It’s the DeVries family!

Posted by Wildbill (anonymous) on September 30, 2008 at 4:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Is there anyway we can watch the progress if we weren't chosen as volunteers?

Posted by janis (anonymous) on September 30, 2008 at 4:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I think it is wonderful that this family gets such a great gift. I do not know them but I'm sure they deserve it.
The only thing I wonder is if Larson Contracting is doing this only to do something great for someone else and it has nothing to do with the recognition and PR then why is it everytime I read about this, Larson Contracting is plastered all over it. I would have rather seen the family with the ABC design team then with Al Larson. Keep in mind Larson's is not the only one building this and they are not the only ones contributing to this event. It is a team effort. Guaranteed Larson Contracting, being a commercial builder, could not do this with out alot of other businesses and helpers. So give credit where credit is do. This is not about Larson Contracting its about the family in need. Thank you to all of the other people that are doing this strictly out of the kindness of their heart.
P.S. And if it is all about PR then why doesn't the Tribune offer free hyper links to the businesses contributing. If Larson's is getting free advertising shouldn't everyone else involved.

Posted by kona (anonymous) on September 30, 2008 at 5:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)

janis: good points.

Posted by Wildbill (anonymous) on September 30, 2008 at 6:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Interesting thought for all of you. The only reason you are all so generous is because it's for a national TV show.
Locally, nearly everyone is donating their time and materials. Ty Pennington and his company are making big money selling this show to ABC.

Posted by Wildbill (anonymous) on September 30, 2008 at 6:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

By the way, I'm just as excited as everyone else.

Posted by Momma23 (anonymous) on September 30, 2008 at 8 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Why do people have to be so negative? Larson Contracting was ASKED by ABC to do this job and they accepted. They are certainly not trying to steal the spotlight from this family. No, they probably could not do this job (in this time frame) without the other volunteers. That is why they give those other businesses credit by listing all of the volunteers on the website. And Larson's is not getting "free" advertising. Can you imagine what this is actually costing them in down time from other money-making job sites they could be at? Not to mention working non-stop for this next week? None of these companies should be looking for PR or credit. They should be (and most of them are) volunteering to help out without getting recognition. That is the true spirit of volunteering, after all. And maybe some of these companies are only doing it because it is a national TV show, but oh well. If it helps out a deserving family, then it doesn't matter the intent. What a fantastic opportunity for the Albert Lea area! Congratulations to this family!

Posted by Lily (anonymous) on September 30, 2008 at 8:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Isn’t it sad that in a great event like this there are always the people that have to find whatever negative, naive approach they can to dampen spirits and encourage people to be skeptics of something that deserves nothing but applause? It takes a person with a big heart and the ability, resources and finances to step up like Al Larson of Larson Contracting did. Yes, it is true that there are many volunteers and donators, both companies and individuals that come together to make this happen. All have and will continue to be given credit for what they do, both by the media and Al himself. Al still had to put his name on the dotted line accepting the responsibility to get the job done and foot the bill in the end for whatever donations do not cover. This is a huge commitment!! It is too bad that more people couldn’t have heard the amazing speech that Al gave at the Pep Rally. It showed the true person, the Grandpa that wants to pass down to his grandchildren the lesson of giving when you have the ability and chance to do so in the hopes that it will encourage other to give on whatever scale they can. I hope that all of the businesses and people that participate do somehow benefit from this experience, whether it be spiritually, personally or through the success of their businesses. No matter how you look at it, this is an amazing opportunity for this family, this area and everyone that has given of themselves or their businesses to be a part of this experience!!!!

Posted by danecook3 (anonymous) on September 30, 2008 at 8:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Janis-aka debbie downer

Please quit talking about things you know nothing about-like this build and Larson Contracting. Mr. Larson has taken on a great responsibility in building a home in a couple of days. He has been very gracious in not only thanking everyone involved but making sure that this great family gets many other things as well.
As for the tribune links-all of the partners that are helping with this great event are on the website under partners.

Maybe you Debbie should follow the advice my mom used to tell me -If you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all.

Posted by Videoguy84 (anonymous) on September 30, 2008 at 8:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

@ Wildbill; I heard at the rally that there would be a spot set up for the public to watch the progress.

And congrats to the DeVries family! This is so exciting! I'm choosing to ignore all the negative comments that have been said or will be said and just appreciate this for what it truly is, an outpouring of giving unlike our community as ever seen. And that my friends is something amazing!

