T H E P E O P L E A N D H A P P E N I N G S O F C E N T U R Y C O M P A N I E S F O R J A N U A R Y / F E B R U A R Y o f 2 0 1 4

A LOOK BACK AT

2013

MCMXCVI

Dear Friends,

Welcome to our 3rd edition of the Centurion! I am so impressed with the production of this first class company newsletter along with so many other achievements Century has experienced in 2013. For me, this time of the year has always been a reflection of the accomplishments over the past year and a preparation of what is to come in the New Year ahead. There was much to contemplate in both aspects as 2013 drew to a close. I couldn’t be more excited about the future of these companies than I am right now.

Century Entertainment and Furnishings successfully transitioned into a prominent location in the city on Shelbyville Road to become a visible and respected company in our community. The new location has allowed for 14 additional employees to join the team to accommodate the new business driven by the walk in clientele, the gorgeous showroom and our outstanding salespeople! I am very proud of the direction the company is headed and have very high expectations for 2014.

Century Mortgage and Lending quietly produced the 2nd best year in company history while in a declining market. That is a testament to the experience and knowledge Century’s employees hold. 2013 was also a year of public accolades. Our marketing team did a phenomenal job in presenting the company’s growth and successes to those in our community. Their work to present the material and your work to produce the results were the reasons we were recognized by Business First and the BBB for so many awards. As if that was not enough, our legal department gained national attention by leading meetings with the Senate Banking Committee pioneering legislation that has impacted everyone in the lending industry. Congratulations on your achievements! We are truly blessed to have all components of Century to be firing on all cylinders which have exceeded expectations.

As we focus on 2014, the word change comes to mind. We will be facing more regulatory changes than ever before in the coming year. Yet I am confident that the challenges we will face as a result of these regulations will only make us stronger. We have carefully positioned Century to not only accept the adjustments necessary to comply with new regulations, but to fortify the company’s future. With the mindful restructure to unify and support the growth we have experienced, along with the veteran leadership, I imagine that we have little to fear, only to adapt. Pauline R. Kezer, a prominent Republican Legislator, once stated, “Continuity gives us roots; change gives us branches, letting us stretch and grow and reach new heights”. Let’s spread those branches and see what happens. Happy 2014!

Monica Bohn

A Look Ahead14 2014 Article Title

2014 came in like a lion with a lot of changes and news around Century.

Words of Encouragement32 Century Mortgage Annual Holiday EventOver 275 people filled the room to hear Century COO Jeff Ratanapool give a summary of the past year’s mortgage industry highlights and predictions for 2014 and Craig MacFarland's inspirational outlook on life and living.

January/February 2014

In the Spirit...18 The St. Nick FundThe battle to stay ahead in the ever-changing mortgage industry lands Century in Boston.

Shape Up23 New Year, New You

Century Mortgage joins an elite list of Louisville businesses including GE

Appliances and Humana nominated for Business of the Year.

WOOFWOOF32 Book Signing Raises Money

for Abandoned and Abused Animals in Louisville

Over 24 people attended a book signing for Loan Officer and Author Birgit Stubblefield

and Co-Author Debra Wagner to support in-need animals in Louisville.

2013 in ReviewHere is Century’s Top 10 of 2013 ! #10 Century Has a Voice in Washington #9 Century Lending Company Expands #8 Century Entertainment & Furnishings Moves Into New Home #7 CE&F Interior Designers Win At Homearama #6 CMC Launches a New Brand #5 CEO Monica Bohn Named To Women-Owned List #4 CMC/CLC Named Fast 50 #3 CMC/CLC Finalist for Business of the Year #2 U.S. Senator McConnell Campaigns at Century #1 Record Breaking Numbers For 2013

ALSO IN THE EDITIONQ&A with Frankie Epperson ................ page 22Profiles - Chris Biermann .............................26Profiles - Amber Smith ................................. 27Profiles - Brad Robinson ...............................28Networking ..................................................29Turkey Chili ..................................................30Announcements & Calendar ...................32/33

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Unless you have been living under a rock, it will

come as no surprise that some of the most

memorable moments of 2013 involved smart

phones and pop stars. Take Miley Cyrus for instance. She

made the wrecking ball one of the most popular costumes

for Halloween. Let’s not forget Apple’s contribution to

2013. The iPhone 5S and 5C were released giving you,

well, just about the same thing as the last iPhone, but at

least you have more options for colors. The housing market

was another major player in 2013 history. It was volatile at

times and unpredictable, but the ups and downs made for

an interesting ride. Century rode the mortgage rollercoaster

and came out on top, reaching milestones and being named

one of the top businesses of the year by Business First.

2013 will go down in the history of Century as one

marked with recognition, regulations and road trips. Here

is Century’s Top 10 of 2013.

