The temperature was just right, the sun was shining brightly as the Lehigh Valley Health Network Marathon for Via took place in early September at the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks. It was a perfect day for a 5K run and walk.

Jonathon Kroc, originally of Bethlehem and now living in Wilmington, Del., was the winner overall with a time of 17.38. Jenna Horowski of Zionsville, was the first female to cross the finish line with a time of 19.28.

Via of the Lehigh Valley is a non-profit agency that provides services for children and adults with disabilities like autism, cerebral palsy and Down syndrome.

Serving the community since 1954, Via's helps individuals and families from birth through retirement to gain life skills, obtain meaningful employment and develop social connections.

The 5K Run started at 7:30 a.m. and finished at the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks and took runners over the Fahy Bridge to Lehigh Street along the path behind the Ice House and doubled back over the Fahy Bridge to head back to SteelStacks.

The Walk took participants toward the Fahy Bridge until they reached Webster Street where they crossed Third Street to the South Bethlehem Greenway. They continued to make their way to the crosswalk at the Minsi Trail Bridge and Daly Avenue to head back to the finish line.

Over 100 honor society students from Freedom HS participated. They have participated for the last six years to help raise money for Via.

An expo was also held at SteelStacks where runners picked up their race packets and sponsors and vendors were available for the runners.

The event is made possible through the cooperation from nine local municipalities - Lower Macungie Township, Salisbury Township, City of Allentown, City of Bethlehem, Freemansburg Borough, Bethlehem Township, Palmer Township, Wilson Borough and City of Easton along with Pa. Department of Transportation and the Pa. Fish and Boat Commission.