"Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" - Leave My Dump Alone

Even before Ty Pennington told millions of viewers that lead could "seep through 20 layers of paint," I have had and continue to have what they call "serious concerns" about Extreme Makeover: Home Edition."  [See what the NPCA says about the lead in the Silva house in Rhode Island Download ExtremeMakeoverHomeEditionLetter.doc].

For one thing, as other geezers will recall, it reminded me of that killer of human dignity "Queen for a Day."  That TV show in the 1950s seemed to award prizes like a much-need washer-and-dryer to the mother who gave the biggest sob story and emoted the most.  Actually, next to these contestants, the folks trying to get on "Let's Make a Deal" appeared like buttoned-down British royalty. 

In short, I despised and still despise how the recipients of the home makeover seem to have to wear themselves acting surprised beyond their wildest dream, grateful beyond all human bounds, and desperate enough to perform this kind of demeaning ritual on a weekly basis. 

Shouldn't we ask: How much coaching goes on before the airing?  Are the prospects for the makeover screened for their theatrical potential before they are selected?  I would welcome these issues explored on an investigation program such as "60 Mintues."

Then there are those product placements and sponsors.  To me that seems exploitative of people's real problems to use the show as an opportunity for these kinds of promotions.  Why can't the donations be handled anonymously and credit taken in terms of an IRS write-off. 

As a poor kid with asthma in downtown Jersey City I attended one of those "fresh air" camps.  We never knew who the sponsor was.  I got two weeks in the New Jersey countryside without being made to feel like a charity case - which of course I was. An anti-"Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" website might be launched to organize a global boycott of those products and services.

Third, why does Ty Pennington scream out like a game-show host?  That tells ya something, doesn't it. For shame "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition."