Leo R. Kaytes named Rotary district governor

Local community and business leader Leo R. Kaytes Jr. has become the first Warwick Valley Rotarian to head the eight-county, 56-club Rotary District 7210 in New York.

According to the Rotary, his 90-year-old father, Leo Sr., a 43-year Warwick Rotarian and a past president of the service club, watched his son sworn into office during a district conference cruise to Nova Scotia in June. About 25 Warwickians observed the installation ceremony.

The new district governor outlined his plans for the coming year at the District7210 End of the Year Celebration June 27 in Milton, NY, where additional officers and directors were installed, district awards presented and membership accomplishments acknowledged. Warwick Rotarians Wayne Patterson, Ed Lynch, Ali Unlu, and Stan Martin were recognized for their efforts as Rotarians.

In addition to membership and foundation growth, Kaytes said his goal for this year is to build a strong bond between local Rotary clubs and the district.

The Rotary noted Kaytes’ longstanding commitment to service and community. He first began his formal Rotary service in January 2010, although he had already been familiar with Rotary for over 20 years due to attending meetings with his father.

Within his Rotary club, he has served as president twice, been the treasurer since 2017, and participated in all avenues of service. He has served three terms as an assistant governor and as the public relations chairperson for District 7210.