As the restaurant’s accountant, Jeronimo values efficiency — especially during a tough economy. “We survived when other restaurants have closed in part because we’ve focused on controlling our costs,” he says.

That’s why he loves the new lighting installed by his landlord, Jeff Fletcher of Fletchco Properties. Fletcher won $3,000 in energy-efficient lighting in the Portland General Electric Save More, Matter More™ campaign.

Sharing the savings
Though the winnings would have covered the cost of retrofitting just his own office, Fletcher opted to upgrade the whole building, including La Fuente and the bead shop next door.

Now Jeronimio’s restaurant has more inviting lighting and a lower electric bill. And because the light is brighter, food prep and other tasks don’t take as long.

Young, yes. Wild and free? Not so much.
Every minute counts. Now in his early twenties, Jeronimo works 50 to 60 hours a week doing everything from waiting tables to payroll and inventory and helping prepare ingredients in the morning.

Because he loves his work — and enjoys his co-workers — the hours don’t bother him. “We opened this place to make something of ourselves, and to be able to be around family,” he says. “It’s worked out great on both counts.”