This week, Gerry Poppe is preparing for his year as President of Rotary Club of Fort Myers South by attending PETS (Presidents-Elect Training Seminar). The 2016 edition of Rotary Florida PETS, held from March 3-5 in Orlando, is the 13th multi-district PETS in Florida and the seventh in which all eight Rotary districts participate and collaborate in its planning.
The training never stops during this intensive three-day event. Topics covered include planning, dynamics of the club and its board, engaging members, making an impact on the community, public relations, youth services, and club partnering. During fellowship, sharing meals, or in the House of Friendship, networking is an important component of what Presidents-Elect learn. Keynote speakers, including Rotary International President-Elect John Germ bring the latest information on Rotary around the world. There are also special breakout sessions for spouses or partners who choose to attend and actively participate.
Each year, every Rotary club’s President-Elect must attend PETS, as required by Rotary International’s by-laws. You cannot serve if you have not attended PETS. Others who are invited to attend PETS include assistant governors and other leaders asked by the district governor-elect in each Florida district. For more information about PETS in Florida, visit rotaryfloridapets.org.