UW-Madison Retirement Association upcoming events

CANCELLED: State Capitol & Overture Backstage Tours and Lunch (TC) (Tue, April 07, 2026)

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 13:00:00 GMT

The most iconic silhouette in our city's skyline, the Wisconsin State Capitol is the tallest building in Madison - and the dome is one of the largest in the world. The 100+ year old Capitol building is the focal point of the city, right on the isthmus between lakes Mendota and Monona. When was the last time you set foot in our state capitol? Can you find the fossil?

Ever wonder what is “behind the curtain” at the Overture? The behind-the-curtain tour experience provides an inside look at the magic behind the scenes at this Madison landmark. We will learn about the history of the center, explore the building, and hear personal stories from volunteers who have served for over 30 years. This is a great opportunity for those interested in the arts and the performing arts to gain a deeper understanding of the Overture Center's role in Madison's cultural landscape.

Join us for a day of tours of our state house and renowned theatre and lunch.

Schedule (Return times are approximate)

8:00 a.m.	Depart Dutch Mill Park and Ride
8:30 a.m.	Depart Verona Park and Ride
3:15 p.m.	Return Dutch Mill Park and Ride
3:30 p.m.	Return Verona Park and Ride

Departure Locations -- Please arrive at departure site 15 minutes prior to departure.

Verona Park and Ride

East side (Dutch Mill Park and 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.

Cost

$50 per person and includes bus transportation, driver tip, admission fees, meal, and gratuities.

Lunch choice

To be finalized - will be posted soon

For insurance purposes, all travelers are required to complete the Verona Member Form (no charge) and Verona Trip Waiver Form annually. Please download forms here, complete, and bring to the bus on the day of the trip.

Please note that these forms must be completed annually. If you have traveled with us and completed the forms on a previous 2026 excursion, the forms are not needed.

Registration Details and Deadline

Register online. Mailed in reservations and checks are accepted. Registrations much be received no later than Monday, March 23, 2026.

Questions

Contact trip coordinator Sandi Haase at (sandi.haase@wisc.edu) or the UWRA office at 608-262-0641.

UW-Madison Retirement Association
21 N Park St, Room 7205
Madison WI 53715-1218
608-262-0641
retireassn@mailplus.wisc.edu

Tech Clinic: A Practical Intro to Using AI for Non-Techies [ETC] (Thu, April 09, 2026)

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Curious about how today’s artificial intelligence (AI) tools can make everyday tasks easier, faster, and more interesting? Join us for a lively, practical technology session sponsored by the UWRA Electronic Technology Committee with members:

Kathy Christoph, Director Emerita, Academic Technology, Division of Information Technology, UW-Madison
Brad Hughes, Director Emeritus, The Writing Center and Writing Across the Curriculum, Department of English, UW-Madison
Sandee Seiberlich, Strategic Consultant/Enterprise Project Manager, Emerita, Division of Information Technology, UW-Madison
Scott Springman, Clinical Professor Emeritus, School of Medicine and Public Health, UW Madison

The session will begin with 3 short, easy-to-follow presentations intended for AI beginners:

How AI can help with travel planning,
Ways to use AI with personal & public databases, and
How AI-assisted writing tools can help with your various writing tasks.

Following the presentations, we'll break into groups for rotating demonstrations and discussion, giving everyone a chance to see these tools up-close and ask questions.

Whether you’re tech-curious or already experimenting with AI on your own, you’ll come away with practical ideas you can try out right away. We’ll include some AI cautions, along with the recommendations.

Attendance will be limited, so register soon! NOTE: This in-person tech clinic will NOT be recorded.

If you have preliminary questions for the speaker, please send to Program Coordinator Scott Springman at srspring@gmail.com by Friday, April 3, 2026.

Food Pantry Contributions:

Checks payable to UW-Foundation, with "Open Seat" on the memo line may be mailed to UWRA, 21 North Park Street, Room 7205, Madison, WI 53715-1218.

Registration Deadline: Friday, April 3, 2026

Registration:

Advance registration is required. You are encouraged to register online. To register by phone or email, call the Association office. If you or your guest registered for this seminar but cannot attend, please cancel your registration online, or email/call the UWRA office.

Parking:

Click here for a printable map of Oakwood Community Grounds for Parking and Room location.

UW-Madison Retirement Association
21 N Park St, Room 7205
Madison WI 53715-1218
608-262-0641
retireassn@mailplus.wisc.edu

Enhancing Your Hearing (PLATO) (Thu, April 09, 2026)

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 18:30:00 GMT

PLATO has extended an invite to UWRA members to attend their 2025-26 special lecture series.

For details visit: https://www.platomadison.org/

PLATO - Lecture - Hearing Advice to Make You (and your ears) Smile!

Registration: This seminar is hosted by PLATO, no registration necessary.

Parking:

Click here for a printable map of Oakwood Community Grounds for Parking and Room location.

