It’s personally such a thrill to work so closely with the Pistons. I grew up cheering for Detroit greats such as Bob Lanier, Kelly Tripucka, Isiah, Bill, Vinnie, Rick (and all the Bad Boys, for that matter). Today it is an honor and an amazing opportunity to be working alongside the players and organization. It’s a dream come true, and gets better every day.

I’ve often been asked, “Why does Rock sponsor the Pistons?”

Well, for one, the Detroit Pistons are hands down a world class organization dedicated to service. Rock Financial shares the Pistons’ belief in community building and outreach. I truly believe that by partnering together, Rock Financial and the Pistons can create a greater overall awareness for each of our organizations. The bottom line for us both is to create the best possible experience for the fans in attending a Pistons game.

It’s that simple.

I’m also asked, “What is the best part of the relationship between Rock Financial and the Pistons?”

For me, one of the most gratifying aspects of the partnership is the ability to provide a greater experience for the fans; especially the kids. I love seeing the kids' faces when we give them hot dogs and Cokes, and then they get to meet the Pistons players face to face. There is something special about hot dogs, pop, and real live Pistons players that puts a smile on a kid’s face!

We try our best to reach out to help kids, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds. Last year we gave out over 3,000 tickets to area non-profits and children who might not otherwise have had the opportunity to attend a game. We also extend ourselves to support youth groups engaged in community service.

As Pistons fans already know, there is something almost magical about being at a live game. The stadium, the noise, the lights, the players…they are the things that inspire young people to dream and think about realizing their own potential. I like to think that Rock Financial does its part to help these kids. Just ask any of our “Honorary Team Captains” or the hundreds of kids we’ve sponsored who have been part of the pre-game and in-game festivities.

Our dedication to the community extends off of the court and outside of the arena. Rock promotes youth literacy through the NBA Read to Achieve program by offering scholarships to area high school students through the Pistons Foundation. We also provide financial help through the Rock Financial/Detroit Pistons "Know Your Local Black History" tour. Look for that coming up in the next few weeks as we welcome Black History Month in February 2007.

The partnership is not always just about the kids, though. Rock Financial brightened the day of some folks last season by giving away free gas pumped by the Pistons, Hooper, and Automotion. We helped to bring a few smiles to fans’ faces when gas was topping $3 per gallon. And Tom Wilson and I have been in the Pistons parking lot, providing free parking for select cars, courtesy of Rock.

I have to say that another one of the things I love most about the Pistons is their understanding and dedication to clients. They get it, and share our values in client care. At Rock Financial, we function daily keeping in mind the philosophy of: “Every client. Every time. No exceptions. No excuses.” It’s one of the reasons why Deee-troit basketball fans are the greatest in the world.

Whether it's basketball, selling mortgages, or any other business – if you take care of the client, by making them feel valued and giving them a great experience, they’ll always be there to support you. There is nothing more important than taking care of our clients at Rock Financial. It’s part of our work ethic, our philosophy and our culture. Check out our blog, www.whatsthediff.com to get an idea of the things we find important. Our blog is all about the ideas and the people we think make a difference in life and in the world. I encourage you to leave a comment and let us know what you think.

What’s in store for this season and beyond?

You will have to wait and see. The rest of the 2007 Pistons season is going to be tremendous and full of surprises. We have plans to give away more free tickets, more prizes, more giveaways and more trips! And you never know…the weather has been so mild, you just might meet me at the gate and I’ll pay for your parking or invite up to our suite. It’s happened before.

I encourage you to come out to support the team. But also, I encourage you to experience all the great things we have going on exclusively for the fans. The Pistons and Rock Financial partnership is working hard to promise the best Pistons season ever in 2007.

See you at the game!