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#10 A Voice in WashingtonCentury Mortgage Company President Bryan Weigandt described 2013 as challenging and inspiring. “I learned how very prepared we are for the challenges ahead of us,” said Weigandt in regard to the new federal regulations and tightened lending practices the company integrated over the last year. The regulations also landed Century in the national spotlight. The Louisville-based company was asked by the U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Development to help Congress shape the future of the GSE’s – Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

“We were the only non-depository mortgage banker to advise the Senate Committee on the hot-button issue of Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae, the two most important entities in the U.S. housing market,” said Monica Bohn, CEO of Century Mortgage Company. “Our voice in the debate has

helped ensure a place for mortgage bankers in the new housing finance market.”

Jeffrey Kibbey, Century’s Director of Corporate Services, agreed. “Without Century’s involvement, the committee might not have known that community leaders like Century are staffed by real people who have deep ties to their communities, or that we help keep the rest of the market fair by providing the most direct competition to the big banks. It would have been very easy for the Senate to simply leave us out of the new finance system, but because we were there and we were vocal, that won’t happen. That in itself is a huge success and the fact that we will continue with the Committee is just as exciting,” he said.

Bohn said Century’s input and advice on a variety of issues is making positive change for the industry. “We have attended private meetings with CFPB Director Richard Cordray and his senior staff to discuss the potential effects of new rules and regulations facing the mortgage industry in 2013 and 2014; held strategy meetings with various trade groups such as the National Association of Realtors, the Homebuilders Association, and the American Banker’s Association; and conducted local and national educational trainings on these issues for consumers, attorneys, Realtors and CPA’s.”

Kibbey played a key role in the company’s overall success in Washington, having represented Century and the Community Mortgage Lenders of American (CMLA) at all of those meetings. He described Century’s work in the nation’s capital as

“hugely successful”. Kibbey said Century’s work in Washington is ensuring the new finance system has a place for mortgage bankers, which will be a good place probably with a guaranteed share of the market.

So what’s next? Kibbey says they’re waiting for the Committee to write the final bill so that Century’s legislation team can analyze its content in detail. Kibbey will then return to Washington to continue the briefings with the Committee. Look for future articles in the Centurion for updates from Washington.

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#9 Century Lending Expands2013 will be forever remembered as the year Century Lending Company literally grew out of its home. Employees took over part of the second floor of the corporate headquarters at 9931 Corporate Campus Drive. “When we moved into this building, we thought we would have enough space to last at least a few years,” said Kelly Cochran, Vice President Secondary Markets. But he said just a few months after moving into the building in 2012, the company doubled its volume. “We knew then that we needed additional space to add employees to prepare for additional growth,” Cochran added.

The second floor was remodeled before employees moved. It included new carpet, paint, cubicles, a break room and some additions to create an expanded gym area with lockers, a shower and offices for managers.

“The addition of the second floor space allowed us to add personnel in all different areas of our business,” said Cochran. He noted a big positive was being able to keep teams together.

There’s still a little room for future growth including a few empty offices and cubicles on the first and second floor.

#8 Century Entertainment & Furnishings Moves Into New Home Century Entertainment & Furnishings kicked off 2013 by moving into a 34,000 square foot showroom in St. Matthews. “The showroom was the vision of my late husband Matt Bohn and Century Entertainment & Furnishings President John Poynter,” said Monica Bohn, CEO of Century.

The first store opened in a warehouse in 2003. Matt Bohn’s dream at that time was to improve the lives of customers and build relationships that last a lifetime. His vision lives on years later and is what makes Century different than the traditional box stores. Customers have remained loyal through the move and are happy with the additions to Century. “This store is one of the coolest places around, if you haven't been there then you are missing out. If you are remodeling, building or just need anything for your home, you can find it here,” said Mike Evans, Century Entertainment & Furnishings Facebook Friend.

The new showroom is located in St. Matthews at 4310 Shelbyville Road next to Starbucks. It offers the same superior customer service Century is known for, with a variety of new products including expanded furniture lines, more appliances and the latest technological advances. A design center also offers customers the ability to walk through the building or remodeling process with expert designers.

The showroom is open Monday through Friday 10am to 7pm, Saturday 10am to 6pm. Visit CenturyLiving.com for more store details.

#7 Century Entertainment & Furnishings Wins at HomearamaDesigners from Century Enter tainment and Furnishings were voted top three Favorite Designers in Rock Springs Homearama 2013. Vis i tors nominated House #8 and Century designers Ann Çloyd and Frankie Epperson as 3rd place Favorite Designer. Voting took place at both Homearama locations and awards for Favorite Builder and Favorite Designer were presented for both neighborhoods.

