Cliff Vanderpool runs a real treasure: the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum. Cliff was our program and told us of the impact that PPHM has on the region. It draws 70,000 visitors annually, pumps more than $2 million into the local economy and gives a home to some of the finest works of art to be found anywhere. PPHM has been a major attraction at West Texas A&M since 1933, and Cliff attributes its "outstanding longevity" to the community's commitment. Moreover, Cliff noted that many have called the PPHM the "Smithsonian of Texas." And it is a jewel, to be sure. Thanks, Cliff, for a great program and thanks for all you do at the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum.

Cliff also paid tribute to Sherm and Jeanie Harriman as this year's Pioneer Spirit Award winners, which the museum uses to honor its greatest supporters. Congratulations, Sherm and Jeanie.

Have you noticed some long-time members returning to our weekly meetings? It's great to see some familiar faces who've been missing for some time. We're glad you're back.

Renee Wilson has stepped away from the regular Wheels rotation, but she is volunteering to serve on an as-needed basis for the next Rotary year. She will join Mr. Watchdog, Mike Good, as alternate Wheels staffers. The staff this coming year will include Julie Ontiveros, Denise Blanchard, Mollie Barney and John Kanelis. 

Polio Plus funds have gone past $600 as we continue to pour change into the pink pig.

And the Rotary Foundation pot keeps bulging, at $2,300-plus. Larry Offerdahl carried the winning ticket this week, but drew something other than the Big Card, the Ace of Spades. The deck is getting mighty slim.

Many thanks to President-nominee John Early for filling in at the gavel for President Karen Hicks, who was attending the Tejas Multi-District Conference in San Antonio. Shara Hinchey offered up a wonderful prayer, Pam Rushing introduced our guests and visiting Rotarians, PDG Doyle Moore led us in song and Renee Wilson was back at the piano once again. Many thanks to you all.

And get well, Jess Ghormley, who we understand is recovering from a broken arm. We look forward to seeing you soon.

Coming up: District 5730 is having its District Assembly on May 22 at South Plains College in Levelland. It will be a daylong event with Governor-elect Cesar Caro laying out his plans for the district in the coming Rotary year. There will be plenty of breakout sessions discussing the many activities planned for the district.