Posted by kona (anonymous) on September 30, 2008 at 9:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)

i don't see the critical comments as being "downers", rather bringing a request to light.

my point of view is if there is a link to one business who is donating time and materials, why then can't there be a link for all sponsors?

i think it would be nice to be able to click on a link and go directly to a business who is involved in making this project successful. though it isn't "about" that, it sure wouldn't hurt anything to add the links.

i think we are all very grateful to all of the people who are donating time and energy towards this worthy project, including larson contracting.

Posted by aster67 (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 2:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)

hey, Skinner, what do you think?

Posted by 2cents (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 8:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Let's all be thankful for the person who nominated this family. Most of us, myself included, are so busy with our own lives that we do not recognize a family in need. You are a blessing BN. I want to be more like you.

Posted by janis (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 9:08 a.m.

(This comment was removed by the site staff.)

Posted by icare2 (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 9:43 a.m. (Suggest removal)

It is about the family for most of us and if Larson doesn't want all the negetive comments then maybe he should tell his GreenMill management to stop bragging about all the money they stand to make from this experience. Seems as they are the only business in town actually getting paid for their serves. The rest of the businesses are "donating" from their hearts and pocketbooks.

Posted by iamwoman (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 10:17 a.m.

(This comment was removed by the site staff.)

Posted by janis (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 10:39 a.m.

(This comment was removed by the site staff.)

Posted by tengstrom (Tim Engstrom) on October 1, 2008 at 11:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Some of you guys love to speculate on things you don't know. Do you know how to use a telephone and ask a question to get the truth? Just call.

Here's the deal: Everyone is donating their time, even Larson employees. The Tribune managing editor, me, is the person who runs the "official site." I put that stuff together. I donated my time. It's all donated. Everything is given. I know that might be hard to grasp, but it is.

Posted by Momma23 (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 11:09 a.m. (Suggest removal)

iamwoman, how do YOU KNOW that Larson employees are not getting paid?

Posted by janis (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 11:19 a.m.

(This comment was removed by the site staff.)

Posted by demo1960 (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 11:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I am pretty sure the Larson employees and any other sponser's employees were asked to donate time, not told to donate time. Not unless they want some lawsuits. Hormel employees volunteer time building Habitat Houses every year. It is encouraged not required. I am pretty sure any employees that want to volunteer are looking forward to helping a family in their community. As we all should. Maybe this will open up some more opportunities for all sponsers which in turn will benefit the employees. In other words it might create some more jobs. Does anyone have a problem with that in light of the high unemployment? I would hope not.

Posted by joangrorud (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 11:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Did any of you ever think that Al could have said NO!!!!!! Why can't you all just support this wonderful opportunity for all of Albert Lea and Freeborn County to help someone in need? Quit being so petty!!!! These comments are taking away from the true reason for this project. I am ashamed!!!!!!!

Posted by Momma23 (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 11:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Larson Contracting was the company that was ASKED by ABC to do this massive home makeover project and they said yes. That is why they are the main company that is in charge of this HUGE project. I know for a fact the Larsons, their family and friends have been working non-stop the last few weeks and they will continue to work non-stop for the next week in order to accomplish what ABC has asked of them. People have NO CLUE how much is involved in this project! Yes, after Al Larson stepped up and accepted this challenge, there are many other companies who have volunteered their time towards this project. I think that is amazing! All people involved in this are donating their time and effort, by their own choice, because they want to help. Please focus on the positive things coming out of this project instead of trying to find the bad in everything. This project is helping out a deserving family, not to mention the added money this project will bring into the area communities during the next week or more. I cannot wait to see what all of these volunteers can accomplish in such a short amount of time!

Posted by adamwilkie (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 11:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I think the Tribune put a HORRIBLE spin on the kids' rooms!! I know this family and Susan is a wonderful artist and encourages young and old to express themselves through the arts! whether it be writing, music, a colage on the wall or a collection of stuffed animals! Do what you love and love what you do. This family is amazing and caring and deserve this so much!! Thank you to all who are helping and i cannot wait to lead a caravan of volunteers from Waldorf college up to their house tommorow morning at 5:15 a.m. to do whatever it is they need us to do! Again thank you to all who have helped and continue to help

Posted by iamwoman (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 11:39 a.m.

(This comment was removed by the site staff.)