House #8 Prestige Builders also received a nod as 2nd Place Favorite Builder in Rock Springs. Century

Entertainment & Furnishings equipped the home with custom design and furnishings top to bottom, including Smart Home technology.

The competition was stiff, but Century pulled out an event people have talked about all year. “Had a great time at Homearama and meeting some of your staff members, they were very helpful,” said Tracy Hollingsworth Samuels, Century Entertainment & Furnishings Facebook Friend.

Homearama is always a lot of work for Century Entertainment & Furnishings, but employees said it’s worth it.

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#6 CMC Launches a New Brand: “Connecting Locally, Powered Nationally”Century Mortgage Company launched a new Web site and marketing campaign, “Connecting Locally, Powered Nationally”. It rolled out over the summer, at a time when tradeshows were in full swing. The marketing team branded it on a new, state-of-the-art inflatable display. The slogan goes along with Century’s effort to be a community lender with the strength of national presence.

#5 Monica Bohn Named to Women-Owned Businesses ListIn April, Century CEO Monica Bohn was named to Business First’s annual list of women-owned businesses. Growth was the focus of the list. It recognized the region’s top women-owned businesses. Nine of the 17 businesses that appear on the list in both 2012 and 2013 added jobs during the last year.

Only five of the 17 companies lost jobs in that period, and three kept employment the same.

The businesses had a combined total of 2,689 full-time and FTE workers in 2012. That figure rose to 2,914 in 2013.

The list included five new companies this year. Monica Bohn and Century Mortgage Company landed in the top five at number four. The company’s employment has grown to 166 at the time of the publication from 120 last year. That number continues to increase. The number one spot went to Al J. Schneider Company and Mary Moseley.

#4 CMC/CLC Named One of Louisville’s Fastest Growing CompaniesBusiness First’s Fast 50 named 18 companies that were not on the list last year including Century Mortgage Company. The companies had to have an almost 30 percent revenue growth during the last two years, be based in Louisville, have an average of at least $1-million in revenue for the three most recent years and a three-year operating sales history to make the list. Business First reported many companies applied for the list, but the stellar revenue growth of this year’s Fast 50 set them apart from the rest.

Century was named the 10th fastest growing company. 21c Museum Hotels took the top spot. The announcement was made during a ceremony on Tuesday, October 22nd during the Fast 50 luncheon at the Kentucky International Convention Center.

Equal Housing Lender. © 2013 Century Mortgage Company d/b/a Century Lending Company, NMLS 3925. Key logo is the registered servicemark of Century Mortgage Company.

www.CenturyMortgage.com

Century Mortgage Company is a community lender, catering to your every need. Our commitment to personal, local business drives us to deliver exceptional service to our clients and community. The strength of our national presence empowers us to make a true difference in the industry. Century Mortgage is your trusted key to home ownership.

Connecting Locally, Powered Nationally

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#3 Century Mortgage & Lending were Named a Finalist for Business of the YearCentury Mortgage joined an elite list of Louisville businesses, including GE Appliances and Humana, nominated for Business of the Year by Business First. During the 9th annual gala dinner in December, the Eagle Award of Excellence was awarded to businesses chosen from among finalists in various categories. The awards honored private companies based on size, company leaders, newly-formed businesses and nonprofit organizations.

After receiving the nomination, Century had to submit an entry to Business First with answers to various questions such as, “What makes your business stand out from your competition?” The answers had to be at least 150 words long and include examples. Some other requirements included proof of earnings and community service projects.

Nearly 400 people attended the Business First annual Business of the Year Awards. Zirmed Inc. took the winning spot in the Large Category, the same category Century was in. Other winners of the night included Papa John’s International Inc, V-Soft Consulting Inc, ARGI Financial Group LLC and Dare To Care Food Bank.

#2 U.S. Senator McConnell VisitsThe election spotlight shined bright on Century as the company hosted United States Senator Mitch McConnell and his campaign. The company agreed to host the launch of “Women For Team Mitch” after receiving a request from Senator McConnell’s office. Century had only days to prepare but pulled it all together without a hitch. Sen. McConnell’s staff said he referred to the event as the “best he’s ever had”.

CEO Monica Bohn hosted the August 30th event as employees and guests turned out to support the Senator. Local TV news stations, radio and newspapers covered the Senator’s visit. Former Representative from Kentucky’s 3rd District Anne Northrup also attended and spoke. She shared her professional experiences with the Senator while in office. “Mitch is a leader who sees a different path, a path of opportunity and growth and energy in the United States that’s not only countrywide, but in this state. He’s provided opportunities for our children and grandchildren,” said Northrup.

The Senator was welcomed to the podium by loud applause and cheers. “I am humbled by the support in this room,” said McConnell. He went on to share the stories of strong women in his life including his mother and wife.

Sen. McConnell and his wife thanked supporters and shook the hands of those in the room on the way out. The August event followed a May 31st McConnell fundraiser hosted by Century. That event raised more than $50,000 for the campaign.

#1 Century Mortgage & Lending Celebrate Record Breaking Numbers The declining housing market did not stop Century from making history. Century Mortgage and Century Lending had its 2nd best year in company history. The Mortgage division - funded *3,284 loans, that equaled *$519.4-million in 2013. The average time from submission to funding was also something to brag about. With FHA it was an average of 15.13 days, Conventional came out at 14.83 days, VA resulted in 15.18 days and RHS equaled 23.22 days. All of this happened during a year when the government actually shut down, rates jumped and regulations took off. So pat yourself on the back Century, you not only survived a volatile 2013, but you flourished. * as of 12/16/13

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What's Ahead in 2014 2014 came in like a lion with a lot of changes and news around Century. CEO Monica Bohn announced a restructuring of the company and development of a new corporate division just before the holidays. At the center of those changes is Century Mortgage Company. Former President Jeff Ratanapool is now the Chief Operating Officer, while Bryan Wiegandt moved into the vacant President’s position. Loan Officer Chuck DeLangis is using his expertise in Indianapolis, leading the Carmel, Indiana office as Regional Vice President.

“I always look forward to the next year. It is a new start, a clean slate to plow your own row,” said President Wiegandt. He added that Monica’s enthusiasm about the coming year increases the excitement. “I want to direct each of our employees to do a little soul searching as to what they want out of life and their jobs, be positive and push forward to grow into the person they want to become,” Wiegandt said.

Century Mortgage will continue to focus on growth and expansion in outside markets throughout 2014. Wiegandt said that includes possibly opening new offices in other locations while maintaining and growing the market share in locations CMC currently serves. “Be patient, change takes time and as long as we all take a breath and work together, things will be great,” Wiegandt added. Century Mortgage and Century Lending will also experience more regulatory changes throughout 2014, along with an expected positive impact on interest rates thanks to an election year.

Century Lending will continue on a similar path of change. Marla Guillaume started the New Year leading the company as president. Brad Robinson was hired as Century’s New Chief Financial Officer or CFO. Louisville is his hometown, he grew up in Middletown and graduated from Eastern High School. A jock in high school and college, Robinson played football, basketball, baseball and soccer. Robinson majored in accounting at the University of Kentucky where he also played soccer. After graduation in 1997, he worked at the global CPA firm, Price Waterhouse Coopers. Robinson worked in residential real estate for the last 12 years, most recently as a vice president of finance.

Robinson is married to his high school sweetheart, Allyson. They have three children including Jacob who is 12 and a 7th grader at Crosby Middle School, Mya is 9 and a 4th grader at Lowe Elementary and Kyla is 5 and in kindergarten at Lowe Elementary. The mortgage industry runs in Robinson’s family. His wife Allyson and his mother-in-law Myra Ford are realtors while his father-in-law Bob Ford is a home inspector.

Other changes at Lending include Jeff Kibbey leading the newly developed corporate division as the Director of Corporate Services. Carla Decker steps up as the Human Resources Director, while Justin Lerner steps into a leadership position as the IT Infrastructure Manager.

2014 will include fewer changes at Century Entertainment & Furnishings following the biggest year in history for the company. The new showroom will celebrate its first birthday at 4310 Shelbyville Road in St. Matthews. As for business overall, President John Poynter hopes it will increase 20% over the next year and he plans to add more hands on deck. “I hope to hire employees who are passionate about what they do versus just hiring someone for a position,” said Poynter.

The cabinet division is expected to continue on its path of growth as more and more customers discover Century’s new home. “My goals for 2014 include calling every customer back, capturing more walk-in business by asking qualifying questions and trying to get more customer awareness for our best value,” Poynter added. The entire Century Entertainment & Furnishings team is already looking forward to the biggest event of the year, Homearama.

One thing is for sure: no matter which branch of Century you work or do business with, good things are happening. “Each year I look for ways to make us as good or better than our competitors, but now I want us to look for ways to be different,” Wiegandt said. He said we have to and will stand alone to become different from everyone else. “We have to keep in mind that greatness is not only one day of the week, but every day we have to strive to be great.”

“Be the change that you wish to see in the world.”– Mahatma Gandhi

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Jeff Ratanapool

Brad Robinson

Jeff Kibbey

John Poynter

Marla Guillaume

Bryan Wiegandt

Chuck DeLangis Justin LernerCarla Decker

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From big toys for little boys to Barbie dolls, pink balls and everything in between for the girls, the Christmas spirit was flowing through

the isles of Wal-Mart and the hearts of Century volunteers. “Most of the children I shopped for were ages 5-7, so I purchased Monster High Dolls, a baby doll with a car carrier, a tea party set, electric keyboard, a watch and play dough,” said Amber Smith, Century Mortgage Loan Officer.

