“EXTREME MAKEOVER: HOME EDITION” SURPRISES THE FRIDAY FAMILY IN LINCOLNTON, NC

Yesterday, December 11, “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” traveled to Lincolnton, North Carolina to surprise the Friday Family with the door knock that changes lives.

A nine-year veteran of the police dept and foster mother to over 30 children, Devonda and her husband, James Friday, didn’t think twice when they received a call to provide temporary care to a boy who was being transferred to a group home. They had no idea, though, that this call would change their lives. The teenage boy showed Devonda and James a video of his siblings and begged them to help keep the five of them together. Before they knew it, Devonda and James were making room for the five youngsters to join their own two children. The adoption was final this spring, so now their house needs a makeover so they can have a new home they’ll all fit in — in time to celebrate their first official Christmas as a new family!

About the Friday Family

In her career as a police officer, Devonda had repeatedly seen kids being mistreated. She had her “aha” moment when, on a call, she saw a little girl bleeding from her cheek, and knew she had to do something to help the children of her community. She immediately called her husband, and they decided to become foster parents to give kids like that little girl a fighting chance at a better life in a loving home. In 2005 Devonda was viciously attacked, and it took her a year to heal physically, but other doors opened for her. She switched careers, got a degree, and over the years she and James fostered dozens of children, as well as raised their own biological child and adopted another youngster.

In May 2010, they met Chris, the oldest of five siblings separated in the foster care system. The first night they met, Chris showed the Fridays a video that social services had created of the younger siblings to encourage their placement. This was a life-changing moment for the Fridays, and they began their journey to adopt all five children. Initially their request was turned down because their modest ranch home didn’t have enough room, so the Fridays converted their carport into two makeshift bedrooms and sold their van to offset expenses. Ultimately they were approved to adopt in April 2011. Now the “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” crew will help make their home even more of a haven for this blended family. The Friday family will be whisked away on a dream vacation to Jamaica while “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” team leader Ty Pennington, designers Michael Moloney, Jillian Harris, Ed Sanders and Paige Hemmis, along with local builder Bellamy Homes and community volunteers, build the structure.

The build location is 105 Moore Street, Lincolnton, North Carolina.

“EM:HE” is produced by Endemol USA, of Endemol Holding, and executive-produced by Brady Connell & George Verschoor. David Goldberg is Chairman, Endemol North America.

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EXTREME MAKEOVER: HOME EDITION – Johnson-Goslee Family, Pt. 1 (December 9, 2011)

For the First Time, a Family Member Stays Behind to Build with the “EM:HE” Team

“Johnson-Goslee Family,” Parts 1 & 2 — “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” travels to Mardela Springs, Maryland to surprise the Johnson-Goslee family with the door knock that can change lives, on an episode airing FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9 (8:00-9:00 and 9:00-10:00 p.m., ET) on ABC.

A 16-year-old who inspires all who know him, Wyzhir Johnson-Goslee is smart and charismatic, and dreams of becoming an interior designer and construction worker because he has a knack for design and loves working with his hands. In fact, Wyzhir dreams of fixing up not only his own home, but also has a to-do list of improvement projects he undertakes throughout his community. Tragically, on Christmas Eve 2010, he suffered an accident that changed his life forever. After months of working diligently with his grandfather on improving areas of their family’s aging home, which is in a constant state of disrepair, the teenager’s coat sleeve was caught in the miter saw – severing his left hand. After more than 10 surgeries, doctors were unable to preserve his hand — but typical of Wyzhir, the loss didn’t diminish his positive outlook. He wanted to return to school right away and was determined to resume his daily life. His indomitable attitude – along with the loving support of his mother, Patrice, sister Renee and aunt Sonora – helped Wyzhir meet this new challenge head-on, without an ounce of self pity or defeat.

Wyzhir is a firm believer in the importance of giving back to his community and serves as a mentor through a program run by his high school. He is also passionate about the history of his town, and raising money for a local organization that is preserving an African-American school that was built in the 1800s. Simply put, Wyzhir has a heart for others and refuses to be pitied for what happened to him. He has every intention of making the most of the life he’s been given.