Posted by kona (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 11:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)

i definitely do not want to take the focus off of the good that is happening here. we all should be very thankful for everyone who is involved in giving of themselves to this family.

in response to all of the previous comments. after viewing the page that the link takes you to from the albert lea tribune's website, i will only say that larson is getting tons of p.r. from this.

i think all of the partners would appreciate the same by providing a link to their websites as well. it should be fair straight across the board.

by only having the link to the tribune and larson website it is like saying they are more important than the rest.

Posted by Momma23 (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 11:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I agree with adamwilkie... You are talking about this family's HOME. Do not insult them by saying that they have lived in terrible conditions, etc. You are insulting them and their HOME! How would you feel if all of a sudden people walked into your home and pointed out all of the negative things. Please try to show some respect for this deserving family.

Posted by adamwilkie (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 11:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)

thank you to all who have their head on straight and are thankful for the volunteers or are volunteerin! I know the family is so greatful to every single one of you! And to all of you that are hating STOP IT! Does it make you feel good?? It doesn't help anything so if you need something to hate on hate on me for this post! NOT these GOOD people doing a GOOD thing for a GOOD family!

Posted by Momma23 (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 11:56 a.m. (Suggest removal)

AMEN! I admire ALL of these volunteers who are giving up their time in order to HELP out this family, knowing that they might not get recognized or rewarded! That is what rural America is all about! Please stop all the negativity! This is a GREAT thing to happen to this family and to the area communities! Get out there and help or cheer on instead of being so negative!

Posted by iamwoman (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 11:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Larsons must be having comments removed by the tribune cuz the truth hurts!

Posted by katet (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 12:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Wow!! People are un-believeable. Just be Happy for this family. Quit complaining and being negative. If you don't have anything nice to say then don't say anything at all!!

Posted by controlledhyperness (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 12:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)

First off, I want to say how happy I am that another family in Freeborn County is able to get a new home! After recieving a new home in the last year, it is an awesome feeling that I want others to experience.
To address the reporting of the home...while I do not know the family personally, I do understand that sometimes outward appearances of one's home do not show true condition of what is inside. Where my family and I lived prior to our new home, the outside looked well maintained. The inside however, had a TON of mold and mildew that made several of my family members sick, our son worst of all. It is not degrading one's home by describing the current condition of it in all aspects...otherwise there would be yet more people wondering why this family was chosen over all of the others that applied. I think (havinig been in a similar situation) that it is really neat to have someone who still displays art work and encourages it despite conditions that are there.
As for Larson and PR....ENOUGH! As I said previously, my family and I moved into a new home within the past year. Here is the bombshell...it was in large part to donations of both materials and time from Freeborn Lumber. This was mentioned in the paper several times over the course of last year, and was not meant as PR as much as it was for the praise of a local company being willing to do such a thing. Trust me, if it weren't for them, we would not have been able to get out of where we were as fast, and I do not even want to begin to think of where our son's health conditions might be today if that had been the case. I think it is awesome that yet another local company is WILLING to DONATE time and supplies for another family in the community to recieve a new home. While I myself have not checked the "list" as it were to see if Freeborn Lumber is on it, I would not be suprised if they were. Those who are caught up on the whole PR aspect...ENOUGH!

Posted by sschmeltzer (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 12:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)

To: All who are making negative comments about Extreme Home Makeover, Larson Contracting, or others who are donating time and effort to this great cause.

I am having a hard time writing this as I am so dissapointed in how some people have chosen to welcome a fantastic opportunity to show what Freeborn County, Mower County, Southern Minnesota, Northern Iowa, and everyone can do when we all pull together.
Stop picking this great thing apart!
Al Larson, as owner of Larson Contracting has done nothing but bend over backwards to help a family in need.
Starting with the Larson Contracting family and counting every volunteer, construction worker, electrician, plumber, drywaller, and painter that this great deed needs, you reach a staggering number that melts the heart.
I have watched people donate time, money, items, prayers.
From the largest items they could donate down to the smallest items they could donate, people have given.
If companies are paying workers to work on this project or if the workers are donating there time, I say good for you!
I do not know if people turn negative because of jealousies or if they just have a true hatred towards what is good, but I hope and pray for these people.
I hope that they can see the light of sunshine that this project brings.
I pray that at some point they "get it" and stop spreading maliciousness and negativity.
If there is any lining of pockets on this project, it is a lining that is not green in money, but gold as in good.
If you need to be negative towards someone, please aim all the negativity towards me-I have big shoulders, the Albert Lea Tribune can take it.
As for Mr Larson and all the other good people of our area-leave them alone because you know what-they are busy helping your community.

