The news traveled like wildfire - Strong's Auto Sales & Service in Boothbay Harbor and Strong's Chevrolet in Damariscotta was closing on January 18.

Fortunately, for Boothbay Harbor residents, this is not the case - Strong's will remain open thanks to Good 'n You owners Ron Babcock and Andy Hawke who plan to purchase the property.

It all happened unexpectedly…

As fortune would have it, on the morning of January 9, Hawke was at Strong's having his truck aligned when he heard the news.

Betsy Mahan, owner of both Strong's properties, was on site preparing to tell the staff the business was closing and had pink slips ready.

Hawke contacted Babcock and the two approached Strong's manager Alan Williams and Mahan.

"She was excited about it, we were excited about it," said Babcock. "It's amazing how fast these things happen. I think it will work out well."

"We officially take over at midnight, Saturday, the 19th and the business will reopen on Monday morning, (January 21) - business as usual," said Hawke. "We'll have the weekend to switch over computer systems - bookkeeping and that, but everything else will be the same."

"It helps provide service to the town, people like going there and it keeps this service in the region," said Hawke.

Babcock and Hawke had begun to make a plan to add two bays to the Townsend Avenue location.

"We've had to tell people they had to wait a week for an oil change," said Stephanie Hawke. "Now, we will have the two garages to accommodate our clientele and Strong's'."

"I think we will plan to continue the seasonal specials that Strong's has been doing," said Babcock

All other services at Strong's will continue - including the rental cars and used car sales.

The Good `n You team recently acquired a used car sales license. Selling cars is easier with space and the Strong's location is ready to go.

Babcock and Hawke were interested in expanding their services and the Strong's location would be the perfect spot.

Williams is thrilled at the prospect of the business staying open, for the community and the employees.

"I think a lot of good mention should be given to Ronnie and Andy for stepping up, especially in these difficult times, to keep a service in the area and people employed," said Williams.

"Betsy has been working hard to make this happen and her efforts should be well appreciated, too," Williams said. "This is a big deal; so many towns are losing businesses - including car dealerships and garages these days."

The sale for this garage and car dealership is expected to be final in early March.

Mahan was unavailable for comment at press time.