We all have dreams, don’t we?  I’m not talking about the one where you are back in college and find yourself taking a final exam only to discover in a panic that you actually never attended any classes the entire semester (hmm, wonder if that actually ever happens?).

The dreams I’m referring to are the ones that keep us motivated and give us hope.  Keeping one’s dreams in sight can actually help us get through the drudgery of our current but temporary circumstances.  I believe dreams represent us at our best and can help us define who we want to be and what our legacy to society might be.

My friend Brandon Chrostowski’s dream has been in the making for a while.  He has long wanted to combine his extensive culinary experience and expertise with his vision to positively impact those who essentially have been given a second chance in this world.

Brandon’s dream will come to fruition (officially) on November 1^st when Edwins Leadership & Restaurant Institute opens its doors.   Best described in its mission statement, Edwins Leadership & Restaurant Institute is:

“A unique approach at giving underprivileged and formerly-incarcerated adults a foundation in the hospitality industry while providing a support network necessary for a successful reentry. Edwins’ goals is to enhance the community of Cleveland’s vulnerable neighborhoods by providing its future leaders.”

I’ve been fortunate to see Edwins “hatch” over the past 18 months (although Brandon’s been working on it much longer than that).  Brandon has put together an amazing team of individuals who have contributed – in so many different ways – to make his dream a reality.

Edwins is going to be great for the Cleveland community.  I hope you will check out Edwins’ website (http://edwinsrestaurant.org/mission/) or take a look at the great article written recently from Joel Crea of The Plain Dealer (http://www.cleveland.com/dining/index.ssf/2013/10/edwins_restaurant_outreach_to.html#incart_river#incart_m-rpt-1).

Then please make it a point to visit Edwins in in the very near future.  Not only will you be supporting the community, you’ll get to enjoy some amazing haute French cuisine that is unmatched in this area. (Compliments of chef de cuisine, Gilbert Brenot).

Never give up on those dreams, and in the meantime, Bon appétit!!