Thanks

Scott Schmeltzer
Publisher
Albert Lea Tribune

Posted by tamilynne (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 1:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I think a few people in this city need to really grow up. An event like this is supposed to bring the city closer together, not further apart.

I am really depressed that I was not able to assist as a volunteer since there were so many that signed up. I think that it would be an amazing experience to have helped with such a good cause.

As far as Larson's getting all of the PR... SO WHAT. Would you rather have it be some company that is from the cities or Rochester that have never heard about this family or even been to Hayward? I think not. Al Larson is a great guy, and will stand up for his work. If you want to go to the websites for any of the others use this site right here www.google.com

Posted by albertleafamily (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 1:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Sounds to me like iamwomen and janis are jealous that they are not the ones getting a new house. Get over it!

Posted by Snapshot (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 1:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Excellent post Scott Schmeltzer. Let's let this be the end of the negative.

I am so excited for this family! I don't know them, but from what i have been reading, they are very deserving of this wonderful gift! And a big THANK YOU to all of the volunteers, and to the ones that tried to volunteer and didn't get picked. I think for the most part, hearts are in the right place.

I also agree with the poster that recognized the family that nominated the DeVries family! What wonderful friends they have!!

Posted by justanotherskeptic (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 1:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Congrats to the DeVries!! Kudos to schmeltzer also.....

Posted by shagen3 (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 1:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I just want to comment on all the negative talk about Al Larson and Larson Contracting. Those of you who feel that Al and Larsons are being anything but sincere about this doesn't know Al or the company. Al Larson is a generous man with his time and his money. You can be sure that he is NOT tooting his own horn, he doesn't like the spotlight. If the Larson Contracting name is out there all the time and it seems like he is getting too much PR, it is greatly deserved. For everything you hear he has done, he has done even more that you don't hear. He loves his company, and is very good to his employees. You won't find Al here sticking up for himself because he wants the focus on the family. It just bothers me that no one ever says anything about ABC and the publicity and money they are getting here. They don't care about our community, and you guys haven't said a word. Instead, you have chosen someone (Al Larson) who has consistantly supported YOUR community to complain about. ENOUGH!!! It makes me sick. I am glad I don't call Albert Lea home.

Posted by mnmom (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 1:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Congrats DeVries!! I hope you are enjoying your vacation. Kudos to Scott Schmeltzer post, it is a shame that he even has to post that people need to quit all this negativity without being asked to do so. Have some respect for all parties involved in this great deed.

Posted by sbahr (Stacey Bahr) on October 1, 2008 at 1:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

What is the matter with you people? Is this all that Albert Lea is made up of is negativity and hatred? Every time I look at the comments on stories on this site all I see is really angry, spiteful people that seem to have nothing better to do with their time than point out everything that is wrong with the world today and how much better than everyone else they are.

I just don't understand with everything that is going on in the world that when we finally get some good, heartwarming news that people can't just accept the happiness of it and see it for what it really is: a life-changing event for a very deserving family. My god, you people aren't happy unless there is a scandal, you've got to try to come up with reasons to make anything seem wrong. I'm completely disgusted by some of the remarks made on this story.

Here's an idea: For those of you bashing Larson Contracting, why don't you take over building a house from scratch in 4 days, and we'll see what you have to say then!

To the DeVries family: I hope that this wonderful event brings joy to your family, you deserve it and congratulations!

To Larson Contracting and ALL of the other volunteer businesses and individuals: Thank you for donating your time, effort, supplies, money, etc. to give this family a wonderful home. It's too bad there aren't more people in the world like all of you.

To all of the negative haters: Go find another "conspiracy" to rant about, we don't want you here!

Posted by alleycat (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 1:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I am so excited to have extreme makeover here! Does anyone know if the public can go out there and just watch?

Posted by controlledhyperness (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 1:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)

For the record, I was not trying to come across negative, the opposite in fact. I apologize if negative was how I was coming across. I was trying to stick up for Larson, congratulate the family, and put in my two pieces as to why the others needed to stop being negative. Again, I apologize if I came across negatively when I was in fact trying to do the oposite.

Posted by Wildbill (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 2:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The Tv people approached Al Larson to do the job. I'm just glad that we're able to handle this big of a project here. It's like the Twin Cities landing the RNC. I think it's pretty cool that the Tribune is in charge of the media.

