The Kansas City Star March 15, 2007
By Bill Graham

Jacobo family soaks up sun, daydreams about house

Curiosity is building for the Jesus and Michelle Jacobo family as they enjoy a Florida vacation that sequesters them from the “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” buzz around their new home.
“I still feel as though this is all a dream,” said Natalie Rodriquez, 18, Michelle’s daughter. “I have done nothing but daydream about what the house will look like.”

The family’s comments, provided Wednesday by the show’s senior producer, reflect overwhelming joy and wonder.

“I still find myself in shock,” said Michelle Jacobo, 37.

Until Sunday, the Jacobos lived in a 912-square-foot house with their four children, five nieces and nephews and Michelle’s father.

Their new home at 4132 N. Spruce Ave. will be a surprise when they return on Sunday.

But at least one nerve-jangling wait is over.

The Jacobos were told in advance that they would learn last weekend whether they had been chosen by the show. Michelle’s nerves were frayed.

Then they heard the show’s lead designer, Ty Pennington, shout greetings to the family with a megaphone.

“I just felt a feeling of complete safety when I hear Ty;s voice, and I knew everything was going to be all right,” Michelle Jacobo said. “And I was overwhelmed that so many people cared about our family.”

Ray McMahan, 69, was grateful for “….the expression on my daughter’s face, the relief and excitement all at once. I have wanted all of this for her for so long.”

Kids bounded out the front door on Sunday morning.

“It was exciting,” said Joshua Jacobo, 9. “You hear Ty’s voice, and everything gets crazy.”

The family shook hands with ABC television producers.

By Tuesday, the Jacobos said they were relaxing, swimming and shopping, all at the show’s expense, in Florida.

“When a family goes on an extreme vacation, they get to have an extreme experience,” said Diane Korman, the senior producer.

Jesus and Michelle Jacobo said they were thrilled to see the children so happy.

“It’s been awesome being in a hotel for the firs time,” said Joshua. “It’s kind of like living the ‘Sweet Life of Zach and Cody’ from TV.”

Jessica Jacobo, 11, said, “I love the hotel, it’s beautiful and all brand new, and the beach is gorgeous.”