Smith and more than 60 other employees from Century Mortgage Company, Century Lending Company and Century Entertainment & Furnishings spent the afternoon of December 3rd shopping for more than 200 military children as part of the St. Nick Fund. The children were from Ft. Campbell and have parents serving in the military. “I am so proud of the support our employees showed while shopping and handwriting

letters from Santa on behalf of military parents serving overseas,” said Monica Bohn, CEO Century Mortgage Company.

Retired Sargeant Major Ron Curry spoke to volunteers before they began shopping. He shared his appreciation on behalf of his former unit and explained just how much the gifts meant to the families. As employees shopped, they found themselves excited and emotional. “I mostly hope this event makes everyone know that even the smallest things can mean the most to some people. It rejuvenates the Christmas spirit in you and there’s no better feeling to me then to know that I helped someone that had a need. I also hope that everyone remembers that it’s not only Christmas time that we should volunteer and help others in our community,” said Smith.

The Saint Nick Fund was founded in 2005 as “Santa’s Secret Hands” in Edmonson County, KY

In the Spirit ~ The St. Nick Fund

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to help a struggling family celebrate Christmas. It eventually expanded as the “Saint Nick Fund” in Jefferson County to help local families in the Louisville area in 2009. The group started with just a few volunteers and has grown to more than 500 volunteers. The idea behind the mission is to bring back the “Spirit of Christmas” to those who find themselves overwhelmed by life’s struggles.

While the Louisville team shopped for St. Nick, Century’s Elizabethtown office volunteered with the Salvation Army. “We, as an office, felt blessed to be able to make the income we did and wanted to give back,” said Montrell Bross, Regional Sales Manager. He said they provided Christmas gifts for one 6-year-old girl and one 10-year-old boy. They picked out clothes, toys and accessories.

The Indianapolis branch was among 2,200 volunteers who helped the Hamilton County

Good Samaritian Christmas Give-A-Way. The team volunteered on Friday, December 12th, helping to serve 3,000 people. “We sorted food, clothing and toys,” said Mary Johnson, Regional Sales Manager. She said eligible applicants camped out in the cold the night before, for the opportunity to provide toys, clothes and even Christmas trees for their families. Johnson said Century employees will participate again next year.

Employees in other offices also participated and volunteered with local organizations to give back to others during the holidays.

To get connected with the Saint Nick Fund go to www.saintnickfund.org.

“It's not how much we give but how much love we put into giving.” – Mother TeresaIn the Spirit ~ The St. Nick Fund

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The New Year prompts most of us to dream up difficult resolutions. You know the, “I’ll run a marathon”, “I will lose 20 pounds” or “I

will join a gym and actually work out” resolutions that most of us have full intentions of fulfilling, but almost always fail. Half of those who make resolutions never succeed. “By February of each year, 50% of people who have made New Year’s resolutions give up,” said Steven Streetman, Century Mortgage Loan Officer and personal trainer. And let’s face it, if you try to do it without a plan this year, it will look a lot like last year's. So we’ve formulated a healthy living plan, complete with examples to make sure you succeed.

We sat down with Streetman who is considered an expert in his field with plenty of letters after his name, including the National Academy of Sports Medicine CPT, NASM Corrective Exercise Specialist, NASM Performance Enhancement Specialist, LT Metabolic Specialist/Weight Loss Specialist/Boot Camp Coach and Cooper Institute Certified Personal Trainer. He said he’s learned several tips over the years to provide solutions to your resolutions.

His first few tips are easy. These are tips to keep in mind before you even start. “Take pictures before, during and after so you have proof or notice a difference,” he said. Streetman also suggested you keep a journal and exercise with a group. The journal will provide proof or motivation of what you are doing and group exercise will hold you accountable.

A big roadblock in being successful at your resolution may be time. Let’s face it, we’re all busy but Streetman said don’t let that be an excuse. Employees who work at Century’s corporate headquarters have access to a free gym, lockers and a shower. Take advantage of the free membership and workout on your lunch hour, before or after work. It is required employees sign a release form to use the equipment. You may obtain the fitness rules and waiver from the “Shared Documents” folder on the home page of the corporate intranet. Once the form is signed, it must be returned to Cheryl Brumley in the legl department. Access will then be added to the employee’s key card within 24 hours.

If you’re not up to using the gym or joining one, Streetman recommends using your breaks to workout in your office or cubicle.

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Streetman recommends not overloading and then quitting. “Doing all the changes at once may be too much. “Choose one exercise a week and perfect it, then go to the next one,” he said. Streetman also recommends exercising 2.5 hours a week. That can be broken down into different increments such as 30 minutes every weekday. Ladies, he says don’t be afraid of the weights, weight training will make you strong not bigger and will burn calories.