The house that Wyzhir has dedicated himself to renovating has been in their family for over 80 years and is in terrible shape. It’s not on an “in ground” foundation, but rather sits directly on the ground, which means that as the earth settles, the house follows suit. The ceilings are less than six feet high and none of the walls are level, so the home slopes in tiers. And due to insurmountable plumbing issues, there is no working shower or bathtub. So although he was doing his best to make this house a home, Wyzhir’s efforts were (and still are) being expended on a structure that’s falling down around him.

The “EM:HE” design team has just seven days to build a brand new home for the Johnson-Goslee family – which not only meets the family’s needs, but exceeds them, with designs to help Wyzhir practice his talents and prepare for his dreams. In a first on the show, Wyzhir delays his dream vacation with the rest of the family to Santa Barbara, California — preferring to remain behind with the “EM:HE” team for a once-in-a-lifetime design and construction experience. He joins team leader Ty Pennington, designers Michael Moloney, Paige Hemmis, Ed Sanders and Johnny Littlefield, who, along with local builder The Fusion Companies and community volunteers, build a new home for the family. In addition, with his typical big-heartedness, Whyzhir enlists the group’s help on several fix-it projects for the community.

“EM:HE” is produced by Endemol USA, of Endemol Holding, and executive-produced by Brady Connell & George Verschoor. David Goldberg is Chairman, Endemol North America. This program carries a TV-PG parental guideline.

“EXTREME MAKEOVER: HOME EDITION” AND THE WALKER FAMILY STAND TOGETHER TO STOP BULLYING (December 2, 2011)

Kim and Kourtney Kardashian and Khloe Kardashian Odom Host Anti Bullying Rally
Featuring Live Performance from Demi Lovato

Cody Simpson Performs and Challenges Young People to Stand Together

“Walker Family,” Parts 1&2 – “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” traveled to Springfield, Massachusetts to surprise the Walker family with the door knock that can change lives. The moving two-part episode of “EM: HE” airs FRIDAY, DECEMBER 2 (8:00-9:00 & 9:00-10:00 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network.

On April 6, 2009, 11-year-old Carl Walker took his own life, forever changing the Walker family. For almost a year Carl had told his mother, Sirdeaner Walker, about the many incidents of kids bullying him at school. The family still hasn’t been able to return to normal after Carl’s death, but they have focused their energies on helping others. They has turned this tragic event into something positive by lobbying for new state and federal laws against bullying.

The Walker house was a living memory of the most horrific night in any family’s life. The 3rd floor was where Carl Walker took his own life. As a result, the family could not bear the sadness of being on that floor. The “EM: HE” team had just seven days to build a brand new home for the Walker family, a new facility that would meet their current needs and also honor Carl in a positive way.

The Walker family was whisked away on a dream vacation to Hollywood, where they were greeted by Kim and Kourtney Kardashian and Khloe Kardashian Odom. The Kardashian sisters hosted an Anti Bullying Rally in support of the Walker family and enlisted the help of their friend, Demi Lovato, who performed for the crowd. The event was sponsored by Sears. Back in Massachusetts, teen sensation Cody Simpson performed, and enlisted hundreds of teens to join him in a Stand Together March to stop bullying.

Ty Pennington and “EM: HE” designers Michael Moloney, Tracy Hutson, Jillian Harris, John Littlefield and local builders N. Riley Construction, Inc., as well as community volunteers, helped build the new home and brought together organizations in support of the episode theme to Stand Together in the fight against bullying. “EM: HE” is produced by Endemol USA, of Endemol Holding, and executive-produced by Brady Connell & George Verschoor. David Goldberg is Chairman, Endemol North America.

This program carries a TV-PG parental guideline.

EXTREME MAKEOVER: HOME EDITION – VETERANS DAY SPECIAL (NOV. 11, 2011)

TY PENNINGTON AND JEWEL HOST
“EXTREME MAKEOVER: HOME EDITION VETERANS DAY SPECIAL”
BENEFITING VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES FRIDAY NOVEMBER 11

The Entertainment Industry Foundation Enlists Whoopi Goldberg, George Lopez, J.R. Martinez,
Rachael Ray, Sherri Shepherd, Robin Williams and Major League Baseball players Clay Buchholz, Daniel Murphy and Shane Victorino to Participate in the Broadcast
And Encourage Donations Benefiting Veterans Groups

ABC’s “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” is teaming up with the Entertainment Industry Foundation (EIF) to present a one-hour special, “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition A Veterans Day Special,” airing on Veterans Day, FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 11 (8:00-9:00 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network. Hosts Ty Pennington and singer/songwriter Jewel, will take us back to some of the most heartwarming military stories featured over the years. The “EMHE” crew will also pay a visit to select heroic families to find out what they’ve been up to since the makeover and how they are paying it forward by helping their fellow veterans. The special will culminate in a celebratory event that will feature an audience of active-duty service members and veterans, in addition to a live musical performance by Jewel.

