Brightstar Credit Union Selects Two Lucky South Florida Families For Their Switch-A-Room Makeover Contest

Sunrise, FL – May 11, 2006 – Two lucky South Florida families have been selected to redecorate a room in the other’s home in the first ever Switch-A-Room Makeover Contest, sponsored by BrightStar Credit Union, one of the largest credit unions in South Florida with more than 37,000 members.  The Englert family and the Steinbuck family will make the ‘switch’ and face the redecorating challenge on May 17 and 18, 2006.

"This is going to be a once in a lifetime, fun opportunity worth thousands of dollars," said Raffael Crockett, President of BrightStar Credit Union. The two families will completely redecorate a room in the other’s home with the help of Craig Konhauzer Designs and Homecrafters of America. The neighbors will actually do the work themselves, while staying in the neighbor’s home throughout the duration of the ‘switch.’

"We’re both ready to expect the unexpected," said Kathy Englert, whose sister Patty Steinbuck was also selected. Both families have agreed to accomplish what seems like the impossible—completely redecorate a room in just two days!  Kathy Englert is a Food and Nutrition Services Manager for Broward Schools, and her husband, John Englert is an Elevator Mechanic for Schindler Elevator. Although the contest was open to the entire South Florida community, both Kathy and John have been members of BrightStar Credit Union for more than 10 years.

The sisters created a wish list for their rooms the minute they knew they were the winners.  "I would like to see a tropical theme for my bedroom," said Patty Steinbuck, Kathy’s younger sister and a cookie designer.  Patty’s husband, Henry Steinbuck is a Paramedic for the City of Hollywood. The two families live around the corner from one another in the Bonaventure part of Weston. Kathy and Patty’s mother lives in the neighborhood as well, and will be on hand to keep an eye on her daughters in case any ‘sibling rivalry’ comes out!

During their adventure, there is bound to be some stress, a good deal of laughter and possibly tears but mostly exhilaration and excitement during the ‘switch.’  To watch the frantic fun, visit BrightStar Credit Union’s website (www.bscu.org) as the families test their decorating skills.  ‘Before and after’ photos of both redecorated rooms will be posted on the website, along with a video of all the fun once the remodel is complete.

The public will also have the chance to vote on the best redesigned room. The event promises to offer anticipation and excitement, much like that of the hit cable television show "Trading Spaces."

Craig Konhauzer Designs is featured in some of Miami’s finest furniture stores and boutiques, and is providing the design expertise, furniture and accessories.

Homecrafters of America is providing carpentry supplies, paint, tape, and equipment such as hammers and saws.

Providing South Florida consumers with financial services for 60 years, BrightStar Credit Union offers Home Equity Lines of Credit and fixed rate loans that help its members put money in their pockets for home repairs, appliances, college tuition, family vacations and more. The BrightStar Credit Union HELOC has no closing costs, no application fees and no annual fees—with rates available lower than Prime Rate.  In addition, Home Equity Loans may offer tax advantages.

BrightStar Credit Union is a non-profit, member-owned cooperative.  With a total of six branch locations in Broward County, BrightStar Credit Union offers a variety of financial services including checking and savings accounts, personal, home equity and mortgage loans, investments and insurance.  For more information, visit www.bscu.org.

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