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'Makeover' hits Lincoln

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BY JEFF KORBELIK / Lincoln Journal Star

Friday, Oct 27, 2006 - 09:36:13 pm CDT

The black and tan bus turns off 68th Street onto Platte Avenue and quietly rolls to a stop in front of the small, 1½-story beige house with hunter green trim.

The time is 9:33 Friday morning, and ABC’s Emmy Award-winning reality show “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” officially has arrived to change the lives of Kenneth J. Machacek and Teresa Fullerton.

The bus doors open and out pops “Home Edition’s” handsome host, Ty Pennington, bullhorn in hand, followed by several others, including a smiling Fullerton and her three children.

Story Photo
Ty Pennington of ABC's "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" takes a break between filming on the Havelock set. (Jill Peitzmeier)

Related Media

Where's the house?

6825 Platte Ave. in Lincoln is in the Havelock area of town....

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Related Link(s):


ABC.com's Extreme Makeover Home Edition homepage
Hartland Homes
Special coverage: Extreme Makeover Lincoln Edition

Then it happens ...

What more than 12 million viewers tune in to see each week.

What Fullerton and Machacek have wished for since sending in their application.

And what the 100 or so people gathered at the end of the block have come to hear.

“Good morning, Machacek and Fullerton families!” Pennington shouts.

As soon as he lowers the bullhorn, Machacek and his two children spring from the front door and leap from their porch into the group.

Yes, “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” has arrived in Lincoln.

v v v

Machacek is a foreman for Nebco, Inc., a construction and development company, and Fullerton is a pharmaceutical technician at Walgreen’s.

They’ve been planning to marry — he proposed Friday before the families left on their weeklong vacation to Paris while the house is under construction  —  and create one big family, a la “The Brady Bunch.”

But the one obstacle has been lack of space.

For the past four years, the families have been splitting their time between Machacek’s cramped, two-bedroom house at 6825 Platte Ave., and Fullerton’s tiny apartment at 14th and Superior streets.

Machacek has an 18-year-old daughter, Ericka, and a 14-year-old son, Justin. Fullerton has three children: Brianna, 18; Chelsey, 16; and Tucker, 14.

The couple considered selling Machacek’s house to buy a bigger one, but serious foundation problems made that option unlikely.

“My mom was saying, ‘Won’t you be sad to see the home go?” Machacek’s sister Lori Sailors said. “I told her, ‘No, I won’t.’”

The TV show selected Lincoln-based Hartland Homes to build the new abode. The house is scheduled for demolition at 10 a.m. Sunday. A new home will be finished by Friday.

“This is exciting and kind of scary,” said Duane Hartman, president of the homebuilding company. “We’ve never done something like this before.”

Area businesses and nonprofit corporations also support the project, either financially or with goods and services. The Lincoln Journal Star donated money toward the construction of the house, said publisher John Maher.

v v v

Friends, family, neighbors and curious spectators watch Friday morning as “Home Edition” films scenes for the show.

The popular reality show airs at 7 p.m. Sunday, but there has been no word on when this episode will air.

The crew interviews Machacek and Fullerton outside Machacek’s home, then films Tucker and Justin playing street hockey with “Home Edition” designers Paul DiMeo and John Littlefield.

“I had not cried (about this) until today,” neighbor and friend Kris Young says about the families being picked. “They’ve been waiting so long to see what happens. They are neat people.”

Machacek’s mother, Mary Lou, is excited for them, too.

“This is phenomenal,” she says. “They are very deserving people. (Ken’s) worked so hard. Life is finally giving him a break.”

Nearby, “Home Edition” fans Ashlee Bowman, Hidy Bulau and Amber Steinkamp take in the scene.

They were at Fullerton’s apartment earlier Friday when Pennington picked up her and her family to head to Machacek’s house. The host waved to the young women while he was there.

“Hidy went numb,” Steinkamp laughs.

A while later, 7-year-old Alyssa Penner catches Pennington’s attention. She has a red, long-sleeve Husker shirt for him. He and DiMeo give Alyssa and her father, Greg, a tour of the bus.

“She loved it,” Greg said afterward. “We took pictures with all of them. She watches every Sunday night, and we were thankful for the opportunity to meet them.”

As are Machacek and Fullerton.

Reach Jeff Korbelik at 473-7213 or jkorbelik@journalstar.com.

How the community can help

Volunteer: Information on volunteering on the project can be found here.

To volunteer

Volunteers are sought for the “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” work site Sunday through Nov. 4 for around-the-clock shifts. Duties include helping with check-in of volunteers, parking, catering, construction debris removal, crowd control, landscaping and camera help. Catering shifts are from 4 to 6½ hours long; shifts for other jobs are from 4½ to 9 hours.

Volunteers must fill out registration and release forms; registration forms are at www.hartlandhomes.com/extreme,  or call 477-7427.

