By Mary O’KEEFE

On Friday the owners of the Flintridge Bookstore and Coffeehouse were recognized for their small business ingenuity and determination.

Assemblymember Mike Gatto presented a certificate to Peter and Lenora Wanier recognizing their business. Gatto told the couple that he wanted to make certain before he left office that he recognized their store for being a strong small business and especially for it being a bookstore.

“I am one that still has to hold a book,” he said.

He added he liked reading books instead of reading them electronically, and said he knew that some bookstores across the country were struggling but praised the Waniers for finding that perfect balance that makes their business so active and strong.

Gatto will be termed out of his California State Assembly office and has announced he will be running for state treasurer.

Throughout his career as assembly member he has consistently supported small business and small business owners.

  Mary Okeefe