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Sam Nazarian

Sam Nazarian Photo

Table of Contents:
Quick FactsOverviewEarly Life and FamilySBE Entertainment GroupEarly CareerHospitality IndustryEstablishing Hotel BrandsSBE Nightclub OwnershipSBE RestaurantsAwards and AchievementsPhilanthropyFox News InterviewMarried Emina CunmulajRecent NewsExpansion in Hospitality

Quick Facts

Born: 1975, Tehran, Iran
Nationality: American
Spouse: Emina Cunmulaj (Married in 2015)
Parents: Younes Nazarian (Father), Soraya Nazarian (Mother)
Brother/Sister: David Nazarian (Brother), Shulamit Nazarian (Sister) and Sharon Nazarian (Sister)
Education: Beverly Hills High School, University of Southern California, and New York University
Net Worth: $150 million (2016)
Company: SBE Entertainment Group

Overview

SBE Entertainment over the last three decades has grown at an exponential rate and is now considered the premier lifestyle hospitality company. Considered the leading visionary in the world of hotels, cuisine and entertainment, SBE has become the top hospitality company in the word. This meteoric rise is not by accident. SBE, owned by Sam Nazarian, has spend the last three decades curating the most authentic, unique and lavish experiences for those seeking something different. Innovation and imagination has helped build this company into the hospitality behemoth that it has become today. He understands that hard work and
dedication are one way to succeed but those are not the only aspects to success. Nazarian knows the best way to set yourself apart from the herd is by also combining the flair for the theatrical with a distinctive and unique taste. He has parlayed his keen eye for the unique into creating gorgeously decorated and distinctly situated hotels, restaurants and entertainment venues. Nazarian, already a success in both the telecommunications and real estate industries, has continued that success by dominating the hospitality industry.Sam Nazarian is the true visionary at the helm of this exclusive company and he is showing no signs of slowing down.

Early Life and Family

Nazarian was born in Tehran, Iran in 1975 and his family immigrated to the United States after the Iranian Revolution. The shrewd business sense appears to run in the family. His father, Younes Nazarian, was an early investor in Qualcomm and made a significant fortune on that insightful investment. Sam Nazarian was raised in Beverly Hills where he was surrounded by the very best in food, hotels and entertainment. Inspired by the opulent surroundings of Beverly Hills, Nazarian knew how he wanted to redefine the hospitality industry.

SBE Entertainment Group

Sam Nazarian, the Founder, Chairman and CEO of SBE Entertainment Group, is best known for his entrepreneurial instinct and shrewd business acumen. These traits are the reason why SBE has revolutionized the hospitality industry.

Early Career

Nazarian didn’t start out in the hospitality industry. His first foray into an entrepreneurial career was actually in the tech industry. His first business was a telecommunications company called Platinum Wireless that he started in 1998. Platinum Wireless specialized in the distribution in Nextel software in the greater Southern California area. The company took no time at all to become the number one Nextel distributor in Southern California. He then sold the company for a sizable profit after a period of rapid growth and expansion. Riding high on the success of that business venture, he then diversified his family’s assets into real estate holdings. After experiencing success in the real estate market, Sam Nazarian decided that he wanted to test his shrewd business sense in the entertainment and hospitality industry.

After his success in the telecommunication industry, he then decided to diversify his family’s assets by venturing into the real estate market. He created 3Wall Development in 1999 and just like Platinum Wireless, Nazarian took no time to grow this company into one of the largest owners of multi-family housing in Southern California. But the focus of 3Wall Development wasn’t just multi-family housing. He decided that in order to diversify the company’s real estate holdings, he would have to purchase and develop real estate across a variety of industries. 3Wall then turned its focus over to a variety industries instead of a niche market and it turned out to be a huge success.

Hospitality

During this time of his life, Nazarian saw a need for a different kind of approach to the world of hospitality. After his success in the real estate market, he decided to convert that success into a hospitality company. In 2002, he created and founded SBE Entertainment. SBE launched its first nightclub in 2003 and then he continued to grow the company’s assets to include hotels, restaurants, nightlife and real estate. Nazarian decided that the hospitality industry needed an overhaul. He wanted to created a certain type of entertainment, hotel and restaurant venues that would stand apart from all the other options out there. He didn’t want to just create a brand; he wanted to change the industry. He wanted the SBE brand to redefine luxury in the hospitality industry. Sam Nazarian created SBE Entertainment Group with the goal of dominating the luxury hospitality and entertainment market.

The company, headquartered on the glamorous Wilshire Boulevard in Los Angeles, has come to symbolize the very best in hospitality. 5900 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, California, United States.