Questions? Please contact PLATO lecture organizer Barbara Drake at

barbaradrake21@gmail.com

Financial Matters in Retirement (CFMR) (h) (Fri, April 10, 2026)

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Monthly planning meeting of the Committee on Financial Matters in Retirement (CFMR).

The Committee offers monthly programs on topics dealing with financial matters in retirement. The topics include seminars on State health insurance coverages, federal and state tax changes, estate planning, management fees to invest, administer and dissolve a trust, how to protect against identity theft and other economic topics of interest to our members.

Interested in possibly joining the committee? You are invited to attend a committee meeting to check it out. Please register.

For further information, contact either Chair Jurgen Patau at jrpatau@wisc.edu or Co-Chair Kevin Niemi at kjniemi@wisc.edu.

MEETING FORMAT
This is a hybrid meeting format. Attendees will be able to attend in-person or virtually using zoom link. Please indicate how you will attend when registering.

Advance registration is required in order to receive virtual call information. To register by phone or email, call or email

UW-Madison Retirement Association
21 N Park St, Room 7205
Madison WI 53715-1218
608-262-0641
retireassn@mailplus.wisc.edu

2026 ETF & SWIB Update (IP) [CFMR] (Tue, April 14, 2026)

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 15:00:00 GMT

The State of Wisconsin Investment Board (SWIB), created in 1951, is responsible for managing the assets of the Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS), the State Investment Fund (SIF), and other state trust funds. As of December 31, 2024, SWIB managed more than $162 billion in assets.

In April, the thoughts of UWRA members turn to pensions because that is when we hear an annual report on last year’s performance and the future prospects of the Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS).

Our speakers are the leaders of the State of Wisconsin Investment Board (SWIB), which manages the investment portfolio of the WRS, and the Department of Employee Trust Funds (ETF), which administers retirement, insurance, and other benefit programs for around 692,000 active and retired state employees. This detailed annual report gives us insight into the policies and practices that govern the management of WRS and, importantly, income projections that are helpful in planning our personal finances.

Edwin Denson joined SWIB in 2018 as managing director, asset and risk allocation. He was appointed executive director/chief investment officer in April 2021. Before joining SWIB, Edwin was managing director, strategic tilting, at Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPPIB). Prior to joining CPPIB in 2013, Edwin spent 13 years in asset allocation, currency, and risk management as a portfolio manager at William Blair & Co., managing member at Singer Partners LLC, and managing director and head of asset allocation at UBS Global Asset Management. Earlier in his career, he was an economist at Lehman Brothers, Primark Decision Economics, and Putnam Investments, and he also briefly managed a commodity trading adviser and a quantitative equity strategy. Edwin holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Cornell University and a PhD in economics from Northwestern University.

Rochelle Klaskin, Deputy Executive Director and Chief Administrative Officer, joined SWIB in 2015 as its chief legal counsel before becoming deputy executive director/chief administrative officer. Throughout her more than 20-year career, she has led and advised organizations on board governance and legal matters, daily operations, and strategic transitions and planning. Prior to joining SWIB, she was a shareholder in the corporate practice group at the law firm Godfrey & Kahn, S.C., and she served as the managing partner of the firm’s Madison office. She earned her law degree from Chicago-Kent College of Law and a bachelor’s degree in journalism and mass communication from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill.

Todd Mattina, Head Economist, Asset & Risk Allocation CIO, joined SWIB in early 2023 and is responsible for taking a broad view of economic conditions in developing, recommending and implementing SWIB’s asset allocation and other policies for allocating the investments of the fully funded Wisconsin Retirement System. Monitoring capital market conditions and maintaining valuation models, he will support the agency’s investment divisions and determine how best to leverage economic policy to address opportunities, risks and challenges.

The Wisconsin Department of Employee Trust Funds (ETF) is the state agency administering retirement, insurance, and other benefit programs for active state and local employees and for retirees participating in the WRS.

John Voelker, ETF Secretary, will provide projections for future Core and Variable fund annuity adjustments, and highlights of the design elements that keep the WRS strong and fully funded. He was appointed Deputy Secretary of the Dept. of Employee Trust Funds in July 2014. Immediately prior to his appointment the served 11 years as the Wisconsin Director of State Courts. During his 22 years with the court system, he also served as the Assistant to the Chief Justice and as a Senior Policy Analyst. A native of Menasha, Wisconsin, he holds a Bachelor’s degree from UW-Oshkosh.

If you have preliminary questions for the speakers, please send to Program Coordinators Tom Eggert at tleggert@wisc.edu and Sandi Haase at sandi.haase@wisc.edu by Tuesday, April 7.

NOTE: This in-person seminar will be recorded and posted on the website.

Food Pantry Contributions:

Checks payable to UW-Foundation, with "Open Seat" on the memo line may be mailed to UWRA at the address below.

Registration Deadline: Friday, April 10.

