The Maloof family moved from Lebanon to New Mexico, where they obtained the Southwest region distribution rights for Coors Brewing Company in 1937. Over the years, the business was successful, so the family expanded into other areas.
In 1979, they purchased the NBA's Houston Rockets, and then sold the franchise and purchased the Sacramento Kings. As part of the King's purchase, they also acquired the WNBA sister franchise, the Sacramento Monarchs. In 2013, the family sold its interest in the Kings for $347 million.
In 1994, the family opened the Fiesta Rancho Hotel/Casino in North Las Vegas and sold it in 2000 for $185 Million, and reinvested in the Palms Casino Resort. In 2021, the Palms Resort was sold to the San Manuel Indian Tribe for $650 million. The Maloof family no longer owns any casinos and now focuses on other business ventures and investments.
Phil Maloof was elected to the New Mexico Senate in 1994. Then, in 2001, he lost an election and moved to Las Vegas, where he helped develop the City's entertainment industry.
Phil loved dogs and named his first dog "Statler." When his pet dog died, he got another of the same breed and named it the same. He had seven dogs over his lifetime, all named "Statler." Phil was an avid car collector and a theater pipe organ enthusiast. He never married.
In 2020, Phil passed away in Las Vegas, but his estate is still intact. Through one of the estate caretakers, we arranged for a private tour of some parts of the property.
When we arrived at the house, the front yard looked like a sculpture garden. There was no water in the fountains, but one can only imagine what the fountains looked like when Phil lived in the house.
When we entered the house, the first thing we noticed was the stained glass and the really expensive décor. We were only allowed to view some of the themed downstairs rooms, but each room contained original artwork.
In addition to all of the stained glass in the "Automotive Room," there were three theater organs.
The "Music Room" was really amazing. There were smaller organs along the perimeter of the room, and in the center was a large unit that had complex electronic controls. Located above the organ was a screen showing the organ keys, and when a key was pressed, the corresponding key on the screen would light. We were able to sit in some elaborately hand-carved chairs and listen to the organ electronically play several songs.
In front of the organ was a chainsaw-carved bear that stood about 12 feet tall. Across the ceiling were several famous WW II model aircraft, each equipped with propellers that turned to the music.
Suspended from the ceiling was a large disco ball that reflected light for those who wanted to get up and dance.
