Blog
Stay up-to-the-minute with planning and progress updates directly from the builders.
Move that Bus . . . Again!
Today was the day we've all been waiting for. After a rush of last minute finishes and details, the Martirez's arrived in style in a swank stretch limo, ready to see their new home for th first time. On one side of the limo, the street was lined with hundreds upon hundreds of spectators and volunteers. On the other side was the infamous bus - ready to move on the crowd's command.
The family's excited anticipation was infectious. From the moment Dawn and Emmanuel stepped out of the limo, they were beaming with gratitude and visibly overwhelmed by the community's response. Elle and Alec were all smiles, while Evan was trying to settle in and take a nap on his daddy's shoulder . . . hey, it's been a busy week. Disney World, Ty Pennington, a television debut . . . wouldn't you be tired too?
One of the highlights of the day was when Emmanuel spoke to the crowd just before the family glimpsed their new home. Summing up this week better than anyone, Emmanuel said, "Each time Evan stands up in this house, he's standing because a thousand people lifted him up." You know how every episode of EMHE brings you to tears at some point? Well, that was the moment for us.
As soon as the bus pulled away, the family's reaction was exactly what we imagined as we worked through the late nights and difficult moments that this week brought us. Now that the construction and design are complete, you could say it's all over, but we believe that it's only just begun. It's true that the chaotic construction and throngs of spectators are a thing of the past, but the Martirez's will prepare thousands of meals in their new kitchen, play numerous games in the kid's playroom and have countless conversations by the fire in their hearth room. We'd love to gush a bit more about the home's interior, but we don't want to give anything away. You'll just have to tune in when our episode airs later this fall.
We've mentioned on many occasions the gratitude we feel toward our fellow St. Louisans and all the local businesses that contributed to this week's build, but now that it's all said and built, we wanted to thank you all once more. Thank you for asking, "What else can I do?" Thank you for working tirelessly through the night. Thank you for your positive attitude. Thank you for never giving up.
Way to go St. Louis! We are so proud to be part of this fantastic community.
John, Dave, Debbie, Jeanne, Mary, Mike and the rest of the crew . . .
Created Wednesday September 10, 2008 at 10:40pm
Move that Bus!
Yesterday was the first of our two "reveals." With everything right on schedule, we had an enormous crowd turn out for Sam's first glimpse at the new "More Than Coffee." The Martirez family joined us because Sam is an inspiration to them and proof of what their children can one day accomplish. The emotions were high and the reveal a true shock to Sam - giving the Martirez's a taste of what today (their own reveal day) will bring.
The look on Sam's face and his humble gratitude made this week, which was low on sleep and high on action, completely worth it. We would do it all over again tomorrow. But, with Sam eager to get back to business in his new space, we are happy to pack up our tools and the cameras, so Sam can focus on his goal of "helping challenged people one cup at a time." If you want to contribute to Sam's mission, be sure to visit his website, morethancoffe.net and drive through the shop for your caffeine or snack break at 14240 Manchester Rd., just east of Hwy. 141.
This whole week would not have been possible without the cooperation and patience of Sam's neighboring businesses. We are deeply indebted to you all for welcoming the chaos that took place this week. The crowds, the furious construction, the takeover of your parking lot - we thank your for your support during this projet. The cooperation of Sam's neighbors is yet another testament to his character and his affect on the community. So many people realized that there was a greater purpose at hand and were willing to temporarily disrupt their routines to help better the condition of Sam's business.
As much as we'd like to revel in the magic of yesterday's reveal, it's onto the next! Later this afternoon, we are set to "Move that bus!" at the Martirez's new home. These last 48-hours have turned the house from a construction site to a warm, welcoming home that the Martirez's can live in for generations to come. 
So, join us, the neighbors, Ty and the crew this afternoon when the Martirez's see their new home for the first time. It's amazing that our part in their journey is coming to a close, but this is definitely the best part. We can't wait till Dawn, Emmanuel, Elle, Evan and Alec settle into their new digs and continue on their inspiring path.
John, Dave, Debbie, Jeanne, Mary, Mike and the rest of the crew . . .
Created Wednesday September 10, 2008 at 9:34am
The Final Days . . .
We can't believe we've made it this far already. Yesterday we made major headway on the flooring, bathrooms, the exquisite wood and stonework, the Martirez's outdoor living space and so much more. Several very talented people are working on special projects in each of the kids' rooms that we hope will truly dazzle them. We look forward to getting started on the finishing touches, like bringing in the furniture and the landscaping.
As we work as furiously as ever, we are continuosly struck by the atmosphere and attitudes at the site. One contractor that has been working at both the house and the coffee shop told us that he was struck by one thing, "There are hundreds of men working very fast in very tight quarters - lots of activity, but I never once heard anyone raise their voice or express any frustration. Everyone is really keeping our purpose in sight." While part of that is the innate goodness that so many St. Louisans possess, another thing that is keeping the volunteers and workers in high spirits is the crowd that continues to pour in and offer their support. When you've been working tirelessly for hours and you step out of the house, it does a world of wonders to see your community cheering you on and expressing their gratitude.
