Photos by J.J. Kindred
The University of Tennessee cheerleading and dance teams, along with mascot Smokey, helped kick off the ‘Extreme Makeover: Home Edition’ pep rally at the Tennessee Theatre Jan. 4.
Local musician Logan Murrell, who has released one album and currently working on another with the help of Rascal Flatts, performed two songs during the event.
Scott and Christi Branscom, developers with Grace Construction Co., are coordinating the construction for the lucky family’s new home, and addressed the crowd of volunteers for their appreciation.
By J.J. KINDRED
J.Kindred@theknoxvillejournal.com
One lucky family will have their dreams come true, as the hit ABC show “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” will tape a Knoxville appearance Jan. 10-18 to build the family a home.
Meanwhile, hundreds of volunteers and many others packed the Tennessee Theatre downtown Jan. 4. for a pep rally for the show, which also featured the show’s production crew. The show is in its last season on ABC after nine years.
University of Tennessee cheerleaders and dance team members kicked off the rally, while new Knoxville Mayor Madeline Rogero and Knox County Mayor Tim Burchett made brief appearances and spoke, and local musician Logan Murrell performed two songs.
Christi and Scott Branscom of Grace Construction Co., who are coordinating the home’s construction, thanked the volunteers and said financial help is still needed to make over the home for the deserving family, who will be revealed Jan. 10 with host Ty Pennington and the entire cast of the show.
Christi Branscom said the project is being done pro bono. A paint supplier, installers of exterior siding, stone and wood flooring are needed, as are donations of lumber and other wood materials.
The house will be a 4,500 square foot build.
“This has been an overwhelming experience for my husband and I,” she said. “This tonight is another example of the importance of enthusiasm of this project. Everyone has donated their services, their time, the products, even the food that feeds the workers.”
Branscom added that money was being raised for the Knoxville Family Build Fund. where special t-shirts were sold in the Tennessee Theatre lobby and financial donations were also being taken.
“I know these have been tough times on builders, but everyone has stepped out,” Scott Branscom added.
Volunteers and donations are still needed for the project. For more information, visit www.joinextreme.com/tennessee.
