The Charity Challenge 5K "Run for the Ice Cream" held recently at Heisler's Dairy Bar in the Lewistown Valley, just outside of Tamaqua, raised over $1,700 for various charities, nonprofit organizations, community causes and emergencies through the efforts of 207 runners, walkers and sponsors.

Every participant also received a free ice cream sundae.The overall race winner was Michael Heimes of Reading, the overall female winner was Tracy Harris of Bethlehem, and Kid's Fun Run winner was Cael Rickard of Orwigsburg. The overall race winner gets to choose the charity where race proceeds are donated.The next Charity Challenge 5K Run & Walk will feature a trail run, held in mid May at Owl Creek Reservoir outside of Tamaqua. The event will feature a 5K Run, Walk and 1-mile Kid's Fun Run. For more information or to register for the event, contact race director Jon Bonner at 570-778-6970.The Charity Challenge 5K is hosted by USA Martial Arts & Fitness of Tamaqua. More information on the race and sponsorship can be found at

www.charitychallenge5k.com.