Registration:

Parking:

Click here for a printable map of Oakwood Community Grounds for Parking and Room location.

UW-Madison Retirement Association
21 N Park St, Room 7205
Madison WI 53715-1218
608-262-0641
retireassn@mailplus.wisc.edu

2025-26 Board of Directors (BOD) (Thu, April 16, 2026)

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 18:00:00 GMT

UWRA members are welcome to attend.

Advance registration is required.

To register by phone or email, contact:

UW-Madison Retirement Association
21 N Park St, Room 7205
Madison WI 53715-1218
608-262-0641
retireassn@mailplus.wisc.edu

Exploring Wisconsin's Driftless Area (TC) (Wed, April 22, 2026)

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 14:00:00 GMT

The Mount Horeb Area Historical Society collects, preserves and makes accessible the physical remnants of the human and natural history of the Mount Horeb area for the purpose of sharing the broader histories and prehistories of America through this localized lens.

The Historical Society was founded in 1975 by a dedicated group of area volunteers and later that year became an affiliate of the Wisconsin Historical Society. Over the years and several moves, the new museum was an immediate success and became part of southwest Wisconsin's well-known heritage tourism. The new facility - named the Driftless Historium in honor of their location at the edge of this unique part of Wisconsin - was opened in June 2017. A major permanent exhibit, "Life and Change at the Edge of the Driftless," deplores the ever-changing relationship between the people, the communities, and the landscape of the Driftless region of Southwestern Dane County.

Following lunch, we're off to visit and learn more about Vortex Optics in Barneveld. Vortex Optics is an American manufacturer of special optical equipment for wildlife watching, outdoor recreation, shooting sports, law enforcement and military. Their products include binoculars, monoculars, scopes and related accessories.

Our surprise stop will end our day's event.

This trip is limited to a total of 30 registrants from UWRA, PLATO, and Verona Senior Center. You are encouraged to register early!

Schedule (Return times are approximate)

9:00 a.m.	Depart Dutch Mill Park and Ride
9:30 a.m.	Depart Verona Park and Ride
5:30 p.m.	Return Verona Park and Ride
6:00 p.m.	Return Dutch Mill Park and Ride

Departure Locations -- Please arrive at departure site 15 minutes prior to departure.

Verona Park and Ride

East side (Dutch Mill Park and 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.

Cost

$65 per person and includes bus transportation, driver tip, admission fees, meal, and gratuities.

Lunch choice - Includes coffee, hot tea, soda, or iced tea and dessert

	Classic Burger on Brioche Bun, prepared Medium Well, served with Lettuce, tomato, Onion, & Cheddar Cheese with a side of French Fry Dippers
	Half of a Grilled Chicken Wrap along with a cup of Soup Du Jour. Wrap contains Chicken, Spring Mix, Ranch, Avocado, Pepper Jack, Pico do Gallo, Bacon, Tortilla Strips
	BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich on a Pretzel Bun with a side of French Fry Dippers
	9" Bomber's Special Pizza, Sausage, Pepperoni, Onions, Mushrooms, Green Peppers, Black Olives, and Cheese
	Deluxe Caesar Salad with a Grilled Chicken Breast, Homemade Polenta, and Croutons.

Please note that these forms must be completed annually. If you have traveled with us and completed the forms on a previous 2026 excursion, the forms are not needed.

Registration Details and Deadline

Register online. Mailed in reservations and checks are accepted. Registrations much be received no later than Monday, April 6, 2026.

Refund Policy

UWRA 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.

Questions

Contact trip coordinator Sandi Haase at (sandi.haase@wisc.edu) or the UWRA office at 608-262-0641.

UW-Madison Retirement Association
21 N Park St, Room 7205
Madison WI 53715-1218
608-262-0641
retireassn@mailplus.wisc.edu

Wisconsin Vegetables Feed America (PLATO) (Thu, April 23, 2026)

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 18:30:00 GMT

PLATO has extended an invite to UWRA members to attend their 2025-26 special lecture series.

For details visit: https://www.platomadison.org/

Registration: This seminar is hosted by PLATO, no registration necessary.

Parking:

Click here for a printable map of Oakwood Community Grounds for Parking and Room location.

Questions? Please contact PLATO lecture organizer Barbara Drake at

barbaradrake21@gmail.com

Retirement Opportunities (ROC) (v) (Mon, April 27, 2026)

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Retirement Opportunities Committee (ROC) offers programs and activities to help UWRA members live a rewarding retirement, all the while making new friends and having fun!

Program categories include Health in Aging; Nature; Culture/Intellectual; Government/Political; Home Concerns; Social Justice; University Updates, and History, etc. The committee coordinates the "Activities in Retirement" column in the monthly newsletter.

Interested in more information, please contact Co-chairs Laurie Mayberry at laurie.mayberry@wisc.edu or Scott Hildebrand at scott.h.hildebrand@gmail.com.