Posted by tengstrom (Tim Engstrom) on October 1, 2008 at 2:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Everyone: Free speech doesn't mean you have the right to say what you want on someone else's site. Free speech means you have the right to go get your own website and say want you want there. It matters to us that this forum on the Tribune's website remains civil. You can make negative comments, but there is a right way and a wrong way.

Posted by shagen3 (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 2:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Great post Tim!!! I hope the tribune continues to clear all the negativity off. The family sure doesn't deserve to have that.

Posted by fluffy (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 2:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)

please disable this section of your paper. The vast majority of your readers all agree about the good things that are being done by so many for this fine family. The good Lord knows the truth, so let's not let a few wreck it for the community. Please shut this down now!

Posted by tengstrom (Tim Engstrom) on October 1, 2008 at 2:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Thanks for the suggestion. I appreciate it. Here's the deal: If this becomes more than we have time to handle, we will shut it down. There is actual work to be done, and we are super busy. It takes time away from that work to deal with troublemakers. If this continues, comments will be shut off.

Posted by bobbyg (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 2:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Please don't shut the site down, It's such a great forum to discuss the nice things about life.
If the abusers continue, then make it harder for them to get an ID to post on the Tribune site??? I'd be happy to give you more information on behalf of myself in order to log on..
Best of luck to all the workers and helpers at the DeVries Home Makeover!!
BG

Posted by canarybird (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 3:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Here's a thought to all you negative people. Can you imagine what the staff and stars of Extreme Home Makeover think of Albert Lea when they read this? I imagine those big city folks have such new fangled things as laptops and might just be perusing the local paper to check out the coverage and then BAM, they see all this. You should be ashamed, you sound like you're in junior high school.

Posted by dutchess (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 3:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)

If you notice the ones that are saying all the negative things about this story are the same ones that are negative on other stories. I think they are truly unhappy people that need some sort of help! The Devries are the nicest people you'd ever meet, that always have a smile on their faces considering the circumstances .They are very deserving of this ! As for the comments about Larsons you need to look at what they do for our community they are very giving people to all kinds of charitys! The negative ones need to ask themselves what do I do or give!

Posted by nesaajr (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 3:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Thanks Tim & Scott, c/o Albert Lea Tribune.
Thanks for letting us congratulate this fine family and to ALL whom have donated their Time, Money and Effort to make this New Home possible for the Dirk DeVries family.

Congratulations again to Dirk and Family. Although I have not seen or spoke with you since High School, I want to again say Congratulations from the Class of 77.

Thanks to the EXTREME MAKEOVER crew for putting this altogether, arranging volunteers and giving to the DeVries Family.

PS: To those that are negative, I would like to see you write what you did using your real name. I am ashamed of you.

Posted by MNgal79 (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 3:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I've known the DeVries family for several years...in fact, I use to babysit for them. And, they are the nicest family you will ever meet. I'm so excited for them, and for the town of Hollandale to have this opportunity.
Thank you to all of the area volunteers to be willing to donate your time to helping out a family in need. It is always amazing to watch how communities come together and help when called upon. To Larson Contracting, and all the plumbers, electricians, first aid staff, etc., for volunteering a lot of time and manpower in helping to get this house built.
And, a big thanks to Extreme Makeover for choosing a very deserving family for this show. I'm looking forward to watching the progress and seeing the finished results!

Posted by wingo (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 4:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Thanks Scott and Tim, I hope this puts an end to negativity. I sure hope you don't have to shut this down, it's a good thing most of the time. AGAIN, congrats to the DeVries, hope you are having fun.

Posted by starshipnx1 (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 5:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Congrats to the DeVries! I do not know them but I am sure they deserve this opportunity and I am sure they really need this or they would have not applied. I think it is wonderful how a community can come together and to help make a dream come reality. I feel sorry for the people who have such bad negativity towards this and maybe they should keep their comments to themselves. Obviously you can not find happiness or anything positive for someone else's happiness. You know the old saying, "If you don't have something good to say then don't say nothing at all". Way to go all of you Volunteers!!!!!!!

God Bless You

Posted by dedeinaz (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 8:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I have been away from Albert Lea since 1994, still come back frequently to spend time with my family there and I love the city, it is a wonderful place to live and raise a family. I was raised in the rural area near Hayward and Oakland. I have to say I am very proud that our great little community is contributing to this wonderful "give", but I am also disappointed at the ignorance of a few negative people who just don't get it........sad indeed. I say Kudos to Larson Construction, the make over team and absolutely everyone giving freely of their time and concern without considering what's in it for them!
Living in Phoenix, Arizona I am truly so proud to "brag" about the giving, loving and caring people who make up this terriffic small midwest community!! I will be watching the progress.

