Westchester County Board of Legislators Honors Caribbean American Excellence Through Service and Leadership
WHITE PLAINS, N.Y. — The Westchester County Board of Legislators celebrated Caribbean American Heritage Month, Monday, June 16th, by honoring two distinguished community leaders whose decades of service have left an indelible mark on Westchester County. Judge Lyndon Williams and Coach Rupert “Ted” Bitter were recognized with proclamations for their outstanding contributions to public service, mentorship, education, and community empowerment
“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,” said Chairman Vedat Gashi (D–New Castle, Ossining, Somers, Yorktown), who convened the ceremony.
Lyndon Williams, who was born in Georgetown, Guyana, immigrated to the United States as a teenager. He served on the Mount Vernon City Council and the Westchester County Board of Legislators before becoming a Mount Vernon City Court Judge. Williams dedicated his career to advancing opportunities for residents throughout the county.
“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 Tyrae Woodson-Samuels (D–Mount Vernon) shared with Black Westchester.
Coach Rupert “Ted” Bitter, originally from Kingston, Jamaica, came to the United States at age 16 and volunteered to serve his adopted country in the U.S. Army, including combat service in Vietnam. Following a successful career in banking, he devoted himself to mentoring young athletes and helping shape the lives of countless young people through sports and community engagement.
“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,” said Legislator Colin D. Smith (D–Cortlandt, Peekskill, Yorktown).
During the celebration, both honorees reflected on the importance of service, leadership, and giving back to the community. Williams encouraged young people to become active participants in shaping their future, while Bitter emphasized the values that guided his life’s journey: dedication, determination, discipline, and desire. Their stories served as powerful reminders of the contributions Caribbean Americans continue to make to Westchester County and beyond.
The ceremony highlighted not only the accomplishments of two exceptional individuals but also the rich cultural heritage, resilience, and commitment to excellence that Caribbean Americans have brought to communities throughout Westchester County for generations. Family members, friends, elected officials, and community leaders joined in celebrating the honorees and their lasting legacies of service.
