Gregg Kroner

Gregg has a long-standing and impactful history with Rotary, beginning in 1987. Inspired by his father Herb, a dedicated Rotarian who was both Past President of the Bronx Rotary and a Charter Member of the West Nyack Club, Gregg was drawn into Rotary’s mission and camaraderie. His early exposure to Rotary values, and his father’s leadership, had a lasting influence.

Gregg’s leadership within Rotary began with his role as President of the New City Rotary Club in 1992-93. During his membership, he held various important roles, such as serving as Sergeant of Arms at the District Conference in 1988 and being a key member of the Foundation Committee and the Paul Harris Selection Committee. His contributions extended to the district level, where he served as Assistant District Governor for Regions 8 and 9 from 2013 to 2015, sharing this responsibility with Bud Wasseman. One of Gregg's proudest moments came in 2003 when the New City Rotary Club honored him with a Paul Harris Fellow, a testament to his dedication and service.

After his retirement, Gregg transferred his membership to the Wallkill East Rotary Club in 2017, where he continued to serve with distinction. He chaired the By-Laws Committee and currently serves on both the Foundation and Membership Committees at the club and district levels. Gregg and his wife JoAnn are avid supporters of the Rotary Foundation, which they appreciate for its significant impact both locally and internationally.

Gregg’s dedication to Alzheimer’s/Dementia Rotary Action Group (ADRAG) is another defining chapter of his Rotary service. Motivated by his wife and friend Sal’s involvement, he took a leading role in promoting and educating clubs about ADRAG’s commitment to mental health and Alzheimer’s awareness. Gregg’s passion for the cause led him to speak at numerous clubs across the district, encouraging participation in Alzheimer’s walks and raising awareness about the disease. His efforts are crucial in helping form teams for the Hudson Valley Alzheimer’s Walks, and he advocates for clubs to set up informational tables at these events to highlight the benefits of Rotary membership.

Gregg’s leadership has had tangible results. In 2022, 17 Rotary clubs participated in four Alzheimer’s walks, raising over $30,000. In 2023, participation grew to 22 clubs, with fundraising efforts exceeding $55,000. Impressively, the Suffern Rotary Club was recognized as the number one Rotary club in the nation for their contribution both years. Gregg hopes to inspire all clubs in the district to participate in future walks to help fight this devastating disease, supporting research, local education, and families affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia.

His story is a testament to how Rotarians can make a real difference in their communities and beyond.

Leo Kaytes, Sr

Leo Kaytes, Sr. is a longtime member of the Warwick Valley Rotary Club, known for his dedication to community service and his passion for helping others. As a successful business owner and community leader, Leo has consistently embodied Rotary’s motto, “Service Above Self,” contributing his time and resources to both local and international Rotary initiatives.

Leo has been a driving force in the club, from being a Past President to a key driver in the club's early fundraising endeavors.

A recipient of several Rotary honors, Leo’s contributions continue to make a lasting impact on the lives of many, reflecting his deep commitment to the values and mission of Rotary.

Oh and the greatest thing about Leo...I get to call him Dad!

August 1, 2024

Todd Bowen

District 7210 Public Image Chairperson

Todd is the President of the Rotary Club of Wappingers Falls and the youngest club president in District 7210. He started his Rotary journey in highschool when he joined the Roy C. Ketcham High School Interact Club. He joined Rotary in November of 2019. He has been the club secretary two times and is entering his second term as President. On the district level, he is the district executive secretary, Interact Co-Chair, District Public Image Chair and is serving on the Region 4 Assistant Governor Team. Todd is also on the district membership committee and is a RadioRotary board member. In his non-Rotary time, he works for Habitat for Humanity of Dutchess County as their Senior Project Manager and is a part of several other extracurricular activities. While he is young, he is not inexperienced.

The District Public Image Chair is responsible for designing graphics, flyers, posters, and other imagery needed by the district for its activities and events; writing press releases and announcements for dissemination to the clubs/public; updating the district website and managing the district social media content and presence to ensure adequate and up-to-date information is always present and that consistent engagement is a priority. Ideally, the district public image chair would manage a team to help clubs showcase their club and members as people of action.

My biggest goal as your District Public Image Chair is being a resource to clubs, making sure clubs are using the correct Rotary logo and publicizing club events/fundraisers as much as possible.

July 15, 2024

Lori Orestano- James

District 7210 Youth Service Chair

Lori has been a member of the Monticello Rotary Club for over 12 years where she is currently serving her second term as Club President. Lori has been an active member of her club as Past Treasurer, Member of the Board of Directors, Sullivan County Chamber of Commerce Monticello Rotary Rep, Sullivan Allies Leading Together Monticello Rotary Rep, chair of the food drive, Comfort Closet, blood drive, public relations, opioid/covid community outreach, Interact Liaison, Membership, and speakers program, in addition to being a member of the Scholarship, Monster, and Taste of Sullivan, Rotary Radio Committees. She is proud to serve as a member of the Rotary District 7210 Member Committee.

Lori has an extensive and diverse background in the field of education. Youth Services, and educational leadership at the local, state, and national levels for over 40 years giving her a unique perspective and ability to serve as our Service chairperson. She prides herself on a collaborative approach to problem-solving, planning, and growth and her goal is to work together to build strength and capacity through our clubs specific to Interact, RYLA, and Youth Exchange.. Her two favorite hashtags say it all #Service AboveSelf, and #ItsAllAboutThe Kids.

Welcome, Lori!