Establishing Hotel Brands

SBE Entertainment helped to establish many up and coming hotel brands that include some popular brands like Delano, Mondrian, Redbury, Hyde Hotel & Residences, Clift, Hudson, Sanderson and St Martins Lane. Located in major hotspots around the world like New York, Los Angeles, Istanbul, and London, SBE’s hotels are the epitome of unique elegance. The popular hotel website www.HotelChatter.com, named Mr. Nazarian “Hotelier of the Year” two years in a row. SBE in November of 2016 decided to expand their boutique hotel offerings by acquiring the Morgans Hotel Group. This acquisition added 13 new hotels to SBE’s already impressive lineup including New York’s Hudson, the Mondrian and Delano brands, as well as Morgans
Originals.

SBE Nightclub Ownership

SBE also owns several super popular Los Angeles nightclubs and lounges that are constantly frequented by the rich, powerful and the famous. SBE’s marketing and branding is focused on creating a club atmosphere that entices and excites individuals. SBE’s impressive club and lounge lineup includes Create, Greystone Manor, Emerson, Hyde, XIV, Colony, Eden, MyHouse, MyStudio and The Abbey. Always the savvy businessman, Nazarian only keeps SBE’s clubs open for only about a span of eight months. He then closes them and performs extensive renovations on the club. He then will open the club back up and sometimes he reopens them under a new name. Sam Nazarian understands that the type of people who frequent the club scene get bored easily. They want something new and exciting and Nazarian knows how to keep it fresh and new so the LA night scene will consistently revolve around his clubs. This business plan has made SBE’s clubs and lounges the most popular nightlife spots in the world. The launch of SBE’s first nightclub was in 2003, the company exploded onto the scene and became the name in hospitality and entertainment. They were first known for their nightclubs thanks to being featured on the popular shows like MTV’s The Hill and HBO’s Entourage. Characters in both of the shows were often filmed out at SBE’s nightclubs and these scenes helped to create a frenzy around all of SBE’s venues. He is considered to be one of the largest nightclub owners on the west coast. Nazarian has invested well over $800 million on just the north end of the Las Vegas strip where the old Sahara Hotel stood and it now features his hotel – The SLS Las Vegas.

SBE Restaurants

When SBE decided to make the foray into the restaurant industry, Nazarian knew that securing the right partnerships would be key in creating the most sought after, award-winning restaurants in the industry. Nazarian brought the famed French designer, Philippe Strack, on board to help create distinctive design concepts for SBE’s restaurants. SBE also tapped into the creative culinary minds of famed chefs Jose Andres, Katsuya Uechi, Danny Elmaleh, and Michael Schwartz. These award-winning chefs focus on creating cuisine that is internationally recognized and produced from thoughtfully sourced ingredients.

Awards and Achievements

Sam Nazarian has built a lifestyle hospitality company that has taken entertainment to a whole new level and it has not gone unnoticed. He has won many awards for his achievements during his impressive career. In 2006, Nazarian was named one of the “Top 100 Most Powerful People in Southern California” by West Magazine and he is considered one of the most influential people in Los Angeles. He serves on the Board of Directors of the Southern California Institute of Architecture. In 2014, Fortune Magazine added Sam Nazarian to their popular 40 under 40 list. He is also showing no signs of slowing down. Sam Nazarian is a philanthropist and savvy businessman
who will no doubt continue to grown SBE into a luxury hospitality company that will continue to take over the hospitality industry.

Philanthropy

Sam Nazarian and the entire Nazarian family are heavily involved in giving back. They are active backers of Jewish causes, which informs the work the family does both in L.A. and beyond. Sam Nazarian is included in these efforts. The Nazarian’s also support policy outfits in Los Angeles. They’ve supported organizations like the Pacific Council on International Policy and the RAND Corporation. The family has helped fund the RAND Israel Project to explore energy alternatives. The family has also supported RAND Policy and Public Safety Project.
Arts are another important cause. Grantees include Santa Monica Museum of Art, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Los Angeles Opera, and Inner-City Arts. The family foundation also created the Soraya Sarah Nazarian Program in Fine Arts, at American Jewish University in Bel Air. The Nazarian’s also support Jewish causes in Los Angeles. They’ve given millions to the Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles. They’ve also helped the Iranian American Jewish Federation, and Sinai Temple, among others. Sam also gives as a philanthropist outside of the Nazarian Foundation; he started the SBE Foundation, through which he supports numerous causes, including education and improving children`s health.

Also, he donated $200,000 to the Beverly Hills Athletic Alumni Association, and Beverly High School changed the name of its basketball court to Sam Nazarian. In July 2009, Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa appointed Nazarian to the Board of Airport Commissioners of Los Angeles World Airports.
As far as he has gone in his business, he and his family have made it a priority to give back to schools, communities, art, and avenues that better society. As an immigrant family, they bring a unique perspective to philanthropy, and have made their mark in LA, and have given back in significant ways.

