Area teen-agers cut the green
Staff writer
There aren't many ways for kids to make some extra money, but lawn mowing is a good option.
It's hard work, but it you've got the energy and gumption, you can make some green cutting the grass.
Three area youth are doing just that. Victor Rogers and Brett McIntosh of Hillsboro, and Adam Dirks of Durham are all running their own lawn mowing businesses.
Rogers has been cutting grass for three years. His parents have helped, and they bought Jonathan Regier's business and equipment when he went away to college, according to Rogers.
He started the lawn service to make money, says Rogers, but it's nice working outdoors, plus being your own boss.
"I like being independent," said Rogers. "You don't have to work for anyone, and you choose your own hours."
Rogers has 15 lawns right now, but expects to get 20 to 21 by the summer.
He checks the lawns to see whose needs what when, according to Rogers, and right now he's not mowing them once a week. That will change as the temperatures rise and it rains, he says.
Rogers recommends ear protectors.
"The noise can damage your hearing over time," he said.
McIntosh started cutting grass two or three years ago.
"It's an easy way to make money," he said, "and it's nice to be outside. You have to be older for other jobs, too."
McIntosh has his own equipment, and last summer he mowed about three lawns a week. An average lawn takes him about an hour to an hour and a half depending on what needs done.
Dirks has been cutting lawns for five years, since he was 11 years old. He started cutting grass because his older brother and sister were cutting grass.
"It's a pretty good business," said Dirks.
Dirks says he usually cuts about six lawns a week and has all his own equipment.
Rogers, McIntosh, and Dirks all say they still have room in their summer schedules for more lawns, so if you're in the market for a lawn mower, let them know.