You are invited to attend a committee meeting to check it out. Please register.

Advance registration is required in order to receive virtual call information. To register by phone or email, call or email

UW-Madison Retirement Association
21 N Park St, Room 7205
Madison WI 53715-1218
608-262-0641
retireassn@mailplus.wisc.edu

Breakfast at Elie's Cafe (Tue, April 28, 2026)

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Join us for conversation and food !

Join fellow UWRA members for breakfast (or a cup of coffee or tea) at Elie's Family Restaurant (formerly known as Green Forest Restaurant). Members gather once a month for breakfast and lively conversation.

You can check out Elie's website.

Getting the Best Possible Care: What Everyone Should Know About Hospice & Palliative Care [ROC] (Thu, April 30, 2026)

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 15:30:00 GMT

We are pleased to announce that Professor Toby C. Campbell, M.D., MSCI, FAAHPM Ellen and Peter O Johnson Chair in Palliative Care Medicine will join us to present this seminar.

Dr. Campbell is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in Hospice and Palliative Care Medicine. He is currently Vice-Chair of the Palliative Care Panel of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network and, since 2011, Chief of Palliative Care Medicine which has expanded substantially under his leadership. He is the recipient of numerous honors and awards related to both his research and his compassionate care for patients including humanism awards from the University of Virginia, University of Wisconsin, and Northwestern University.

His expertise is in facilitating complex conversations such as breaking bad news, family meetings, and high-risk decision making. His work on communication crosses a variety of disciplines and he has published in major medical, surgical, and communication-oriented journals. Dr. Campbell is currently a (co) Principal Investigator on a number of NIH as well as intramural-funded research grants. He is a prolific writer, podcaster and sought-after speaker and we are delighted to have him present to the UWRA community.

Dr. Campbell, M.D., received his medical degree from the University of Virginia in 2001 and a master of science degree in clinical investigation from Northwestern University, where he also completed a fellowship in medical oncology, hospice and palliative care. Dr. Campbell completed his residency in internal medicine at the University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics.

If you have preliminary questions for the speaker, please send to Program Coordinator Misha Perouansky at mperouansky@wisc.edu by Friday, April 24.

Food Pantry Contributions:

Checks payable to UW-Foundation, with "Open Seat" on the memo line may be mailed to UWRA, 21 North Park Street, Room 7205, Madison, WI 53715-1218.

Registration Deadline: Monday, April 27, 2026

Registration:

UW-Madison Retirement Association
21 N Park St, Room 7205
Madison WI 53715-1218
608-262-0641
retireassn@mailplus.wisc.edu

Financial Matters in Retirement (CFMR) (h) (Fri, May 01, 2026)

Fri, 01 May 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Monthly planning meeting of the Committee on Financial Matters in Retirement (CFMR).

Interested in possibly joining the committee? You are invited to attend a committee meeting to check it out. Please register.

For further information, contact either Chair Jurgen Patau at jrpatau@wisc.edu or Co-Chair Kevin Niemi at kjniemi@wisc.edu.

MEETING FORMAT
This is a hybrid meeting format. Attendees will be able to attend in-person or virtually using zoom link. Please indicate how you will attend when registering.

Advance registration is required in order to receive virtual call information. To register by phone or email, call or email

UW-Madison Retirement Association
21 N Park St, Room 7205
Madison WI 53715-1218
608-262-0641
retireassn@mailplus.wisc.edu

Electronic Technology Committee (ETC) (V) (Thu, May 07, 2026)

Thu, 07 May 2026 18:30:00 GMT

Electronic Technology Committee assists members in staying abreast of changing electronic technology, which includes devices such as computers, tablets, telephones, cameras, printers, and software applications.

Interested in possibly joining the committee? You are invited to attend a committee meeting to check it out. Contact Chair Rachel Baker at rachel.baker@wisc.edu for virtual meeting details.

UW-Madison Retirement Association
21 N Park St, Room 7205
Madison WI 53715-1218
608-262-0641
retireassn@mailplus.wisc.edu

Adventures in Dubuque (TC) (Wed, May 13, 2026)

Wed, 13 May 2026 13:00:00 GMT

Just 80 miles to the southwest holds an adventure. Join us in discovering some of the treasures our neighbor to the west holds. This adventure is packed with activities, starting with a visit at the Iowa Welcome Center, St. Lukes Methodist Church with the 5th largest collection of Tiffany-stained glass windows, a historic progressive lunch at Steeple Square, 7-Hills Events Center, and Fannie Stout House to learn about the city's history, the Fenelon Place Elevator, and much more. There is something for everyone!

Schedule (Return times are approximate)

8:00 a.m.

Depart Dutch Mill Park and Ride

8:30 a.m.

Depart Verona Park and Ride

5:30 p.m.

Return Verona Park and Ride

6:00 p.m.