Speaking of gratitude . . . we will get to express ours to Sam Malek today when we reveal his new coffee shop. We are so thankful to him for inspiring us, our children and our neighbors to realize our full potential in this world. It's also his sincerity and hard work for others that drew us to him and motivated us to build him and his employees the type of workspace they deserve. Thank you, Sam and we can't wait to see the look on your face when you get your first look at your new coffee shop. We'll be seeing you for our morning lattes!
To all of our volunteers, workers and spectators . . . thank you for your continued support as we get closer and closer to moving that bus!
John, Dave, Debbie, Jeanne, Mary Mike & the rest of the crew . . .
Created Tuesday September 9, 2008 at 7:49pm
The House is Becoming a Home . . .
Boy, we thought things were cooking yesterday, but the amount of work completed within the last 24-hours has truly blown us away. We've had an endless stream of Carpenters, Electricians, Plumbers, Inspectors and other skilled workers pour on and off the site. We just put a roof overhead Saturday night and a mere day later, the siding, drywall, shingles, windows, tile, cabinetry and even more have been installed. We know it's hard to believe. We encourage you to come see it with lyour own eyes. You'll be amazed at the skill and dedication that our community has shown this week. With every challenge, our team pulls together and finds a solution. On several occasions we've seen local companies step in at the last minute to fill a need - literally saving the project. It warms the heart to see competitors working side by side to pull this whole thing together.
To think that all of the materials we're using to build the Martirez's new home were donated by local companies and individuals is just astounding. We're talking a lot of stuff - concrete, lumber, flooring, tile . . . everything. As al the donated materials come together to make a home for Dawn, Emmanuel, Elle, Evan and Alec there's only one word . . . WOW.
As with most construction projects, were did find ourselves behind schedule at one point on Saturday, but unlike most construction projects, we have an entire community working to make this house a home, and with enormous perserverance, we brought ourselves right back on schedule.
The shuttles bringing volunteers and spectators to the site are consistently packed with incredible people takeing time out of their busy lives to contribute to the future of the Martirez family or to chear on the workers. St. Louis is a tight-knit, family-oriented community and we are thrilled to see this project bringing all of us even closer together.
John, Dave, Debbie, Jeanne, Mary Mike & the rest of the crew . . .
Created Monday September 8, 2008 at 10:05 am
Progress, Progress, Progress . . .
Construction on Sam's new coffee shop is completed! More than 350 volunteers made tremendous progress at the site over the last 36 hours. In the early morning hours of Saturday, the floor and bathroom tiles where installed. The new bathroom is roomy and easily accessible for Sam and his employees. Next, came the siding, interior and exterior painting, cabinetry, appliances - the whole gamut. Ed's design is almost fully realized - just a few more finishing touches and we look forward to revealing the new More Than Coffee shop on Tuesday!
At the Martirez home today, it has been an endless flurry of activity. A hole in the ground just 24-hours ago - the home's foundation has been poured, the walls framed and the roof set in place. the commnity support has been overwhelming - with large crowds cheering on the building crew at each phase of the construction. Wow. Countless examples of "People Passion Purpose" are being demonstrated minute by minute. The outpouring of love and support on this site to build a new home for Dawn, Emmanuel, Elle, Evan and Alec has left us speechless. "Even if volunteers show up for their shift and we're running a few hours behind," shared John. "They'll say, 'No problem. I'll come back in four hours. I just want to do my part' . . . I mean, we had a bucket brigade full of men and women passing buckets of rocks down the line!"
We are extremely grateful for all the support and volunteers, and we are so excited to see the Martirez's new home taking shape. And, let's hear it for all of our parnters and the surrounding restaurants and volunteers who have kept the building crews at both sites fed with nourishing meals. They are keeping our team strong.
From the very beginning, we've known that this project is even bigger than the Martirez's and their new home. It's about community, and boy St. Louis, what a community we have shown ourselves to be. We are sincerely proud of this city we call home and look forward to seeing all of our volunteers scheduled to help over the next few days, and encourage the community to keep coming to cheer on the team. Thanks!
John, Dave, Debbie, Jeanne, Mary Mike & the rest of the crew . . .
Created Sunday September 7, 2008 at 7:13 am.
Demo Day
After weeks of round-the-clock preparation, the action really got underway yesterday. The day began with the “Braveheart” march,” where hundreds of volunteers and individuals who the Martirez’s have inspired joined together to mark the momentous demolition. Dave Dunlap celebrated the special occasion and his Scottish heritage by sporting a kilt – very apropos for a “Braveheart” march. William Wallace would be so proud . . .
