It’s no surprise than that when this local celebrity retired, he went out with a bang.
On Friday, after more than 50 years in business, he officially passed the helm to son David at a celebration at Prime Toyota in Saco. There were a number of dignitaries present, including Saco Mayor Ron Michaud, First Lady Ann LePage and representatives from the offices of U.S. Senator Susan Collins and U.S. Senator Angus King. Refreshments included food and champagne.
Rosenberg told Carr he began in the car business by changing tires then moved on to another job in the service department before selling cars.
Rosenberg opened his first dealership in 1975, and today the Prime Motor Group owns and operates about 30 dealerships in Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Vermont.
“I’m 80 years old,” said Rosenberg. “I think I’m a young 80. I don’t feel 80.”
Carr asked Rossenberg what his favorite car was, and Rosenberg said his favorite car for years was a Toyota Highlander. Carr said Rosenberg’s choice was a reliable model, and Rosenberg’s response, “I don’t have to have the fanciest, biggest car in the world, but my wife does,” generated much laughter.
Rosenberg thanked his employees, whom he said he thought of as family. As for retirement, he said, “I’m not sure I’m going to be able to handle it.”
In true Ira fashion, the event also included a donation to the community. Rosenberg gave $15,000 to retired U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Travis Mills, founder of The Travis Mills Foundation, a Maine-based nonprofit organization that benefits and assists wounded and injured veterans and their families.
— Staff Writer Liz Gotthelf can be contacted at 282-1535, ext. 325 or egotthelf@journaltribune.com.
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