Return Dutch Mill Park and Ride

Cost

$130.00 Includes bus transportation, driver tip, admission fees, lunch, and gratuities

Registration Details and Deadline

Refund Policy

UWRA 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.

Questions

Contact trip coordinator Sandi Haase at (sandi.haase@wisc.edu) or the UWRA office at 608-262-0641.

UW-Madison Retirement Association
21 N Park St, Room 7205
Madison WI 53715-1218
608-262-0641
retireassn@mailplus.wisc.edu

Annual Meeting, Reception, and Speaker (Mon, May 18, 2026)

Mon, 18 May 2026 21:00:00 GMT

The UWRA Board of Directors is excited to invite you and your guest to the Annual Membership Meeting, and Reception at the Arboretum Visitor's Center. This is your chance to reconnect and enjoy each other's company.

The speaker will be Craig Thompson, Vice Chancellor for University Relations.

Light hors d'oeuvres will be served. Donations are welcome.

*******************************

Food Pantry Contributions: Open Seat Food Pantry.

Both cash and checks payable to UW FOUNDATION will be accepted. Please enter "Open Seat Food Pantry" on the memo line.

Registration:

Advance registration is required.
Registration deadline: April 17, 2026
You are encouraged to register online.

Questions? Call or Email:

UW-Madison Retirement Association

21 N Park St, Room 7205

Madison, WI 53715-1218

608-262-0641

retireassn@mailplus.wisc.edu

Breakfast at Elie's Cafe (Tue, May 26, 2026)

Tue, 26 May 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Join us for conversation and food !

Join fellow UWRA members for breakfast (or a cup of coffee or tea) at Elie's Family Restaurant (formerly known as Green Forest Restaurant). Members gather once a month for breakfast and lively conversation.

You can check out Elie's website.

Collette Travel 2027 Destinations Info Session (Thu, May 28, 2026)

Thu, 28 May 2026 19:00:00 GMT

Interested in a multi-day trip in 2027? Our travel partner, the Verona Senior Center, has teamed with Collette Travel to offer three multi-day trips in 2027. A representative from Collette is offering an information session on these 2027 tours. Come and join us at the Verona Senior Center to learn more about the trips.

From thrilling water journeys to ethereal jungle expeditions, discover what pura vida means to you when you explore the essence of Costa Rica. You'll learn about Costa Rica's ecosystem and local culture; visit the world's first sea turtle research station; and stay in Tortuguero National Park and find yourself surrounded by wildlife. Trip is limited to 24 travelers. Costa Rica, A World of Nature, February 9-20, 2027

From the wilds of Mount St. Helens to the shadow of giants in the Redwoods, fall under the spell of the Pacific Northwest and California, Explore the natural beauty from Seattle to San Francisso. Highlights include Mount St. Helens Visitor Center, the Columbia River Gorge, the Hood River, and Yaquina Head Lighthouse, Discover the Pacific Northwest & California, April 28-May 5, 2027

Journey through spectacular mountain scenery and picturesque cities as you experience three Alpine countries. Get a taste of Switzerland when you meet a local alphorn maker and yodelers and enjoy a fondue lunch. Explore Lucerne, the "Swiss Paradise on the Lake." Visit Mozart's birthplace and the Mirabell Gardens, featured in The Sound of Music, during your time in Salzburg. The hills are alive on this enchanting journey across Switzerland, Austria, and Bavaria. Switzerland, Austria, and Bavaria

Registration not required. Simply check-in at the Senior Center Front Desk Concierge when you arrive.

For more information contact:

UW-Madison Retirement Association
21 N Park St, Room 7205
Madison WI 53715-1218
608-262-0641
retireassn@mailplus.wisc.edu

Ten Chimneys in Genesee Depot (TC) (Wed, June 03, 2026)

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Ten Chimneys is the estate lovingly created by Broadway legends Alfred Lunt and Lynn Fontanne. Yes, there are ten chimneys! Lynn and Alfred named their Genesee Depot, Wisconsin, estate after the number of chimneys on the Main House, Cottage, and Studio combined. The elegant three-story Main House has six chimneys and eighteen rooms (including the: Entry Hall, Garden Room, Flirtation Room, Drawing Room, Library, Belasco Room, Dining Room, Kitchen, Helen Hayes Bedroom, Laurence Olivier Bedroom, Noël Coward Bedroom, Master Bedroom, Lynn’s Dressing Room, and Lynn’s Sewing Room). The Lunts’ quaint country Cottage has three chimneys and five main rooms (Living Room, Kitchen, Syrie Maugham Bedroom, Library, and Bugbee Bedroom). The one-room Swedish-style log cabin Studio has one chimney. The 60-acre estate, nestled in the rolling Kettle Moraine of southeast Wisconsin, also includes a charming pool and pool house, a creamery, a greenhouse, barns, stables, and other bucolic outbuildings.

