2025 Sunrise Pinnacle Awards Program by RRC-MI

2025 SUNRISE

PINNACLE AWARDS

Welcome

Maggie Bobitz, RRC President

Special News

Greg Johnson, RRC Board Vice Chair

Awards Ceremony

David Walker

BUSINESS AWARDS

Business of the Year

Business Woman of the Year

Technology

Entrepreneur of the Year

CHAMBER AWARDS

Ambassador of the Year

Leadership Greater Rochester

Young Professional of the Year

Board Member of the Year

COMMUNITY AWARDS

Community Hero

Community Collaboration

First Responder of the Year

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Closing Remarks from David Walker

The Sunrise Pinnacle Awards Ceremony, organized each year by the Rochester Regional Chamber of Commerce, and sponsored by PNC Bank, is an opportunity for the greater Rochester communities to honor the accomplishments and contributions of our region’s most visionary leaders, entrepreneurs, nonprofit organizations, and businesses.

Special Thanks

PRESENTING PARTNER

AWARDS SPONSORS

Bellbrook • Chief Financial Credit Union • ENDO USA

First State Bank • Genisys Credit Union • Mattina, Kent & Gibbons, P.C. Oakland University • Pixley Funeral Home

7 South Technology Consulting • The Crawford Insurance Group

ADDITIONAL THANKS

RRC Ambassador Group Volunteers

Emcee David Walker • Highest Honor • Oui Pastry

Rochester Hills Banquet Center

Business of the Year Award

Presented to a company with great presence in the community, that has shown remarkable corporate culture that exemplifies excellent citizenship.

Congratulations Serra Ford Buick GMC

Serra Ford Rochester Hills and Serra Buick GMC Rochester Hills are proud to be named the 2025 Sunrise Pinnacle Business of the Year by the Rochester Regional Chamber of Commerce. This recognition highlights the dedication of our employees, whose pursuit of excellence drives our success. Since our founding, we’ve prioritized community and trust—values that continue to shape our customer relationships and business growth.

NETWORK WITH US!

Morning, afternoon, or evening - our monthly networking events are free with membership!

And we have so many more opportunities!

From ribbon cuttings, to annual signature events with key community leaders, to exclusive networking groups - You’ll find many opportunities with the Chamber. View upcoming events on our Calendar at rrc-mi.com

Business Woman of the Year Award sponsored by

Presented to an individual who supports women empowerment or has achieved professional recognition through contributions in her industry.

Congratulations Lisa Bidinger

The Flavor Lab

Lisa, owner of Flavor Lab, purchased the catering business in 2016 and managed it alongside a full-time job for six years. After being laid off in November 2022, she committed fully to growing the business. This decision led to the opening of a second location, which now includes an incubator kitchen supporting 25 small food businesses. Flavor Lab provides commercial kitchen space, mentorship, and resources to help food entrepreneurs launch and grow. Receiving the 2025 Sunrise Pinnacle Business Woman of the Year Award affirms Lisa’s dedication to empowering small businesses and strengthening the local food community.

This award recognizes outstanding technology companies or visionary individuals who demonstrate innovation, leadership, and impact through advancements in technology, digital transformation, or community-focused tech initiatives that elevate the region and inspire progress across the sector.

Congratulations

The Phone Guy

Ron Norkiewicz

In business for 25 years, The Phone Guy is active member of the Chamber of Commerce. Owner, Ron Norkiewicz regularly participates in committees and events, supporting businesses of all sizes—from large operations to single-person offices.

The Phone Guy specializes in low-voltage wiring for business locations, including telephones, computers, speakers, and cameras. Their services cover both legacy telephone systems and the latest VOIP technology. Additionally, we help clients reduce costs on phone and internet services by working with a variety of carriers. Free consultations are always available to assess your communication needs and provide tailored solutions.

Award sponsored by

Presented to a sole proprietor who identifies a need and creates a business to help the community.

Congratulations Mitch Freem

Dime Store

Dime Store has been a staple in Downtown Detroit for over a decade, originally founded by three friends with a unique vision for brunch. In 2024, the business expanded to a second location in Rochester Hills. Despite challenges—including a reemerging downtown, the COVID-19 pandemic, economic shifts, and rising food costs—Dime Store has continued to grow and thrive. Today, it proudly serves over 100,000 guests annually, offering creative, non-traditional brunch dishes that have become a local favorite.

CHAMBER AWARDS

Ambassador of the Year Award sponsored by

Presented to an Ambassador with an active commitment of supporting the Chamber mission.

Congratulations Melissa Crotty

Flagstar Bank

MelissaCrottyhasproudlyservedtheRochestercommunityforthepast13 yearsthroughherroleatFlagstarBank.Herworkgoesbeyondtraditional banking,reflectingFlagstar’scorevaluesofrelationship-building,local businesssupport,andcommunityinvestment—valuesthatcloselyalignwith herown.Herdeepcommitmenttocommunityengagementmadebecominga Chamberambassadoranaturalextensionofherwork.

Leadership Greater Rochester Graduate Award sponsored by

Honors a graduate of the RRC Leadership program. Recipient displays active leadership and has a strong community influence.

Congratulations

Jamie Tallis

Flagstar Bank

Jamie has been with Flagstar Bank for six years, including two years as Assistant Branch Leader at the downtown Rochester branch. Her role gave her the opportunity to build stronger connections within the company and engage more deeply with the Rochester community. This led her to join the Leadership Greater Rochester program, where she was able to collaborate and exchange ideas with key community leaders. Jamie’s class project was a video where she filmed past and present community leaders about the Greater Rochester Leadership Program.