During the march, the crowd recorded a video for the family to watch while they vacation in Disney World. Also, we got to hear from several individuals who Dawn helped during her years as a pediatric cancer nurse. Ty rallied the crowd and the emotions were extraordinarily high. “For years the Martirez’s have been there for so many people,” shared Ty. “This week, so many people will be there for them.” We also heard from another person who shares a special role in this project. Sam, whose new coffee shop is really taking shape, truly stole the show with his heartfelt message to Dawn, Emmanuel and Elle, Evan and Alec. An inspiration to special needs individuals throughout the world, Sam said, “can’t do is not in my vocabulary.”
As with any project of this magnitude, we’ve encountered some surprises that have delayed a few things here and there, but our contractors and volunteers have shown themselves to be patient, hardworking people. Like Sam, “can’t do” is apparently not in their vocabulary.
So, with the Martirez’s cramped, crumbling house a thing of the past, we are moving at a dizzying pace and look forward to today, when we will get their new roof over our heads and move one day closer to the moment when we “Move that bus!”
Things are really happening . . . thanks so much for sharing the excitement with us.
John, Dave, Debbie, Jeanne, Mary, Mike & the rest of the crew . . .
Created Saturday September 6, 2008 at 11:14pm
Knock, Knock . . .
Well, today was door knock day. . . and what a day it’s been! Dawn and Emmanuel Martirez of Shrewsbury and their three precious children, Elle, Evan and Alec have been chosen to receive a new home by Extreme Makeover: Home Edition because of their inspiring selflessness in the face of difficult odds. We encourage you to learn more about the family and their challenges, and wanted to share a few thoughts on the Martirez family and this incredible project.
Heroes come in many forms and out of many different situations. Dawn is a hero because of her tireless work as a pediatric cancer nurse and her selfless dedication to her children. Emmanuel is a hero because he works hard each and every day to provide for his family and children with special needs. Young Elle is a hero because of her patience and willingness to sacrifice so much for her little brothers. Evan and Alec are heroes because they came into this world with tremendous genetic odds against them but daily inspire the people around them with each breath and the smiles that light up of their faces. Last, but not least, every individual who is stepping up to contribute to this huge undertaking is a hero. These efforts will improve the future of this family immeasurably and spread the power of giving throughout our community and, ultimately, the world.
For years, Dawn & Emmanuel Martirez have been a tireless beacon of hope and self-sacrifice. We look forward to making that beacon shine brighter and light the way for more people. We are already overwhelmed by the response of local builders, contractors, businesses and “Average Joes” (and Josephines)! Everywhere we turn we are confronted by individuals asking, “How can I help? What can I do?” Now that we all know the challenges facing this wonderful, hard-working family, we’re sure that even more people will want to join in and be part of the power of “People, Passion, Purpose.”
During today’s door knock and our brief opportunity to meet with Dawn, Emmanuel and their kids, we got a first look at why they are so deserving of a new home. It was remarkably rewarding, but we know it’s just a preview of what the next week will bring. So, as the family packs their bags and heads off to their Disney World vacation, Callier Thompson Shea, Consolidated Construction, an overwhelming number of St. Louisans, along with Ty Pennington and the whole gang are working around the clock to create a better home and future for Dawn, Emmanuel, Elle, Evan and Alec. To learn more about how you can help, please visit our Get Involved section.
Keep checking back for daily updates on the progress of the build and the incredible stories that will surely come out of it!
We look forward to seeing all of the volunteers and spectators throughout the coming days.
John, Dave, Debbie, Jeanne, Mary, Mike & the rest of the crew . . .
Created Wednesday September 3, 2008 at 7:52pm
Hello!
Thank you for visiting our website! All of us at Callier Thompson Shea Construction & Design and Consolidated Construction Group are overjoyed at this opportunity to give back to and inspire the community that has given us so very much. Extreme Makeover: Home Edition is a quality program that has changed the lives of countless individuals and touched the hearts of millions upon millions of people throughout the world. It is our goal that this collaboration not only improves the life of one deserving family, but that we bring our already tight-knit community closer together in the spirit of giving.
With more than 30 years of experience each, Callier Thompson Shea Construction & Design and Consolidated Construction Group both bring a commitment to quality to this build. We are extraordinarily thankful for the ever-increasing team of professionals who are joining us is in this rewarding endeavor. Without their commitment to making a difference, this project would not be possible.
Whether you're a tradesperson or an "Average Joe," you, too, have the opportunity to take part in the build. We encourage and implore you to volunteer, donate or show your support in any way you can – big or small, every little bit counts. Explore our website for the different ways you can be a part of this incredible experience. We already know that St. Louis is a great place to call home – join us in showing the rest of the world just how wonderful the people of St. Louis are!
Stay tuned for more information and news as the door knock approaches on September 3rd. We're sure we will have many meaningful moments that we will want to share with you all.
All the best,
John, Dave, Debbie, Jeanne, Mary, Mike & the rest of the crew . . .
Created Friday August 22, 2008 at 11:58pm
