On Saturday, May 28, you can take in a sweeping view of Columbia, get some exercise and raise money for a local nonprofit at the same time. The Friends of Mount Bethel Cemetery will hold the Mount Bethel Cemetery Memorial 5K, with registration beginning at 7:30 a.m. in the gym of Columbia High School, 901 Ironville Pike. The race will kick off at 8:30 a.m.

The event is named as a nod to the holiday it precedes as well as to memorialize those interred at the cemetery, where gravesites date to the 1700s. "There used to be a Memorial Day weekend 5K that was organized through the Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce, but when the Chamber dissolved, so did the 5K," explained Kathy Hohenadel, who is coordinating the Mount Bethel race with Claire Storm. "We wanted to bring the race back to Columbia."

The coordinators tapped Charles Leader to map the course. "He's been the cross-country coach for Columbia High School and an avid runner his whole life," Hohenadel stated. "I went to him for some insight in putting together a course that would have minimal street closures." Although she initially considered holding the race in the cemetery, she soon realized there wasn't enough room, but the high school made a perfect location. Leader created a mixed-terrain course that will include sidewalks, macadam, grass and the Columbia High School track. "It will feature different inclines, and it's a good course for both walkers and runners," Hohenadel said. Because of the terrain, the race is not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers, and no pets or cleats are allowed.

Awards will be presented in a variety of categories, including overall male and female winners and the first three male and female finishers in 13 age brackets. Proceeds from the race will be used for maintenance of the cemetery, located at 700 Locust St.

"Come out and enjoy a beautiful view overlooking the town and the Susquehanna River," Hohenadel said, encouraging people to register for the 5K. "There will be plenty of parking, and it's easy to register. It's also a great way to help us maintain the history of the cemetery."

The event is made possible by the sponsorships of multiple businesses and organizations, including Columbia Fraternal Association, Foresters of America Court Susquehanna 235, Columbia American Legion Post 372, Columbia Lions Club, Kleen-Rite Corp., Melanie B. Scheid Funeral Directors & Cremation Services, Nikolaus & Hohenadel, Sunsnappers and Truist Bank.

To register for the 5K, visit http://www.mtbethelcemetery.org. Same-day registration will also be available. For more information, call 717-681-6768.