Fox News Interview

He was featured on the Fox Business Happy Hour – June 2008

Married Emina Cunmulaj

Nazarian married model Emina Cunmulaj in June 2015 in Mexico. She has been featured on the cover of Harper’s Bazaar (U.K.) and Vogue (Mexico). The wedding took place at the St. Regis Punta Mita with white rose peddles as they walked down the isle. At the rehearsal dinner, the couple was serenaded to the flamenco band and the Gipsy Kings. Their cake was seven-tier and reached approximately 5 ft. tall (provided by L.A.’s Royal Cakes). At the outdoor reception they featured a fireworks display. Guests at the even were given goodie bags and included selfie sticks, sunglasses, and flip-flops.

Sam Nazarian Wedding Photo
Sam Nazarian and Emina Cunmulaj coming down the isle on their wedding day in Mexico.

Recent News 2017

Nazarian family donates $17 million to CSUN’s Valley Performing Arts Center (LA Times)

(Fleischman partnered with Sam Nazarian’s SBE group in 2011)
The guy who brought you Umami Burger wants to reinvent PB&J (LA Times)

Sam Nazarian and the Revitalization of the Niche Hotel Industry

Big chains hotels dominated the world in the 1980’s and the 1990’s. Families would clamor to stay at these huge hotels with little to no personality for family vacations. The hotels all had the same look for marketing and branding purposes but no real design or unique features to set it apart. The blandness was prevalent in the industry but the price was right so people would forgo the blandness for price. Amenities always included coffee in the lobby and a pool on the premise. The color schemes were also beige and the floor plans were the same. You could be in one big chain hotel in Texas and then go to another one in New York, and not know the difference except for the address.

With the introduction of social media to a mobile platform came the need to share as many photos as possible. Little did these hotels know that social media would create the need post pictures of all a person’s surroundings. People wanted to share their experiences with everyone, and social media provided the perfect platform to share even the most minute details of ones life. There are companies like sbe Entertainment who have figured this out and have create properties that offer Instagram-worthy shots around every corner.

Sharing pictures of a trip has become more than just sharing photos of the tourist attractions in the area. People will share photos of the place they are staying at along with photos of the grounds, their view and other interesting pieces of décor. People wanted to stay at places that offer something interesting or delightful around every corner. The social media platforms are the way to share our lives with the world but it has become all encompassing. It has become important to share every last detail of a journey or experience.

When people now book a hotel, price isn’t the only factor taken into account. The many unique aspects of a hotel’s property come into mind for most people when choosing a place to stay. People want ambiance and they want unique properties. They don’t want to know that they are staying at a chain even if they are actually staying at a chain.

Some hotel chains never felt the need to update nor change their image to keep up with the ever-demanding need to post photos. They didn’t find it necessary because they didn’t see the importance of incorporating social media into their branding or aesthetic. They continued on with the same bland look that they had in the 1990’s. The big chain hotels became less in demand. Some of these larger hotels have started to catch up but other hotel brands like sbe have taken aesthetic to the next level.

The company sbe Entertainment is known worldwide for their award winning hotels, nightclubs and amazing restaurants. The company, founded by Sam Nazarian was created with the vision to create the ultimate hospitality experience. Sam Narazian has revolutionized the hospitality industry and he has been considered the ultimate trendsetter. Sam Nazarian defined the “scene” in the Los Angeles area. He built a luxury brand that incorporated a unique and contemporary design aesthetic that was revolutionary at the time. Most companies were working on a uniform branding, while sbe was working on seeking out unique locations and then building a venue or hotel that fit a certain aesthetic that appealed to the jetsetter, social media influencer lifestyle.

Currently, sbe has a portfolio of 22 hotels around the world. These international lifestyle hotels in global markets like Los Angeles, New York, Los Vegas, Miami, San Francisco, Istanbul and London are considered premier luxury retreats that have interesting design features and amazing ambience that lend to create the prefect shot for any Instagram account. The hotel was designed by visionaries in the industry and Nazarian focused on finding the most creative individuals to help fulfill his vision.

One visionary that sbe Entertainment got on board was actor and musician, Lenny Kravitz. Kravitz is not only a talented actor and musician but he also has a design team at Kravitz Design Inc. that has been making quite the statement at sbe’s properties in South Beach. The firm has taken on the design of sbe’s SLS Hotel South Beach Tower and the Villa Penthouse. Kravitz Design Inc. was founded in 2003 in New York. The firm offers design solutions for commercial and residential spaces. They also have design solutions for product development and they also offer branding solutions. Kravitz Design Inc. is known for their eclectic and surrealist feel with stone, tile and artistic accents that encompass multiple cultures and eras.