Another important tip is drinking lots of water. Experts recommend drinking half your weight in ounces of water. “If you have someone who weighs 200 pounds, they will need to drink 100 ounces of water to stay hydrated and healthy,” said Streetman. That intake goes up if you want to lose weight. He says if you want to lose weight add 20 more ounces to your daily intake.

Don’t forget to eat healthy and more often throughout the day. It’s recommended you eat 5 to 6 times per day to speed up your metabolism. Streetman says you should fill your desk with healthy snacks like nuts, fruits and veggies.

Streetman said a healthy goal is losing one to two pounds per week. He said you shouldn’t weigh yourself everyday, once a week is ok. Just keep in mind; you didn’t put it all on at once so it will take time to get the weight off.

Other healthy living suggestions are as easy as taking advantage of the perks of working for Century. Employees qualify for a discount on health insurance premiums if you participate in wellness through the company’s carrier. The insurance also offers free biometric screenings such as blood pressure, glucose, weight and cholesterol. Century is also working on a smoking cessation program that will ramp up in 2014 and there may even have another Biggest Loser contest in the coming months.

Experts agree making your new healthy living choices part of your daily schedule. After all, it’s hard to break a habit, especially a good one.

We hope you find some inspiration in this healthy living advice. At the end of the day, it all comes down to how bad you want a healthy lifestyle. Good luck and Happy New Year!

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Q: What are the popular paint colors this year?A: “I enjoy talking about the latest trends, but I'm always cautious and encourage customers to choose a color they are willing to live with for a while,” –Frankie

Q: How can I update a room, but still integrate some of my own furnishings. A: “This can be done easily with new artwork, pillows, or window treatments,” – Frankie

Q: How can I bring new life to my old accessories?A: “Declutter! When you put away your Christmas decorations and get out your every day accessories, really take a close look at them. Maybe it's time for new picture frames for the family photos. Is your greenery looking tired? Time to toss it! I recently gave new life to my existing lamps by purchasing new shades,” - Frankie

Q: I have a large bookcase in my living room. How do I decorate it without making it look cluttered?A: “Balance is the key to making your bookcase look good. Having a balance of textures and sizes as well as layering the items makes it more interesting. One of the most common mistakes people make when accessorizing a bookcase is filling it with many little things and family photos. Less is more, go big and mix it up! Also, bookcases need actual books, any hardback book will do just remove the cover,” - Frankie

Q&AThe Centurion Staff has decided to kick off the New Year with a new section in the Centurion similar to the famously known, “Dear Abby” column. This section will cover a plethora of topics, all from our readers. We hope you will join in the fun and start submitting your questions now to jbf@centurylending.net. This edition will cover decorating tips for the New Year and simple ways to spruce up any room from Century Entertainment & Furnishings Award Winning Interior Designer Frankie Epperson.

Special thanks to Jillian Decker for the brilliant idea of creating this regular article.

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The annual Century Mortgage Holiday Event was yet again a huge success! Each year Century Mortgage employees invite their

business partners to a luncheon in which COO Jeff Ratanapool gives a summary of the past year’s mortgage industry highlights and predicts mortgage trends for the upcoming year.

Each year there are many attendees and this year was no exception. More than 275 guests filled The Olmsted on December 17th. Along with Jeff

Ratanapool’s presentation about the mortgage industry, Century was fortunate enough to have a guest speaker, Craig MacFarland. Craig is a blind, world-class athlete, having won more than 100 gold medals. His list of accomplishments is astonishing, and the fact he’s accomplished all of these feats blind is an inspirational story of perseverance. Check out all the details or buy a copy of his newest book on his website, www.cmpride.com. Century was honored to host such a world-renowned speaker!

Annual Century Mortgage Holiday Event Hosts Speaker Craig MacFarland

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Meet ChrisBiermannCENTURY ENTERTAINMENTAUDIO / VIDEO MANAGER

How many children do you have? None

Where did you grow up? Fern Creek

Name one thing that makes you unique. There's always a rock song playing in my head.

What is one thing your co-workers do not know about you? I attended art school in college.

What's the first thing you do when you wake up in the morning? (Be Honest) I pet the dog.

What would you call yourself if you could choose your own name? Conquistador

What's the most embarrassing CD/Album you've ever owned and do you still have it? Europe - The Final Countdown. No.

What is your dream job? Pro Bass Fisherman

What flavor of ice cream best describes you? Chocolate Chip

What have you learned at this age that you wish you would have known when you were 21? Nobody wished they had worked more while on their death bed.

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Meet AmberSmithCENTURY MORTGAGEREGIONAL SALES MANAGER {LOUISVILLE)

How many children do you have? Three, but 5 live in my home.