Throughout the episode, celebrities will shine a light on issues veterans face after serving in the military, as well as the strengths and skills returning veterans bring to the work force and their communities. The Veterans Day program will include appearances by Whoopi Goldberg, George Lopez, J.R. Martinez, Rachael Ray, Sherri Shepherd, Robin Williams and Major League Baseball (MLB) players Daniel Murphy of the Mets, Shane Victorino of the Phillies and Clay Buchholz of the Red Sox. The celebrities will encourage the public to donate via phone and web at www.riseandhonor.org.

Net proceeds raised during this one-hour special will benefit the following veteran-serving organizations: Fisher House Foundation, Hire Heroes USA, Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund, USO (United Service Organizations), Volunteers of America, and Welcome Back Veterans. These organizations provide vital services and support to our nation’s veterans and their families, including housing, job placement, career readiness, health care, rehabilitation and mental health treatment. This television event is made possible due to the generous support of ABC, The Clorox Company and MLB.

“We are thrilled to partner with ABC and the ‘Extreme Makeover: Home Edition’ team to honor the brave men and women who have sacrificed so much for our country,” said Entertainment Industry Foundation President and CEO Lisa Paulsen. “We hope this inspiring program will rally Americans to give back to our military families and support organizations that provide vital services to our veterans and their families.”

“We’ve highlighted the difficult struggles our veterans often face when returning home. We are so proud to take this a step further with a moving tribute to our nation’s heroes, while inspiring Americans to give back to those who’ve given our country so much,” said George Verschoor, executive producer of “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition.”

“In 200 episodes, we’ve seen thousands of armed forces volunteer to help us rebuild homes and lives. Now we’re thrilled to be able to honor all veterans with this television special,” said Brady Connell, also executive producer of “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition.”

Less than one percent of America’s men and women currently serve in our military. For many, the return to civilian life is marked with physical and emotional wounds. As of June 30, 2010, Veterans Affairs treated 594,000 Operation Enduring Freedom/Operation Iraqi Freedom veteran patients. Of those, 295,000 were diagnosed with at least one mental health condition such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). In addition, some face a grim economic reality. As recently as January 2011, the unemployment rate among veterans from the Iraq and Afghanistan wars was 15 percent; that’s nearly double the national average. Furthermore, their sacrifice extends beyond themselves to their families, as more than 700,000 children have experienced one or more parental deployments.

“All across the country, we have talented and dedicated veterans who have been unemployed for far too long,” said Hilda Solis, Secretary of the U.S. Department of Labor. “These service men and women are right here and ready to get back to work. They just need a little help from all of us to find a good job at a fair wage and successfully transition from military to civilian life. We applaud ABC and the Entertainment Industry Foundation for broadcasting this special show to raise awareness of the needs of our returning veterans and their families.”

EIF, in collaboration with ABC, hopes to raise funds to combat challenges facing our veterans as well as educate Americans on how they can support our heroes through “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition – A Veterans Day Special.” For more information and to make a donation to support veterans and military families, please visit www.riseandhonor.org.

ABOUT THE ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY FOUNDATION
The Entertainment Industry Foundation, as a leading charitable organization of the entertainment industry, has distributed hundreds of millions of dollars to support charitable initiatives addressing critical health, education and social issues. For more information, visit www.eifoundation.org.

ABOUT “EXTREME MAKEOVER: HOME EDITION”
The Emmy Award-winning reality program “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,” now in its 9th season, is produced by Endemol USA, a division of Endemol Holding. It is executive-produced by Brady Connell and George Verschoor. David Goldberg is Chairman, Endemol North America. The show airs Fridays from 8:00-10:00 p.m., ET on ABC.

ABOUT FISHER HOUSE FOUNDATION
The foundation builds “comfort homes” on the grounds of major military and VA medical centers. These homes enable family members to be close to a loved one at the most stressful times – during the hospitalization for an unexpected illness and disease, or injury. Annually, the Fisher House program serves more than 12,000 families and has provided more than 3 million days of lodging to family members since 1990.

