March 22, 2024
Casa Mia Italian Restaurant owners Gerald and Jamie Pense grew up in the Aberdeen/Hoquiam area near the original Casa Mia. In fact, Gerald lived only two blocks from the restaurant. When he was a teenager, his first job was at the restaurant. Today, the Penses are proud owners of the Lakewood Casa Mia Italian Restaurant. They’ve owned the restaurant for 21 years.
“I didn’t necessarily ever think I was going to be in business for myself, but the opportunity came around and it was a good time to do it when we did,” said Gerald.
When asked what he was most proud of in their business, Gerald said he is proud of his staff members.
“We’ve been really blessed with having good young people, and a lot of them use this as a place to start on their way to college out of high school,” he said.
Once a high school student working at Casa Mia himself, it is clear that Gerald understands the importance of a positive first job experience and mentorship.
It is because of the Pense’s hard work and dedication over two decades, and their commitment to giving back to the community by passing down knowledge and positive work experiences to Lakewood youth, that Casa Mia is the March 2024 Business Showcase.
The Lakewood City Council presented Gerald and Jamie Pense with the recognition at its March 18, 2024 regular meeting.