Counterman’s “Guess the Car” contest challenges our readers to solve an automotive riddle, for a chance to win $100. And each month, we receive hundreds of responses from aftermarket professionals trying to guess the model of the vehicle depicted.
The correct answer for the October/November contest is the Kia Carnival. The winner is Daniel Blaskie, a counterman at Athens Auto Supply in Union City, Michigan.
Now, let’s get to know the “Guess the Car” champion.
CM: How long have you been working in the auto parts business?
DB: I’ve been with NAPA Auto Parts for about 10 years now. This is actually my first and only job that I’ve had. I started here part-time when I was in high school, and then moved to full-time when I graduated. I just loved it, and I’ve been here ever since.
CM: What do you like most about your job?
DB: Being able to tie my passion for vehicles and farming into helping customers. Being able to work with that every day is kind of the best of both worlds.
CM: What’s the strangest question a customer has asked you?
DB: We had a customer come in wanting to know what type of oil her car took. We told her to check on the oil cap; a lot of times it’s written on there. And this particular lady came back in and said, “It says ‘710.’” Because that’s “oil” turned upside down. She read it as “710.”
CM: What’s the coolest car you’ve ever owned or worked on?
DB: Both owned and worked on. It’s my ‘76 Jeep CJ-5.
CM: Do you have any interesting hobbies? What do you do for fun?
DB: I’m a part-time firefighter and EMT, and I’m a father of four, so I don’t have a whole lot of free time. One of my sons is just getting old enough to kind of get interested in vehicles and stuff, and I love working on things with him. Seeing how he picks things up and helps me out is just a blast for me.
CM: What’s your dream car?
DB: My dream car would be an ‘88 DeTomaso Pantera. I just love the Italian body style combined with American muscle. It’s the best of both worlds.