ABOUT HIRE HEROES USA (HHUSA)
HHUSA offers transition assistance, job search assistance and job placement services to those who have honorably served in the U.S. military and their spouses.

ABOUT INTREPID FALLEN HEROES FUND (IFHF)
The Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund is a leader in supporting the men and women of the Armed Forces and their families. Begun in 2000 under the auspices of the Intrepid Museum Foundation and established as an independent not-for-profit organization in 2003, the Fund has provided close to $120 million in support for the families of military personnel lost in service to our nation, and for severely wounded military personnel and veterans.

ABOUT USO
The USO lifts the spirits of America’s troops and their families millions of times a year at hundreds of places worldwide. A private, nonprofit organization, the USO provides a touch of home through centers at airports and military bases, top quality entertainment and innovative programs and services. It also provides critical support to forward-deployed troops and their families, wounded warriors and their families and the families of the fallen.

ABOUT VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA (VOA)
Volunteers of America is a national, faith-based organization dedicated to helping America’s most vulnerable groups — including seniors, at-risk youth, the homeless and disabled — to rebuild their lives. Responding in particular to the challenges facing female veterans returning from Afghanistan and Iraq, many of whom suffer Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Volunteers of America is building housing villages for female veterans whose families are at risk of disruption. Single mothers and other female veterans who are finding it difficult to transition back in to civilian life are targeted and provided support services on site.

ABOUT WELCOME BACK VETERANS (WBV)
Welcome Back Veterans is a MLB Charities initiative, in partnership with the Robert R.McCormick Foundation, designed to support returning Iraq and Afghanistan veterans and their families in helping them make a successful transition to civilian life. The program is supported by MLB Advanced Media and MLB Network. Welcome Back Veterans has granted $12 million in grants to non-profit agencies targeting veterans’ and their families’ greatest needs, focusing on treatment and research of PTSD and TBI. Beneficiaries include the Red Sox Foundation and Massachusetts General Hospital Home Base Program, which is dedicated to providing free and confidential clinical care and support services to veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. Funds have been contributed by MLB and McCormick Foundation, including funds raised through auctions of game-used products and a donation of sales from Stars & Stripes caps.

EXTREME MAKEOVER: HOME EDITION – The Dunning Family, Parts 1&2 (November 18, 2011) on ABC

EM:HE” Designers Michael Moloney and Paige Hemmis Appear on
“Who Wants To Be A Millionaire” with Host Meredith Vieira to Raise Funds for “Jusst Sooup”

Special Appearance by Celebrity Chef Michael Symon from “The Chew”

“Dunning Family,” Parts 1&2 – “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” traveled to Lewes, Delaware to surprise the Dunning family with the door knock that can change lives. The special Thanksgiving episodes of “EM: HE” air FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 18 (7:00-8:00 & 8:00-9:00 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network.

Dale Dunning founded “Jusst Sooup” while she was in Bible College, starting off with a crock-pot and a hot plate to make soup for her classmates after theology class. Today Dale, along with husband Ken and son Brooks, wakes up at 2:00 a.m. every day to provide meals at 17 soup kitchens for those in need across the state of Delaware.

The Dunnings have been living in a rental home that is basically a converted storage facility for “Jusst Sooup.” But they store massive amounts of food, and their small home can’t contain it all. Their dream is to create the “Jusst Sooup Ranch,” which would be a house the Dunnings could move into and where they could run a large-scale kitchen to feed needy families across the state. It would also be a place that provides shelter, food and support for families in need, helping them get back on their feet and enabling them to then invite other families to take their place in micro-homes on the property. Dale envisions “Jusst Sooup Ranch” having a garden, crops and a small farm to provide food.

To help raise funds for “Jusst Sooup,” “EM: HE” designers Michael Moloney and Paige Hemmis appear with host Meredith Vieira as contestants on the hit game show “Who Wants To Be A Millionaire” in episodes airing THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 17 and FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 18. Check local listings or go to www.millionairetv.com for time and channel. Meredith Vieira joins the celebration and appears on Friday’s episode of “EM: HE” to surprise the Dunning family with a Millionaire check. Additionally, celebrity chef Michael Symon from ABC’s “The Chew” comes to the table with a “Jusst Sooup-erb” surprise for the Thanksgiving feast.

