In spite of the economy, Dunkin' Donuts remains a steady business because of its low prices and quality products. Galatis admits that Dunkin' Donuts occupies a different niche than the stylish Starbucks, and he has no problem with that.

Although Galatis was a corporate accountant for many years, the food service industry was in his blood. As a young man, he worked in his father's diner and liked the idea of being an entrepreneur. So, in 1990 he and some partners bought a franchise of Dunkin' Donuts, and that has expanded into a fleet of stores.

Galatis told The Somerville News, at their Friday editorial meeting, that his grandfather, an immigrant from Greece, settled in the Brickbottom section of the city, now home to the famed Brickbottom artists' residence.

The Lyndell's bakery acquisition was an emotional one for Galatis. He is well aware of its history, dating back to its inception in 1887. His sister Karen runs the store and he leaves the baking to the long employed bakers who know the biz like the back of their powdered hands.

Lyndell's has many bakery favorites like Ricotta Pie, Cannolis, Fruit Tarts, Lobster Tails and many others, as well as the much-in-demand Honeycomb Bran Bread (get in line folks!)

Galatis has long-range plans to remodel Lyndell's. He has the idea to restore it to its original 1800's grandeur. He has already consulted with an architect and seems committed to the idea.

Galatis is much more than a savvy businessman. He is a well-known philanthropist, on the board of trustees at Anatolia College in Greece, and involved n public service initiatives in the area.

Galatis is optimistic about his business and other interests and remains strongly committed to Somerville, the city of his birth. As he told the News: "Somerville will always have a special place in my heart."