Dana and I are truly honored to be the Honorary Chairs of this year’s MyMichigan Health Aliferis Memorial Race. We have been participating in the event for the past eight years, and every year, it keeps getting better. Both of us have lived in Alpena almost our entire lives and we feel so lucky to live in such a beautiful area that offers so much and to be part of an amazing community. From kayaking and paddle boarding to hiking, biking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing, we absolutely love living in Alpena and we keep finding more and more outdoor activities that we enjoy every year. The Aliferis Memorial Race is beneficial to our entire community. The event raises funds to support patients in our region, and it helps raise awareness about the benefits of healthy lifestyles.

Abundant research has shown that healthy lifestyles can help to protect us against serious, often disabling health problems. If we strive to live healthy so that we can live a long, healthy life, we have a greater chance of long-term success. One of the greatest things about the Aliferis Memorial Event is that it combines multiple activities that allow people of varying abilities to participate. From a half-marathon to a 5K and 1K run/walk, as well as a bike race and bike tour, the event is about so much more than just the competition. The annual race brings people together to participate in an event that helps raise dollars that stay local and encourage healthy lifestyles; all to honor the memory of Dr. Aliferis who was an amazing man that did so much for our community. We are so thankful to be part of the 24th annual Aliferis Memorial Race and we encourage everyone to come out and participate on Aug. 31.

STEVE HAND,

Alpena