Thursday, June 30, 2011

Ray Deter, a great guy suffers a terrible accident

I realized I only posted on Facebook about the terrible news of Ray Deter's (d.b.a.) bicycle accident in NYC a few days ago. And, realizing that Facebook messages only travel so far, I'm here now trying to get you caught up on the news.

If you read around at other beer-related sites, I'm sure you've seen the news by now. But, if not, the short story involves long-time bar owner, booster of and fixture in the world of craft beer, Ray Deter, who was involved in a terrible bicycle accident late Monday afternoon.

Deter owns two d.b.a. bars in New York and one in New Orleans. The original location, on First Avenue, is where I can recall one of my first experiences with truly good tequila. A few great local craft beers have been known to pass my lips there as well in addition to some pizza from across the street (byof).

Ray has been found traveling the world for great beer, wine, tequila, and whiskey. I've been fortunate to share a table with him and dine together at Monk's and tossed back some great beers together the last time I saw him -- at Ommegang's BCTC 2010.

As a good friend of Ray, Tom Peters put up a touching note about their relationship through the years on Monk's website.

One of Ray's most recent endeavors has been co-hosting the weekly-produced Beer Sessions Radio out of Brooklyn with Jimmy Carbone (Jimmy's No. 43) and Dave Brodrick (Blind Tiger).

Producer, Bree O'Connor (Beer Sessions Radio/Heritage Radio Network), wrote yesterday on the company's Facebook group page the following:

For those of you who are not aware, our good friend Ray Deter was in a serious accident on Monday night. At the moment, we are taking cues from his family as to how to proceed and when they are ready to update everyone on Ray's condition we will let you all know. Thank you for your kind words and offers of support.

In the meantime, I got caught up yesterday with the three most recent episodes of Beer Sessions Radio. The first two of which Deter was his typical self -- drinking beers and telling stories to sometimes keep the show moving and sometimes to head down a tangent, usually to the bemusement of Carbone :)

If you haven't checked them out before, do so. If you're from the Philly area, you'll recall that I've mentioned in the past that they (particularly Ray) give lots of love and props to Philly and our beer scene.

Episode #68 - The Good Beer Seal Awards
Episode #69 - Charlie Papazian & Grape Hops Tours (plus a bit of Philly Beer Week Recap from Ray Deter)
Episode #70 - Cider, Brewpubs, and Hops (the first episode without Ray)

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