Ty Pennington and “EM: HE” designers Paige Hemmis, Michael Moloney, Sabrina Soto, John Littlefield, local builders Schell Brothers and community volunteers helped build the new “Jusst Sooup Ranch.” “EM: HE” is produced by Endemol USA, of Endemol Holding, and executive-produced by Brady Connell & George Verschoor. David Goldberg is Chairman, Endemol North America.

For more information on “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition,” visit http://abc.com/ExtremeHome

Extreme Makeover: Home Edition and singer/songwriter Jewel and the Entertainment Industry Foundation to team up for a special Veteran’s Day Special episode on November 11th

“Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” and the Entertainment Industry Foundation will be joining forces for a one-hour special to air on ABC on Friday, November 11th (8:00 -9:00 p.m., ET).

The special will feature “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” host Ty Pennington along with singer/songwriter Jewel taking viewers on a journey back to some of the military stories featured throughout the series.  The crew will also pay a visit to the heroic families to see what they have been up to since their home makeover.

Also, celebrities will be featured to highlight issues facing the military and how the audience can give back and donate to the military families.

The beneficiaries of this show will include United Services Organizations (USO), Hire Heroes USA, Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund, Volunteers of America, Fisher House and Welcome Back Veterans.

 

“EXTREME MAKEOVER: HOME EDITION” CELEBRATES ITS 200TH EPISODE WITH HISTORIC BUILDS IN TORNADO-RAVAGED JOPLIN, MISSOURI

Designers to Build 7 Homes in 7 Days “Good Morning America” Covers Live

Earlier today, October 19, “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” traveled to tornado-ravaged Joplin, Missouri, to celebrate its 200th episode in historic fashion. The show surprised an unprecedented seven families with the door knock that changes lives; the “EM:HE” design team and many others will rebuild 7 homes in just 7 days. This episode will air later this season on ABC.

On May 22, 2011, a catastrophic tornado ravaged the town of Joplin, killing approximately 160 people and destroying nearly 8,000 homes. Some of the Joplin families lost friends, some lost children, and all lost their homes. “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” will take on its biggest build ever – 7 homes for 7 deserving families by 7 different designers. On hand today was “Good Morning America” Weather Anchor Sam Champion, broadcasting live from the door knock with the Howard Family. “GMA” will keep viewers apprised of the progress on the build this week and next, and, in a first for “EM:HE,” will air one family’s reaction — the Howards’ — to their new home’s “reveal” live on air next WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 26 (7:00-9:00 a.m., ET).

The parents and children from all seven of the Joplin families have been whisked away on a dream vacation to Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, while “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” team leader Ty Pennington, designers Paul DiMeo, Paige Hemmis, Michael Moloney and Tracy Hutson, along with Sam Clifton from Millstone Custom Homes — who is lead builder for 21 builders — and approximately 10,000 volunteers and community members build the structures.

The build location is 2402 Connor Ave. Joplin, Missouri 64804. These are the stories of the seven families:

The Howard Family
Kyle Howard, the father and a Joplin fireman, was at work at the fire station during the storm and spent the first two hours after the tornado not knowing if his wife and kids had made it out alive. He made many stops along the way home through the rubble, rescuing trapped victims and tending to injured members of the community. Meanwhile Jill and their children, Konnor, Korbin and Kaleb, huddled in a closet. A door landed on top of them, which they used to deflect the debris. This ultimately saved their lives. After the storm, they had no idea if Kyle was alive, but eventually the family, along with eldest son Keenan, who’d been out of town at the time, were reunited. Jill sustained minor injuries, but their home was completely destroyed.

The Nevins Family
Kari and Justin Nevins love Joplin, and prior to the tornado their home was known as “the neighborhood’s house,” where kids could play, have refreshments and hang out. Kari is part of Bright Futures, an organization whose goal it is to increase graduation rates through teaming with businesses and faith-based partners to provide for the needs of students. Karin and Justin, along with their children, Uriah, Avery, Cana and Rhoen, ran to the cellar during the tornado. As they huddled together, they felt its brute force as it ripped apart their house. After making sure his family was safe, Justin immediately started helping others by searching and digging neighbors out of the destruction. The tornado not only destroyed their home, it destroyed the entire neighborhood and the school Kari had worked so hard for. The Nevins are now staying in a rental home 17 miles outside Joplin, but want to come back.