Positions will be filled on a first-come, first-serve basis. Volunteers submitting forms online will be notified via email of their date and the shift times.

All on the build site must sign a photo release allowing their picture to be used in the program and in promotions of the show.

To volunteer, you must:

* be at least 18 years old.

* Wear close-toed shoes (no sandals, flip flops or open-backed shoes). 

* leave your cameras, cell phones and personal belongings at home. No still/digital/video cameras are allowed in the house.

* expect to take on some physical work. If you can’t, tell the volunteer coordinator.

There are no guarantees that volunteers will get on site.

To be a spectator

Park in spectator parking lots at the Lancaster Event Center at 84th Street and Havelock Avenue and wait to board the spectator shuttle bus. Spectators do not need any special passes or permits.

Parking

Do not drive directly to the build site.

 Workers and volunteers should park at the Havelock Social Hall, 4538 N. 62nd St. Spectators and media should park at the Lancaster Event Center, 84th Street and Havelock Avenue. Carpooling is encouraged. Shuttle buses will take everyone to the set.


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Good News wrote on October 27, 2006 10:21 am:
" Finally - some great news for Lincoln. This family is very deserving!! "
Kris wrote on October 27, 2006 10:44 am:
" How exciting for them!!! That's awesome. "
DJ wrote on October 27, 2006 10:48 am:
" Thats really nice. I bet the Assessor is really salavating and licking his chops. "
Donations wrote on October 27, 2006 10:54 am:
" WHAT??!!? Did I read this right give them donations to build a home!! Give me a break. "
Hartland wrote on October 27, 2006 10:59 am:
" Hartland Homes should be used to slapping a house together in a week. I hope the show comes back in 5 years to check up on their craftsmanship. "
Elaine wrote on October 27, 2006 11:06 am:
" who would I need to contact to be able to help? "
Secrets wrote on October 27, 2006 11:06 am:
" This is cool. I was wondering if they would ever come here to Nebraska. I am so excited "
Ann wrote on October 27, 2006 11:10 am:
" I realize this about to be a one family that would like a bigger home but I can garantee that there are other families in Lincoln in dire need with disabilities with everyday life struggles that would benefit of a life time opportunity, then a family wanting a bigger home because they are getting married and have kids. Best of luck to the family. "
Bernie wrote on October 27, 2006 11:13 am:
" This is such a great show that helps those that need the most help! I know that Nebraskans will pull together and make this on of the best builds ever for this show! One thing missing from this article is who to contact to volunteer to help on this project. If anyone knows please post it here! "
Marilyn wrote on October 27, 2006 11:24 am:
" Hats off to anyone who volunteers to make someone else's life better. Nice to hear of people who are not selfish. "
AB wrote on October 27, 2006 11:26 am:
" I am very happy for them, they are a great family. After watching this show many times, if I am not mistaken the donations go towards the family not for building the home and in this case odds are they will be used towards college for the children. This is extremely exciting for the families and for Lincoln to have this show come here. "
To Donations wrote on October 27, 2006 11:26 am:
" Yes, you read it right. God forbid the community want to show some solidarity and support for another family. Anyway... congrats and best wishes to the family! "
Why wrote on October 27, 2006 11:37 am:
" It will be interesting to see a 5000 sq foot home in Havelock worth more on paper than homes in the Ridge. Stupid stupid stupid. "
Tom wrote on October 27, 2006 11:40 am:
" We all should be very happy for these two families becoming one. Lets not spoil it by being negative about what is going on. They truly have been blessed and we should be thankful for that. "
Kansas wrote on October 27, 2006 11:49 am:
" It's really hard for some people to be happy that something good is happening to others. I think this is a great effort and Hartland should be proud of what they're doing! God bless!! "
confused wrote on October 27, 2006 11:51 am:
" Ok, so there are a lot of kids involved, but how what other things make them eligible. This happens in a lot of households. "
Girl From Havelock wrote on October 27, 2006 11:54 am:
" Cool this is awsome i live really close to where there gonna do the house! "
Susan wrote on October 27, 2006 12:08 pm:
" I think this is a great effort and Hartland should be proud of what they're doing! God bless!! "
JM wrote on October 27, 2006 12:12 pm:
" Yes, donations. If you had ever watched the show you would know. They take up donations to help the people pay electric bills and water bills and stuff like that. Whoever wrote the donations comments really needs to get a clue of what the show even does for people. "
Lindsey wrote on October 27, 2006 12:36 pm:
" Exciting for them, yes. But could Hartland, Sears and ABC be helping more people in a less ostentatious fashion? Absolutely. Extreme Makeover is pretty shameless in promoting itself, its network and Sears without really doing much other than building extravagant homes in neighborhoods where no one else could afford anything similar. More worthwhile would be a show where separate community efforts are followed and we see big corporate "donors" actually making a differece instead of this drivel. All the money that fills this show can and should be used toward more effective projects. There are people who don't even have a tiny home or apartment to go to on these cold fall nights. Where are Sears and Ty Pennington then??? "
