Hyde Park home and schoolyard are finalists in HGTV makeover contest

The Boston neighborhood of Hyde Park could win a major makeover for a local home and schoolyard if the projects get enough votes in an on-line competition. The Elihu Greenwood Elementary School playground, as well as the home of Beverly and Manny DePina, are eligible for extensive renovations in the "Change the World. Start At Home" contest presented by the HGTV cable network.

The contest is part of a new community revitalization and environmental cause effort launched by HGTV in partnership with Rebuilding Together, the National Trust for Historic Preservation and the Natural Resources Defense Council. The campaign focuses on revitalizing communities across the country and helping consumers make smart choices for the environment within their homes and daily lives.

If Boston is selected, HGTV and its partners would support the transformation of an asphalt-covered parking lot into a playground and green space for the E. Greenwood School. The project would also help renovate the Hyde Park home of Beverly and Manny DePina, who have been very active in the community and have opened their home to more than 50 foster children in need.

Cast votes on-line at http://www.hgtv.com/hgtv/ah_change_the_world/text/
0,,HGTV_30676_65470,00.html.

Individuals may cast up to one vote each day through December 21, 2007. The HGTV website (www.hgtv.com/changetheworld/) features descriptions about the Boston projects, as well as those proposed in other cities. The four cities receiving the most votes will be announced during the Rose Parade coverage on January 1, 2008.

4 schools, and recently won the Broad Prize for Urban Education as the top city school district in the country.