The Cogdill Family
Single mom Crystal Cogdill works for the Joplin Housing Authority. She has a passion for helping people find housing, but in a cruel twist, now finds herself homeless. In the tornado, Crystal lost her 9-year-old son, Zach Treadwell. Upon hearing the sirens, she hustled her kids inside the house and, following her emergency plan, huddled with them in the bathtub. As the home came apart around them, she felt her grip on her children weakening. The storm eventually overpowered her and ripped the kids from her arms. When she next saw Zach, his lifeless body was pinned beneath a utility pole. Stunned, Crystal is joined by her friend, also named Crystal, and the two soon make a horrifying discovery — both of them have lost children to one of the most devastating weather events this nation has ever endured. Currently Crystal Cogdill lives with friends, in the process of starting over.

The Whitely Family
Before the storm, Crystal Whitely was the ultimate single mother, taking care of her three kids and working as a personal care aid. Crystal loved working with her elderly or disabled clients, but her kids were her life. The night of the storm, the whole family took cover in the bathtub, but moments later the house was pulled off its foundation. Though she tried desperately to hang on to them, 10-year-old Shante and 6-year-old Trentan were ripped from her arms. Only Crystal and her 4-year-old daughter, Keana, survived.

The Walters Family
In 2006 Tom and Emily Walters bought a house with dreams of raising their family in the beautiful, small town of Joplin. Emily is a nurse, and Tom a coach and teacher. Together they dedicated their lives to helping and nurturing the happiness and well-being of others. When the siren sounded on May 22nd, the family didn’t realize what was coming their way. It started hailing and then, all of a sudden, it got worse. The Walters ran to the bathtub. Huddled together, they felt the roof rip off and objects hurlting around, as 9-year-old daughter Chloe cried out to her mom and dad, “Don’t let me die!” Feeling helpless, all Tom and Emily could do was pray with Chloe and ride out the storm. As soon as it passed, Tom and Emily knew people in the neighborhood would need help. After making sure their daughter was safe with a neighbor, they ran down to a nursing home that had caved in and began digging people out. Tom and Emily helped rescue several people. Since that day, with their home destroyed and unable to be rebuilt, they’ve moved from place to place.

The Nguyen Family
Thang Nguyen (pronounced “win”) came to the U.S. in search of the American dream. Thang was in the Vietnamese Air Force and fought alongside the U.S. during the Vietnam War. Afterwards he was able to move to the U.S. with his family and took a job with General Mills in Joplin. He was on the verge of retirement when the May 22nd tornado took away his dream. That Sunday night, Thang had a craving for seafood; though his wife, Tiffany, had already prepared dinner, Thang convinced her to go out to eat at a local seafood restaurant. It was lucky for them that she gave in. The tornado missed the restaurant but tore their home apart. Had they stayed in that night, they might not have survived. The Nguyens had been living with Tiffany’s daughter, Sara, and their granddaughter, Alex. They received help from a local church and are now living in an apartment funded by insurance. However the lease will be up in December, and Thang and Tiffany will be left with no place to live.

The Gonzalez Family
Having both been divorced, Natalie and Scott (who live with Natalie’s son, Augie) didn’t think they would remarry. But when the tornado took their home, they changed their minds. Before moving to Joplin, Natalie had lived in California and once saw a special about earthquakes, from which she learned that putting a bicycle helmet on your child’s head could save his/her life. When the tornado hit in Joplin, the family huddled in their bathtub, with Scott on top holding on to a mattress and Augie wearing a bicycle helmet. The roof flew off, and suddenly the Gonzalez family was facing the full brunt of the tornado. Scott was lifted up, then thrown back down in the bathroom. A toilet from the second bathroom flew through the air and hit Augie; the helmet he was wearing was shattered, but it saved his life. Natalie was pelted with debris while trying to protect her son, and her back was severely hurt. While Scott was up in the air, he watched his family below. It was at this moment he realized that, if they all survived, he wanted to marry Natalie and become a legal stepfather to Augie. When the wind calmed briefly, Natalie realized they were in the eye of the tornado, that their house was gone and that they wouldn’t survive the second wave, so the family rushed over to a drainage ditch to find cover. Watching Scott carry her son with his good arm (the other suffered a compound fracture), Natalie knew Scott would be her husband. They survived the tornado, broken and without a home, but their family had grown stronger and closer. Scott proposed to Natalie a few weeks later, and now they want to start over. The Gonzalez family is currently living in a rental outside of town, but they love Joplin and plan on driving Augie back for school.

