AUBURN HILLS, Mich. – The Detroit Pistons and American Red Cross - Southeastern Michigan Chapter will honor 36-year old Paul Salamy of Fraser with The Detroit Pistons and American Red Cross Michigan Heroes Award. On February 14, Salamy will be recognized on The Palace court at halftime of the Pistons’ 7:30 p.m. game against the San Antonio Spurs. Jerry Huey of the American Red Cross - Southeastern Michigan Chapter and a Pistons player will honor Salamy with a Michigan Heroes medal at center court for recognizing the need for mentors and doing everything he can to address the issue.

Salamy, 36, has been a mentor to four boys over the last six years. He has taken them under his wing and shown them much needed love and affection, and how to be good law abiding citizens. Salamy has helped them get good grades, stay in school and not give in to peer pressure. His efforts have garnered him the distinction of WCSX-FM (94.7) naming him one of its Unsung Heroes of 2006. According to a recent study by Kahle Research Solutions, Inc. the majority of 4,000 children in Michigan waiting for mentors are boys. Salamy says he couldn’t turn away anyone if they needed him.

In its third year, the Detroit Pistons and American Red Cross Michigan Heroes Program encourages fans to nominate a person or group from their local community who has gone above and beyond the call of duty and recognize their accomplishments at a Pistons home game during the 2006-2007 season.

To nominate a hero, who can come from any walk of life, fans only need to complete an on-line nomination form at www.pistons.com, or send name(s), address, phone number and name of school or organization to:

“Detroit Pistons and American Red Cross Michigan Heroes” The Palace of Auburn Hills -- Five Championship Drive -- Auburn Hills, MI 48326

All nominators will be entered for the chance to win an autographed 8x10 Pistons starter photo.

Only one entry per person per email address per household will be accepted. Please see www.pistons.com for a complete list of rules/regulations and additional information. For more information on the Pistons Honor Michigan Heroes program or to purchase tickets for any upcoming home game, please contact The Palace at (248) 377-0100 or visit www.pistons.com.