today's menu, please call the restaurant directly - 608 441-7599
Place: Lakeside St. Coffee House, 402 W. Lakeside St., Madison
Directions are pictured on the map below
Parking: Street Parking
Organizer: Sharon Scrattish
RSVP or Questions?: If you are new to the Lakeside Coffee gathering please RSVP Sharon by email or phone (sscratti@gmail.com or 608-280-8050)

Lecture – My Father’s World War II (November 19, 2026)

Thu, 19 Nov 2026 19:30:00 GMT

Thursday, November 19 from 1:30-3:00 p.m.

In-Person at Oakwood Village University Woods

Arts & Education Center

6205 Mineral Point Road

Registration is Not Required

FREE PARKING

About 16 million Americans served in the military in World War II; only 31,000 of them are still alive, so the voices that can tell us about their experiences are fast disappearing. Rebecca’s late father, David Warner, served in the Army in Europe during the war. He left photographs, letters, and memoirs along with his Eisenhower jacket and other possessions. During her lecture she will share brief selections from his writing and play a video recorded interview in which he describes the event that had the greatest impact on him in his own words. His stories describe unique situations with interesting details, and they have themes in common with letters and diaries published by many other veterans. Her lecture will remind many in the audience of parents and relatives who served our country in World War II.

Dr. Rebecca Warner earned her bachelor’s degree from Carnegie Mellon in Social Relations and a PhD from Harvard in Social Psychology. She was a professor at the University of New Hampshire until she retired in 2017. She has published journal articles in statistics and psychology, statistics textbooks, an edited collection of her father’s writing, and two historical novels. After moving to Madison in 2025, she joined PLATO and Attic Angel. As a recent arrival in Madison, she is looking forward to learning more about Wisconsin!

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Transportation Options:

Bicycle: Bike racks are available

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

Car:

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

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

1st Friday Breakfast on the West Side (December 04, 2026)

Fri, 04 Dec 2026 15:30:00 GMT

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.

2nd Friday Breakfast at Lakeside St. Coffee House (December 11, 2026)

Fri, 11 Dec 2026 15:30:00 GMT

Meets every 2nd Friday!

Where: Lakeside Street Coffee House
When: Meets on the second Friday of each month
Time: 9:30 am to 11:30 am
A prominent stairway leads to the lower level where our group meets.
The menu changes daily. To find out today's menu, please call the restaurant directly - 608 441-7599
Place: Lakeside St. Coffee House, 402 W. Lakeside St., Madison
Directions are pictured on the map below
Parking: Street Parking
Organizer: Sharon Scrattish
RSVP or Questions?: If you are new to the Lakeside Coffee gathering please RSVP Sharon by email or phone (sscratti@gmail.com or 608-280-8050)