Karen wrote on October 27, 2006 12:43 pm:
" How nice to do for one family. Maybe they will Pay it Forward and do something nice for someone else. "
John wrote on October 27, 2006 12:54 pm:
" Look at the circumstances and age of children. There are much, much more deserving families with sick/dying family members, orphans, war families, etc. These folks need more space? Am I missing something here? I don't understand the reasoning behind this selection??? "
Amy wrote on October 27, 2006 12:56 pm:
" When will this air? And will it make us cry? "
JoAnne wrote on October 27, 2006 12:58 pm:
" I haven't heard anything so far about the real NEED here. There are LOTS of families living in cramped conditions. I am dissapointed that this was the choice. The usual choice is a family with a real medical hardship or a family crisis which makes more sense to me. "
Natasha wrote on October 27, 2006 12:59 pm:
" Where's the story the heart felt story that's going to make everybody cry? "
Wondering? wrote on October 27, 2006 1:02 pm:
" I think what this show does is great, however, aren't there more families with people with special needs that could have used the help? To me, this is just geography! If you want to make it work, you can! Been there done that, we have 7 ages 6 to 18. "
Sara wrote on October 27, 2006 1:04 pm:
" I REALLY hope they don't use Hartland Homes. "
Boooooo Hartland Homes! Hooray Anyone else! wrote on October 27, 2006 1:06 pm:
" Why didn't they go with a quality home builder? The finished product might look nice on the surface, but it will be full of problems long after the TV show is gone. "
PJ wrote on October 27, 2006 1:07 pm:
" I used to live at 6838 Platte Ave and that whole block could use a makeover. "
Be Positive wrote on October 27, 2006 1:07 pm:
" The money is not to build a house, it's sort of a "continuation of benefits" to help the family along. If you watched this wonderful program you would understand that it is about so much more than just giving someone a new house. "
fiddler wrote on October 27, 2006 1:07 pm:
" How is this family any diff't than many other Lincoln families? Many homes in Lincoln are 100 years old with bad foundations and other problems. And at least they own a home, even if it's junky. Maybe the older kids should get a job. I'm disappointed in ABC for picking them, shoulda gone to someone more needy. "
Stephanie wrote on October 27, 2006 1:08 pm:
" Welcome to Lincoln-Ty and the Gang! Wow! What an exciting time for this family! I am so happy for the family to have been blessed with this gift. I want to extend my sincere thanks to everyone in the community helping with this project. "
tn wrote on October 27, 2006 1:12 pm:
" The donations are usually for the family, scholarships, etc. Not to build the home. "
LJC wrote on October 27, 2006 1:15 pm:
" Congrats to the family - Awesome for the community. Kudos to Harland Homes for scoring big. "
I guess i'm not alone wrote on October 27, 2006 1:21 pm:
" i too think they could have picked a more needy family than simply one who wants to become blended and doesn't have the space. The foundation cracking is a problem but heck...pretty much any house that i have lived in has cracks in the foundation (including the one i am renting now!) I figure if you own a home to begin with, you are pretty damn lucky! i have rented my entire life. I really think this should have gone to a more needy family. How about the family last year that the husband died from an infection that he got from a cut or some ridiculous circumstance like that? Now that is sad!! Kudos for them coming here but i just question the selection. "
Alex wrote on October 27, 2006 1:25 pm:
" I grew up in an old farm house not much bigger than this house with 8 other brothers and sisters. This family was choosen just because they wanted more space?!? I don't get it. "
Marv wrote on October 27, 2006 1:26 pm:
" How compasionate does all these comments look. Sounds like sour grapes to me. Maybe we should wait and pass judgement after seeing the show so we can evaluate their story. There maybe some vilidity about being able to help many more people but that should be there choice as it is our choices on how and who we each help. Take a CHILL PILL "
MB wrote on October 27, 2006 1:26 pm:
" maybe they don't share what is wrong until the show airs so people will still watch i think this is great and i would love to help out with it. just wish i knew who to talk to so i can find out "
Gramma wrote on October 27, 2006 1:27 pm:
" I am happy for them family to get a new home, but I also feel the same as some of the other who commented on their situation. With an 18 & 17 year old they will soon be leaving the home. And yes most of the shows families have had some pretty bad hardships, not to many kids from a blended family. I am also glad that the show is coming to Nebraska that is exciting. "
Dan wrote on October 27, 2006 1:28 pm:
" It appears to be nice how ABC's Extreme Makeover rebuilds a bigger better home for the chosen recipients, but don't they create a financial hardship in increased property taxes, possible income taxes, increased insurance premiums and utility and maintenance costs. Do they pay for these ongoing increased expenses? Most of these people seem to have financial problems to begin with, so is this really helping? It would be interesting to follow up with some of these people 1, 2, 3 years down the road. "
Nomination wrote on October 27, 2006 1:31 pm:
" They were taking nominations for people in Lincoln. That is how they got chosen. "
Amber wrote on October 27, 2006 1:33 pm:
" It is interesting that there are so many people out there quick to judge this family. I am certain that you do NOT know all the particulars to why they were chosen, and for good reason. "
Dee wrote on October 27, 2006 1:34 pm:
" I too do not see a real need here for these 2 families.What I love about Extreme Makeover is that they help people that have really had a rough time and need a hand up.They have helped people that inspite of their circumstances have helped others. To me this selection just seems to be a couple that needs to buckle down like the rest of us and look for a bigger home they can afford.If small homes/and not enough room were a hardship, Ty would have a long line of us waiting for that "wake up "call. "
steve-O wrote on October 27, 2006 1:38 pm:
" it amazes me the amount of complainers in Lincoln. ABC,Sears, Ty and the gang and Hartland Homes are doning something good and people still complain. i wonder is it jealousy or are you all that miserable in your own lives. "
Heartland Home owner wrote on October 27, 2006 1:41 pm:
" I am currently living in my second Heartland Home and have never once regreted my choice to build with them. Heartland does respectful work and I think this family will be very happy with their new home. Congratulations to everyone envolved! "
Don't be too quick wrote on October 27, 2006 1:46 pm:
" They can't reveal all of the details of the family in one article. There are reasons this family was chosen, and it's not necessarily living in cramped conditions. And for those who will complain how much it is costing the taxpayer in police, etc. Do us a favor and be thankful you have access to the internet to complain. "
JJ wrote on October 27, 2006 1:46 pm:
" Welcome to Lincoln! Home of all the whiney nothing is ever good enough folks that comment on this page! "
Hello people wake up... wrote on October 27, 2006 1:49 pm:
" It says you have to watch the show to learn why the family was picked!!! The journal star im sure left that part out on purpose to have all of you stuck up lincoln people doing what you do best....complain!!! So shut up for now and watch later why this deserving family was picked! "
Mrs. Husker wrote on October 27, 2006 1:50 pm:
" I think there are a few cases of sour grapes here! Sure, there are more deserving families, but did you nominate one? If you didn't contact them then you cannot complain, maybe this is what they had to work with. I too think that they could've gone with a different builder, but they are donating their time so beggars can't be choosers. At least they'll get nice furniture from Lincoln Mattress (not Sears). "
wow wrote on October 27, 2006 1:52 pm:
" i went to highschool with him, and lived 2 blks down,my house had snakes in the plumbing at 66th and platte it was a rental, It will definately be the nicest in the neighborhood "
Mindy wrote on October 27, 2006 1:53 pm:
" It is very exciting for the families involved and for Nebraska to have some coverage other than football. It will give people in Lincoln something to be proud of and if someone helps one family, maybe some else can come along and help another one. "
Jeremy wrote on October 27, 2006 2:02 pm:
" Please relax people and understand that the article is probably leaving the "real" reason they are awarding this family with a new home. How many times have you watched the show and saw they built a huge house b/c they just simply needed a bigger home? "
Phil wrote on October 27, 2006 2:05 pm:
" I am sure that there are other things about this family that is unknown, and not disclosed yet. When the show airs I think there will be more to the story. It is very disrespectful to say that this family does not deserve this until all the facts are known. In almost every single case you could find someone more needy. So should people never do anything nice, and hold out until they find the neediest person that there is? Most people that would complain about this are the ones that would not do much to help another person out, and just like to complain that things should be better. "
Great Opportunity wrote on October 27, 2006 2:07 pm:
" This is a great opportunity. You can get all the details and sign up to volunteer on the website. "
Nauseated wrote on October 27, 2006 2:25 pm:
" I can't believe some of these comments I'm reading. C'mon people. Here's a show that's trying to do something good for a deserving family. Nothng more, nothing less. Yes, there are lots of deserving families, but hello. Can't choose everyone. And to me, providing a home so that ALL family members can live under one roof, well, that doesn't seem unimportant to me. Very noble goal. Congrats to the family and best wishes! Enjoy the home and each other. "
How Optimistic wrote on October 27, 2006 2:26 pm:
" I just think that a lot of these comments are funny. First of all, ABC is doing something very beneficial for one family. Of course, that isn't good enough for many people. Instead, according to Lindsey, they should be doing way more (along with Sears and Hartland Homes). Give me a break people. No one can ever be satisfied. When I got done reading this article, I'm think "this is really nice to do for some family." Then I scroll down to see that most of the comments posted are negative. Why can't people just accept what the show is doing, since it is for a good cause, and just leave it at that. Second, for all those that are complaining about the family that got chosen, it's partially your fault. ABC didn't just go out and find the home and family. A few months ago, families in Lincoln were asked to write in to see if they could be chosen for the home makeover. If you wanted some other "more deserving" family to get the home makeover, maybe you should have nominated them. "
No Suprise wrote on October 27, 2006 2:28 pm:
" Even when good things happen, people still find a reason to gripe about it. Some of you people must have some self esteem issues to find a reason to complain when something good happends to someone else. Is it your money that is going to help a family? If it isnt then be happy for them or be quiet. "
frustrated wrote on October 27, 2006 2:32 pm:
" Why can't an average family have a stroke of good luck? Be happy for them. This must be the crankiest city in America! Good things happen to regular people too! "
Quit Crying wrote on October 27, 2006 2:43 pm:
" I'm sure in every city the team goes to there are more tragic stories than the one they actually help. However I'm also sure that to even be considered for a makeover you have to either submit your own story or someone else has to send in your story. Don't rain on this family's parade just because you didn't ask for your own makeover. Ty and the gang have been doing this for a few years, they know what they're doing. By the way, I live in a Hartland home and eveything that has been said so far about their houses is true. "
Sunshine wrote on October 27, 2006 2:45 pm:
" I can't even believe the people in this city. I'm sure they have a good reason for picking these families, they're not going to give you the punch line now. I'm sure there are a lot of people who could use a new house. Right now it sound like we live in a city full of whiners. And as for Hartland they built my house, and help lots of low income people build houses. That is why they are the top builder in Lincoln. I am so upset that some people are choosing to complain. Keep up the good work Hartland and ABC! "
jerry C wrote on October 27, 2006 2:50 pm:
" From the comments here you sense that Lincoln is just one big unholy poverty pit. "
Gripe...Gripe wrote on October 27, 2006 3:00 pm:
" Sure there is always someone worse off. But if no one nominated them then how would the show be able to pick them. Maybe next time you should speak up and nominate someone. Instead of complaining after its all said and done "
Noah wrote on October 27, 2006 3:00 pm:
" Why can't we just be happy about other's good fortunes? Suck it up you crybabies, you're just jealous of them!! "
Terry wrote on October 27, 2006 3:08 pm:
" Did anybody stop to think that maybe this family really does deserve this house, and just maybe the show is saving the "heartwarming" part of their story for the show to air on TV? I hope all you judgemental people feel an inch tall when the real story comes out. "
Christian wrote on October 27, 2006 3:12 pm:
" I was proud to say I was a Nebraskan until I read some of these comments. Hartland Homes has been generous to gove back to the community. I'm sure they are donating in this instance too. They are affordable home builders. Who else is catering to the entrant market? I don't make a million dollars a year and can't afford to live in Williamsburg, but I can afford a Hartland Home. Sure it isn't the Ritz, but it can be nice if it is maintained well. Did the other construction companies offer the same? I remember Hartland gave a house over on 84th and Pioneers area to a charity who sold raffle tickets to raise money. Very unselfish of them. And now people are saying these terrible things. Don't judge. If you think someone is deserving of this, then have them apply. To win the lottery you have to buy a ticket, so to win this you need to apply. I'm excited that a family in Lincoln was chosen and that it can bring out the good in people who are involved. It seems like it has brought out the bad in others. Read the Bible. Love One Another. "
HVACMatt wrote on October 27, 2006 3:13 pm:
" First of all, Hartland Homes is AFFORDABLE, not cheap. Most builders make all the bells and whistles standard to jack up the prices. Hartland makes it an option to allow people to purchase a home instead of throwing away their money in a rental. Every house has to be inspected by the city and approved just like any other builders homes. Second, maybe out of all the applications that ABC received, this was the most deserving family. Who knows if we know the whole story. Maybe they want to leave something for when the show airs. They don't drive around the city looking for the worst house. I think people need to do more research before they make judgement on others. "
Dan wrote on October 27, 2006 3:25 pm:
" Welcome to Nebraska Ty. Its to bad that some people read only 12 paragraphs and know all the research that your show has done. It doesn't not look good for our community jumping to conclusions, forming a closed mind opinion and showing there ignorance so profoundly in such a blatant way. Your television show does great work and thank you for choosing Lincoln. "
Jodie wrote on October 27, 2006 3:27 pm:
" I am happy that a home in Havelock was selected, but I was raised in the Havelock area and believe there are a number of familes in the area with a greater need than this individual (he is a single man with two bedroom home!). I would have thought more investigation into the need of the recipient would have been undertaken? "
Shauna wrote on October 27, 2006 3:27 pm:
" I'm so happy for the family and can't wait until they are back in their new home together, finally. To those who are quick to judge, you have no idea what these families have gone through prior to this. They've seen hardship and heartache. Why is it so wrong to have a show that focus's on making the good things in their life better, like being in love and being a family together? You don't know them, I do, they deserve this, maybe not more then other families but they do deserve it and you have no right to get down on them for it. Thanks to all who excited and happy for them. "
AA wrote on October 27, 2006 3:29 pm:
" There is a pretty extensive application process families must go through to be selected on the show. Yes, there may be more deserving families in Lincoln, but these more deserving families did not apply to be on the show. Stop complaining people and be excited for the family! I would love to see the end product and it may be great for the Havelock area! "
I should have nominated someone wrote on October 27, 2006 3:33 pm:
" Though this Brady Bunch Family might have a tight squeeze, it seems to me there are many more deserving families in Nebraska...but like most of us who would have rather of seen a family with a true economic hardship selected, I should have nominated someone with a greater need. "
concerned citizen wrote on October 27, 2006 3:37 pm:
" I watch Extreme Makeover every Sunday night. And I cry at the end of every show. I do not forsee any tears with this epidsode. I cannot believe they chose a family who is crowded. There are sooooo many otber people in our town that could have used the help much more. I am very sad for the families who could have genuinely used their help. "
Lets all get along wrote on October 27, 2006 3:39 pm:
" Boo Hoo, so someone got on Extreme Homemake Over and you did not. Grow up, why not pick on the Red Cross, the People's City Mission, United Way, or anyone that helps anyone. Be thankful for all the caring people in the world, so what if they don't do what you want, at least they are trying. "
Realist wrote on October 27, 2006 3:44 pm:
" Get over yourselves you complainers. Nothing like Jealousy to bring the pompous forward. How many of you nominated someone in need for the show? How many of you spent more time writing your complaint than you did volunteering to help the needy in Lincoln in the past year? I don't know these people who won, but let them have their day. No matter who ABC picked, you wouldn't have been happy. Perhaps you would prefer that ABC spend their time and money somewhere else. At least we know you won't be watching the show when it airs. "
SAD wrote on October 27, 2006 3:58 pm:
" Why is it that no matter what happens in this world there is always the negative people who have to pull everyone else down. This show is about community and helping one another. I would like to believe that is what america is all about, the freedom to help and do what you can for each other. I have children and they are excited and proud that this is going to happen here. I am grateful for the opportunity for them to see what giving back is all about. Thank you Hartland Homes. I love my beautiful quality Home. You understand what the working person is all about and I appreciate you. "
THIS IS AWESOME wrote on October 27, 2006 4:06 pm:
" I think this concept is great! Let's all try to help that neighbor down the street who needs a little boost. If each of us could give even a fraction of the money, time and efforts to help wouldn't this world be an even better place. "
Good Idea wrote on October 27, 2006 4:14 pm:
" My co-worker had a great idea. They need to let the person across the street move into the house they are about to demolish. The house across the street is grave condition much worse than the one they are doing. This would help two families. "
Alison wrote on October 27, 2006 4:17 pm:
" People, get over yourselves. Are they the absolute neediest family in town? Probably not. But they have a need and someone is stepping up and helping them out. If you're concerned about needier families, perhaps you might consider volunteering for the eternally short-staffed local Habitat for Humanity rather than wasting your time posting to websites. "
patty wrote on October 27, 2006 4:21 pm:
" i am happy that they get to come to nebraska for a change its not always about the need n sick it can be about other things to this show is about ppl who need a makeover on a home n if u have a problem wit why they choose this particular house or any of problem then ignore it i am grateful just let them do their thing n be happy that they enjoy wat they do "
don't judge wrote on October 27, 2006 4:42 pm:
" i'm sure we don't know the whole story. let's just be happy for the folks and pitch in. there is a reason this family was chosen from the likely thousands of applications. We may get more of the story later or we may not. Stop boo hooing and just help! "
Jeff wrote on October 27, 2006 4:53 pm:
" I'm glad for the families, BUT THe TV crew blocked our parking lot for an hour and were very rude to me as I was trying to leave for work. "
huskrjunkey wrote on October 27, 2006 4:58 pm:
" this is so exciting i can't believe they're actually here, this is my favorite tv show. I do agree though, they could've picked a family with more hardship then just cramped space. oh well at least they're here.* "
A good thing wrote on October 27, 2006 5:06 pm:
" I can't believe some of you are so bitter and picky. They are doing a good thing for someone and you want to critisize them. I'm sure there are families across Lincoln that are as deserving or more deserving, but they can't help everyone. Hopefully this will inspire others in the community to help a hand to others in need. "
Christopher Walken wrote on October 27, 2006 5:11 pm:
" You people are outrageous! Who made you supreme commander over whether who deserves a home makeover or not??? Did you think the same when the eight lottery winners were announced? Or, are you just bitter that you don't get a new kitchen? Be happy for someone who gets a chance to improve their life and not be so condescending. Welcome to Nebraska. Home of the greatest fans. "
Why Them? wrote on October 27, 2006 5:14 pm:
" Yes their story is interesting but there are more needy families in this community and surrounding. Why, are people acting like this is such a huge deal. Come on spectator parking and shuttles give me a break. "
Giggles wrote on October 27, 2006 5:45 pm:
" I agree with Lindsey - I'm glad and excited that Lincoln, NE was chosen, but where is the real need for this family? The homes built on this show are so ostentatious with flat screen TVs in every room, two stoves and refrigerators in every kitchen and swimming pools in almost every back yard! These homes are so extravagant compared to anything else in the surrounding neighborhoods. Sure - donate the cost of the house, but how does the family afford the taxes afterward - if they couldn't even afford to fix up crumbling basement walls with new cinder block? What does that do to the property value and taxes for their neighbors? I love watching the show and feel it is a worthwhile cause, when given to a family who has suffered a terrible loss due to nature or health. But couldn't so many more be helped if the homes being built were more comparable in size and cost to those in their surrounding neighborhoods? The real problem is - that wouldn't be the "Extreme" reality neede to keep people watching week after week. "
Sean wrote on October 27, 2006 6:36 pm:
" What a joke! "
Inspector wrote on October 27, 2006 6:55 pm:
" I was wondering how they will get all those permits and inspections in a week! Those impact fees will be great too! I hope the just don't let it go. Cause big money is in town! Taxes will be great too! "
Angela wrote on October 27, 2006 7:08 pm:
" I am ashamed of all of the people who had the guts to write this site and complain that these people didn't sound needy enough. It is very sad that this is the type of support you have to offer a fellow Lincoln residents. It is important to treat people with dignity and respect. Give them this. If you don't know them personally, then don't judge. Congratulations to this family!!! Your house will be beautiful and I am proud that Lincoln was considered for this show! "
Humbug wrote on October 27, 2006 7:20 pm:
" Who cares. There are probaly people far more in need than these two. "
JD wrote on October 27, 2006 7:48 pm:
" You know,the people who are talking about families in real need are right. I am just happy to have a roof let alone enough space. There are homeless families who would take their old house in a heart beat and many of the homes in Havelock are a shambles. This house will look pretty silly next to their neghbors. I have worked with the needy for over 20 years and this seems ridiculus. Especially the vacation in Paris. Use the money to help more families than this. And get the Extremely Wealthy involved! I won't be crying about this one. "
Lee wrote on October 27, 2006 7:51 pm:
" Very excited for these people. I'm excited for anyone who has such a great happening. I'm sad too that Heartlands is the builder. Hopefully they get one right! "
Jordyn wrote on October 27, 2006 8:06 pm:
" We live in a Hartland Home and haven't had a problem any worse than anybody else has had with other builder. "
Mandy Yaunk wrote on October 27, 2006 8:32 pm:
" Hey just wanted to send Teresa and Kenneth a Congratulations on the extreme makeover. From the Yaunk's in Arizona, California and the ones who are still left here in Lincoln,NE... "
Debra wrote on October 27, 2006 8:42 pm:
" For those of you proclaiming this family as undeserving, perhaps you should save your judgment until the show airs. The green monster is ugly indeed. Just be happy for them and cross your fingers that they will be able to afford the taxes. "
Tom wrote on October 27, 2006 8:47 pm:
" It's a sad statement of our community when the majority of people commenting below can only criticize this wonderful event. Jealousy obviously runs deep! This is a very positive event for Ken and Teresa, as well as for the Lincoln community and Nebraska. Who gives a flying heep if some think they aren't the "most-deserving" family to win? I would bet the "most-deserving" families didn't even apply. Ken and Teresa followed the rules (gee, what a novel concept) and have been rewarded. I couldn't be happier for them! "
Come on... wrote on October 27, 2006 9:35 pm:
" Why so much negativity? Can't you just be happy for this family? Maybe we haven't heard the whole story yet AND they did take the time and go through the process to put in an application. I'm sure there ARE more needy families out there, but if you knew of one, why didn't YOU send in an application for them? Why don't we all just wait and see the show before we start judging anyone. Welcome to Huskerville Ty! "
Christy wrote on October 27, 2006 10:08 pm:
" My, aren't we judgemental people, why don't we wait and hear the whole story before we decide whether they are deserving people. Do you really think ABC is going to give away the whole plot before it airs on TV? "
Sarah wrote on October 27, 2006 10:17 pm:
" It's sad to see all of the jealous people with their "they don't deserve it" comments. Just put someone else before yourself, and be happy for them. They'll finally be able to be a family. "
Andy wrote on October 27, 2006 10:17 pm:
" How exciting to have Ty in Nebraska! But isn't this going to give Nebraska a bad name if the only reason they came here is because the family WANTS to merge into bigger living quarters?? Doesn't most of American families have that problem at some time? I'll be very disappointed if that's the only reason they are getting a makeover. If he works construction & she's a pharmaceutical tech, shouldn't they make enough to buy a bigger home themselves? I know of single parents with two or three kids working at grocery stores or Walmart & I don't see them getting on here. I live outside of Lincoln & a families home here burnt to the ground & they lost 2 of their 3 children in the fire & they didn't get chosen for this. That's pretty pathetic ABC. I guess by living in a smaller town we can't be chosen for things of this prestige. "
cc wrote on October 27, 2006 10:32 pm:
