We are deeply saddened by the untimely and tragic car accident that took the life of Debra Whiting, Executive Chef and Co-Owner of Red New Cellars Winery and Bistro. David, her husband, was also involved in the accident and is now with family after being hospitalized briefly.The injuries he sustained must pale to the grief he is experiencing.

Deb was the President of the Finger Lakes Culinary Bounty Board of Directors and one of our founding members involved in many ways for over 12 years from organizing FLCB's signature annual Harvest Dinner at Geneva on the Lake and the FLCB cooking demo at NY Farm Day in Washington.  The people, organizations and events that have benefited from Deb's generosity and talents are incalculable. She has nurtured our organization and served as our champion as a passionate and inspirational culinary ambassador to the Finger Lakes region.  We will miss her dearly.

Deb's leadership, enthusiasm, and love for creating great local foods from area farms, paired with great local wines, and bringing people together to savor the flavors of the Finger Lakes must be embraced by us all and carried forth in her honor and spirit.

Thank you to all who are close to the Whiting family and have offered your support and condolences. We can only share in the sorrow and keep Dave, Ryan, Brenton, and their loved ones in our hearts and thoughts. May all who knew and loved Deb be comforted by the many fond memories she has left us.

Sent on behalf of the Finger Lakes Culinary Bounty Board of Directors