Posted by dedeinaz (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 8:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Just why is anyone worried about whether or not those involved in this wonderful mission are "getting plenty of pr" or whether or not they are getting paid or not getting paid? Who cares? I am very pleased and happy for the DeVries family. And again......very proud of our wonderful, generous community. Get with the program you negative folks.

Posted by treasurehunter4 (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 8:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Congratulations to the Devries family.

It is awesome to see our county pull together to help one another. To the ones who are finding it tough to feel compassion for others I offer the quote:

"It is often easier to look out the window, then look in the mirror."

Posted by dedeinaz (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 8:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I also need to give Kudos to the Albert Lea Tribune. I stay in touch with what's going on back home by way of family and the Tribune. Keep up the good work!!

Posted by dedeinaz (anonymous) on October 1, 2008 at 9:02 p.m. (Suggest removal)

to treasurehunter4, excellent quote and isn't it the truth!!

Posted by RNlady (anonymous) on October 2, 2008 at 12:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)

All I can say is WOW! There are some incredibly thoughtless people writing posts!

1) NO ONE GETS PAID FOR WORKING ON THE SHOW!! Anyone who knows anything about the show knows its strictly volunteer work only! I know this because my husband is a volunteer electrician for the show. Even if they WOULD get paid would that be a terrible thing?? After all, the cause is still great!

2) If Larson Contracting get recognition and their name is plastered over everything, THEY DESERVE IT! Their contribution to this family is incredible and if they get some advertising out if it then that is wonderful, they deserve it and earned it! I hope that the advertising they recieved from the show is a wonderful thing for Larson Contracting!

3) Isnt it sad how many people how many people are bitter about others fortunes and interested in others misfortunes?? To those who are responding negatively to this great opportunity, its time to grow up. Would you be responding negatively if YOU were the winner of Extreme Home Makeover? Of course not! Would you appreciate Larson Contracting if YOU were the winner? Of course you would.

4) I have known the DeVries family for years. They are a lovely family, and I cant think of anyone who deserves this more! THANK YOU to all the businesses who donated, time, material and employees to make a families dreams come true! You are great!
CONGRATULATIONS DEVRIES FAMILY!!

Posted by aster67 (anonymous) on October 2, 2008 at 3:37 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I do not know this family, but all that I have heard, is how they are the most deserving family. Could someone please tell me "how" they are the most deserving family and then maybe some of the negatisism will leave these post. I really don't know what it takes to be a "deserving" family. I'm not trying to say anything bad about this family, it's just that every post saids how they are so "deserving" why??? I know a lot of very misfortunate families, what makes them "deserving"??? Maybe a little history on this family would help... And as far as the negatism goes... what kind of world do we live in??? a polyanna world or do we live in a realistic world where everyone has a veiw and a right to say it. Not everyone has to agree with everything that goes on, if we did, it would be a very boring world we live in. I think EVERYONE needs to settle down a bit, and let everyone say their peace, whether you agree or not...

Posted by whowhatwhenwherehow (anonymous) on October 2, 2008 at 8:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)

VERY WELL SAID aster67. I also would like to know "how" this family is more deserving than other misfortunate families. I am not being negative, just simply looking for information in order to form an opinion based on fact.
An earlier artical mentioned that Sue teaches music and Dirk drives a bus for the Hollandale Christian School, is this time donated or is this a job for them? Just looking for information. Thanks
P.S Hats off to all the volunteers!!!

Posted by nastassia12 (anonymous) on October 2, 2008 at 9:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)

go adamwilkie!!!!!!!!!! : )

Posted by lk96 (anonymous) on October 2, 2008 at 9:06 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I don't understand why you guys keep on & on about this family.This family deserves a house they can live in without you people bashing them and Al Larson.I think if you know a deserving that needs repairs on their house them step up and help them.Put your words to good use and step up or be quiet .I know there are a lot of people needing help and are deserving.I just want to say also I volunteered but wasn't chosen so I offered my help.So please find something other then writing in here and bashing some one for getting the help they needed that is what the whole purposeof this make over is to bring us together and help one another not sit and say well why are they better or deserving.