Where did you grow up? Louisville

Name one thing that makes you unique. Being short.

What's the first thing you do when you wake up in the morning? I don't talk.

What is your dream job? One that has little stress, maybe a personal shopper.

What flavor of ice cream best describes you? Mint Chocolate Chip, because not everyone likes it and that's OK.

What have you learned at this age that you wish you would have known when you were 21? Life is fun and hard, but rewarding.

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CENTURY LENDING/MORTGAGECFO (CORPORATE)

How many children do you have? Three

Where did you grow up? Middletown, KY

Name one thing that makes you unique. Compassion

What is one thing your co-workers do not know about you? I try not to drink chlorinated water (tap water).

What's the first thing you do when you wake up in the morning? (Be Honest)

Pray!

What would you call yourself if you could choose your own name? Eli

What's the most embarrassing CD/Album you've ever owned and do you still have it? Vanilla Ice, no!

What is your dream job? High School basketball Coach or President/CEO of Disney

What flavor of ice cream best describes you? Chocolate Coconut

Almond Fudge

What have you learned at this age that you wish you would have

known when you were 21? Humility and selflessness

Meet Brad Robinson

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LouisvilleThere are large organizations like YPAL or Young Professionals Association of Louisville that offer free networking events throughout the month to connect you to other business professionals. The cost to join for an entire year is $50. You can connect to the organization by going to YPAL.ORG.

Greater Louisville Inc. The Metro Chamber of Commerce is another organization that provides multiple events throughout the month to connect to others. There is a cost associated with joining. Go to greaterlouisville.com to get connected.

The St. Matthews Area Chamber of Commerce or SMACC meets once a month for networking and a meeting. There are membership fees from $100 to $150 for the year. You can sign up by going to stmathhewschamber.com. This is a great way to get connected to St. Matthews businesses.

Other organiztions with networking events include:Jeffersontown – jtownchamber.com Middletown – middletownchamber.comOld Louisville – oldlouisville.orgLouisville Speed Network for Business – meetup.com/louisvillespeednetworkforbusinessBusiness & Professional Women/River City – bpwrc.orgCrew Louisville, Inc/Real Estate Networking – crewlouisville.comJunior League of Louisville – juniorleaguelouisville.orgWomen Influencing Louisville – womeninfluencinglouisville.comNo Rules Networking – nrnetworking.comMetro Louisville Networking – metrolouisvillenetworking.comGreater Louisville Area Realtors (GLAR) – louisvillerealtors.comKetucky Association of Realtors (KAR) – kar.com

Elizabethtown/OwensboroElizabethtown Chamber of Commerce – etownchamber.orgHardin County Chamber of Commerce – hardinchamber.comGreater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce – owensboro.comConnecting Young Leaders of Owensboro – cypowensboro.com

Southern IndianaOne Southern Indiana – 1si.orgSouthern Indiana Women’s Networking Group – soindwng.orgThink Local Southern Indiana – thinklocalsouthernindiana.comHomebuilders Association of Southern Indiana (HBASI) – hbasi.netSouthern Indiana Realtors Association (SIRA) – sira.org

IndianapolisCarmel Chamber of Commerce – carmelchamber.comMetro Indianapolis Board of Realtors (MIBOR) – mibor.com

LexingtonMortgage Bankers Association of the Bluegrass – mbabluegrass.orgLexington Bluegrass Association of Realtors (SIRA) – lbar.com

Bowling GreenBuilders Association of South Central Kentucky –bascky.comRealtor Association of Southern Kentucky – sokyrealtors.comBG Chamber of Commerce – bgchamber.comSouth Central Kentucky Association of Realtors – sokyrealtors.comRussellville Realtors Association

Meet Brad Robinson

NETWORKINGNetworking is a full time job. It can make or break your career, while demanding you put

your best foot forward every time. No matter what job you’re in, it’s imperative to embrace it as part of your job. That’s why we’re giving

you a list of options to get your name out there and improve your overall career.

CENTURION 29

Turkey Chili2 tablespoons canola oil

1 red onion, chopped

1 clove of garlic, minced

1 pound ground turkey breast

1 pound butternut squash, peeled, seeded and cut into 1" cubes

1/2 cup gluten-free, casein-free chicken broth

2 (14.5 oz) cans petite diced tomatoes

1 (15 oz) can black beans with liquid

1 (15 oz) can white hominy, drained

1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce

2 teaspoons chili powder

1 tablespoon ground cumin

1/8 teaspoon cinnamon

8 ounces gluten-free, casein-free plain soy yogurt

1. In a large pot, heat the canola oil over medium heat. Add onion and

garlic; cook and stir for 3 minutes until clear; add turkey. Stir until crumbly

and no longer pink.

