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Collins Pettaway III took over as Selma Rotary Club President on Monday.

Pettaway was officially sworn in by C.L. Fails, last year’s President.  Pettaway was given the gavel by Fails. Each of the former Rotary Club Presidents passed the gavel until it reached Pettaway,  known as the annual pass the gavel meeting.

Pettaway said he’s looking forward to serving as Rotary Club President.

“As I begin this new journey, I’m reminded of those who shoulders I stand on,” Pettaway said. “Since 1905, Rotary has set the standard among service organizations and continues to set the trend. I look forward to leading this esteemed organization to new levels. God gets all the glory.”

Fails, an Alabama State Trooper, said he enjoyed serving as Rotary Club President. Fails said it was sometimes challenging,  but thanked the Rotary members for supporting him. He was presented a plaque from Pettaway.

Goals set by Pettaway include increasing membership by 20 percent and improving fundraising.