" I'm a little more than shocked at the fact that this seemingly average family was chosen. I know of another family in Nebraska that had put in an application and they have actual medical issues that they have had to overcome.I would have liked the show that finally came to this area to have been focused around a more deserving family. Getting donations may not be as easy as they think, who wants to give alot to a family where at least 4 of the family members are healthy and capable of working. "
Makeover Fan wrote on October 27, 2006 10:36 pm:
" Am excited for Lincoln....but very disappointed in the choice of the makeover. How many people out there need more room and have a bad foundation?? Give me a break. "
Dawn wrote on October 27, 2006 10:40 pm:
" I am a special ed. teacher. A former student of mine, who is extremely physically handicapped, has a mother who has been selling homemade pies out of her hair salon to raise money to build him an accessible home on a lot that was donated to them. They have submitted video to ABC but were apparently passed over for this family. Ty- WHERE ARE YOU?! "
Rebecca wrote on October 27, 2006 10:45 pm:
" I can see that I am not the only one who thinks this is a croc! I am a loyal fan of the show or at least I was. I thought I was the only one who felt this way but I see I am not. Hartland Homes is not the way to go in my opinion too! If I were Ty, I would be so embarrassed to do this home. I thought the show was based on the people in need. Is there more to the story or did I miss that? I think that you should be helping more military folks that are losing their loved ones in Iraq! Now there is a need. What a waste. "
No good deed goes unpunished wrote on October 27, 2006 10:47 pm:
" Good lord, people. Read all the negative comments on this site. You ought to be ashamed of yourselves. No one--no one--is being hurt or made worse off here. Why all the hate? It's embarrassing to think that people come here to Lincoln to do an act of charity like this, and this is the reaction. I get the fact that the show can be kind of schmaltzy--fine. But for goodness sake, could you all be a little *more* cynical? Bad-mouthing the show, bad-mouthing the builder, bad-mouthing Sears, bad-mouthing ABC, bad-mouthing the family (as undeserving). . . what a bunch of creeps you are. And I hope that they don't edit this. Shame on all of you. "
Alan wrote on October 27, 2006 10:57 pm:
" Paris for a vacation? Is ABC paying for that? God I hope that is something that goes a long with the TV show. If not I don't think that makes them look too good if they are in need of a new home so bad and they are going to Paris. I bet the TV show had something to do with that vacation. I hope so anyway. "
arrgghh wrote on October 27, 2006 11:18 pm:
" For those of you who say there are more deserving families out there, maybe someone should have nominated them for the show. Cant complain if you didnt nominate. Good for this family, maybe not the most "deserving" as some of you say, but still good. Be happy for someone else and quit complaining! "
Jennifer wrote on October 27, 2006 11:25 pm:
" My neighbor applied to this show. She has six children, aged 2-13, and was widowed almost a year ago. They live in a three bedroom and one bath home. On top of it, her oldest has been in a wheel chair all of his life. They should be building a home for a family like this and am sorry to see that they were overlooked by the producers. "
Angie wrote on October 27, 2006 11:29 pm:
" I have to agree with others comments as far as the two 18yr olds living in the house, if they are cramped that much then the two older children can live in the apartment by themselves. It's great that Extreme Home Makeover came to Nebraska however there are families with worse problems than this one! For instance we have been trying to get them to do a makeover on my In-Laws home for several years now, only because they live in a very old home that has lots of conditions that arn't safe, Its not my mother in law and father in law that we are concerned about you see my sister in law who just turned 20 also lives there, she has very serious medical problems and requires nurses with her round the clock, the house is a big old 2 story house and my sister in-law is confined to the main level becasue she cant get up the stairs, she is in a wheelchair and cannot walk anymore, it just would be so great if they would do a makeover on a family such as my In-laws, somene who really would apreciate it and make a difference in there life, Not saying that the family from Lincoln dont deserve it but its families like mine that could really use the help, after all we are talking about a handicaped person here that is confined to living in 3 room and cannot enjoy the whole house, how fair is that? Its not!! Maybe the next home that they makeover a house it will be for a family that really needs it. "
Welcome Home wrote on October 27, 2006 11:46 pm:
" How do you get to help welcome home the family do you just show up that day do you have sign up or what "
unnamed wrote on October 27, 2006 11:47 pm:
" finaly something happens in lincoln nothing ever happens here it stinks so thank u to the hole extreame homemakover team this is big and i live really close so i can walk over and see the progress its awsome "
Truth Be Told wrote on October 28, 2006 12:10 am:
" Gongrats to the lucky family and a big thank you to Ty and the gang. It's too bad that none of you stepped up to the plate and nominated the people you thought were more deserving. So they chose from the list they had and these people won! I am happy for them and will be excited to see how it turns out. Too bad it will be a Heartland Home though! "

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