On the banks of Lake Zurich sits Schloss Au, a beautiful property with a long and rich history. This magnificent castle with a background of military generals, celebrities and philosophers from all over the world was built and named in the 13th century, and has undergone many facelifts since then. The property is now publicly owned by the county of Zurich and is maintained by head gardener Carmene Pacceallo.

Meet Erwin Jakober. Twelve years ago this phrase meant a single man and his Walker mower. Today, this phrase means a company of 120 full-time employees and the most recognized lawn maintenance company in Switzerland.

Mike Barbero, owner of Real Estate Maintenance Co. in Boise, Idaho, was introduced to his first Walker 12 years ago. He purchased two at that time and has since purchased another. Identical in configuration, the three are powered by 16-hp Kohler engines and have 42-inch GHS decks. They all have one other thing in common: They're still going strong.

It struck like lightning early last year; large and medium-sized landscape contracting companies began to merge into consolidated "national" companies - largely the work of investment bankers anxious to make a public stock offering and cash in on the vitality of this industry. Undoubtedly a move of this size affects the industry. It is a time for the small and mediumsized independent contractors to do some soul searching as to how they will fit in to the future of the industry.

Being a standout comes easy for the Netherlands. As a matter of fact, when space satellites photograph the earth, the country often reflects a large, gleaming light.