A Passion for Food & Wine

Frank DeLucia, president and ceo of Abilities Foundation has developed a taste and passion for grapes and good food. DeLucia has successfully partnered with local restaurants, distributors and vineyards in Napa and Sonoma Counties to raise funds for his nonprofit whose mission is to obtain jobs and affordable housing for individuals with disabilities. Through special events such as wine tasting and wine maker dinners, the charity receives proceeds from ticket sales. “The concept works by having charitable intent and having fun,” said DeLucia. “The chefs are passionate about putting out good food and are very charitable.” “We have a treasure trove of culinary talent here. Tom Pritchard, Chris Ponte and others are so generous with their time and talents.” It’s all about understanding the needs of the industry. “We put their needs above ours,” said DeLucia.

Tonya Valdez and Frank De Lucia

Up next is the Tampa Bay Wine & Food Festival set for May 17-19 at the Don CeSar Beach Resort. Tonya Valdez, festival manager and public relations and marketing manager for Southern Wine and Spirits approached DeLucia to partner on this first year event. “I have worked with Frank for nearly 18 years, and I told Frank I chose Abilities Foundation as the charity because I knew we wouldn’t have to train him,” joked Valdez.

The event is mirrored after the hugely successful festival in South Beach. The festival kicks off with a Golf Challenge and an Iron Chef competition. Local and celebrity chefs including Robert Irvine from the Food Network are scheduled to appear. A black tie gala, food and wine seminars, tastings and a final Beach on the Barbie party complete with fireworks rounds out the three day festival. For tickets, visit www.tampabayfoodandwinefest.com or www.abilitiesfoundation.com.