Kravitz Design Inc. was the perfect fit for what Nazarian and sbe Entertainment wanted to achieve when it came to the design of their South Beach properties but Lenny Kravitz was not the only creative mind that was tapped by Nazarian’s team for inspiration. Internationally acclaimed photographer, film director and creative director Matthew Rolston was an integral part in helping sbe to revitalize the South Beach and Hollywood areas. Considered a “creative chameleon” in the industry, his approach to lighting, concept ad design has been hailed as revolutionary and cutting edge. Rolston has written and directed music videos for big names like Madonna, Janet Jackson, and Beyonce. He is also known for his creative campaigns for well-known brands like Estee Lauder, Elizabeth Arden, Gap and many others. He helped to envision the Redbury Collection with Sam Nazarian.

The Redbury Collection consists of two hotels. One hotel is located in South Beach and the other Hotel is located in New York. The suites in the Redbury Collection are specifically designed to be a cozy home away from home. Both hotels are located centrally to everything that either New York or South Beach have to offer to their clientele. The Redbury South Beach is mere steps away from Collins Avenue and the rooms are designed with a lovely Art Deco style. The Redbury New York in located centrally in Manhattan’s NoMad district. The hotel has 256 renovated and redesigned rooms that were influenced and designed by Rolston.

Another design and creative powerhouse that Nazarian specifically sought out was world-renowned French designer, Philippe Starck. Starck has a long history in interior, product, industrial and architecture design. He was first noticed for his nightclub designs that were original and forward thinking. French President Francois Mitterrand asked Starck to refurbish the president’s private apartments at the Élysée in 1983. He has spent the last 30 years designing hotels all over the world and Narazian knew that Starck’s streamline design and keen creativity would help him to create the unique concepts for each of the SLS hotels.

Sam Nazarian and sbe wanted different designers from different backgrounds so that each property would have an individual feel that would set it apart from the bland chain hotels. His plan paid off because the sbe brand become one of the most sought after hotel chains in the world. It because the ultimate bragging right to stay at one of their exclusive properties.

This success has led sbe to have the opportunity to expand their hospitality holdings. In 2016, the company announced that they had officially closed on the purchase of the Morgans Hotel Group. The company tried to purchase the Morgans Hotel Group the year before but ran into some issues but was able to make an offer again a year later. The transaction doubled the amount of hotels in sbe’s portfolio. Nazarian said of the transaction, “The acquisition of Morgans not only further expands our offering- but brings the invaluable partnerships of Ron Burkle and Cain Hoy Enterprises. sbe will now have a presence from San Francisco to Doha; Los Angeles to London- and brings its impressive history, talented team and culture of service and innovation to the sbe family. We couldn’t be more pleased about the transaction.”

This merger with the Morgans Hotel Group has led to other future acquisitions. Sam Nazarian and sbe announced in March of 2017, they were in the process of negotiating a merger the popular restaurant and club operator, the Hakkasan Group. The goal is create the ultimate, large-scale hospitality company. The combined company would have an equity value of about $1 billion according to the Wall Street Journal. There has been no current news of a merger but Sam Nazarian stated that, “sbe remains in negotiations to complete a financial transaction in which sbe’s and Hakkasan’s formidable hospitality assets are combined into one company. We are looking forward to completing the transaction to accelerate our already robust expansion.”

Most hotel chains focus on churning as people as possible in and out of their locations. The focus is on uniformity, which they believe help to make the brand recognizable no matter where the hotel is located. Most people consider these hotels to be bland and run of the mill. This marketing plan worked in the 1980’s and 1990’s when people wanted to stay in a hotel that had a well-known brand name. Times have changed. Gone are the days where big box chain hotels dominated the travel scene.

Sam Nazarian and sbe knew that times were changing and when they started to add hotels to their hospitality portfolio, they knew that their hotels would need to provide a unique experience that would delight all the senses. They are raising the bar in the hospitality industry but creating a portfolio of hotels, restaurants, and nightclubs that are the most sought after destinations for travelers. Their award winning designers, creative directors, and chefs have helped turn sbe into a luxury retreat for those who wish to be delighted at every turn.

As sbe continues to forge onward, the company has begun to expand their offerings to more locations worldwide. They opened their first hotel in the Middle East with plans to open more in the region. The company has officially opened their Mondrian Doha Hotel in Qatar and Mondrian Park Avenue Hotel in New York over the weekend. Sam Nazarian said that, “Mondrian is a brand with international allure and we’re thrilled to announce the openings in Doha and New York – two of the most dynamic and vibrant cities in the world. Mondrian is an extremely valuable brand to sbe and we look forward to bringing it to more cities around the world in the coming months and years as we expand our international footprint.”

What started as a venture into the nightclub arena grew into one of the largest hospitality companies in the world. Sam Nazarian and sbe entertainment will continue to expand and do what they do best which is to provide exotic experiences. Traveler’s expectations have been raised thanks to the sharing aspect of social media. They want to show off their experiences and sbe was able to tap into that mindset to create hotels that perfectly blend together technology, culture and design for the ultimate vacation experience.