“EM:HE” is produced by Endemol USA, of Endemol Holding, and executive-produced by Brady Connell & George Verschoor. David Goldberg is Chairman, Endemol North America.

(ABC) “EXTREME MAKEOVER: HOME EDITION” CELEBRATES ITS 200TH EPISODE WITH HISTORIC BUILDS IN TORNADO-RAVAGED JOPLIN, MISSOURI

Designers to Build 7 Homes in 7 Days; “GMA” Covers Live Door Knock and Reveal

Earlier today, October 19, “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” traveled to tornado-ravaged Joplin, Missouri to celebrate its 200th episode in historic fashion. The show surprised an unprecedented seven families with the door knock that changes lives, as the “EM:HE” design team and many others take on the series’ biggest-ever build: 7 homes in 7 days. The episode will air later this season on ABC.

On May 22, 2011, a catastrophic tornado ravaged the town of Joplin, killing approximately 160 people and destroying nearly 8,000 homes. Some of the Joplin families lost friends, some lost children, and all lost their homes. On hand at the door knock today was “Good Morning America” Weather Anchor Sam Champion, broadcasting live from the door knock with the Howard Family. “GMA” will keep viewers apprised of the progress on the build this week and next, and, in a first for “EM:HE,” will air one family’s reaction to their new home’s “reveal” live on air next WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 26 (7:00-9:00 a.m., ET). Details about the other six families will be announced later.

About the Howard Family:
Kyle Howard, the father and a Joplin fireman, was at work at the fire station during the storm and spent the first two hours after the tornado not knowing if his wife and four kids had made it through alive. He made many stops along the way home through the rubble, rescuing trapped victims and tending to injured members of the community. Meanwhile Jill and their children, Konnor, Korbin and Kaleb, huddled in a closet. A door landed on top of them, which they used to deflect the debris. This ultimately saved their lives. After the storm, they had no idea if Kyle was alive, but eventually the whole family, along with eldest son Keenan, who’d been out of town, were reunited. Jill sustained minor injuries, and their home was completely destroyed — but they’re grateful it wasn’t any worse than that.

The parents and children from all seven of the Joplin families — 27 people total — will be whisked away on a dream vacation while “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” team leader Ty Pennington, designers Paul DiMeo, Paige Hemmis, Michael Moloney and Tracy Hutson, along with Sam Clifton from Millstone Custom Homes — who is lead builder for 21 builders — and approximately 10,000 volunteers and community members build the structures.

The build location is 2402 Connor Ave. Joplin, Missouri 64804.

“EM:HE” is produced by Endemol USA, of Endemol Holding, and executive-produced by Brady Connell & George Verschoor. David Goldberg is Chairman, Endemol North America.