Posted by countrygal (anonymous) on October 2, 2008 at 9:14 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Congratulations to the DeVries Family ! I am just thrilled for them !
Thank You to every one helping to complete this project !
Nice to know how many people are so willing to help !
Derserving Family.... some one sent in a video about them and told their story. Sincere family, giving to others without expecting any thing in return. Accidents & health plays a issue. The home they live in, needs to be replaced.
I wouldn't rain on any one's parade, they sure wouldn't do that to you !
It's like winning the lottery, either you have the lucky numbers, or you don't !
Congrat's DeVries !!!!

Posted by RNlady (anonymous) on October 2, 2008 at 9:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Its interesting that so many of you need "specific reasons" as to why the DeVries family needs this Extreme Home Makeover. Is it because you need to decide if these reasons are "good enough" for them to be recieving such a wonderful blessing?? RIDICULOUS!

I have known the DeVries family for years. Let me tell you why they deserve this. Susan (the mother) has a chronic heart condition that has required two surgeries already, and there are more surgeries to come. This condition leaves her fatigued 100% of the time yet she never misses a day of work. She teaches first grade reading and music classes at Hollandale Christian School with great energy. The children love her. Many instruments are handmade by her. Susan is very talented and can play nearly any instrument. Her talents would easily be able to get her a job anywhere but she choses Hollandale Christian and gets paid a fraction of what she would elsewhere. Her commitment to Hollandale Christiian School and the children is incredible.
Dirk, her husband lost his arm in 8th grade in an auger accident. His remaining arm has arthritis in it, preventing him from being able to do home repairs. He too doesnt let this stop him and he drives bus for the Hollandale Christian School, and also works at Royal Sports in Clarks Grove, providing for his family the best he can despite his limitations.

Their children are sick more often than other children, no doubt caused by the poor conditions of their home. Their house is literally falling apart around them and is incredibly inefficient. There is no doubt that it contributes greatly to Susans health condition. Their house is heated with wood. Black mold was found in their house just this week. The roof leaks and the house smells of mildew. Last winter a visitor noticed that there was a small snow drift inside the front door of the house.

This family is generous and kind and never expect anything in return. If this opportunity would have happened to another family in the community, they would have been thrilled for them. Maybe some of you can learn from this.

Posted by whowhatwhenwherehow (anonymous) on October 2, 2008 at 10:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Thank you for the info RNlady.
Why is every comment that doesn't begin with "Congratulations DeVries family" met with such hostility? Why is it that those of us who are simply looking for information about the family, and those of us who don't immediatly jump up and down with glee get lumped into the negative/naysayer crowd? Is there no middle ground on this issue?

Posted by RNlady (anonymous) on October 2, 2008 at 11:23 a.m. (Suggest removal)

You are welcome for the info.

It does seem as though some who have written comments are unable to feel joy for the family unless they are sure that the family really "deserves" this opportunity. Why must there be a "middle ground"? Why not just happiniess at someone elses good fortune? I think it would be great if we all began our comments with "Congratulations DeVries family!" The show will air in December and many of you will be able to see more of the conditions this family had to live in and the health situations they face.

Posted by babyAl (anonymous) on October 6, 2008 at 9:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I had the opportunity to volunteer at the house this weekend. The house is a beautiful, modest well constructed home that the DeVries family will be able to enjoy and maintain.
The workers volunteering their time and skills took time off from their paid jobs and from their family to be a part of this amazing opportunity. I just wanted to say thank you to the many men and women who have worked at the house nearly around the clock. You are doing a beautiful thing! Congratulations DeVries family!!!

Posted by leonci (anonymous) on October 8, 2008 at 4:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I was honored that Larson Contracting asked my company to install wood flooring at the new house. I was even more excited when I learned it was the mechanic who I did not know, but always left a good impression on me when I was at Royal Sports. I had a crew of 13 installers and we were supposed to start installing at 8:00 p.m. on Sunday night and finish at 4:00 a.m. Monday morning. We asked for volunteers to help and we started at 7:00 and about 10 volunteers cleared the areas we needed to put down flooring, hauled in flooring, hauled out garbage, swept floors, and covered them when they were complete. We were done by midnight-4 hours earlier than expected. Thanks to the volunteers who assissted the skilled craftsman, through the teamwork, there was not a glitch in the whole process. And there were over 20 people working in one area at times. To all workers on Sunday evening and night-JOB WELL DONE!!