Accessibility

A portion of the Main House and the entire Lunt-Fontanne Program Center are accessible by standard wheelchairs and walkers. Regretfully, the Main House is not equipped to handle motorized wheelchairs. Wheelchairs of any kind and rolling walkers cannot be used on the Full Estate Tour.

NOTE: This trip is limited to 36 attendees. If interested, you are encouraged to register early!

Schedule (Return times are approximate)

10:00 a.m.

Depart Verona Park and Ride

10:15 a.m.	Depart Dutch Mill Park and Ride
6:15 p.m.	Return Dutch Mill Park and Ride
6:45 p.m.	Return Verona Park and Ride

Cost

$100.00 Includes bus transportation, driver tip, admission fees, lunch, and gratuities.

Lunch Includes cup of Chicken Dumpling Soup and beverage

	½ Beet & Goat Cheese Salad Roasted red and gold beets, fresh goat cheese & roasted walnuts over arugula tossed in a balsamic vinaigrette dressing.
	½ Crispy Chicken Salad Breaded chicken pieces, bacon, cheddar cheese, cucumbers, tomatoes, and croutons on top of spring mix lettuce. Served with honey Dijon mustard dressing.
	Chicken Salad Sandwich Granny smith apples, raisins, walnuts, celery, onions and mayo on raisin toast
	Patty Melt 8 oz burger topped with Swiss cheese and caramelized onions. Served on grilled rye with a side of French Fries.

Registration Details and Deadline

Refund Policy

UWRA 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.

Questions

Contact trip coordinator Sandi Haase at (sandi.haase@wisc.edu) or the UWRA office at 608-262-0641.

UW-Madison Retirement Association
21 N Park St, Room 7205
Madison WI 53715-1218
608-262-0641
retireassn@mailplus.wisc.edu

Financial Matters in Retirement (CFMR) (h) (Fri, June 05, 2026)

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Monthly planning meeting of the Committee on Financial Matters in Retirement (CFMR).

Interested in possibly joining the committee? You are invited to attend a committee meeting to check it out. Please register.

For further information, contact either Chair Jurgen Patau at jrpatau@wisc.edu or Co-Chair Kevin Niemi at kjniemi@wisc.edu.

MEETING FORMAT
This is a hybrid meeting format. Attendees will be able to attend in-person or virtually using zoom link. Please indicate how you will attend when registering.

Advance registration is required in order to receive virtual call information. To register by phone or email, call or email

UW-Madison Retirement Association
21 N Park St, Room 7205
Madison WI 53715-1218
608-262-0641
retireassn@mailplus.wisc.edu

Fireside Theatre: "Million Dollar Quartet" (TC) (Fri, June 19, 2026)

Fri, 19 Jun 2026 14:00:00 GMT

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

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

For insurance purposes, all travelers are required to complete the Verona New Member Form (no charge) and Verona Trip Waiver Form annually. Please download forms here, complete, and bring to the bus on the day of the trip.

Please note that these forms must be completed annually. If you have traveled with us and completed the forms on a previous 2026 excursion, the forms are not needed.

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

Entree choices include:

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

Schedule (Return times are approximate)

9:00 a.m.	Depart Verona Park and Ride
9:30 a.m.	Depart (East side) Dutch Mill Park and Ride (East Lot)
5:00 p.m.	Return Dutch Mill Park & Ride
5:30 p.m.	Return Verona Park & Ride

Departure Locations -- Please arrive at departure site 15 minutes prior to departure.

Verona Park and Ride

East side (Dutch Mill Park and 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.

Cost

$125 per person and includes bus transportation, driver tip, admission fees, meal, taxes, and gratuities.

Registration Details and Deadline

Register online. Mailed in reservations and checks are accepted. Registrations much be received no later than Monday, June, 1, 2026.

Refund Policy

UWRA 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.

Questions

Contact trip coordinator Sandi Haase at (sandi.haase@wisc.edu) or the UWRA office at 608-262-0641.

UW-Madison Retirement Association
21 N Park St, Room 7205
Madison WI 53715-1218
608-262-0641
retireassn@mailplus.wisc.edu

Canadian Rockies and Montana's Glacier National Park (TC) (Sun, June 21, 2026)

Sun, 21 Jun 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Join members of the Verona Senior Center on a multi-day tour. Our travel partner, the Verona Senior Center, has teamed with Collette Travel to offer a multi-day trip to the Canadian Rockies and Montana's Glacier National Park.

Ice fields, rushing waterfalls, glacial peaks, and towering summits are just a few of the wonders awaiting you in the Canadian Rockies and Glacier National Park. Get ready for an adventure that brings together the expanse of the prairies, the majesty of the Rockies and Glacier National Park.

Highlights of the trip include Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, Waterton Lakes National Park, Glacier National Park, Going-to-the-Sun Road, Banff, Athabasca Glacier, Lake Louise, and Heritage Park Historic Village.

