Dr. Bob Currier

ALPENA — MyMichigan Medical Center Alpena named Dr. Bob Currier the 2025 honorary chair for the annual Aliferis Memorial Race.

The race is hosted by the Business Relations Committee of MyMichigan Health Foundation’s Alpena Development Council. The event, on the morning of Saturday, Aug. 30, includes a 5K run/walk, bike races, and a family-friendly 1-mile run/walk, according to a MyMichigan Health press release.

The bike race is at 8 a.m. A second biking event, the bike tour, will begin at 8:15 a.m. The 1-mile walk/run will start at 9 a.m., followed by the 5K at 9:30 a.m. The awards ceremony will be held at 10:30 a.m.

Proceeds from all events benefit the Aliferis Scholarship Fund, as well as patient enhancement projects and new technology for the Alpena Cancer Center, according to the release.

“Dr. Bob was a natural choice to chair this year’s race. He has always been a leader in advocating for health, wellness and our Medical Center,” MyMichigan Health Foundation Director Ann Diamond said in the release. “He played a crucial role in helping to establish the current Development Council, even acting as its inaugural chair. He continues to generously assist us in our work with both his time and financial support. Dr. Currier is known for having an amazing spark for life, and we’re excited to have his energy and enthusiasm at this year’s race.”

Currier stated in the release that he is excited to be part of this year’s race and to support MyMichigan Medical Center Alpena.

“I believe it’s important to do what we can to make sure everyone has access to the best health care possible right here in Northeast Michigan,” Currier said. “The Aliferis Race has different options for people of all levels of athleticism and I truly encourage everyone to participate. The event is a great excuse to get outside and do something together while supporting the Alpena Cancer Center. It’s a real win-win!”

Currier opened his practice, Northern Eye, in Alpena in 1982, according to the release. Currier is a licensed physician, surgeon, and a Fellow of the Osteopathic College of Ophthalmology and Otorhinolaryngology, which is a medical specialty focused on the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the ear, nose, throat, and related structures of the head and neck.

Since moving to the region, he has been an active member of the community, regularly attending and supporting local events as a sponsor, attendee and supporter.

Currier stated in the release that Northeast Michigan has a “fantastic” and “generous” community. He said that he is looking forward to seeing “a sea of familiar faces” at the race.

“The Aliferis Memorial Race is a great chance for our community to come together and engage in healthy activity while also supporting our local cancer center and its patients,” Currier said in the release. “Consider this your invitation from me, personally, to join us for this year’s race!”

The Aliferis Memorial Race is named in memory of longtime Alpena Pathologist Peter Aliferis, M.D., who earned his medical degree from the University of Michigan and joined the hospital in 1963, serving for many years as the pathologies and laboratory director, according to the MyMichigan Health website.

“He touched the lives of many in our community during his 37-year tenure,” a statement about Aliferis reads. “This race is a celebration of his steadfast dedication to health and wellness.”

According to the release, race headquarters and registration will be located under the tent on the corner of Chisholm Street and Johnson Street, on the campus of MyMichigan Medical Center Alpena.

Event registration fees range from $25 to $30 per person and per event. Registered participants will receive a T-shirt and will have a chance to win prizes during the awards ceremony. Individuals must be present to win.

Those interested in registering may visit www.mymichigan.org/race.

Kayla Wikaryasz can be reached at 989-358-5688 or kwikaryasz@TheAlpenaNews.com.