Rep. Melton offered the following resolution:

House Resolution No. 286.

            A resolution to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Detroit Pistons franchise.

            Whereas, Since the original owner, Mr. Wayne Zollner, moved the Pistons in 1957 from Fort Wayne to Detroit, the Pistons have become a valuable member of the Metro Detroit community and the entire state; and

            Whereas, The Pistons remain one of the oldest and most successful members of the National Basketball Association (NBA).  During this time, the Pistons organization has cultivated a strong network of community support and involvement; and

            Whereas, Losing seasons and relocation has often threatened a franchise, the Pistons organizational resiliency brought them through tough years and ushered in a period of great success.  By the 1980s, the Pistons had become one of the premier teams in the league; and

            Whereas, The emergence of consistently winning teams occurred under the auspices of hard work and tough play.  The era of the "Bad Boys" will always be remembered as a team of hard working individuals prevailing over a new paradigm of basketball superstars.  The Pistons most recent championship, in 2004, continues to exemplify their tough, team-orientated play; and

            Whereas, Amidst the championships of the late 1980s and early 1990s, the team re-energized the community's interest in the organization.  From this success, the Pistons formulated its community relations department in 1989; and

            Whereas, The Pistons 50th anniversary commemorates their success working with the local community.  The numerous youth programs and local charities that the Pistons have allied with have met with great success.  On top of the active development of NBA programs, the Detroit Pistons have taken proactive steps to demonstrate their interest in the local communities.  The Piston's Palace Foundation routinely sponsors local charities and partners to donate Pistons tickets, merchandise, and player participation; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Represenatives, that we commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Detroit Pistons franchise. Today the Pistons continue to stand out in the NBA and in the involvement of outside projects.  The dedication of the Pistons players and staff has exceeded all expectations.  Some players have even ventured to develop their own personel charities for local youths.  Their continued dedication to community and to the positive development of local youth is immeasurable, and be it futher

            Resolved, That the Pistons have set a benchmark of community leadership on and off the court throughout their 50 years in Southeast Michigan.  We use this occasion to honor their work and express our appreciation for their years of service and entertainment.  We give our support and wish them good luck in the rest of the season.