EXTREME MAKEOVER: HOME EDITION – McPhail Family, Part 1

“EXTREME MAKEOVER: HOME EDITION” DESIGN CREW HELPS AUTISTIC CHILDREN WITH THE MCPHAIL FAMILY IN MEDFORD, OREGON

Dr. Temple Grandin Helps Build the New Home

“McPhail Family, Parts 1 & 2″ — “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” travels to Medford, Oregon to surprise the McPhail family with the door knock that can change lives, FRIDAY, OCTOBER 28 (8:00-9:00 & 9:00-10:00 p.m., ET) on the ABC Television Network. As a young newly married couple, C.J. and Lindsay McPhail decided they wanted to spend their lives helping others. They started the Southern Oregon Chapter of Sparrow Clubs, a non-profit organization which helps children with medical issues (a.k.a. “Sparrows”) by pairing them with a school that adopts them as their school’s Sparrow. C.J. found himself speaking to students, businesses and anyone who would listen about the incredible power Sparrow Clubs give to both students and Sparrows. His abilities as a public speaker motivated thousands of students to raise funds, perform service work, and create programs all in the name of their Sparrow. Not only were C.J. and Linsday a part of raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for kids with medical needs, they were also able to help transform schools by challenging students to look beyond themselves and serve. C.J. and Lindsay never imagined, though, they would one day need help from the very organization they’d devoted so much of their time to. Soon after moving to Portland and running a chapter there, their oldest son, Sawyer, was diagnosed with a form of Autism and their second oldest son, Thatcher, began to show signs of Autism as well. With their children regressing, the family moved back to Medford to live on a 50-acre family property next to Lindsay’s parents. The boys showed great progress, but Sawyer still faced several challenges due to his lack of social cues. Much to the family’s surprise, Sawyer became a Sparrow, and through his endearing personality, he helped put a face on Autism and brought awareness to over 900 students in his adopted school. While their home property and the outdoors are great for the children’s progress, the house is not built for their needs. The electrical system is from 1958, and recently an outlet actually sparked and shot small flames! Rewiring would be difficult, since the home is made of cinderblock. The windows are all original and a safety hazard because they’re huge and not made of tempered glass. The plumbing is poor and leaks, creating mold in the bathrooms. Lastly, there is no heat in the back of the house. Only the kitchen, living room and front bedroom have ventilation, so the family is forced to rely on space heaters in the winter, which is extremely costly and not eco-friendly. Moving away from this house is financially impossible, and nothing they want to do anyway since the property is crucial to the boys’ progress. The “EM:HE” design team has just seven days to build a brand new home for the McPhail family, who have been whisked away on a dream vacation to the new Aulani Disney Resort & Spa in Hawaii, while “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” team leader Ty Pennington, designers Paul DiMeo, Paige Hemmis, Ed Sanders and new designer comedian Jeff Dye, along with local builders Ark Built Renovations and community volunteers, build the structure. Dr. Temple Grandin, acclaimed author, professor and livestock handling facility designer, is one of the most visible spokespeople for people with Autism, and her life story was made into an HBO movie. She works with the design team to help build a home for the McPhails. In addition, a volunteer from the international organization Autism Speaks, a great resource for the McPhails when their children were diagnosed, will help the family light the town blue to enhance Autism Awareness. “EM:HE” is produced by Endemol USA, of Endemol Holding, and executive-produced by Brady Connell & George Verschoor. David Goldberg is Chairman, Endemol North America. This program carries a TV-PG parental guideline.

ABC.COM AND ENDEMOL USA LAUNCH “EXTREME MAKEOVER: HOME EDITION” SOCIAL GAME ON FACEBOOK

Players Can Build Virtual Homes for Families Featured on the Show
Or Choose from Thousands of Fictional Characters

Each week fans of “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” tune in to watch Ty Pennington and his design crew build new homes for people in need. With each new challenge, the team conquers unexpected obstacles and is always forced to dream up new creative solutions.

With that spirit in mind, ABC.com and show producers are launching a new Facebook social game, http://abc.tv/EMHEgame, where players can build virtual homes for actual families from each week’s episode, or work with an almost endless supply of fictional scenarios in order to play as often as they want.

In the game, players are presented with their choice of families and the specific design challenges they require. For instance, they may need an air purifier for an asthmatic, wheelchair access or extra counter space for an aspiring chef. Once players have decided, the fun begins! They’re given volunteers and their pick of design elements, including everything from the house shape and floor plan to wall dŽcor, flooring, appliances, recreational items and more. Tastes range from the eclectic to the modern, from the traditional to the unexpected. Those who really want to flex their creative muscles can access even more design features and more volunteer help using Facebook Credits.

Players progress in the game by earning “Hearts” to level up. Bonus Hearts are earned when players quickly finish the floor plan and incorporate the family’s needs.

Finished floor plans are saved in a “Scrapbook” that can be shared and rated between friends.

Each Wednesday, the family featured in the upcoming episode of “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” will be added to the game, giving players a sneak peek at who the family is and what their special needs are. Artwork based on real family photos will also be available. Players who reveal the family’s new house before the show airs get bonus “Hearts and Levels” points.

“This game gives the show fans a way to interact with ‘Extreme Makeover: Home Edition’ all week long, and to look forward to the episode airing each Sunday, where they can see how the REAL work by Ty and crew compares to their own work,” said Tina Hoover, VP Social Media & Interactivity, Endemol USA.

“Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” airs Sundays at 8:00 p.m., ET. It’s produced by Endemol USA, of Endemol Holding, and executive-produced by Brady Connell & George Verschoor. David Goldberg is Chairman, Endemol North America. This program carries a TV-PG parental guideline.

For more information about “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” visit www.abc.com.

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