AUTO CLUB: Vehicles of distinction

Rolls Royce owners gather to swap tales, appreciate cars

Norm Wolfson, former president of the Rolls Royce Owners Club, said he and other members think of their vehicles as part of their family.

The national organization has been around for half a century, and the regional chapter has been around since April 2000. It is open to anyone who currently owns a Rolls Royce, as well as those planning to own one of the prestigious vehicles in the future.

Wolfson has several of his own, including a Bentley built in 1935. He and other members, including Las Vegas legends such as Phil Maloof, former casino owner, and Richie Clyne, former owner of the Las Vegas Motor Speedway, enjoy getting together to discuss and appreciate the vehicles.

"There are a lot of very notable people in our club," Wolfson said. "We also have technical seminars, where we have educated people speak for us. I was the chairperson for three years. Now my wife, Beverly, is the chairperson. We have a board of directors, also."

Wolfson said many of the oldest cars lined up for viewing at some of the club's events were built by coach builders rather than automobile manufactures. And one of the most enjoyable aspects of belonging to the club is the chance to view other people's cars, which range in value from $100,000 to more than $1 million.

"We do have a buying and selling column in our newsletter, but most of us don't sell them," Wolfson said. "It's not like a conventional car. Our cars are part of our family."

Over the years, Wolfson's cars have been used in several high-budget Hollywood films.

"My cars have been in movies such as `Ocean's Eleven' and `Stuey,' in which it was the main car the star drove," he said. "I was on the set when they filmed it and drove the car along with Stuey in the back. I also had one which was used on the set of `Hello, Dolly!,' many years ago."

Wolfson's wife, who is also the president of the group, was instrumental in establishing the club, which she said celebrates people's accomplishments.

"I feel that people who are into this collection are genuinely extraordinary," Beverly said. "The members are some of the most notable people around. It honestly is a mark. Somehow people feel that once they get their first Rolls Royce, that they have succeeded in this society. It's an ultimate possession."

Those interested in the organization can call 384-4196.


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