Hi, my name is Don Cushing. After thirty-five years managing medical practices, I decided it was time to start a new chapter in my life. There is something about getting a Medicare card that makes a man sit up and take stock. I had a great plan. Just stop. Create some space. Let the universe guide you. That is exactly what I did.
I managed doing my version of nothing which was writing a book and practicing my guitar and cooking for just about three months. Then one peaceful Sunday in late March I was immersed in perfecting the art of making homemade potato chips when my brother in law came calling.
“Don, I’ve been taking my car to Ted at Ocean Street Auto Repair since forever. The owner passed away last December and Ted’s looking to buy the business.” “Gene”, I replied did you know that this oil is about 380°….” He ignored my subtle reference to scalding him and persisted. “Ted is an awesome mechanic. With our help he could really make Ocean Street grow. Customer’s love Ted. He is honest and takes his time with them. He can fix most any kind of car.” The chips were browning nicely. Gene continue to gush effusively about the greatness of this “Ted.” My chips were done and so was I. I sent him on his way.
There is something you should know about Gene Willard, aka brother-in-law. He is the most enthusiastic person you are ever going to meet and when he gets a notion in his head, he is not quick to let it go. He was back next Sunday with a six pack and three years of tax returns. I agreed to do the analysis. I also agreed to have breakfast with Ted. This young man was everything Gene said he was and more. He struck me as smart, confident and determined to work for himself doing what he loves, fixing cars.
Over the next month Gene, Ted and I did our due diligence, formed a company and purchased Ocean Street Auto Repair. As I write this, we are in the third week of our partnership. Here’s what I’ve noticed. Ted knows every customer well. Customer’s consistently say that they come to Ocean Street because Ted does great work and he is honest. He is happy to take a customer out into the shop and put their car up on the lift to show them what’s going on. Customer’s appreciate that. They also like the fact that Ted will do what it takes to keep them on the road
Lots of our customers have older cars that they are really attached to. Ted helps them keep their old baby in great shape. He also tells them when it’s time to give it up. No worries. He finds them a replacement. It has been fun answering the phone and greeting customers, learning about fixing cars. It seems to me that customers want to know three things about their mechanic. 1. Do he know what he’s doing? 2. Can I trust him? 3. Does he care about me? Ted and Ocean Street Auto Repair succeed because the answers to these three questions are consistently “Yes!
So, what can you expect from this change of ownership? A fresh coat of paint in the office. More communication like this and the same great care and service that you’ve been used to. Ted’s brother Trapper is joining us so we can fix a few more cars. You might see me around fussing with the computer and answering the phones but don’t let that scare you. I know my limitations and I won’t stand between you and your mechanic
As for Gene Willard, he will continue with his day job as a Captain for Casco Bay Lines. He will also head up the Island Car Division of Ocean Street Auto Repair. If you live on Long Island or Peaks or Chebeague Island, Gene is the man to see about getting your island car fixed, replaced or removed. More on this later.
Come by and congratulate Ted or drop him a note here. We look forward to keeping you on the road.