2. Add the butternut squash, chicken broth, tomatoes, black beans, hominy

and tomato sauce; season with chili powder, cumin and cinnamon.

3. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover and simmer

until the squash is tender (about 20 minutes).

4. Top each bowl with 1-2 tablespoons of yogurt to serve. Yields 12 cups.

Submitted by Mindy Rose

30 CENTURION

More than 2-dozen people turned out to support Century Mortgage Loan Officer and Author Birgit Stubblefield and

Co-Author Debra Wagner during a book signing for their first book. “This exceeded any previous event and speaks of the generosity of my fellow Century employees,” Stubblefield said.

Thirty-one books were sold during the two-hour event at Century Mortgage Company December 5th, raising more than $135 for the Shamrock Foundation. It is a non-profit foundation whose mission is to enhance the lives of companion animals through proactive programs such as spay/neuter, public education and adoption options. They are a group of highly committed, unpaid volunteers who have a passion for our mission and its goals.

Stubblefield hopes the book will also help her fellow dog lovers. “It’s mainly written for anyone owning a dog or thinking about adopting a new dog,” said Stubblefield. The book, “A Tale of Two Dogs” was released in September 2013.

Stubblefield said she and her co-author came up with the idea to write the book from obedience training. “I think the book is special because it is not a 'how to' but tells the true stories of two dog owners describing the challenges, frustrations and rewards that come with raising a puppy. In my friend’s case, it would be un-teaching some bad behaviors due to life in a puppy mill,” said Stubblefield.

By day, Stubblefield is a loan officer in Century Mortgage Company’s Elizabethtown office. She

loves helping customers find the perfect home, but it is easy to tell where her heart is. “We want to encourage people to adopt from shelters and rescue organizations. We want them to take away that lots of love and patience can overcome most obstacles. The purchase of this book will help some of our furry friends. Perhaps not on a big scale, but I think we can agree that every dollar counts,” she said.

Stubblefield’s book focuses on two dogs that are different in breed and size, but have similar stories of being considered "rejects" by some. The book features the life of Harper and Cricket, true tales meant as encouragement and support to anyone thinking about adopting a new dog into their life.

Stubblefield is working on a second book, telling the stories of 10 to 12 dogs that had a rough start to life. It will have a happy ending with how they found a forever home. “I would like to focus on the hard to hear about stories, to help bring awareness to what may be happening in our own back yards. I would love to talk to anyone with such a story,” she said.Stubblefield’s book, “A Tale of Two Dogs” is available today at local bookstores, www.Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble, bearheadpublishing.com, but if you order it from HarperandCricket.com a portion of the proceeds will be donated.

To get connected with the Shamrock Foundation, go to http://www.shamrockpets.com.

Book Signing Raises Money for Abandoned and Abused Animals in Louisville

CENTURION 31

32 CENTURION

Darrell DeVore, Loan Officer from Etown, and his wife Nicole welcomed their son,

Eli Anthony DeVore, on September 12th. Congrats on the newest addition!

Katie Golden, Corporate Marketing Assistant, married her high school sweetheart Josh Roberts on

October 12th. Congrats to Mr. & Mrs. Roberts!

Joe Keyes, Loan Officer from Etown, and his wife Tiffany welcomed their son,

Brantley Joseph Keyes, on September 12th. Congrats on the newest addition!

Welcome to the Century Announcement Board! We encourage you to submit important announcements so our companies can learn more about you. These announcements can vary from engagements, weddings, births - to car sales or home sales - to upcoming events for organizations or associations you're involved with. We do ask that there be no advertisement submissions at this time (i.e. Mary Kay, Premier Jewelry, etc). For our upcoming March/April issue, please send all submissions to Katie Roberts (katie@centurymortgage.com) by Monday, February 10th. Thanks!

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Century Lending and Mortgage Closed for

Martin Luther King Day

HBAL (BIAL)NAME CHANGING

EVENT

QM Webinar Training,11:00 am

HBAL SMC Awards,The Olmstead,5:00 pm

Century Lending and Mortgage Closed for

President's Day

Indianapolis QM Lunch N Learn

NEW HIRE TRAINING

Program Training (Date and Time TBA)

sunday monday tuesday wednesday thursday friday saturday

NEW HIRE TRAINING

CENTURION 33

Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time. 

-Thomas A. Edisonsubmitted by Christine Bullock, CLC

© 2013 Century Mortgage Company d/b/a Century Lending Company is an Equal Housing Lender. NMLS #3925.This newsletter is not an advertisement. This communication is only intended for distribution among employeesof Century Entertainment & Furnishings, Century Mortgage Company, and Century Lending Company. NOT FOR OUTSIDE USE OR DISSEMINATION.