About Us

INTRODUCTION:

Earlene Dotson is a professional chef that has been sharing delicious cuisines for over 30 years.  From humble beginnings… Earlene had a passion as a little girl to cook and bring people together through a simple life gesture of “Breaking Bread”.  Earlene grew up in a large family of eighteen, therefore, cooking was a major job in the Dotson household.  Earlene’s early days of cooking came when she prepared various dishes for her 15 siblings.  Earlene’s “tasty food” quickly became a family favorite! Living up to her nickname Cookie, she was appointed as the cook in the family.  Earlene is no stranger to strong faith and a never give up attitude.  In 1993, Earlene became extremely ill. Earlene’s illness lingered for several years. Finally, in 2000, Earlene was diagnosed with a rare inflammatory disease known as SARCOIDOSIS. This life threatening disease attacked Earlene’s heart and lungs. Earlene was determined to overcome this disease through faith, fortitude and cooking. In 2003, Earlene begun a small family business called Symone’s Catering; In honor of her soon to be born granddaughter.

EDUCATION:

1. In 1998, Earlene attended Triton Community College where she attained an Associate Degree in Applied Science Basic Addiction Counseling
2. In 2005, Earlene returned to Triton Community College where she received a Culinary Certificate and her Certification License

NOTABLE ACCOMPLISHMENTS:

1. Earlene is the longest standing and preferred caterer for The Rock of Ages Church in Maywood, IL, under the Pastor Marvin E. Wiley
2. Earlene’s unique cuisines have warmed the hearts of the political arenas, such names as: Ted Kennedy-(Candidate for Governor of Illinois), Karen Yarbrough-(Recorder of Deeds), Chris Welch-(State Representative) & Deborah Graham-(Alderman)
3. Earlene has catered for large companies as Exelon (ComEd) and Chicago Public Schools
4. Earlene is a Board member for the Chamber of Commerce in Bellwood, Illinois