Expansion in Hospitality: sbe Entertainment, Argyle Hotels, and Nobul Hotels

Several Hospitality Brands have global and domestic expansions ahead of them. Plans are in place to take these hospitality venues to the next level of service and accessibility. Sbe Entertainment founded by Sam Nazarian is expanding further internationally, Argyle Hotels are to be launching in Nepal and CEO Kevin Zhang is optimistic about the expansion, and Nobu Hotels is slated to make a new mark in Atlanta at the Philips Plaza.

Sbe Entertainment Group International Expansion

Sbe, CEO Sam Nazarian, has confirmed another 10 deals to bring its hotels, residences, and restaurants to new territories in Latin America and the Middle East. The company is on track to double its global hotel collection by 2021. Additionally, an estimated 24 restaurants and lounges are going to be part of the new and existing hotel pipeline, further emphasizing the company’s stance on offering a 360-degree experience for guests. The future for Sbe entertainment is both exciting and expanding.

SBE has already opened a 270-room Mondrian in Doha, Qatar, its first Middle East property. By 2020, it plans to open an SLS Doha with 200 rooms, 100 residences, 50 services apartments, and three restaurants. In the Middle East, the company also has plans to open two new properties in Dubai. This includes a Mondrian in 2019 and Delano in 2018. SBE will also manage the Sanderson Ortak??y, which will launch in Istanbul. Sbe will be making their mark on the middle east hospitality and entertainment map.

Sam Nazarian, Founder and CEO of sbe, said:
“sbe is further expanding our global footprint across our entire portfolio – from luxury hotels and residences to fast casual dining. With these 10 new deals, we are enhancing our already extensive pipeline and enjoying a period of unprecedented growth. Our pipeline demonstrates the versatility and strength of our brands on a global scale, and we look forward to continuing to develop our brands both domestically and internationally.”

SBE is also expanding to the south of the United States. In Latin America, SBE will manage SLS Mexico City Pedregal, a 150-room hotel in Mexico City. The new build will open in 2021. Furthermore, the company has received approval for a 300-room hotel in Uruguay, the SLS Punta del Este Residences. SLS Pilar Residences, with 173 residences, will open in 2020 in Buenos Aires. The Mondrian brand will make its debut in Mexico in Playa del Carmen with a 100-room condominium hotel expected to open in 2021.On the restaurant side, the company is going to expand its popular Umami Burger brand into Mexico. Sbe entertainment will be making a new mark and exerting a new presence in Latin America with the expansion of these entertainment venues across different countries.
What does this mean for sbe entertainment and lifestyle companies across the word? “It’s shown that a smaller lifestyle company can become a global ambassador for some of these amazing U.S.-based brands,” Nazarian says. Exciting times are ahead for Nazarian and SBE entertainment. If he can expand to this level, his will be one of the firsts to successfully do so as a smaller lifestyle company.

Argyle Hotel Group to Expand to Asia-Pacific Region

The Australian Argyle Hotel Group (AHG) is expanding in the Asia-Pacific region. The group will be opening its first hotel in Nepal. The Kathmandu Argyle Hotel is scheduled to open in early 2019 and will be the Argyle Hotel Group’s 116th hotel under management.

AHG’s push in business hotels in Asia, has had a positive impact on the existing communities. It has allowed the group to help growing communities by developing international hotels and venues to aid local business in underserved and overlooked areas. Thirty hotels have been added to the Argyle Hotel Group roster in the last year as part of its first steps in expanding through new territories, like Fiji and Nepal. Kevin Zhang, CEO of Argyle Hotel group explained, “International brands have largely overlooked the incredible potential of these growing regions, focusing on low-risk targets in large cities, but they do not factor in the enormous amount of business travel that happens in smaller cities.”

AHG exports hotel and resort management and asset management services throughout China. The group manages seven brands including: Argyle Grand Hotel, Argyle Resort, Argyle Hotel, Ausotel & Ausotel Smart, Argyle Suites, Argyle Boutique Hotel and Metro Hotels. “There’s a new hotel in the Argyle Hotel Group family every two weeks, and we’re anticipating accelerated growth next year as we continue to expand into more territories,” Kevin Zhang, said.

The hotel group’s addition to Nepal’s hotel supply follows a white paper issued by the Hotel Association Nepal in July 2017. It called on the Nepalese government to curb the booming hotel development in the country before the new hotels eat into the market. After releasing details on its expansion into Nepal, Australia-based Argyle Hotel Group added the Manila Prince Argyle Hotel in Metro Manila, Philippines to its construction pipeline. The approximately 226,043-square-foot hotel has 250 guestrooms, and is set for completion in late 2019. The Manila Prince Argyle Hotel is the 119th hotel under Argyle Hotel Group’s management, and will be located near Manila Ninoy Aquino airport. AHG added more than 30 hotels in new territories to its portfolio in 2017, including locations in Nepal, Fiji and the Philippines, remaining on track to expand its presence throughout the Asia Pacific region.

