Logan makeover starts with extreme demolition
The buckets on the Cats swung and took out the house where Seneti Pauni, her eight children and her nephew once lived.
The Pauni family's home is being rebuilt as part of ABC's "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition." Their home will be completed Sunday and will be the largest one attempted so far, at nearly 5,600 square feet.
Hundreds of people showed up to cheer and watch as the old house became a pile of sticks.
Pennington in his usual style carried a hand-held camera in one hand and showed the family, which is on vacation, exactly what was happening.
Volunteer needs were filled by 8:30 a.m. Monday.
"Everyone in this community is coming together to make this happen," said Logan Fire Chief Mark Meaker.
Many say the community is so willing to give to this family because the Paunis have given to them.
Seneti Pauni and her family run four businesses to stay afloat. She has been known to cook large amounts of food and take it out to others.
"She is not always thinking of herself," said Jed Al-Imari, Logan city streets and sewer water manager. "With nine kids, you don't have time."
Danny Pauni died two years ago from a heart attack, leaving Seneti and their eight children struggling both emotionally and financially.
Brandy Hill, of Logan, came out to see the demolition and to offer support. Her son plays football with the Pauni boys and she also eats at one of the restaurants the Paunis help with.
"I think it's great," she said. "They are very deserving."
Designer Preston Sharp said the plans are "top secret," but will accommodate a family of nine with Tongan heritage.
"We were crushed with hugs when we knocked on the door," he said.
Sharp's background as a furniture historian and designer will likely be on display when the home is finished. "There will be unique sofas and chairs," he said. "Maybe some bark."
Sharp said something may even be integrated into the design that will help the family with their catering business, "but I won't say any more."
Kartchner Homes, which was contacted by ABC, will be the main contractor on the project. However, to finish the house in time, they went to competitors for help.
"We asked our competitors, our subcontractors and they asked their competitors," Troy Kartchner said. "It's all about the family."
While all of the time, materials and other things are being donated, the family will still have one need when the project is completed — money.
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