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As a follow-up to the post by Rod Dickens (”Can’t Always Judge a Book by its Cover”), I feel compelled to also offer my perspective, since I was the editor who traveled to Kearney, MO, to visit the contractor and shoot the image for PRO’s Summer 2009 cover.

Let me start by making one thing clear: The three contractors who took exception to the cover did so because they are very passionate about this business. That is honorable. Everybody wants an even playing field where all contractors are insured and certified, employ legal workers, drive clean trucks, operate commercial-grade equipment, look like professionals, perform the work like professionals, and charge a fair market price for that work. Regretfully, that day has yet to arrive. And unfortunately, the reasons why go way beyond something as simple as "mowing in a sweatshirt."

This topic was recently discussed on the GIP blogs, where you are invited to share your thoughts with the editors. Read more of this article and voice your opinions to help you and your fellow landscapers.