“As we continue to grow and to strengthen our brand, we’ll also be increasing our presence in larger trade hubs and metro areas. We already serve some of the largest cities in Asia, with several hotels in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and now Manila,” Zhang said in a statement.

Argyle Hotel Group is an Australian hotel management company which provides a series of hotel and resort management services and also owns a series of hotels in China. The group has a total of 106 hotels under its management. Headquartered in Beijing, China, the group operates eight hotel brands in the Asia-Pacific region.

International Nobu Hotel Luxury Brand to Expand to Atlanta

Phipps Plaza at the Buckhead Mall in Atlanta is about to get a lot bigger. A scheduled addition of a luxury Nobu Hotel and restaurant, office tower and fitness center in Atlanta will raise the level of entertainment value at this venue. The hotel will have 150 rooms, a rooftop pool, corporate conference space and spa facilities. Nobu Atlanta restaurant, known for its new style Japanese cuisine, will open in a 10,000-square foot space. The new development will also feature a 90,000 square-foot Life Time fitness center, a 12-story office tower and more restaurants to be announced in the future. The project, which Simon President of Malls and Chief Administrative Officer John Rulli said is “probably north” of $200 million, is likely the most dramatic single addition to Phipps Plaza since the 1990s brought a complete overhaul and third anchor store to the posh shopping center.

Trevor Horwell, Chief Executive Officer of Nobu Hotels said, “We are very proud of our partnership with Simon, one of the world’s largest and leading owners and managers of high-quality retail destinations. They have a vision to create a dynamic lifestyle experience within Atlanta at Phipps Plaza and we are pleased to be a cornerstone for this. Our hospitality brand thrives on being a catalyst for global mixed-use destinations whether this be from hotel, restaurant, retail or residences.”

Construction is to begin in 2018 with a phased opening beginning in spring 2020. These new elements will be completely integrated into the existing footprint of Phipps Plaza, which will continue to be anchored by the extremely productive Nordstrom and Saks Fifth Avenue stores.

Named one of luxury’s 25 Most Innovative Brands by Robb Report, Nobu Hotels is ranked among an elite selection of global luxury brands. The natural growth of Nobu hotels built on service, image, and reputation, offers the complete spectrum of hotel and restaurant management for unique projects around the world. Founded by Nobu Matsuhisa, Robert De Niro and Meir Teper, with operations spanning five continents, the Nobu brand thrives in the world’s capitals as the ultimate destination lifestyle experience. The first Nobu Hotel opened in 2013 as a boutique hotel within Caesars Palace Las Vegas and was subsequently named one of the Hottest New Hotels by CNN Travel, Top North America Hotel Opening by Luxury Travel Advisor and subsequently Luxury Travel Advisor’s Award of Excellence.

Has America Changed?

This is an interesting read. Written by Ken Huber – he does make some interesting points about American and what it has become. Our apologies for the small print in the article.

He makes several comparisons which will open your mind and perhaps cause debate.

Has America Changed It's Standards

Can’t Afford Obamacare? Get To Work!

Can't afford Obamacare then get to work!

There are many reasons why I didn’t support Obamacare.  One of them has really not been discussed in the public or by the supporters of the law.  First, most supports of the law in my opinion have their regular 9 to 5 jobs.  They feel their insurance is covered by their employer so who cares about the costs to the other Americans right?  Most Americans fall into that category. Self employment is a big deal here in a America, however, and with that being said I do understand entrepreneurship and business ownership isn’t for everyone.  I for one want to be wealthy one day and don’t want to settle for an average $40,000 per year job.  I have always felt that this opportunity is what America is about.  Many come to American for this opportunity.  You can go on your own and make a difference for yourself here.  If you work hard and build your own empire (instead of working for someone else) then you can be your own King.  You can be a multi-millionaire and not have the worries of working for the man.  Sure, it’s not for everyone and mostly about your environment and how you were raised I believe.  I have great friends who don’t want to take that chance or leap into something that could be much more beneficial.  They have so many opportunities due to the field of work they are in. It’s the difference of being happy with $3,000 per month or giving it a shoot to make $50,000 per month.  They are content with the average routine of 9 to 5er’s.  I don’t really understand that reasoning but it’s a personal choice and I respect that.

