HECTOR, NEW YORK – August 15, 2011 – Debra Whiting, Executive Chef & Co-Owner of Red Newt Cellars Winery & Bistro, was killed in a car accident on June 30th, 2011 while returning home to the Finger Lakes with her husband after a visit to Vermont. David Whiting, husband and winemaker at Red Newt Cellars, was also involved in the crash but did not suffer any serious injuries.

Debra was truly a passionate and inspirational culinary ambassador to the Finger Lakes region. As a member on the executive board of the Finger Lakes Culinary Bounty, she took great pride in utilizing locally sourced ingredients for her ever-changing menu and building relationships with the local farmers and producers of the region. Unhampered by formal culinary training, her approach was to seek an expressive interpretation to every culinary challenge. The result was a culinary palate whose colors express Debra's devotion to the bounty and seasons of the Finger Lakes.

A native of Georgia and raised in Connecticut, Debra spent the first 15 years of her professional career in immunology research. She was an avid runner, competing in two New York City marathons in 1988 and 1989. Debra and her husband also took great pleasure in ballroom dancing. She is survived by husband David and two sons Ryan and Brenton.

The Debra Whiting Foundation has been formed in Debra's honor to carry on her vision and commitment to wine, food, farms, families and community. Currently, the Debra Whiting Foundation is pending approcal for a 501C3 non-profit status. For the latest news on organization status and develoment of programs, please sign up for our mailing list.

The Whiting and Red Newt family extend their deepest gratitude to those who have offered their support and condolences during this tragic time. The tremendous amount of love and strength goes beyond words.

Red Newt Cellars is located on the east side of Seneca Lake in the hamlet of Hector in the Finger Lakes region of New York. In addition to producing wines from east Seneca Lake vineyards, Red Newt Cellars offers innovative Finger Lakes cuisine in the Bistro by utilizing locally sourced ingredients and promoting culinary relationships between farms and restaurants. Red Newt Cellars will remain a representation of the achievements of David and Debra's longtime goal to combine their efforts and expertise in the exploration of producing, and also in creating a synergy between, regional wine and cuisine.

Click here to make a donation to The Debra Whiting Foundation

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