When?	Event	Description
September	Star Trek Voyage	Since pre-history, people have been looking up at the skies and wondering what was out there. Well, come to our Star Trek and we can show you some of those things! We'll tell stories about the constellations that we can find, show you some sights through a telescope, and give you a little history about our 20" Palomar scale-model telescope that we have at Corning Community College. You will also be treated to a planetarium show, with all its sights and sounds. The stars have been there for billions of years and will remain for billions more; but while we're here on Earth, we can learn a little something about those giant, far away objects. The only thing you need to bring is your imagination and your curiosity. This program is offered in September and is appropriate for all age groups.
October	Family Pumpkin Hunt in the Woods	Bring the family for a fun-filled pumpkin hunt in the woods surrounding Spencer Crest. Children of all ages can seek out the hidden pumpkins and then head inside the Nature Center to color and decorate them! Cider and donuts will be provided. This program is offered in October and is appropriate for families with young children.
November	Red Baron Half Marathon	This is a fully sanctioned half-marathon that starts at the CCC Commons at the top of Spencer Hill and takes the picturesque roads down the back side of the hill. The course includes hilly, flat, and downhill portions. Local distance runners regard this course highly and consider this a great race event. Winners receive a trophy and a post-race event follows completion of the race. This program is offered in November. Current registration fee of $20, waived for CCC students. For more information, browse the information at www.spencercrest.org/redbaron.
February	Winter Bird Identification	Enhance your enjoyment of birds by attending our newly expanded bird identification workshop. This year you'll discover which birds call the Twin Tiers "home," what birds eat in the winter, and how to identify them. Learn about backyard bird feeding, providing nest boxes, and other ways to attract birds to your yard. Get involved by making your own feeders or take a guided walk looking for winter birds, and learn how your observations can help science. There will be something for everyone, from beginning to intermediate bird watchers, and for children and adults. Binoculars will be available, but bring your own if you have them.
May	Spring Bird Identification	As we watch the winter melt away into spring, birds are also preparing to welcome the longer days and the warmer temperatures. Resident birds are singing, birds migrating from the southern U.S., Mexico, and Central America are arriving, and some wintering birds may still be lingering before they depart for more northern latitudes. You may recognize the birds at your feeder, but what other species are around, and how do you identify them? Join bird-enthusiast and Cornell Lab of Ornithology biologist Mike Powers for a relaxed bird walk through the various habitats at the Spencer Crest Nature Center. Along the way we'll identify birds by sight and song, learn about their behaviors and about the birds themselves. Bring your binoculars and a friend and join us! RSVP at 962-2169 by Thursday, May 1st. All levels of bird enthusiasts welcome. Workshop will include: a leisure walk along the trails of Spencer Crest brief discussion of binocular types and how to use them what key features to look for on birds tips for identifying birds by their song
Spring	Easter Egg Hunt	Every spring the Nature Center hosts a non-chocolate Easter egg hunt for children of all ages. Children will hunt in the building and grounds for eggs filled with bird seed and will feed the birds at the conclusion of the hunt. This is a great opportunity for children to share their holdiay with wildlife. The Easter Bunny will make a special appearance that will delight the kids! Children are then invited to stay and make pine cone bird feeders to take home after the egg hunt. A great way for kids to celebrate Easter and have a lot of fun! Appropriate for young children.
May	Mother's Day Bird & Breakfast	Spencer Crest likes to remember our mothers on Mother's Day and thank them for all that they have done for us. Our Mother's Day Bird & Breakfast features an ornithologist speaking about the local bird life and perhaps sharing a poem or two. After a few brief instructions, you are welcome to join us for an enjoyable early morning walk to be introduced to some of our feathered friends by sight and sound. After working up a good appetite, you can return to the building for a hearty breakfast featuring fresh maple syrup. Enjoy hearty food and great conversation! Appropriate for mothers and their children of all ages.
June	Family Fishing Derby	Father's Day is another special day for us at Spencer Crest. Our fishing derby offers a great morning of fun for fathers and their children to share. You bring your fishing poles and bait, we'll supply the pond and the catch! Afterwards, all kinds of prizes are given in many different categories and age groups. Everyone goes home with something! You can even bring a pair of hip waders and take a walk in the pond—but watch out for the leeches! Appropriate for fathers and children of all ages.