My point is that Obamacare is a set back in entrepreneurship.  Before Obamacare, you had that opportunity to quit your job (saving up and putting some cash away) and try to make it happen.  However, with Obamacare you have to take into the healthcare monthly fees now.  Since you won’t be supported by a company, you have to factor this in.  It’s much harder to be a business owner or self employed just starting out.  The law puts a bigger burden of financial responsibility on you and there is a less chance you’re American Dream of self entrepreneurship will ever happen.  The burdens are much larger and most likely to much for most to risk.  Many more won’t take that chance now.  In short, I have felt the Obamacare law is a big step back for people who want to make a better future for themselves.  It’s a set back for the dreams of what America is to many people all over the World.  An opportunity to spread your wings, give your idea a shot, and perhaps you can have live a life of prosperity.

The truth about Obamacare is….that it’s much harder now.  Many won’t even bother to give it a shot and more people will have to just get normal jobs working for the man.  From a Government and taxes perspective this is a great system.  They can force people to the workforce and build up the taxes and revenue which is what they need so greatly right now.  Obamacare, because of the rates/plans, forces you to the 9-5 workforce.  You probably can’t afford it going the entrepreneur route anymore (especially just starting out) so you’re going to need to get a job and support our economy. You need to get your taxes automatically taken out of your paycheck each week and be the perfect citizen. Obviously the more citizens working the better the economy is.  It’s that hidden agenda nobody talks about and one big step back for the American Dream and entrepreneurship.
 

Molding The Perfect American Citizen

I find it incredibly interesting how American citizens are molded from a young age.  How and why they stand for or against a certain topic then calculating why they believe that based on history or their early environment.  We all our products of our environment.  A simple example is Christianity in America.  Surveys suggest that roughly 92% of Americans identify themselves with the religion.  Every once in a while I will ask one if their family growing up was religious (not always).  Then I ask do they think they would be a Christian if they were born in another country where a different type of religion was more popular such as Buddhism in Cambodia (95%) … they of course say no and that they would still be Christians.  The reality is that our environment plays a huge impact of what we are.  We all start out as products of our genes, food and growth is provided by our environment, experience is learned through events, parents help guide us, then opportunities for decisions.  Some we have control over and others we don’t.  We all are hardwired with certain things like fight or flight.

I was talking with a guy and some of his friends I met at the Ram Restaurant recently.  He has given up on American and has made the decision to leave it all behind and move to Ecuador.  I found the topic interesting because I personally have considered doing a “World Tour” myself.  However, he was done with it here and made the decision already.  He wasn’t going for a few months – he was going forever.  Upon hearing the plans his friends asked him, “what about the stability of the country?” He replied, “you mean the stability of a country whose banks don’t do horrible loans or invest is derivatives?  “You mean the stability of a country where the general population has the courage to march in the streets to make a change or throw out all the corrupt officials out of office?”

I couldn’t help but laugh a little on the inside because he was exactly right.  In America, our citizens have been molded to believe in staying inside political boundaries “protest zones/areas”.  Most Americans through complacency are cowards to political activism.  To make a real change we are to believe that your vote really matters and emailing their Senator several times a year can help.  In America, marching down the street in a large crowd is viewed by many uncivilized and even unpatriotic.

The example above about protesting is just one of many topics Americans think differently about.  It’s concerning how much power the media has on all of us.  It reaches into all our homes and pursueds the young or old through the years.  There isn’t a king, pope, or general who can even compare to the few dozen who control the information and ultimately we make decisions on.  So many American do not even see it.  They completely fail to realize that they are being manipulated.

For many years now I have been educating myself of what other countries think of Americans.  Some countries are good, however, most are bad.  We are viewed as egotistical, flag worshipers, greedy, thinking the US is the center of the World, vain, & loud.  Many view us as being to over the top with our own nationalism (we are the best talk).  I can’t blame them this is what we hear all the time.  There is a constant voice in the media that we are the best.  “America The Beautiful” type.

Why are we so committed to believe this type of media or perfect citizenship.  Is it our environment or we simply don’t know better because that is all we hear and know.  The truth is many do believe and will continue that hardcore commitment in believing we are the very best.  Even though when compared to others countries we simply are not.  Our education system is ranked at the bottom, our leaders are corrupt, we have lost our status of a Wold Leader by many.  What about our freedom?  Gay marriage is not allowed, drinking age is higher than many countries, drugs are viewed as a crime where other countries have monetized it and using it to help people medically.  We owe more money then money we have in circulation available, our culture is a blend of everyone else’s so we don’t have the best as its a mash up, we have no real plan to spend less,  and finally all politicians are bribed and bent to their opinions based on who has paid them.

So are you molded to be the perfect American citizen?

Obama Refinance Plan FAILS

With our historically low mortgage rates, President Obama is pushing the Republicans again about a piece of legislation he proposed back in February.  The Obama Administration believes it would help many of the struggling homeowners and families trying to keep their homes, pay their debt, and prevent many foreclosures.

President Obama mentioned today on his weekly radio/Internet address that “Here we are – seven months later – still waiting on Congress to act”.  It’s the typical response from Obama and same whether we are talking about jobs or mortgages.

