L-R-BOL Chair Vedat Gashi, Honoree Lyndon Williams, Legislator Tyrae Woodson-Samuels
L-R-BOL Chair Vedat Gashi, Honoree Ted Bitter, Legislator Colin Smith
Honors Judge Williams and Coach Rupert Bitter
The Westchester County Board of Legislators celebrated Caribbean American Heritage Month on Monday evening with a ceremony honoring Lyndon Williams, a distinguished jurist, Mount Vernon community leader, and Chairman of the Westchester County Charter Review Commission, and Ted Bitter, a veteran of the war in Vietnam, Peekskill business owner, and youth sports mentor.
Chairman Vedat Gashi (D–New Castle, Ossining, Somers, Yorktown) who convened the ceremony, said, “This month we celebrate the rich traditions and impact of Caribbean Americans, who have shaped our communities in countless ways. Judge Lyndon Williams and Coach Ted Bitter exemplify this proud legacy through lives dedicated to service and leadership. Judge Williams built an extraordinary career serving the people of Westchester as a 12-year member of the Board of Legislators, Mount Vernon City Council President, respected attorney, and City Court Judge. Likewise, Coach Ted’s journey reflects a lifetime of commitment to public duty, from his military service in Vietnam to decades of mentoring young athletes and building community with the Westchester Striders and the BeanRunner Café. Through their accomplishments and commitment to others, these remarkable men have left an enduring mark on Westchester.”
Legislator Tyrae Woodson-Samuels (D–Mount Vernon) “Judge Lyndon Williams’s journey from Georgetown, Guyana to a distinguished career in law, public service, and the judiciary exemplifies the values of hard work, integrity, and community leadership. Through decades of service, he has dedicated himself to expanding opportunities for others, particularly young people, leaving a lasting impact on Westchester County and beyond. His story reflects the profound contributions Caribbean Americans continue to make in strengthening our communities and our nation.”
Legislator Colin D. Smith (D–Cortlandt, Peekskill, Yorktown) said, “Ted Bitter represents the very best of Caribbean heritage in Westchester: service, perseverance, cultural pride, and a deep commitment to community. As a veteran, coach, mentor, small business owner, and friend, Ted has spent his life lifting others up—especially young people—and helping create spaces where culture, music, discipline, and belonging can thrive. I am proud to recognize him during Caribbean Heritage Month and grateful for all he has given to Peekskill and to Westchester County.”
The meeting replay will be posted here when available.
