AKRON, OH — For residents of the Northeastern Ohio area, Randy Lipscomb is known simply as “Handy Randy,” the affable and knowledgeable host of local auto care television show, Handy Randy’s Car Care.

But recently, he added another name: Counterperson of the Year.

After a six month national search, the Barberton, Ohio, parts professional was yesterday named the 2004 Counterman Magazine “Counterperson of the Year.” The award was created in 1986 to recognize those who excel in the demanding parts distribution profession.

Part of the honor includes an all-expenses paid trip to Las Vegas to attend Automotive Aftermarket Industry Week (AAIW), the world’s largest trade-only automotive show. At a University of the Aftermarket luncheon held during that week, Counterman Editor Brian Cruickshank will present Lipscomb with the award.

Lipscomb, who has worked in various automotive parts and service positions since 1966, is currently employed by Pat Young Service Co., a Cleveland, Ohio-area Federated member WD.

“He is part of the staff that was recognized for starting and maintaining one of the strongest Federated Car Care programs in the United States,” wrote Pat Young District Manager John Pisani. “Mr. Lipscomb’s sales and technical knowledge allow us to continue to grow in our market area. Randy is always the first one to help out, whenever and wherever needed.”

Besides his TV show, which airs twice weekly on WAOH in Akron and WAX-TV in Cleveland, Lipscomb is also heavily involved in many community and charitable activities.

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