Prices include round trip air from Dane County Regional airport, air taxes and fees/surcharges, hotel transfers. and 10 meals. Does not include cancellation waiver and insurance.

Registration is made directly through Collette at: https://gateway.gocollette.com/link/1298601

Questions

Contact the UWRA office at 608-262-0641 or trip coordinator Sandi Haase at (sandi.haase@wisc.edu).

UW-Madison Retirement Association
21 N Park St, Room 7205
Madison WI 53715-1218
608-262-0641
retireassn@mailplus.wisc.edu

Breakfast at Elie's Cafe (Tue, June 23, 2026)

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Join us for conversation and food !

Join fellow UWRA members for breakfast (or a cup of coffee or tea) at Elie's Family Restaurant (formerly known as Green Forest Restaurant). Members gather once a month for breakfast and lively conversation.

You can check out Elie's website.

From Chimneys to Iconic Wings (TC) (Thu, July 23, 2026)

Thu, 23 Jul 2026 12:45:00 GMT

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

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

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

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

Schedule (Return times are approximate)

7:45 a.m.	Depart Verona Park and Ride
8:30 a.m.	Depart Dutch Mill Park and Ride
6:00 p.m.	Return Dutch Mill Park and Ride
6:30 p.m.	Return Verona Park and Ride

Departure Locations -- Please arrive at departure site 15 minutes prior to departure.

Verona Park and Ride

East side (Dutch Mill Park and 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.

Cost

$120 per person and includes bus transportation, driver tip, admission fees, meal, and gratuities.

Lunch choice - Includes coffee, fountain soft drink

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

Please note that these forms must be completed annually. If you have traveled with us and completed the forms on a previous 2026 excursion, the forms are not needed.

Registration Details and Deadline

Register online. Mailed in reservations and checks are accepted. Registrations much be received no later than Monday, June 29, 2026.

Refund Policy

UWRA 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.

Questions

Contact trip coordinator Sandi Haase at (sandi.haase@wisc.edu) or the UWRA office at 608-262-0641.

UW-Madison Retirement Association
21 N Park St, Room 7205
Madison WI 53715-1218
608-262-0641
retireassn@mailplus.wisc.edu

Midterm Elections & WI Gubernatorial and Supreme Court Races [ROC] (Thu, October 08, 2026)

Thu, 08 Oct 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Join us for a discussion with Barry C. Burden, Professor of Political Science at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Details to follow.

If you have preliminary questions for the speaker, please send to Program Coordinators Laurie Mayberry at laurie.mayberry@wisc.edu, Michael Bernard-Donals at michael.bernarddonals@wisc.edu, and Scott Hildebrand at scott.h.hildebrand@gmail.com

Food Pantry Contributions:

Checks payable to UW-Foundation, with "Open Seat" on the memo line may be mailed to UWRA, 21 North Park Street, Room 7205, Madison, WI 53715-1218.

Registration Deadline: Friday, October 2, 2026

Registration:

UW-Madison Retirement Association
21 N Park St, Room 7205
Madison WI 53715-1218
608-262-0641
retireassn@mailplus.wisc.edu

Southern Charm (TC) (Mon, October 12, 2026)

Mon, 12 Oct 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Join members of the Verona Senior Center on a multi-day tour. Our travel partner, the Verona Senior Center, has teamed with Collette Travel to offer a multi-day trip to Georgia and South Carolina.

Embrace the leisurely pace and charming allure of America’s southeast as you explore cobblestone streets, historic homes, and unspoiled coastline. Discover antebellum Charleston and the history of Savannah. Visit Charleston’s City Market, one of the oldest public markets in America. Experience the unique charm and singular hospitality of America’s “Low Country” in South Carolina and Georgia. Highlights of the trip include Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens, Historic Charleston, Pin Point Heritage Museum, St. Simons Island, and Jekyll Island Tram Tour.

Prices include round trip air from Dane County Regional airport, air taxes and fees/surcharges, hotel transfers. and 9 meals. Does not include cancellation waiver and insurance.

Registration is made directly through

Collette at: https://gateway.gocollette.com/link/1298603

An informational meeting recording about this tour

is available on the UWRA website.

Visit: UWRA/Resources/Presentations/2025-2026 (Jan-Jun)

Questions

Contact the UWRA office at 608-262-0641 or trip coordinator Sandi Haase at (sandi.haase@wisc.edu).

UW-Madison Retirement Association
21 N Park St, Room 7205
Madison WI 53715-1218
608-262-0641
retireassn@mailplus.wisc.edu

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

Thu, 22 Oct 2026 14:00:00 GMT

This exhilarating Tony Award-winning musical that 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.

Please note that these forms must be completed annually. If you have traveled with us and completed the forms on a previous 2026 excursion, the forms are not needed.

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

Entree choices include:

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.