ROCHESTER REGIONAL CHAMBER FOUNDATION

GREATER ROCHESTER

The RRC Foundation would like to thank ENDO USA, Inc for sponsoring the Leadership Greater Rochester Program

Young Professional of the Year Award sponsored by

Presented to an individual who displays outstanding achievement and commitment in the community.

Congratulations

Marina Burkhardt

Capital Lending

Marina began working at Capital Lending, her family-owned and operated mortgage company, right out of high school. Founded in 2010, Capital Lending has always emphasized the importance of community involvement and relationship-building—values that Marina embraced from the start. In 2025, Marina served as Chair of the Rochester Regional Chamber’s Young Professionals, further demonstrating her leadership and dedication to empowering the next generation of business leaders.

Board Member of the Year Award sponsored by

Presented to a board member of the Rochester Regional Chamber of Commerce in honor of their years of past service.

Congratulations Brian McCurdy

Priority Wealth Partners

With Brian’s 13 years of experience in the financial industry, he began his career with a clear goal: to provide personalized financial solutions that empower clients to reach their goals. His success has been driven by a strong commitment to excellence, integrity, and a clientfirst approach. Brian’s attention to detail and willingness to step in wherever needed make him an invaluable member of the Foundation Board. His reliability and collaborative spirit contribute meaningfully to the board’s mission and impact.

COMMUNITY AWARDS

Community Hero Award sponsored by

Presented to an individual who, through their generosity, has positively impacted the community or culture of the greater Rochester area.

Congratulations Genisys Credit Union

This award reflects the core philosophy of Genisys Credit Union::people helping people. As a not-for-profit financial institution, our mission has always been to serve our members and strengthen the communities we call home.

Genisys has maintained a strong presence in the Greater Rochester area for years—not only through financial services, but through active community involvement. Our team members volunteer thousands of hours annually, and we proudly sponsor a wide range of local events that contribute to making Rochester a vibrant and thriving place to live and work.

Nursing student Najae’ Ratcliff wanted compassion at the core of her career, and found that curriculum and community in Oakland University’s School of Nursing. From a young age, she’s been determined to become a labor and delivery nurse – a goal she passionately pursues. In the final stages before graduation, her education has transformed this passion into her eventual profession and has built confidence and knowledge to thrive in her career.

Presented to an individual or organization making an impact within the community through a creative strategic partnership with another organization.

Congratulations

Rochester Hills Banquet Center

The Rochester Hills Banquet Center is a true testament to perseverance, passion, and excellence. Opening during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic presented immense challenges, but under excellent leadership, the business not only survived—it thrived.

The Rochester Hills Banquet Center’s unwavering commitment to quality food, exceptional service, and customer satisfaction continues to fuel its growth.

Community Collaboration Award sponsored by

Presented to a sole proprietor who identifies a need and creates a business to help.

Congratulations

Mindy Milos- Dale

In 1999, MindyIwas hired as Director of Oakland Township Parks and Recreation, bringing business management and land planning expertise to the role. Over 25 years, and with support from the Board of Trustees, staff, and community partners, we built a visionary parks system. Key achievements include tripling the number of parks, protecting 1,000 acres of natural areas, securing $12 million in state grants, launching recreation facilities and programs, and establishing beloved events like Music in the Meadows, Goodison Good Tyme, and the Winter Carnival. I retired from the position in 2024, proud of the legacy we created together.

First Responder of the Year Award sponsored by

Presented to honor a First Responder who models heroic action or a professional achievement.

Congratulations

Office r Amy Drehmer

Rochester Police Department

For the past 18 years, Officer Drehmer has served as a dedicated School Resource Officer for the Rochester Community Schools district. She is a trusted mentor, role model, and pillar of the school community. Her approachable nature, empathy, and willingness to listen have made her instrumental in promoting student well-being and a positive school climate. Officer Drehmer exemplifies what it means to serve with heart and purpose, and students view her not just as an authority figure, but as a trusted friend and advocate.

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT sponsored by

Stuart Bikson

Mayor Pro Tem, Rochester City Council

Stuart has dedicated his career to public service—first as a special education teacher and varsity tennis coach at Waterford Mott High School for 30 years, and for the past 26 years as a Rochester City Council member. He’s served eight consecutive terms, including 10 years as Mayor and 6 as Mayor Pro Tem. With degrees in Economics, Business, and Education, he’s applied his skills to strengthen Rochester through leadership roles on the OPC Board, RARA, Planning Commission, DDA, and more. Stuart and his wife Maria are proud long-term residents committed to making Rochester a great place to live.

RRC Board of Directors

Tim Crawford, Past Chair 2024, President of The Crawford Insurance Group

Angela DelPup, President, Director of Business Operations Henry Ford Health

Greg Johnson, Vice Chair, Owner of 7 South Technology Consulting

Pamela Valentik, Treasurer, Manager of Economic Development, City of Rochester Hills

Sean Rewold, Secretary, Frank Rewold & Sons

Renee Cortright, OPC Social & Activity Center

Melissa Crotty, Flagstar Bank

Bob DiTommaso, Robert DiTommaso Photography LLC

Brad Lambert, Lambert Law

Julie Lobaza, Rochester Wealth Strategies

Juliane Morian, Rochester Hills Public Library

John Patrico, Mattina, Kent & Gibbons, P.C.

Ravinder Saini, Tim Hortons Bake Shop & Cafe

Mike Westfall, Oakland University

Ashley Würm, ENDO USA

The Rochester Regional Chamber Foundation is a 501(c) (3)organization established to provide leadership and resources in order to advance development.

Donations to the RRC Foundation will contribute directly to programming and services that foster leadership, workforce development and community involvement.