Republicans won’t agree to the proposal because of its $5 to $10 billion cost.  Like many things sitting in Congress from Obama they come at a high cost.  Just like this proposed refinance offer or the many construction bills on the table to inflate the jobs numbers spending money on special road projects that are not “must” have work.

The idea of refinancing your home fails in many ways.  Honestly, it was a failure before it even started.  The biggest problem is that it’s governed by your bank.  The bank evaluates if you even qualify for a refinance.  You need a job and steady income proven with years of IRS documents.  In short, you have a be a long term paying citizen to even quality.  If you break even at the end of the year when it comes to taxes or owe anything you wouldn’t “qualify” for refinancing.  On paper you wouldn’t be making any money to pay the bills.  However, if you’re really good citizen and make 100K a year (paying 35% to taxes) and keeping the rest – you would qualify for home refinancing.  If you get my point to be eligible by the bank you’re IRS documents must state you’re paying them and doing your civic duty.  Breaking even or paying the IRS isn’t going to allow you to refinance your mortgage rate.

The other problem and I am sure President Obama knows this (many homeowners don’t) is that Washington state like many states is a non recourse state.  If you ever just give up on your home and walk way in Washington State, the bank will foreclose on you (ruin your credit) and that will be it.  There will be no legal repercussions.  The bank won’t come after you for the remaining balance after auction should they lose money overall on your loan.  In some states they can sue you for the rest of the loan.   HOWEVER, take note that non-recourse doesn’t apply when you refinance.  Non recourse also doesn’t apply to equity loans should you have one. So trying to do the right thing may in fact make your financial issue even worse and that is why I would never support this refinance plan by Obama.  Many innocent people will get trapped into a bigger mess trying to do the “right thing” to make it work.  If you refinance and walk away the bank can come after you later once they low-ball it at an auction to some investor.

I have said it before that homes are not investments they are liabilities.  Buying something 4 times it’s worth will never work out.  The numbers simply don’t work out anymore.  Don’t get to attached and I’m a strong advocate of walking away if you must.  Banks got their bailout and already been paid for your home so know when to cut your losses on your home if you must.

By passing this Obama refinance plan, it forces people to try to make it work and not walk away from a really bad idea (home).  It puts you even more at the mercy of the bank and I assure you they don’t give a rats ass about you or your family.

Seattle Property Taxes Just Increased

Owning a home and living that “American Dream” is going to cost you double.  Voters just passed a $232 million dollar education levy last Tuesday.

This yes vote (59% yes) doubles what you’re paying now and will be taken from your property taxes each year. Congratulations Seattle.  I find it amazing considering all the corruption in our education system (superintendent Maria Goodloe-Johnson) or just reading all the wasted school revenue each year.  We have proven that plenty of revenue is generated for the school system already.  Next year (less than that I bet) we will be hearing how the school system is broke again.  Bus routes will be cut. The teachers will be on the front line walking out of the classrooms because you know all the money isn’t going to support them or increase their wages at all.  At least I will have something to write about and reference again here at the Emerald City Journal.  It would be the first time I told you so though.

The system is broke voters you can’t fix this with more money.  It’s a management problem.  The top managers make all the money “managing” while the little folk teaching the children get screwed over with less money and even less support.

The only good thing about this is hopefully voters will see the light at the end of the tunnel now.  They will stop funding this toilet bowl of a system where the procedures and management are so messed up.  I suspect, however, next year they will pull the strings to your heart again saying “it’s for the kids & teachers” and get another passed.

 

Seattle Real Estate Market – Down Again

The Seattle real estate market is down again in April and many are starting to think it may never rebound. I believe the general public is feeling better about real estate (compared to a year ago or more) but at the end of the day it’s comes down to money. Many don’t feel secure in their jobs and even more don’t have enough money to invest in a home. When you’re nickled and dimed everyday with the taxes, fines, tolls, penalties, and other dreamed up concoctions it makes it very difficult for the average family. When you were a child, you most likely were taught that home ownership is the American dream. It’s the best thing you can do for yourself. A place where you can call your own instead of paying rent every month (that goes no where).

The real estate market sure has changed overtime. Of course the wages were less back then but you could get a home in the 5K – 20K range. Over the course of 30 years the property would grow in appreciation and eventually you could make a profit, retire on it, or just live comfortably. Unfortuately, the banks have put a stop to that. The average family purchasing a home will not even come close to see the home appreciation as it once was. A home that cost $250K will cost you over $400K over the life of loan. If you add in the additional 3K+ per year property taxes over the 30 years, that would mean you would have paid over 490K. Do you really think your $250K home will appreciate over $490K? The value of home ownership and the Seattle real estate marketing is retirement. You must be in it for the longterm.

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