Schedule (Return times are approximate)

9:00 a.m.	Depart Verona Park and Ride
9:30 a.m.	Depart (East side) Dutch Mill Park and Ride (East Lot)
5:00 p.m.	Return Dutch Mill Park & Ride
5:30 p.m.	Return Verona Park & Ride

Departure Locations -- Please arrive at departure site 15 minutes prior to departure.

Verona Park and Ride

East side (Dutch Mill Park and 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.

Cost

$125 per person and includes bus transportation, driver tip, admission fees, meal, taxes, and gratuities.

Registration Details and Deadline

Register online. Mailed in reservations and checks are accepted. Registrations much be received no later than Monday, October 5, 2026.

Refund Policy

UWRA 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.

Questions

Contact trip coordinator Sandi Haase at (sandi.haase@wisc.edu) or the UWRA office at 608-262-0641.

UW-Madison Retirement Association
21 N Park St, Room 7205
Madison WI 53715-1218
608-262-0641
retireassn@mailplus.wisc.edu

Costa Rica: World of Nature (TC) (Tue, February 09, 2027)

Tue, 09 Feb 2027 15:00:00 GMT

Join members of the Verona Senior Center on a multi-day tour. Our travel partner, the Verona Senior Center, has teamed with Collette Travel to offer a multi-day trip to Costa Rica.

From thrilling water journeys to ethereal jungle expeditions, discover what pura vida means to you when you explore the essence of Costa Rica.

You'll learn about Costa Rica's ecosystem and local culture; visit the world's first sea turtle research station; and stay in Tortuguero National Park and find yourself surrounded by wildlife.

This is an expedition style trip and limited to 24 travelers. Booking #

To learn more, a recording highlighting Collette Travel and the Fall 2026 trip to Charleston and Savanah and the Costa Rica trips is posted on the UWRA website at: UWRA/Resources/Presentations/2025-2026 (Jan-Jun).

Registration is made directly through Collette at:

Costa Rica: A World of Nature with Verona Senior Center

An informational meeting about this tour

is scheduled for 2-3pm on Thursday, May 28, 2026

at the Verona Senior Center, 108 Paoli Street, Verona Visit: https://uwramadison.org/event-6598629

Questions

Contact the UWRA office at 608-262-0641 or trip coordinator Sandi Haase at (sandi.haase@wisc.edu).

UW-Madison Retirement Association
21 N Park St, Room 7205
Madison WI 53715-1218
608-262-0641
retireassn@mailplus.wisc.edu

Discover the Pacific Northwest and California (TC) (Wed, April 28, 2027)

Wed, 28 Apr 2027 14:00:00 GMT

Join members of the Verona Senior Center on a multi-day tour. Our travel partner, the Verona Senior Center, has teamed with Collette Travel to offer a multi-day trip to the Pacific Northwest and California.

From the wilds of Mount St. Helens to the shadow of giants in the Redwoods, fall under the spell of the Pacific Northwest, and California. Explore the natural beauty from Seattle to San Francisco. You will visit the lively Pike Place Market, Seattle's famous fish and vegetable market' venture to Mount St. Helens Visitor Center to learn about its volcanic activity, and visit the Columbia River Forge, and Multnomah Falls, and a San Francisco Bay Cruise.

Registration is made directly through Collette at:

Discover the Pacific Northwest & California with Verona Senior Center

Booking #1413701

An informational meeting about this tour

is scheduled for 2-3pm on Thursday, May 28, 2026

at the Verona Senior Center, 108 Paoli Street, Verona Visit: https://uwramadison.org/event-6598629

Questions

Contact the UWRA office at 608-262-0641 or trip coordinator Sandi Haase at (sandi.haase@wisc.edu).

UW-Madison Retirement Association
21 N Park St, Room 7205
Madison WI 53715-1218
608-262-0641
retireassn@mailplus.wisc.edu

Switzerland, Austria, and Bavaria (TC) (Wed, September 01, 2027)

Wed, 01 Sep 2027 14:00:00 GMT

Journey through spectacular mountain scenery and picturesque cities as you experience three Alpine Countries. Get a taste of Switzerland whenyou meet a local alphorn maker and yodelers. Explore Lucerne, the "Swiss Paradise on the Lake." Visit Mozart's birthplace and the Marabell Gardens featured in The Sound of Music, during your time in Salzburg. The hills are alive on this enchanting journey across Switzerland, Austria, and Bavaria.

NOTE: Trip dates subject to change.

Registration is made directly through Collette at:

Link will be available soon.

An informational meeting about this tour

is scheduled for 2-3pm on Thursday, May 28, 2026

at the Verona Senior Center, 108 Paoli Street, Verona Visit: https://uwramadison.org/event-6598629

Questions

Contact the UWRA office at 608-262-0641 or trip coordinator Sandi Haase at (sandi.haase@wisc.edu).

UW-Madison Retirement Association
21 N Park St, Room 7205
Madison WI 53715-1218
608-262-0641
retireassn@mailplus.wisc.edu