Six new pop-up classes bring fresh learning experiences to DEAR participants this fall

Penfield, New York – Penfield Recreation’s Daytime Education at Recreation (DEAR) program is bringing a fresh wave of learning opportunities this fall, unveiling six new pop-up classes designed to entertain, enlighten, and connect community members through diverse topics. The seasonal offerings include subjects that range from art and music to technology and history—each taught by a passionate local presenter. Registration is required for all sessions, and spots are expected to fill quickly.

A Return to Virtual Worlds

Kicking off the series is “Stepping Back In: The Continuing Story of Virtual Reality” presented by Vinnie Brenneis on Monday, November 10, at 1:30 PM. Brenneis, who previously captivated DEAR participants with his introduction to virtual reality, returns to dive even deeper into this evolving technology. There was, as he noted, simply too much to cover the first time around. This follow-up session welcomes attendees to explore how VR continues to reshape learning, entertainment, and human connection.

“Through visuals, short demonstrations, and open discussion, we’ll look at the newest innovations, surprising uses, and the future possibilities of VR,” Brenneis said. The program promises an engaging afternoon that bridges imagination with cutting-edge technology.

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A Musical Tribute to a French Icon

On Friday, November 14, at 10:00 AM, music lovers can look forward to “Yesterday When I Was Young: The Music of Charles Aznavour”, presented by Nancy Brone. Known as the “Frank Sinatra of France,” Aznavour’s career spanned more than seven decades. Brone’s presentation celebrates his life and artistry, revisiting a repertoire that touched millions.
“Charles Aznavour was a French singer and songwriter of Armenian descent. Aznavour was known for his distinctive vibrato tenor voice: clear and ringing in its upper reaches, with gravelly and profound low notes,” Brone explains. The session will explore his legacy as one of the greatest songwriters of the 20th century, with insights into his multilingual performances and enduring influence.

Exploring the Age of Artificial Intelligence

As the world grapples with rapid advancements in machine learning, DEAR invites participants to gain a balanced understanding of what’s really happening behind the headlines.

On Friday, November 21, at 10:00 AM, Al Biles presents “Artificial Intelligence Update”, a session that promises to separate the myths from the meaningful progress.
“Generative Artificial Intelligence continues to progress, amaze, confuse and terrify, as society tries to cope with a technology that is changing everything,” Biles notes. He aims to guide attendees through AI’s 70-year evolution, shedding light on both its revolutionary breakthroughs and the misconceptions that surround it. This class is ideal for anyone curious about how AI is shaping daily life—from art and education to business and ethics.

Remembering Bob Hope’s Legacy of Laughter

Few entertainers have left a mark as enduring as Bob Hope, whose humor lifted the spirits of troops stationed far from home. Rick Gough pays homage to this legendary figure with “Thanks for the Memories: Bob Hope and his USO Christmas Shows”, taking place on Tuesday, December 9, at 1:30 PM.

“For nearly five decades, Bob Hope was the face of holiday cheer for American troops far from home,” Gough explains. His program revisits the beloved television specials that featured stars like Ann-Margret, Raquel Welch, and the Golddiggers. These shows weren’t just entertainment—they were lifelines of laughter and warmth during some of history’s most challenging times.

The Spirit of Artistic Rebellion

Rick Gough returns later in the month for another compelling art-themed presentation, “The Wanderers or The Itinerants”, scheduled for Monday, December 15, at 12:00 PM. This session explores the 19th-century Russian realist painters who boldly broke away from the strict confines of the Imperial Academy of Arts in St. Petersburg. These artists—often overlooked in mainstream art history—sought to portray the struggles and triumphs of ordinary life, setting the stage for future artistic movements that valued authenticity over idealism.

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Discovering Hidden Figures in New York’s Past

Rounding out the fall series is “Characters from New York’s History”, presented by Ken Andrews on Tuesday, December 16, at 10:00 AM. Andrews shines a spotlight on the unsung heroes and visionaries who helped shape both the Empire State and the nation itself.
“New York State has produced a remarkable array of talent—inventors, artists, activists, and visionaries—many of whom quietly shaped our nation’s story,” Andrews said. Through storytelling and historical insight, he introduces attendees to figures whose legacies remain woven into the fabric of American innovation and culture.

A Season of Curiosity and Connection

The DEAR program continues to stand out for its unique mix of intellectual enrichment and community spirit. Each pop-up class offers not just knowledge, but a chance to connect with others who share a curiosity about the world—past, present, and future. Whether participants are drawn to the digital frontier, nostalgic melodies, or stories from history’s hidden corners, this fall’s DEAR lineup has something for everyone.

As Penfield Recreation continues to expand its educational offerings, programs like these reflect the organization’s mission: to keep minds active and conversations alive. From virtual reality to vintage music, and from artificial intelligence to art history, DEAR’s fall pop-up sessions promise to make learning an engaging journey once again.